South Africa has removed its final Covid restrictions, meaning travellers no longer need to provide a negative test or proof of vaccination to enter.

There are now no testing requirements for visitors, regardless of vaccination status, face masks are no longer required indoors and there are no limits on gatherings.

Tourism minister Lindiwe Sisulu said the removal of restrictions marks the “return to life as we knew it before Covid”.

She continued: “This will go a long way in boosting the tourism sector’s growth as travellers will be able to participate in more activities, including attending big events and gatherings that not only contribute to our country’s appeal, but also to our economy.”

Kgomotso Ramothea, South African Tourism acting hub head for UK & Ireland, added: “We are delighted with this news.

“Visitor numbers to South Africa from the UK have been steadily increasing since removal of the red list restrictions.

“The end of Covid measures, coupled with increased capacity from Virgin Atlantic’s announcement of direct flights from London to Cape Town from November 5, will give tourism the boost it needs to reach, or even exceed the record numbers experienced in 2019.”