Top 10 Travel Destinations During COVID-19

Last Updated 4 years ago

We didn't think this would be a list we would ever have to make but COVID-19 isn't going away anytime soon. While some destinations have closed their borders completely, others have decided to embrace the new normal and bring travelers back regardless of the risks.

This is not a list of the ‘safest' destinations or even those with low incidence of COVID-19 cases. Travel Off Path has been the leader of travel in a COVID-19 world since the beginning of the pandemic and we have analyzed the trends of where travelers are headed and where they are raving about.

One thing's for sure, millions of people are still traveling and those that are passionate about it will continue to do so.

Here are Travel Off Path's ‘Top 10 Travel Destinations During COVID-19

Drone view of beautiful beach on Saona island, Dominican Republic

These destinations have embraced the pandemic and have set themselves apart from the rest. To be considered for the top 10, destinations had to meet the following criteria:

Received the Safe Travel Global Safety Stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

Do not have a 14 day quarantine
Are welcoming of tourists from most countries
Have realistic entry requirements including appropriate timelines for COVID-19 testing prior to arrival
Follow the CDC's recommendation of masks in public spaces and social distancing

The specially designed stamp will allow travellers to recognise governments and companies around the world which have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols – so consumers can experience ‘Safe Travels’.

Disclaimer: The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. There can be increased risks to your health by traveling internationally during COVID-19. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories.

10. Tanzania

Tanzania reopened for tourism back in June and is welcoming all countries.

Tanzania is a country in East Africa that is known for its stunning nature and adventure tourism. It has world class snorkeling, incredible safaris and animal conservations. The most popular tourist attractions are Mount Kilimanjaro, beaches of Zanzibar, Serengeti National Park, Mafia Island and Stone Town.

Countries Allowed: All (regular visa requirements)

Quarantine: None

COVID-19 Testing: None

Safe Travel Stamp: Entire Country

Health Protocols: Masks in all public spaces and social distancing

9. Maldives

The President of the Maldives reopened the country for international tourism back on July 15th. The 1190 coral islands and 26 atolls of the Maldives are almost completely reliant on tourism so they truly appreciate every visitor they get. Overwater bungalows and high end resorts combined with stunning scenery make the Maldives one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Countries Allowed: All (regular visa requirements)

Quarantine: None

COVID-19 Testing: Negative PCR test for COVID-19 issued no more than 96 hours prior to departure.

Safe Travel Stamp: Entire Country

Health Protocols: Masks in all public spaces and social distancing

8. Turkey

Turkey was quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world prior to the pandemic. With its breathtaking natural beauty, archaeological sites and oceanfront resorts along its Aegean and Mediterranean Sea coasts, the country truly has something for everyone.

Countries Allowed: All (regular visa requirements) *Brazil, South Africa and UK are temp restricted in 2021

Quarantine: None

COVID-19 Testing: 72-hour PCR test

Safe Travel Stamp: Entire Country

Health Protocols: Masks in all public spaces and social distancing. Temperature screening upon arrival.

7. Colombia

Over the last 5 years, Colombia has experienced a huge tourism boom and had a record 4.5 million visitors in 2019. Once known for its drug trade and crime, the country has become much safer and is now rated as one of the top backpacking destinations in the world.

Countries Allowed: All (regular visa requirements) *flights from UK and South Africa temporarily suspended

Quarantine: None

COVID-19 Testing: 96-hour PCR test

Safe Travel Stamp: Entire Country

Health Protocols: Masks in all public spaces and social distancing is in effect.

6. Costa Rica

Known for the ‘Pura Vida’ way of life, unlimited outdoor adventure activities, lush national parks, super-chill beaches, and affordable prices, its no wonder Costa Rica welcomed over 3 million tourists in 2019.

Countries Allowed: All countries

Quarantine: None

COVID-19 Testing: None
(the testing requirement was removed Oct 26)

Safe Travel Stamp: Entire Country

Health Protocols: Masks in all public spaces and social distancing is in effect.

5. Jamaica

Jamaica is known for its world renowned all-inclusive resorts, white sand beaches and laid back culture. North Americans flock to the island every winter to escape the cold and enjoy the tropical warm weather.

Countries Allowed: All (regular visa requirements)

Quarantine: Travelers staying in the tourism corridor will not have to quarantine.

COVID-19 Testing: Visitors from USA, Mexico, Dominican Republic and Brazil must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate, taken no longer than 3 days prior to the flight departure time

Safe Travel Stamp: Entire Country

Health Protocols: Masks in all public spaces and social distancing is in effect.

Read the complete COVID-19 Entry Requirements for Jamaica

4. Bahamas

The Bahamas are made up of over 700 islands featuring pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Travelers love the fantastic scuba diving and snorkeling and the Bahamas is also known for being the playground of the rich and famous.

Countries Allowed: All (regular visa requirements)

Quarantine: Beginning November 1st, there will be no mandatory quarantines.

COVID-19 Testing: All travelers must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test when completing their Travel Health Visa. The test result can not be older than 7 days prior to the date of arrival.

Safe Travel Stamp: Entire Country

Health Protocols: Masks in all public spaces and social distancing is in effect.

Read the complete COVID-19 Entry Requirements for the Bahamas

3. Dominican Republic

With over 6 million international visits a year, the Dominican Republic is the most popular tourist destination in the Caribbean.

Known for its white sand beaches, tropical climate and beautiful resorts, the country is a top choice for American and Canadian travelers looking to escape the cold winters of North America.

Countries Allowed: All (regular visa requirements)

Quarantine: None

COVID-19 Testing: None (travelers may be selected for random covid-19 breath test)

Safe Travel Stamp: Entire Country

Health Protocols: Masks in all public spaces and social distancing is in effect.

Read the complete COVID-19 Entry Requirements for the Dominican Republic

2. Croatia

Over the last decade, the popularity of Croatia has skyrocketed and is visited by almost 20 million tourists a year.

Unique architecture, gorgeous coastlines and rich historical heritage makes Croatia one of the most popular destinations in the world.

Countries Allowed: All (regular visa requirements) with confirmation of paid accommodation in Croatia.

Quarantine: For Non EU countries, 14 days if a negative PCR test is not presented.

COVID-19 Testing: All Non EU countries must present proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test which is not older than 48 hours.

Safe Travel Stamp: Entire Country

Health Protocols: Masks in enclosed public spaces such as public transit and social distancing is in effect.

Read the complete COVID-19 Entry Requirements for Croatia

1. Mexico

Mexico has quickly become the number 1 tourist destination in the world during COVID-19. The country was the first to reopen its major tourist destinations back at the beginning of June. Travelers have been raving over the easy entry requirements and extra precautions the tourism industry is taking to protect travelers.

Cancun was the first city in the world to receive the WTTC Safe Travel Stamp and has already received millions of visitors since reopening in June.

Countries Allowed: All (regular visa requirements)

Quarantine: None

COVID-19 Testing: None

Safe Travel Stamp: The States of Baja California Sur, Campeche, Quintana Roo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Oaxaca, Nayarit, Sinaloa, Tabasco, Tamaulipas and Yucatán

Health Protocols: Masks in enclosed public spaces such as public transit and social distancing is in effect.

Read the complete COVID-19 Entry Requirements For Mexico

Read More:

Countries Reopening For Tourism

Travel Insurance That Covers COVID-19

Countries Reopening For American Tourists

Countries Reopening For Canadian Tourists

Countries Reopening For British Tourists

Sources: WTTC

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

Aza

Tuesday 1st of December 2020

So this is essentially a list of where not to travel.

Thomas

Thursday 1st of April 2021

@Aza, good to hear that you prefer to stay at home Just returned from Zanzibar, and if you don’t like people living and roaming around happy and free enjoying each other it’s a bad place to be Otherwise it’s perfect

Ryan M

Saturday 17th of October 2020

Been in Mexico for months now and am loving it. Seriously cannot imagine being in the States or anywhere else (other than maybe Sweden) during all of this. Great job to Mexico for keeping its head on straight these past few months!

Migsy P

Friday 7th of May 2021

@Ryan M, hi, I'm currently in Thailand & although it's safe I'm bored of it now. I miss the Latin vibes so much. I've been to Mexico twice, Colombia 4 times. South America kicks ass. Where in Mexico are you if I may ask? I'm considering either Mexico, Colombia, Dominican Republic. I can't wait to dance salsa again & see beautiful Latin women. No competition.

Kashlee Kucheran

So nice to hear that Ryan! :)

Christian

Friday 16th of October 2020

I am glad Mexico made it to #1 tourist destination as they never closed the borders and didn't fall for this Covid fiasco. instead, they took advantage of other countries following The WHO dictate (which BTW now is suggesting that lockdowns should not be used). I am also glad that the Dominican Republic finally changed its mind and is now trying to compete with Mexico for tourism.

Mark N

Shocking you leave uae and Dubai in particular off your list

It's a Top 10 list :) There are only so many spaces. Unfortunately, Dubai has not been trending as much as these other destinations, so it did not make our cut

Jean Finney

Interesting article with nice criteria. A South African friend I met in Ethiopia has been "stuck" in Tanzania - she is driving with her husband and they could mot proceed further south - and she has been loving it. They never did a lockdown but she said people on the ferries etc respect the protocol. Croatia in the winter would be chilly, but for Colombia it is the best season. Such a beautiful place, especially the coffee area. I havent been to Caragena, I wonder if they will have their usual festivities after Christmas? Maybe not :( Normally Cali has a huge salsa and other city party around Christmas, much of it free and in the streets, but I dont know about this year. Still, it is memorable. Of course we all know and love Mexico but I wonder about the fiestas this year, and if I could have escaped India through Dubai I would have gone to wonderful Turkey. Albania and much of the Balkans are open too but they might not fit your criteria. Sigh. Thanks for the great article!