Last updated 12/8/2021
With COVID-19 essentially stopping travel, we’ve all been itching to get on the road again. As vaccines ramp up in many places around the world and cases (in many countries) begin to decline, more and more countries are now reopening to tourists and travelers—under certain conditions, of course. Since it can be difficult to keep up with changing Covid travel restrictions, here’s a current list of where Americans can travel right now.
Please note that with the always changing situation concerning COVID-19, travelers are strongly encouraged to check with local government guidelines, restrictions and health measures before traveling.
These restrictions and guidelines are subject to change at any time.
Please also note that we cannot provide advice or recommendations on whether or not you should travel to a specific destination right now. That depends on a variety of factors, including the Covid case levels in your home and destination, your personal health and comfort levels, the restrictions of your home country and destinations and other factors. Please travel responsibly and take into account all local health guidelines and restrictions in both your home city and the destination you’re considering visiting before traveling.
Update: All travelers arriving in the US on an international flight (US citizens included) are required to have proof of a negative viral (PCR or antigen) test taken within one day of boarding your flight to the US. Without this, you will be denied boarding. This is even if you are fully vaccinated. Effective December 6, 2021. For current updates and guidelines, please refer to the official CDC announcement.
Jump to:
Southeast Asia & South Pacific
Is Canada open for US travelers?
Canada is now open for vaccinated travelers! If you’ve been waiting to visit the Great White North, traveling there just became a whole lot easier. Check out updated requirements on what you’ll need to visit Canada.
Resources: For more details and requirements, check Canada’s travel website or the US embassy for additional information.
Is Mexico open for US travelers?
Cancun, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Tulum and other popular Mexican destinations reopened to tourists over the summer. While land travel has been prohibited except for essential purposes since March 2020, air travel remains open.
Resources: See the embassy website for additional information on Mexico’s entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Is the Caribbean open for US travelers?
Many Caribbean destinations are open to US travelers! Since the main activities in the Caribbean include outdoor activities and things that are naturally lower-risk and socially-distanced, it’s a bit easier to travel here while still being careful. Hotels and restaurants are also incorporating capacity guidelines, social distancing, additional cleaning and so on to help travelers (and locals!) stay healthy.
The Bahamas
Just a three-hour flight from Miami with picture-perfect beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Bahamas are a go-to on many Caribbean bucket lists. Here’s what you’ll need in order to visit right now.
Resources: See the embassy website for additional information on entry/exit requirements and testing. The Bahamas tourism board has updated information on in-country restrictions and guidelines.
Aruba
The Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba opened to travelers from the US and a number of other international countries from July 2020. See what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: Be sure to see the full details of Aruba’s entry requirements before your trip.
British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands offer another option for a trip to paradise for US travelers. Find out what you’ll need to visit right now.
Resources: Be sure to see the full details of the BVI’s entry requirements before your trip.
Curacao
Curacao reopened to all US travelers beginning in January 2021. This Dutch Caribbean island is a perfect getaway for a long weekend. Here’s what you’ll need in order to visit:
Resources: See the full details of Curacao’s entry requirements before your trip.
Dominican Republic
There’s plenty of beach getaways available for you! Here’s what you’ll need to know before visiting the Dominican Republic.
Resources: See the embassy website for additional information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Jamaica
The island of Jamaica reopened to travelers last summer but with newly-developed health and safety protocols for transportation, restaurants, villa operators, tour providers, and hotels and resorts.
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Sint Maarten / Saint-Martin
This Dutch/French Caribbean destination is another easy way to sneak some sunshine into a bleak winter. Here’s what you’ll need in order to visit.
Resources: You should be sure to check in advance for any updates to St. Maarten’s travel requirements.
Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos has been reopened since last summer, with some basic requirements. Check out the requirements to visit Turks & Caicos below.
Resources: See the Turks & Caicos US embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
U.S. Virgin Islands
As the U.S. Virgin Islands are technically part of the US, it’s not really international travel. As such, the islands are open for US travelers. Here’s what requirements you’ll have to follow to visit the US Virgin Islands.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico reopened to travelers last summer. Here’s what you need to know before visiting Puerto Rico.
Resources: Check the full details of Puerto Rico’s travel guidelines before visiting.
Are Central & South America open for US travelers?
There’s a lot of variation within requirements and restrictions across Central and South America. While some countries have done relatively well containing the virus, others have been really hard-hit. Some have very few entry restrictions while others are still completely closed for international travel. Keep in mind when booking travel that entry requirements can change at any time, so keep your plans flexible!
Belize
Belize reopened to international travelers early in fall 2020. Here’s the current requirements for visiting Belize.
Resources: See Belize’s US embassy website for additional information on entry/exit and testing information and Belize’s tourism board website for in-country restrictions.
Costa Rica
Currently, Costa Rica is a really easy place to travel to. And with nearly unlimited adventures and outdoor activities, it’s a great next-up for your bucket list! Here’s what you’ll need to visit Costa Rica.
Resources: More info on Costa Rica’s requirements and any updates should be read carefully before your trip. See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Ecuador
Ecuador—another destination with incredible weather and diverse rainforests, mountains, deserts and beaches—has recently reopened for international travelers. Check out what you need for visiting Ecuador.
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
El Salvador
If you need another option for lush rainforests and tropical weather, El Salvador has you covered! Here’s what’s required to visit El Salvador right now.
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Guatemala
From rainforests and lakes to ancient history, Guatemala has now reopened for international travelers! Here’s what’s required to visit Guatemala right now.
Resources: See Guatemala’s US embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Honduras
Honduras has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea AND the Pacific Ocean, plus tropical rainforests, ancient Mayan ruins, offshore islands, stunning scuba diving opportunities, delicious coffee and food—basically, everything you need for an adventurous vacay. Here’s what’s required to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Nicaragua
Slightly less touristy than its neighbors Costa Rica and Panama, Nicaragua has plenty of tropical adventures and open borders. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Panama
Panama is home to much more than the Panama Canal—it also has adventure, beaches, idyllic islands and delicious food! Here’s what’s required to visit right now:
Resources: See Panama’s tourism board website for up-to-the-minute information on traveling guidelines and restrictions and the embassy website for entry/exit and testing availability.
Peru
The land of Machu Picchu, the Andes Mountains, the Inca Trail and countless cultural and historical relics and monuments, Peru is an amazing destination for a trip if you love experiencing new cultures while you travel. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Africa & the Middle East
Some areas of Africa and the Middle East have been hard-hit by the coronavirus and have limited medical resources (and thus should be avoided for now by travelers, to preserve resources for locals). However, many other areas have been more able to contain Covid spread and have reopened to travelers. For a dose of ancient history, a bit of adventure or an outdoor safari, think about adding one of these destinations to your bucket list for 2022.
Dubai
Dubai, a hub for both modern luxury and ancient culture in the United Arab Emirates, has reopened to international travelers. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Keep in mind that these rules apply only to Dubai, and other cities in the UAE (for example, Abu Dhabi) have different restrictions and guidelines.
Resources: Check the current guidelines here before you travel, or find up-to-the-minute information on the UAE’s US embassy website.
Egypt
Since Egypt is normally a VERY touristed destination, 2022 might be the perfect year to visit! Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See Egypt’s US embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Cabo Verde (Cape Verde)
These islands off the northwest coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean are a little-known destination among American travelers, but they are open to US citizens for visiting! Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Note: Travelers are required to present a health pass before checking in to hotels and other tourist accommodations and when participating in a large sporting, cultural, recreational, and social gathering. The health pass consists of one of the following: either proof of vaccination, proof of a COVID-19 negative test or proof of recovery from COVID-19.
Resources: See Cabo Verde’s US embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Ghana
Ghana—a small country in West Africa—is home to national parks, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, history and more. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Lebanon
Lebanon may be a little-known tourist destination, but it’s home to incredible history, archeological sites and ancient ruins, outdoor adventures and hiking and more. Visit ancient temples or go for a swim in the Mediterranean Sea, go hiking in the stunning Kadisha Valley or explore one of the many mosques and museums in Beirut. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Jordan
Jordan is most famous for the ancient city of Petra—an iconic ancient monument and one of the 7 wonders of the world. Though there’s more to Jordan than just Petra—take an overnight desert safari in the Wadi Rum desert, soak in the Dead Sea or immerse yourself in the ancient culture and history of the cities. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Kenya
From stunning nature reserves to mountains, lakes, and TONS of wildlife, Kenya is a popular destination for African adventures and safaris. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Morocco
Morocco, on Africa’s northern coast, is known for Marrakesh’s medina—a packed, energetic city center that dates back to medieval times with buzzing souks and marketplaces where you can shop for traditional crafts, jewelry, spices and more. Morocco’s stunning blue city of Chefchaouen is also a must-visit! Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See Morocco’s detailed Covid-19 requirements on entering and traveling in Morocco, or check the US Embassy’s website for further detail.
Mozambique
Mozambique is located on the eastern coast of southern Africa and is most popular for it’s stunning beaches, coral reefs and and marine life. It’s also home to the secluded Quirimbas National Park, a series of offshore islands that are so stunning you really have to see them to believe it! Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Namibia
Namibia is famous for its otherworldly landscapes (and who doesn’t need a change of scenery right now?). From some of the tallest sand dunes in the world to national parks and conservation areas home to diverse wildlife, there’s a lot to see in Namibia that’s different from what you’ll see at home! Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Tanzania
Tanzania is home to the famous Mount Kilimanjaro and also an incredible place for a safari. It’s one of our most popular destinations for students wanting to visit Africa! Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Seychelles
The stunning Seychelles islands off the coast of East Africa are home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, plus coral reefs, giant tortoises and rainforests. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For more details, check the Seychelles’ Covid-19 entry requirements.
South Africa
Cape Town has a little bit of everything, which makes it the perfect destination for a graduation trip. Aside from being an absolutely stunning city, surrounded by beaches and mountains, it’s full of opportunities for adventure. Go cage-diving with sharks, zipline through mountains and forests with views of Cape Town, snorkel with seals or go sea kayaking with penguins. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For more details, check South Africa’s Covid-19 entry requirements.
Is Asia open for US travelers?
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is an underrated destination in Central Asia, known most for it’s stunning mosques and other sites alongside beautiful ancient cities. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
South Korea
South Korea is quickly growing in popularity as a bucket-list destination as more and more people fall in love with K-pop, K-BBQ and other aspects of Korean culture. If you want to visit South Korea soon, here’s what you’ll need:
Is Europe open for US travelers?
While the European Union has discussed widespread measures on how to safely open borders, each individual country also has the ability to make decisions about how and when they will reopen to tourists. Keep reading for details on what the specific requirements are for open countries.
France
It’s likely been far too long since you had croissants and coffee in France, wandered the streets of Paris or visited the luxurious and refined French coastline. Beginning June 09, 2021, US travelers can visit France, with some restrictions. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For up-to-the-minute information, check France’s official travel advisories.
Italy
If Italy has been on your bucket list to visit—either for the first time, or for revisiting—after the pandemic, you’re in luck. The land of Venetian canals, Roman monuments, Cinque Terre and more is always worth a visit. If you can’t wait another moment to visit, you can plan your next trip with our cheap flights to Italy. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For up-to-the-minute information, check Italy’s official travel advisories or the Italian embassy’s website.
Greece
Greece is on almost everyone’s bucket list, and for good reason! And now, you can finally visit again—the land of Santorini sunsets, Greek islands, ancient ruins in Athens and Greek gyros on every corner awaits you. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Spain
Spain—the land of tapas, sangrias, history, culture, salsa dancing and more—has reopened to US tourists in the summer of 2021. If you can’t decide where to visit, Barcelona is a great spot to start, with a culture-rich city, stunning beaches and energetic nightlife. For something a bit more artistic, Madrid is a fashionable option. Or head to a smaller (but by no means less wonderful) city like Valencia, Seville or Granada. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For up-to-the-minute information, check Spain’s official travel advisories.
Albania
Albania, in the Balkans (near Croatia) offers plenty of beautiful (and non-touristy) beaches, plus inland mountain villages and small, charming cities. Even better, it’s extremely budget-friendly, making it super easy to visit as a student. You’ll get a super unique experience and Instagrammable views for a fraction of the cost of other European cities. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
More information on testing availability and requirements can be found on the embassy website.
Austria
Austria is quickly becoming more popular in Europe, with culture-rich and elegant cities like Vienna to charming towns like Salzburg. From mountain views of the Alps to storybook towns and medieval castles, Austria has a lot to explore! Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See Austria’s website for up to date information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Belgium
Belgium is a small country in Western Europe known for it’s medieval cities and Renaissance architecture. From ancient cities and cobblestone streets, elegant cities like Brussels or small fairytale towns like Brugges, there’s a lot to explore in Belgium! It’s also a somewhat underrated destination in Europe, so you’ll have less crowds to deal with and more unique experiences to explore! Plus, ever heard of a Belgian waffle? Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
More information on entry requirements can be found on Belgium’s embassy website.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most beautiful countries in the Balkans—maybe even in Europe!—and yet is hardly visited and much less touristy than other places. From beautiful medieval villages to stunning parks and waterfalls, there’s a lot to explore. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Croatia
Croatia used to be relatively unknown, but now is a bucket-list destination for many travelers—and for good reason! From the famous King’s Landing in Dubrovnik to picture-perfect beaches and coastline to adventure and hiking gems like Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia has plenty of natural beauty to take in. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For up-to-the-minute information, check the embassy website.
Cyprus
Though you may not have Cyprus on the top of your European bucket list, it’s one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean and is stunningly beautiful. It’s definitely one of the best places in Europe, especially during the warmer months! Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy’s website for up to date information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions or check Cyprus’ travel info website.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is most well-known for the beautiful city of Prague, with its castles, Old Town Square and many bridges and beautiful architecture. Whether you stay in Prague or venture out to other beautiful towns, castles and regions in the Czech Republic, there’s plenty to explore if you’re ready to immerse yourself in medieval villages and stunning architecture! Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: You can view the entry requirements on the Czech Republic’s website. The US embassy website also has resources regarding testing, entry requirements and in-country restrictions.
Denmark
Denmark is home to one of the most student-friendly cities in Europe—Copenhagen—and it reopened (with some restrictions) to US visitors the summer of 2021. If you’re ready to plan your visit to the charming Copenhagen, here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For up-to-the-minute information, check Denmark’s official travel advisories.
Germany
Germany is one of the most popular countries in Europe to visit, from progressive cities like Berlin to small villages like Rothenburg-ob-de-Tauber where you can step back in time. Whether you want to experience Germany’s recent or ancient history or just drop in for some bratwurst, Germany makes an amazing destination anytime of year. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy’s website for up to date information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Georgia
Georgia (the country, not the state) is located in Eastern Europe on the border of Europe and Asia. Home to the Caucasus Mountains, small mountainous villages and charming European towns, Georgia is a must for anyone wanting to get off-the-beaten-path in Europe and explore the outdoors! It’s also a relatively inexpensive country in Europe to visit—perfect for a student budget. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For up-to-the-minute information, check the embassy website.
Iceland
Iceland is one of our favorite European destinations, in part because it’s so easy to get to from the US! At just five hours from the East Coast, it’s an easy international destination for a weekend trip—though of course, it’s easy to stay for a lot longer. From stunning waterfalls to the Blue Lagoon to the Northern Lights and epic scenery pretty much everywhere, Iceland offers a whole lot of social distancing and wilderness to explore. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For up-to-the-minute information, check Iceland’s official travel advisories.
Ireland
The Emerald Isle is soon easing its restrictions on international travel, including American travelers! If you’ve been wanting a cool, quiet place to jump back into summer travel, Ireland offers plenty of rolling green hills, rainy days, pubs and cafes and castles, museums and more to explore. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For more details on these requirements, check Ireland’s official advisories or find up-to-the-minute information on the embassy website.
Luxembourg
Looking for somewhere in Europe to visit all your friends haven’t already been? Luxembourg is a great option. Located in Western Europe near France and Germany, it’s full of castles, palaces and cathedrals, as well as forests and parks. If you want to spend some of your trip in an art-filled city but also have the chance to get out in nature, head to Luxembourg. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy’s website for up to date information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Malta
Malta, an island between Sicily and the North African coast, is full of ancient history, stunning Mediterranean beaches, grottos and caverns and more. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient history in a European city or want to stay outside soaking up the sunshine and some scenic views, Malta has plenty to offer. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
More information on testing availability and requirements can be found on the embassy website.
Montenegro
This small coastal European country (near Croatia) is a bit under the radar, but totally beautiful once you’re there! Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: Make sure you read up on Montenegro’s travel guidelines before you go and be ready to follow them.
North Macedonia
North Macedonia, in Eastern Europe (just north of Turkey) holds a lot of quiet European charm, and is definitely less touristed than many other European countries.
Resources: More information on testing availability and requirements can be found on the embassy website.
Portugal
Portugal is one of Europe’s more underrated destinations, but it’s quickly growing in popularity! The colorful cities of Lisbon and Porto, coastal towns and beautiful beaches, delicious food and wine and sunny summer weather make Portugal a great destination. Plus, it’s quite affordable, especially compared to cities like London or Paris. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: Please be sure to check Portugal’s tourism board and/or the US embassy for up-to-date policies before planning a trip.
Slovenia
Slovenia, a small country in the Balkans between Croatia and Austria, flies under the radar but has a wealth of beautiful cities and natural wonders! Lake Bled is one of the most famous destinations, but the ancient cities, castles, mountains and lakes scattered throughout the country bring plenty of European charm no matter where you go. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: Find more information on Slovenia’s entry requirements here.
Switzerland
Switzerland is famous for the incredible Swiss alps, cheese and chocolate—so it’s pretty much a must on anyone’s bucket list. Head there for skiing or hiking or just some delicious cheese fondue in a pretty chalet. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy’s website for up to date information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Turkey
Turkey is an incredible travel destination—crossing right between Europe and Asia, it’s a blend of cultures, cuisines and history. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: For up-to-the-minute information, check the embassy website.
Ukraine
Although a less-touristed destination in Europe, the Ukraine has reopened for international visitors to enjoy it’s Eastern European history and heritage and beaches. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the embassy website for up-to-the-minute information on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
United Kingdom
If you’ve been waiting to hop across the Pond to London, it’s about to get a whole lot easier. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: See the UK government’s website for more details on entry/exit, testing and in-country restrictions.
Southeast Asia & South Pacific
If you’re up for a looong flight, there are some super idyllic islands (and other destinations) in the South Pacific that are welcoming international visitors.
Maldives
The Maldives reopened to travelers last summer and has detailed plans and guidelines. Since each resort/hotel is basically on it’s own little island, things are pretty easy once you get tested and arrive. Here’s what you’ll need to visit right now:
Resources: More information for planning your trip and requirements can be found on the Maldives’ tourism board website or on the Maldives embassy website.
Can Americans go to Australia and New Zealand?
Both Australia and New Zealand are currently closed to most international travelers. A “trans-Tasman” bubble may be in effect in the near future to allow for travel between Australia and New Zealand. However, New Zealand and Australia currently do not have plans to reopen to other countries in the near future.
We’re with you in looking forward to when the world opens back up to travelers, but we still encourage you to plan smart. Here are a few quick tips for successful future trip planning during the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Keep an eye on public health guidelines in your home country and at your destination and make sure you’ll be visiting a place where Americans can travel right now.
- Consider booking flights with an airline offering flexible change policies in case something happens and you need to delay your trip
- Consider purchasing a ‘cancel for any reason’ travel insurance policy
- Make yourself aware of your airlines safety guidelines and requirements for travel. Most airlines are requiring passengers to wear a mask or face covering.
- Understand what the local regulations are for the country or destination you’re planning to visit and be sure to comply with all local guidelines for mask-wearing, social distancing and so on to keep everyone healthy.
Ready to book your trip? We’ve got you covered with cheap flights.
