Yellow Fever Certificates Required For South Africa Tour

If you are a South African travelling to or from countries that require a Yellow Fever certificate, you must ensure that you get a vaccination against yellow fever before leaving on your trip. All individuals above the age of 1 year are required by international health regulations to get vaccinated before any journey that entails travel to or through the so-called “yellow fever belt” of Africa or South America.

What is Yellow Fever and what are the risks?

Yellow Fever is a disease caused by a virus that is transmitted via the bite of an infected mosquito and is so-named because when the virus attacks the liver, the colour of the skin and eyes turns yellow (jaundice).

The risk of travellers getting yellow fever differs due to various factors, including the season, the destination, the type of activities undertaken, and the length of stay. The risk is low for most travellers, especially if you are going to mainly well-developed urban areas. Those staying for a longer time, participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fieldwork or cycling, and those visiting rural or jungle areas are more at risk.

Yellow fever is endemic (always present) in many of the tropical areas of Africa and South America, and this means that any areas populated with the mosquito could harbour the disease.

Which Countries Require Yellow Fever Certificates?

You will not be able to get a visa or permit to travel to the following countries unless you have been vaccinated at least 10 days prior to your departure date and can show a yellow fever certificate:

• Angola
• Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi
• Cameroon, Central African Rep., Chad, Colombia, Congo, Cote d'Ivoire
• Democratic Rep. of Congo, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea
• Ethiopia
• French Guinea
• Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana
• Kenya
• Liberia
• Mali
• Niger, Nigeria
• Panama, Peru
• Rwanda
• Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Suriname
• Tanzania, Togo
• Uganda
• Venezuela
• Zambia (recently identified as a country with mild risk of yellow fever)

Yellow Fever certificates are valid for a period of 10 years commencing 10 days after the date of vaccination. Should you require a re-vaccination; the certificate will then be valid for 10 years from the date of that re-vaccination

Is the Yellow Fever Vaccine Safe?

Although there have been various myths that the vaccine is not safe and can actually infect you with yellow fever, the single-dose vaccine against yellow fever is 100% safe and effective. It is recommended for the majority of individuals over nine months of age.

The vaccine is generally not recommended for:

• Children under the age of 9 months.
• Individuals older than 60 years of age (especially if they have never had the vaccine before).
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Individuals with a weakened immune system.
• Individuals who are allergic to eggs.

Bangalore Sightseeing

Bangalore : Bangalore, recently renamed as Bengaluru, is the state capital of Karnataka and one of the most attractive modern cities in India. It has grown into the fifth largest metropolis of India. The city is famous for its beautiful parks, avenues, impressive buildings, heritage centers and excellent shopping. These qualities make it a magnificent place to visit, a delightful destination in its own right as well as the gateway to Southern India.

	#Vidana Soudha Built in 1954, Vidana Soudha is a landmark of Bangalore. This enormous building is a massive example of neo-Dravidian architecture, with four domes on its four corners. It houses the Legislative Chamber of Karnataka Government, as well as accommodates many government departments. It’s stunningly illuminated at night.
#Attara Kacheri (High Court) This two-storied building, built in 1867 under the reign of Tipu Sultan, is painted in red with Corinthian columns in Gothic style architecture. It’s located at the entrance to Cubbon Park, and houses the High Court and many lower courts.Close to the Court is the State Central Library building, which has the “Pompeian red” color and architectural style of stone and fluted pillars, with walls finished in lime plaster. Nearby, the Government Museum houses many exotic collection of coins, sculptures, inscriptions, and old paintings. Adjacent to the Museum is Venkatappa Art Gallery, displaying famous paintings, plaster of Paris works and wooden sculptures of the well known artist Venkatappa, and of other contemporary artists.
	#Bannerghatta National Park Bannerghatta National Park is situated at a distance of approximately 21 km from the Bangalore city of India. Situated amidst picturesque environs, the national park is well renowned for its lion and tiger safari. The other attractions of Bannerghatta National Park include its crocodile and snake farm. Bannerghatta National Park was established in the year 1971 and spreads over an area of 104 sq. km. Ten reserve forests of Anekal Range of the Bangalore Forest Division come under this national park. One of the famous picnic spots near Bangalore, Bannerghatta National Park houses bisons, lions, elephants, panthers, etc. A pet’s corner as well as a museum is also situated inside this national park. Lion safaris are also organized at request.
#Bangalore Palace If you wish to see a replica of the Windsor Castle complete with Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture, granite turrets, towers and battlements then a visit to the Bangalore Palace Is a must. Spread over a ts original owner Reverend J Garret who was then the principal of the Bangalore Central High visit to Bangalore without visiting the Bangalore Palace is surely incomplete.acquired by the King Chamarajendra Wodeyar in 1873 from irambling 430 acres the Bangalore Palace was in the middle of India, School. A
	#Lalbagh This enchanting garden is set on 240 acres with a rare collection of tropical and sub-tropical trees and plants, and a majestic glasshouse built on the lines of London’s Crystal Palace. The garden was made in the 17th century — started by Hyder Ali, and later completed by his son Tipu Sultan It derives its name “Lal Bagh” from a collection of red roses that bloom throughout the year there. The glasshouse, which was constructed in the year 1889 to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales, is the jewel of this garden. Lalbagh takes on a festive look during India’s Independence Day and Republic Day, with a captivating show of over 200 varieties of flowers. The show also features an exhibition of hybrid vegetables.
#Govt Museum ( Visvesvaraya Museum) The Government Museum of Bangalore, an archaeological museum located on the Kasturba Gandhi Road, is considered one of the oldest museums in India. The building, originally designed by Colonel Sankey in 1876, was extended later. The museum has two exhibition floors, with eighteen galleries housing sections on sculpture, geology, natural history, art, numismatics, etc. The collections in museum are enriched by ancient coins, jewellery, sculpture, inscriptions, and artifacts including relics from Mohenjodaro, Halebid and Vijayanagar. Some prehistoric artifacts of Neolithic period found during excavation at Chandravalli adore the museum. The museum is governed by the Directorate of Archeology and Museum of Karnataka State. It is open for viewers from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. except on Wednesdays.
	#Cubbon Park Located in the heart of city, set on a 300 acre area, Cubbon Park is a great place to laze around in the lush green paradise. It has a treasure of different species of exotic plants. The park was named after the erstwhile Commissioner of Bangalore, Sir Mark Cubbon. Many ornamental and flowering trees, both exotic and indigenous, can be found in the park. It’s a popular place for walkers, joggers, and nature lovers. Bal Bhavan in the park is a great place for the kids to enjoy. An aquarium is also located in Cubbon Park, with many varieties of exotic and ornamental fish.
#Ulsoor Lake The Ulsoor Lake, also known as Halasuru, is in central Bangalore. It is said that God Somesvara came to Kempe Gowda in his dream and blessed him with hidden treasure. He then built a pagoda using Dravidian architectural style, dedicated to God Somesvara. The lake was formed for harvesting rainwater and has a surface area of 125 acres. The lake is an interesting location for tourists, as it has boating and cruise facility to visit beautiful islands that contain various kinds of flowers, birds and insects. The Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara on the edge of the Ulsoor Lake enhances the beauty and attraction for the visitors.
	#Bull Temple Bull Temple in Bangalore, also known as “Nandi temple”or Bhoganandiswara temple. The temple is a sculptural masterpiece. It is dedicated to Nandi, the bull, which is considered as Lord Shiva’s Vahana or vehicle according to Hindu mythology. The temple is situated in Bungle hill on the south of Bull Temple Road. There is a large sculpture of Bull, which is about 4.6 metres tall and 6m long. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the structure is that it has been carved out from a single rock of granite.

Coorg Sightseeing

Coorg : Coorg in Karnataka in South India is a beautiful hill resort. 252 kms from Bangalore and 1525 m above sea level lies Coorg, the district headquarters of Kodagu. Coorg or Kodagu means ‘dense forest on steep hill’. It is beautiful hill country most of which is between 3000 and 4000 feet high. The tallest mountain peak is around 6000 feet high. Also known as Kodagu, Coorg is famous for coffee plantations. The coffee estates here produce some of the world’s best coffee.

	#Omkareshwara Temple This temple was constructed in 1820. The architectural design is based on the Mumammadan method. Turrets flank the corners of the temple. The centre of the structure is dominated by a dome. Lingarajendra II built this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Omkareshwara Temple is built incorporating Islamic and Gothic styles. As per legend there is an interesting story behind the building of this temple. A Brahmin was killed by the king. So this temple was built to console the spirit of this Brahmin.It is said that in order to banish the spirit, the king installed a linga in the temple. The linga was brought specially for this purpose from Kashi. A water body exists in front of the temple. There are plenty of fish in them. On first impressions, this temple could look like a Muslim dargah.
#Abbey Fall The Abbey Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in South India, located 10 km. away from Madikere. Undoubtedly, one of the best places to visit in Coorg, the amazing waterfalls cascading from majestic mountains of the Western Ghats, with misty clouds in the backdrop, is a beauty to behold. The water gushes down over the boulders in thunderous splash, presenting the most beautiful sight to cherish forever. The waterfalls are nestled amid stretches of coffee plantations and pepper vines, exuding picturesque beauty. It is also a popular trekking spot in Coorg. Walk down the hanging bridge to have a fantastic view of the falls.
	#Nisargadhama Nisargadhama is a 25 acre island formed by river Kaveri with bamboos, teak, sandalwood trees streams and wild life covering it.At Nisargadhama one can find deer, elephants, peacocks and some other usual wild animals if lucky. One can take a ride on the elephant around the resort for an unforgettable ride of the life time.Nisargadhama is also famous for its hanging bridge which connects the island and helps travelers to cross the kaveri river. A new bridge has been constructed now just beside the old and shaky hanging bridge.Visitors can enjoy boating, Elephant rides and swimming apart from just watching Nisargadhama’s natural beauty.
#Fort The Palace of the erstwhile kings located inside the Fort, now houses the offices of the Deputy Commissioner. The brick and mortar Palace was built in 1814 by Lingarajendra Wodeyar II.The strong fort of Mercara explains the tale of bravery and battle. In the inner Fort, a temple of Virabhadra was removed by the British in 1855 and in its place built an Anglican Church. The Church, in Gothic style, with color stained glasses has now been converted into a museum. The museum, run by the state archaeology department, is a repository of many antiques of Coorg. The original mud fort was rebuilt in stone by Tipu Sultan. Two life-size elephants made of mortar, catch the eye of the visitor on entering the Fort. The other buildings inside the fort include the Mahatma Gandhi Public Library, the Kote Maha Ganapathi temple and the district prison.

Mysore Sightseeing

Mysore :  Mysore officially renamed as Mysuru, is the third most populous city in the state of Karnataka, India. Located at the base of the Chamundi Hills about 146 km southwest of the state capital Bangalore, it is spread across an area of 128.42 km.Mysore is noted for its palaces, including the Mysore Palace, and for the festivities that take place during the Dasara festival when the city receives a large number of tourists. It lends its name to the Mysore style of painting, the sweet dish Mysore Pak, the Mysore Peta (a traditional silk turban) and the garment known as the Mysore silk saree.

	#Mysore Palace Revisit the glorious days of Wodeyar dynasty as you take a walk through the largest palace in India. Witness the splendid architecture and the glory of the past that will enthral the history lover in you. A home for all the tourists of Karnataka, Mysore palace is one of the most visited tourist destination in this state. The palace is decorated grandly every year during the world famous Dasara festival and the rich heritage of Wodeyar dynasty is witnessed during the celebration of this festival.
#Chamundi Hills Chamundi hill makes it to the list of ‘must visit tourist places in Mysore’ as many tourists come to this hill to pay deference to Chamundi Devi. Within the city limits of Mysore this place is most known for the famous temple on its hill top. The temple was built in the 11th century and has been renovated and turned into a tourist spot.The most famous event that occurs here is the pooja during the Dasara festival, which happens in October every year. The temple is popularly known for its royal importance during the days of Mysore Wodeyars.
	#St Philomena’s Church With a history of over 200 years, St Philomena’s church is one of the most popular tourist places in Mysore. Not just in Mysore but this church is a well-known tourist spot in the entire state of Karnataka. Take a break from exploring the history, sooth your mind at this divine tourist spot in Mysore. Initially built as a small church was then reconstructed by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV. It is one among the largest Cathedrals in the whole of South Asia.
#Brindavan Gardens The Brindavan Gardens are located just a level below the Krishna Raja Sagara dam. It is a major tourist attraction for all the Mysore and KRS dam visitors. It is also regarded as one of the most beautiful gardens in the state of Karnataka. The most popular and exciting experience at this garden is the musical fountain that is scheduled in the evenings. Being one of its kind, Brindavan Garden attracts tourists from across the world.
	#Srirangapatna With a majestic heritage of about 600 years Mysore becomes the cultural capital of Karnataka. Tour this highly rich historic place to revisit the glorious days of its existence.Along with touring the palaces of the Wodeyar dynasty in Mysore, you can explore Tourist Places near Mysore like the palace of Tippu Sultan at Srirangapatna. Alongside that, you can also take a tour to the toy factories of Srirangapatna and witness the magic in the hands of the toy makers.

Ooty Sightseeing

Ooty : Ooty, is also known as “Udhagamandalam”. It’s been rightly titled as the as Queen of Hills. Ooty, the headquarters of The Nilgiris district is one of the famous hill stations in India. It is situated at an altitude of 2,240 meters above mean sea level. The word Nilgiris means Blue Mountains. It is a land of picturesque picnic spots and had been a popular summer and weekend getaway for the British during the colonial days. There are plenty of interesting tourist spots like Botanical Gardens, Lakes, Boat houses, water falls, shooting spots, Wildlife Sanctuary. #Ooty Lake Covering an area of around 65 acres, the Ooty Lake is a manmade lake formed in 1824 under the British. It features a boathouse which offers boating facilities to the visitors and is famous for hosting boat races during the summer month of May. #Doddabetta Peak A visit to Doddabetta Peak was the reason I went to Ooty in the first place. I had heard a lot about the picturesque Nilgiris and the amazing views this place has to offer. The place stands at a height of around 8,650 feet and makes it the highest peaks in south India. This place offers amazing trek spots and plenty of quiet and picturesque locations to solitary wanderers like me. You might want to pack some really good pair of binoculars when you reach this place to enjoy it to the fullest. There is a small eatery placed here courtesy of the tourism department of Tamil nadu that offers some okay tasting food at a cheap price. #Rose Garden The Largest rose gardens in India, the Government Rose Gardens lie on the slopes of the Elk Hill at an elevation of 2200 meters above sea level. It also has one of the largest collections of roses with more than 20,000 different varieties. #Mudumalai National Park Also known as a famous Tiger Reserve, the Mudumalai National Park is a home to several wildlife and bird species. The Bengal Tiger, Leopards, Indian Bison, Asiatic Elephants and several other rare species of birds and animals can be found here. #Pykara River Known as a sacred place for the Toda people, Pykara River flows through the plateau and form several cascades and waterfalls. The Pykara falls are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ooty and are famous for the shola trees,Toda settlements and wildlife. #Wax Museum The Wax museum is housed inside a 142 year old bungalow in Ooty. Although the sculptures are not as impressive as the ones found at Madame Tussauds, but display a brief insight on the people and culture of Ooty and surrounding areas. #Shooting Point Ooty is a lovely meadow surrounded by hill sides. Picturesque and dream like, the best place to view the surrounding landscape is from the Shooting Point, a rather steep climb for most. Lush green and interspersed with rocks, the place is ideal for those interested in landscape and scenic photography. There is always the option to go up on horseback or just ride along in the area, but the actual fun is in trekking here. A calm and serene lake makes a lovely picnic spot or a place to just sit and rejuvenate oneself

Kovalam Sightseeing

Kovalam : Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite haunt of tourists, especially Europeans, since the 1930s. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing.

The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night. The beach complex includes a string of budget cottages, Ayurvedic health resorts, convention facilities, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic massage centres.

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is just 16 km away from Kovalam and getting there is no hassle. But if you are on holiday it is better to stay in Kovalam and visit the city. The City of Thiruvananthapuram has interesting places to see like the Napier Museum, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Ponmudi hill station etc. SMSM Institute, a State owned handicrafts emporium, is the ideal place to pick up ethnic curios and other articles.

	The light house is also known in names like Vizhinjam lighthouse or Vilinjam light house as per in records. Snaps from inside the lighthouse taken during some leisure picnic trips. The lighthouse is an active one and the huge tall structure is open everyday by late afternoons. Painted in red and white bands the tower stands tall in a height of 36m or 118 feet.
the Hawa beach ,known to be as “one of the best tourist Attraction place“. Here, the tourist feel like heaven on earth while visit here  and  seeing sunset in the entire splendor. Here , Tourist can see  the Standard living of the fishermen . Here , tourist get enjoy with palm groves stretched into a fencing around a boundary.
	Samudra Beach, which is just 4 km north of Kovalam, is a popular attraction. The beach owes its name to Hotel Samudra, which is operated by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. Forming the northern part of Kovalam Beach, this beach is popular among both Indian as well as international tourists. Numerous basic wooden fishing vessels can be seen near the beach.
Akkulam Lake is a popular picnic spot, which is located around 16.6 km away from Kovalam. The lake is basically an extension of Veli Lake, where it merges into the sea. The main attraction of this lake is the boat club, where boating can be done. Besides the lake, this place also has a children’s park, swimming pool, an Anthurium Project and a snack bar.

Karamana River, which is located around 14.2 km away from Kovalam, is a popular attraction. This river originates at the southern tip of the Western Ghats at Agastyar Koodam and flows through Thiruvananthapuram. Furthermore, this river flows 68 km westward and falls into the Arabian Sea at Panathura area near Kovalam.