Fernando de Noronha Reopens to Travelers Who Have Recovered from COVID-19

One of the most beautiful archipelagos in the world is reopening to international tourism, with an unusual caveat: only travelers who have had COVID-19 will be granted entry.

Located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of , in the state of Pernambuco, the 21-island reopened its borders on September 1 after more than five months of lockdown. Instead of asking would-be vacationers to present negative test results as many other destinations have, the Pernambuco government requires evidence that visitors have already contracted the coronavirus and are now “proven to be cured.”

According to a governmental bulletin translated from Portuguese via Google Translate, travelers must submit the results of one of two tests – a positive RT-PCR performed more than 20 days prior or a positive serological test (lgG) indicating the presence of antibodies – within 72 hours of departure, along with payment of the state’s Environmental Preservation Fee. Notably, rapid test results are not accepted.

This reopening is the first phase of Pernambuco’s gradual process. Beaches that were previously only accessible until 4pm are now open to groups of up to ten people with no restrictions on opening hours. Food and drink are also permitted. Additionally, restaurants, bars, and snack bars are operating at 50% capacity, public transportation is running, and religious celebrations along with sporting events are now allowed. It’s important to note that masks covering the nose and mouth are mandatory on public roads. Anyone displaying symptoms is urged to notify the island’s health department promptly and follow the guidance provided.

“There hasn’t been community transmission on the island for a long time. We have to keep it that way,” Pernambuco health secretary André Longo told Reuters in a statement. “Obviously, this step is going to be done with an eye on safety and reactivating economic activity on the archipelago.”

While World Health Organization officials reported in July that “there is some data out there that may suggest that immunity will wane over time,” a recent Icelandic study published in the New England Journal of Medicine indicates that novel coronavirus antibodies could remain in the body for four months after infection. Therefore, travelers considering a visit to this stunning destination should keep these factors in mind when planning their trip.