Despite the wishful thinking of leaders in some U.S. states, this virus threat hasn't gone away. Thankfully some other countries have done better at clamping down and stopping the spread. Some of them are now opening back up to tourists--with precautions. 

In general, assume that you're probably going to need to come armed with a negative COVID-19 test if you don't want to go into quarantine. In some cases they'll test you on the spot instead and you don't leave the airport terminal until you're cleared. Also assume you'll be required to maintain safe distancing and wear a mask anytime you're not eating or drinking.  

Here's who is open now or will be soon in Latin America:

Mexico - Never was closed to air travelers. You only need to fill out a signed statement that you don't have symptoms and get a temperature check upon arrival. Mask rules are in place everywhere, though enforcement is inconsistent. Tourist zones are much safer than others. 

Honduras - Back open, with flights from Spirit and American so far. 

Nicaragua - The country never officially shut down, but no flights were coming in. Flights resume in October from a variety of airlines. 

Belize - Opening back up October 1. You must stay at a hotel or resort that has received the Belize Tourism Gold Standard Certificate of Recognition. Most that we cover have so see our Belize luxury hotel reviews. 

Costa Rica - Open to Canadians, Europeans, and residents of some U.S. states--basically the ones that have seen a dramatic drop in cases. This list has expanded, but don't plan on going anytime soon if your driver's license is from Texas or #Floriduh. 

Panama - Opening back up to foreign tourists on October 12. This is the hub for Star Alliance airline Copa, so there will be plenty of flights coming in. 

Colombia - The country has not been very clear about restrictions, but it appears that foreigners will now be able to visit Colombia without a two-week quarantine as of October 1 if they come with a very recent negative test. This is the hub for Star Alliance airline Avianca and many others fly in as well. 

Ecuador - Now back open to tourists, including the Galapagos Islands. Visits to the mainland have less strict requirements than visits to the islands--which have not had a case and want to keep it that way. 

Brazil - In theory it's open since the science-denying president has scoffed at the danger while his country climbs the charts for the number of deaths. If you visit though, you might not be allowed back in your own country or at the least will have to go into quarantine since many have banned anyone coming from Brazil. We wouldn't advise a visit anytime soon, unfortunately. 

If a country is not on this list, assume we either don't cover it (like El Salvador) or it has not announced an opening date.