Rwanda’s government has announced that it will introduce a tourism levy to support development of the industry. Approved by Rwanda’s Cabinet as one of several tax policy reforms on February 10, the levy will be payable by tourists and fixed at 3% of the overall hotel room rate for the duration of stay. Cabinet’s statement…
Bawe Island by The Cocoon Collection has announced the establishment of a new marine reserve in collaboration with the Zanzibar government. This protected zone covers the entire coast of Bawe Island to preserve its coral reefs and support the area’s rich biodiversity for future generations. The reserve prohibits fishing in the designated area to enable…
Lilongwe, Malawi’s capital, is evolving into a hub of conservation, tourism and cultural innovation – buoyed by significant progress in 2024 and exciting plans for 2025. Key developments across conservation efforts, eco-tourism and hospitality highlight the city’s upward trajectory. In 2024, the Lilongwe Wildlife Trust introduced new visitor engagement initiatives at the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre.…
Experiential eco-tourism operator Wild Expeditions will open an exclusive-use, seasonal camp within its private concession in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park on May 1. Open during the prime game viewing months between May and the end of November, the Muddy Teak camp will be set among teak and ordeal trees on the banks of a natural waterhole around…
Several hiking trails in Table Mountain National Park have been temporarily closed due to ongoing fires in Red Hill and Hout Bay. Park authorities have urged visitors to avoid affected areas while firefighting teams work to contain the fires. The closures include the Kleinplaas, Lewis Gay and Jonkers dam trails. The Red Hill fire, which…
Chapman’s Peak Drive will be closed every Wednesday from 10h00 to 16h00 in February and March to facilitate critical conservation work by the Table Mountain National Park team. The project is focusing on removing invasive alien vegetation to help preserve the region’s biodiversity. The closures will take place on the following dates: February: 12, 19…
Experiential eco-tourism operator Wild Expeditions will open an exclusive-use, seasonal camp within its private concession in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park on May 1. Open during the prime game viewing months between May and the end of November, the Muddy Teak camp will be set among teak and ordeal trees on the banks of a natural waterhole around…
With Malawi recently included as the only African destination in leading travel trade body ABTA’s ‘Destinations to Watch in 2025’, this looks to be another year of growth for the fast emerging ‘Warm Heart of Africa’. In a series of articles, we’re taking a look at some of the developments from 2024 and plans for…
Volcanoes Safaris, the pioneer of gorilla and chimpanzee ecotourism in Uganda and Rwanda since 1997, proudly celebrates the 25th anniversary of its award-winning Bwindi Lodge. Overlooking the primeval Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and with stunning views of the forest canopy, Bwindi Lodge is one of Africa’s unique lodges. From its beginnings as a simple camp in…
Tanzania set a new tourism record in 2024, welcoming 5.36 million visitors and surpassing its target of attracting five million tourists by 2025, according to Pindi Chana, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism. Speaking at a stakeholder meeting in Dar es Salaam, Chana highlighted that, out of the total number of tourists, 3.22 million…
From March 4th to 6th, 2025, TATO members–including top mountain operators, balloon safari providers, hoteliers, safari companies, and beach holiday specialists—will be exhibiting at the heart of African Pavilion, Hall 21A, Stand 117. As Tanzania’s leading private-sector tourism association, TATO is committed to promoting the country’s unparalleled tourism experiences, from the legendary Serengeti safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro…
The APTA Global Forum, in partnership with the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), is returning to Africa in 2025, and we’re thrilled to announce that Arusha, Tanzania, will be the host destination! Set against the backdrop of one of Africa’s most iconic safari gateways, this year’s forum will take place from September 24-26, 2025,…
The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market in Seychelles, more commonly known as Victoria Market, will close its doors at the beginning of March as it undergoes significant renovations. To ensure the market continues to serve the community during the renovation period, operations will temporarily relocate to the former STC Supermarket in Victoria. “Despite the location change,…
Refurbishment of the Muizenberg beachfront began on Monday, February 3. Public amenities will be upgraded and ageing seawalls will be replaced in phases over two years. The first phase will focus on the western side of Surfer’s Corner, near the railway line, and extend to the eastern parking area at the Muizenberg Civic Centre. The surf…
Hideaways Africa has introduced Cape Point Hideaway, a private villa between Table Mountain National Park and Baskloof Private Nature Reserve, into its portfolio. The solar-powered retreat offers panoramic Atlantic Ocean views, a remote yet accessible location and luxury accommodation for up to 10 guests. Cape Point Hideaway is designed for travellers seeking privacy while remaining…
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has long lived in the shadow of Cape Town’s international appeal and Mpumalanga’s wildlife offerings but that might be about to change. Could 2025 be the year that KZN steps into the international spotlight? Much of this optimism centres on Club Med Tinley – a multi-billion-rand development set to open its doors on…
Carved into the Soutpansberg mountains of Limpopo, South Africa, and surrounded by UNESCO’s Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, Few & Far Luvhondo is a new carbon-neutral safari from the founders of Under Canvas. And in January, I was the first journalist to stay at the six-suite resort near South Africa’s northern border with Zimbabwe. “When we built Under Canvas, we…
The Nigerien government has announced plans to establish a new national airline as well as a regional carrier under the Alliance of Sahel States (ASS), marking a significant step toward improving air connectivity within the country and across the region. According to the Nigerien News Agency, Niger’s Minister of Transport and Equipment, Colonel Salisu Mahaman…
FlySafair has been given 12 months to comply with the domestic regulator’s ruling on its ownership structure, alleviating concerns that the low-cost carrier might be forced to ground its operations until the issue was resolved. South Africa’s National Department of Transport confirmed on 5 February that the country’s Air Services Licensing Council (ASLC) had made…
An estimated 1,4 billion tourists travelled internationally in 2024, indicating a virtual recovery (99%) of 2019 pre-pandemic levels, according to the latest World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism. This represents an increase of 11% over 2023, or 140 million more international tourist arrivals. The results were driven by strong post-pandemic demand, robust performance from large…
Virgin Limited Edition has announced a full interior refurbishment of its tented safari camp, Mahali Mzuri, in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. The camp, currently closed, will reopen in June 2025 with 12 completely redesigned luxury tent interiors and communal areas – enhancing the guest experience while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding environment and Maasai…
Selected nature reserves managed by the City of Cape Town will adopt cashless payment systems from February 1. The list includes the Witzands Aquifer (for permitted activities), Tygerberg, Table Bay, Helderberg and Blaauwberg nature reserves. Entry fees for these reserves range between R15 (€0.77) and R28 (€1.44) while other city reserves remain free of charge.…
Kuriftu Resort & Spa has recently launched the African Village – a new addition to its hospitality portfolio in Ashewa Meda on the outskirts of Addis Ababa. Designed to celebrate Africa’s cultural diversity and unity, the African Union-themed resort features 54 luxury villas representing different African nations. The African Village is equipped with nine conference…
Rising crime in the Eastern Cape, particularly the Wild Coast, has cast a shadow over the local tourism economy and the region’s reputation as a travel destination The Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) has expressed deep concern over the impact of crime on the province’s tourism reputation. ECPTA spokesperson Oyanga Ngalika highlighted the urgency of…
Ponant Explorations Group has acquired a majority stake in small ship expedition company, Aqua Expeditions, ahead of the inaugural sailing of Aqua Expeditions’ newest ship in East Africa. The company will keep its name and will continue to be managed as a stand-alone business unit, led by CEO and Founder, Francesco Galli Zugaro. “This transaction comes…
With Malawi recently included as the only African destination in leading travel trade body ABTA’s ‘Destinations to Watch in 2025’, this looks to be another year of growth for the fast emerging ‘Warm Heart of Africa’. Over the next few weeks we’ll take a look at some of the developments from 2024 and plans for…
RETETI HOUSE: NEW ROOMS With the addition of two new rooms, we have increased our capacity to host up to 16 guests at the exclusive use Reteti House. Here’s the layout: Four standalone rooms Open-plan family room: Includes a double bed + two singles Family suite: Two rooms connected by a shared verandah and living…
Sarara Wilderness – is officially open and welcomed its first guests to great success over the New Year! This exciting addition expands our portfolio with even more immersive wilderness experiences. At Sarara Wilderness, we embrace the thrill of an exquisite tented stay in the heart of the wilderness, exceptional wildlife viewing, authentic cultural encounters, as…
Zimbabwe’s second largest national park, Gonarezhou, has temporarily closed. The closure, until the end of February, allows for essential maintenance of the park’s tourism infrastructure and enables camp attendants to spend time with their families. During this period, the park’s infrastructure team will carry out repairs and improvements to the camps, ensuring facilities are in…
Today (January 20), SAA resumed daily flights between Johannesburg and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The daily flight departs Johannesburg at 22h00 and arrives in Dar es Salaam at 02h30 the following day. The return flight departs Dar es Salaam at 05h10 and arrives in Johannesburg at 07h55. Dar es Salaam is an important regional economic…
South African National Parks (SANParks) has reopened the majority of its roads following significant rainfall earlier this month. While most routes have reopened, some areas remain inaccessible due to flooding and road damage. The H4-2 road from Lower Sabie to Skukuza Rest Camp is now accessible via the Nwatindlopfu high-water bridge. However, the direct road to…
Ethiopian Airlines, the Largest Aviation Group in Africa and SKYTRAX Certified Four Star Global Airline, is pleased to announce the launch of their flash sale. Ethiopian Airlines are running a 10% off flash sale including flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester, to Lilongwe and Blantyre in Malawi. This offer is not only valid…
NEW 2025 STAY 4 PAY 3 OFFER Stay on safari longer for less when you take advantage of these free nights offers! Lewa House: travel between 1st – 15th March and 18th – 31st May, 2025 Tangulia Mara Camp & Tangulia Ndogo: travel between 16th Feb to 31st May 2025 Reteti House: travel between 16th…
The Transportation Security Administration on Monday published a final rule providing a framework for federal agency phased enforcement of Real ID requirements. Federal agencies, including TSA, will begin Real ID enforcement on the deadline of May 7, 2025. Starting on that date, only those state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards that meet the security requirements…
Hideaways Africa is thrilled to announce the newest addition to its collection of unique and authentic safari experiences—Hideaways Mankwe Tented Retreat, located in the heart of Botswana’s breathtaking Greater Moremi region. This exclusive retreat offers guests the perfect combination of luxury and adventure, providing an unforgettable escape into one of Africa’s most celebrated wilderness areas.…
Green Safaris has announced an exceptional offer for those seeking a serene and sustainable adventure in Malawi & Zambia during the Secret Season. This exclusive promotion invites guests to enjoy nine unforgettable nights at Green Safaris lodges while paying for only seven, and covers Kaya Mawa on Lake Malawi as well as Green Safaris lodges…
TODAY! Thursday, January 16th at 2pm eastern Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5700111714301816927 Join us for an exciting journey through Zimbabwe as we showcase the award-winning Victoria Falls Safari Collection and the enchanting Amalinda Safari Collection. From the awe-inspiring Mighty Victoria Falls, to the mystical granite landscapes of Matobo Hills, and onward to the legendary wilderness of Hwange…
Recent heavy rains in most parts of the country resulted in the closure of some Kruger National Park (KNP) camps and gravel roads. Some main roads between Skukuza and Lower Sabie were damaged but the KNP Roads Management team moved swiftly to ensure safety for users including tourists. South African National Parks (SANParks) said, in…
Namibian operator Onguma is set to open a seasonal eco-friendly glamping offering in the 34 000 ha Onguma Private Game Reserve on the eastern border of Etosha National Park on April 1. Described as the “first of its kind in Namibia”, Onguma Trails Camp will offer four bell tents accommodating a maximum of eight guests in king-size…
A new Zimbabwean start-up airline, Transvaal Africa, has secured an Air Service permit and plans to launch passenger flights on regional routes in the last quarter of this year. CEO of the airline, Patson Moyo, said the airline would operate from Harare as well as Victoria Falls Airport. “We are targeting the regional routes for passenger…
The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) is calling for a review of health screening measures implemented at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) in Tanzania as this creates unnecessary barriers to entry. A recent meeting at the airport, to discuss these concerns, gathered representatives of TATO, the Ministry of Health, KIA management and Port Health. TATO…
A recent decision by the Air Services Licensing Council (ASLC) finding FlySafair non-compliant with domestic licensing rules, could jeopardise the operations of other major airlines in South Africa and potentially bring significant disruption for air travel, says FlySafair in a media release issued yesterday afternoon, January 14. “The Council has issued a ruling that calls into…
Malawi has been spotlighted in ABTA’s “Destinations to Watch 2025” report, a prestigious list highlighting unique locations set to capture the imagination of travellers in the coming year. Known as the “Warm Heart of Africa,” Malawi’s inclusion as the only African country on the list emphasises its appeal as a must-visit destination for adventure seekers, wildlife…
Launching on January 20, 2025, Miracle Air redefines luxury air travel in Tanzania, offering exceptional service, personalized experiences, and competitive pricing for charter flights across the country and beyond. Iconic Destinations & Scenic Tours Miracle Air connects travellers to iconic Tanzanian destinations like Seronera, Kogatende, Ndutu, Zanzibar, and more. Scenic flights offer breathtaking views of…
Ascot Tours is pleased to announce that we have a few remaining spots for our Kenya Familiarization Trip, running from 23 April to 3 May 2025. This opportunity offers a comprehensive taste of Kenya’s exciting experiences. Date: 23 April – 3 May 2025 Participants will enjoy Kenya’s finest offerings, from excellent golfing and dining in…
Time is running out to win six nights in the company of Africa’s most enigmatic creatures – a $14,500 safari through Tanzania’s wild southern reaches draws to a close tomorrow. This isn’t about infinity pools or pressed linens. It’s about dwelling in the heart of Ruaha, where elephant herds roam, and along the mighty Rufiji…
Airlink announced the cancellation of January 7 flights to Nampula in Mozambique following a claim for damages instituted by the province’s court. The instituting of the claim was accompanied by a court application to have Airlink’s aircraft seized pending the outcome. The claim was filed with the Judicial Court in the province of Nampula by…
Industry leaders have welcomed Zambia’s “progressive” visa policy relaxing requirements for another 53 countries from January 1. This brings to 167 the total number of countries that no longer require a visa to enter Zambia for tourism or trade – including major global source markets. The move reinforces the country’s position as a leader in…
After an extensive refurbishment, Radisson Blu Waterfront Cape Town has rebranded as the first South African hotel under the global hotel group’s luxury lifestyle portfolio, Radisson Collection. Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town, features 175 rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies overlooking either the ocean or the marina. In line with the…
The European Commission has added Air Tanzania to the EU Air Safety List, banning it from flying in the EU. “The latest update adds Air Tanzania to the list due to safety concerns identified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency,” said the Commission, which did not specify any particular violations. The airline has subsequently…