Samara Karoo Reserve, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, has announced updates to two of its offerings: the refurbishment of its exclusive-use villa, The Manor, and the opening of a new Bush Spa within the reserve’s Karoo Lodge. The Manor refurbishment Samara’s four-bedroom villa, The Manor, is undergoing a full refurbishment due for completion by…
SANParks has confirmed an increase in daily conservation fees for visitors, effective November 1 to October 31 next year, across all 21 national parks. The revised rates show incremental adjustments of between R30 (US$1.73) and R70 (US$4.04) per person per day, depending on the park. The Kruger National Park, for instance, will see the international…
Marriott International and Aksaya Estates Limited have signed an agreement to bring a Courtyard by Marriott to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Scheduled to open in 2027, the hotel will feature around 180 rooms and suites designed for leisure and business travellers. Facilities will include two restaurants and bars, an expansive landscaped courtyard with…
A new Zimbabwean start-up, Flycristal Airways, is expected to launch charter flights on domestic, regional and international routes from December this year. Johannes Simau, Founder of Flycristal Airways, told Travel News that the company would begin with a hybrid model focusing on passenger and cargo operations, and once the brand became more established, it would likely split…
Steenberg Farm in the Constantia Valley, Western Cape, has completed the restoration of its historic Manor House. Located at the foot of the Constantiaberg mountains, the Manor House dates back to 1682 and is South Africa’s oldest registered farm building, originally home to founder Catharina Ras. The renovation, led by MD Catherine Schulze, focused on preserving the…
A new project that aims to position Livingstone as a “resilient, competitive and inclusive tourist destination” has been announced by the Zambian Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba. It will focus on improving the city’s streetscape and urban infrastructure to enhance visitor experience and overall destination appeal. The Livingstone Town Centre Development Programme (LTCDP) is part of…
Aeroportos de Moçambique has confirmed that renovation work at Beira International Airport is expected to be completed by the end of 2025 – a move aimed at strengthening the airport’s regional competitiveness. “We believe that, by the end of this year, the work will be completed and Beira International Airport will be competitive with other…
GREEN SEASON SPECIAL – STAY 3 NIGHTS, PAY ONLY 2 VALID FOR TRAVEL DATES BETWEEN 1st NOVEMBER 2025 – 31st MARCH 2026 Botswana’s green season, a time of vibrant transformation, from approximately from November-March, with abundant rainfall creating lush vegetation that makes the landscapes come alive! The perfect for photographers, birdwatchers, the birth of newborn…
Mozambique’s best-kept barefoot luxury secret A Private Beachfront Home Offering Barefoot Luxury and Exclusive Ocean Adventures Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique – Pambele, a private beachfront house on the coastline of the San Sebastian Peninsula – has relaunched as an exclusive-use beach house with a refreshed brand identity – positioning itself as a secluded barefoot-luxury destination for…
The Palace of the Lost City and Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen are excited to announce their new partnership. Internationally regarded for curating hyper-personalised experiences, including travel, events, and fine dining, van der Westhuizen revitalises The Palace’s legendary hospitality touchpoints through the lens of the JAN brand. This collaboration delves into the rich…
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has expanded its codeshare agreement with Virgin Atlantic to include Johannesburg and Cape Town – alongside Dubai and the Maldives. As part of the agreement, SAS will place its SK code on selected flights from London Heathrow. The new codeshare flights will be available through SAS booking channels for travel with immediate…
Taj Hotels will open its three new properties in the Greater Kruger National Park in 2026 as part of the first phase of a broader expansion plan that includes destinations across Southern and East Africa. The six-key Taj Lion Kings Bush Lodge and the six-key Taj Lion Kings River Lodge are scheduled to open during…
Sun International’s Sun City Hotel is finalising its renovations and preparing to show off its ‘Vegas-esque’ facelift in time for the 2025 Nedbank Golf Challenge in November and the busy December holiday season. On September 25, in a Miami Heat-themed celebration in its revamped pool area, the hotel marked the occasion alongside its guests, suppliers, local…
Etihad Airways will relaunch seasonal flights between Abu Dhabi and Zanzibar from June 14 to September 6 next year. The airline will operate four weekly services on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays using an Airbus A320 with Business and Economy Class cabins. The route will benefit from Etihad’s expanded European network, creating improved connections from Europe and…
Essence of Africa’s second edition begins today (October 7) at Diamonds Malindi in Malindi, Kenya. The show will run until October 9. The private sector-led initiative is designed to connect international buyers with African tourism suppliers through targeted, pre-scheduled meetings to initiate partnerships and drive measurable business results. “Our goal is simple. By the time buyers board their flights…
The V&A Waterfront’s various sustainability initiatives have been further enhanced with the launch of the precinct’s first fully electric commercial boat by local operator City Sightseeing. Docked outside the One&Only Cape Town, the boat seats 32 passengers and joins City Sightseeing’s regular boat schedule, which operates as a canal cruise and transport link connecting to…
Visit Rwanda, the official tourism brand of the Rwanda Development Board, has announced multi-year sponsorship agreements with the LA Clippers, Los Angeles Rams, SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park. The deals mark the first time an African tourism brand has partnered with an NBA and NFL team. Existing partnerships include Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Atlético de Madrid and an academy programme with…
For decades, Asilia Africa has been leading the way in offering unforgettable immersive safari experiences in East Africa. We’re a B Corp certified company operating across Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda, where every stay funds wildlife protection and supports local communities. In the Swahili language, ‘Asilia’ means ‘genuine’ and ‘authentic’, and we’ve earned a reputation…
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has announced the implementation of new conservation fees for access to the country’s national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries, set to take effect from Wednesday, October 1, 2025. This follows the approval of the Wildlife Conservation and Management Regulations 2025 by the Parliament on Thursday, September 25, 2025. Kenya Wildlife Service…
Stay longer, experience more with FREE NIGHTS the Zambezi Queen Collection! For a limited time, your clients safari stretches further, and costs less. With our Pay Stay offer, your guests will enjoy more sunsets, more sightings, and more time to soak up one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Zambezi Queen: Pay 2, Stay 3 aboard…
The Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa (APTA) is excited to announce that its 2026 APTA Global Forum will take place September 25–27, 2026, in Livingstone, Zambia, at the edge of the world-famous Victoria Falls. This will be the first time the Forum has been hosted in Zambia, and marks APTA’s return to…
Mid-December 2025 marks the arrival of Kusini Serengeti, Nomad Tanzania’s newest bush camp, nestled among granite kopjes in the remote southwest of the Serengeti. This is not just a new camp, it’s a return to the kind of safari that first defined Nomad: light-footed, small-scale, and deeply rooted in wilderness. Set on the site of the former…
Bushwise Exclusive (formerly GVI Expeditions) just launched a complimentary monthly Masterclass Series for travel professionals looking to sharpen their African safari expertise. Starting February 18th, these 45-minute sessions will cover Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, South Africa, and Namibia – diving into wildlife experiences, conservation efforts, and what makes each destination unique. Led by safari expert Chantelle…
Issued 30 September 2025, the SADC Tourism Alliance, Africa’s Eden, and SATSA have released a joint update on the situation in Madagascar following recent civil unrest. While demonstrations have taken place in some urban areas, the country’s key tourism destinations remain open, operational, and unaffected. Tourism operationsThe Confédération du Tourisme de Madagascar (CTM) confirms that…
Hideaways Africa is delighted to announce a new addition to Mhara River Camp in Mana Pools National Park, the introduction of a purpose-built bird hide. Completed just two months ago and situated only 60 yards from the main camp area, this new feature offers guests an opportunity to connect more deeply with the wild landscapes that make Mana…
FlySafair launches a new Cape Town-Hoedspruit service from October 2, operating three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The flight will depart Cape Town at 12h15 and arrive at 14h45 with the return leg leaving Hoedspruit at 15h20 and arriving at 18h05. Speaking to Tourism Update, FlySafair Chief Marketing Officer Kirby Gordon said the decision followed strong demand…
Increased conservation fees for entry into Kenya’s national parks, reserves and sanctuaries officially come into effect on October 1, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has confirmed. The across-the-board increases were approved by Parliament on September 25 under the Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access, Entry and Conservation) (Fees) Regulations Act 2025. Fees for non-resident, non-East African citizen entry into…
Zimbabwe, in collaboration with Zambia and Malawi, is pleased to invite you to an engaging destination training session scheduled for October 29, 2025. This event will be held at the Embassy of Zambia in Washington, D.C., beginning at 10:00 AM EST. What to Expect The session is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of these…
The Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa (APTA) proudly wrapped up its 2025 Global Forum this week at the Gran Meliá Arusha, bringing together 100 industry leaders, buyers, suppliers, and conservation advocates from across Africa and North America. Over three days of programming, participants engaged in thought-provoking sessions, more than 900 one-on-one B2B…
The Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa (APTA) has officially opened its 2025 Global Forum in Arusha, Tanzania, marking the first time the event has been hosted in East Africa and only the second time ever on the African continent. With more than 100 delegates from North America and across Africa in attendance,…
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Nomad Tanzania Joins Classic Portfolio: A New Chapter for Purposeful Safaris South Africa – September 2025 Classic Portfolio, the leading collective of independently owned camps and lodges across Africa, is proud to welcome Nomad Tanzania as its newest member. This partnership brings together two pioneers in conservation-focused tourism, each committed to safeguarding…
Introducing Togoro – New Flight Location Starting 15th October 2025 We are pleased to announce the upcoming launch of our Togoro balloon flights, debuting this October. Togoro offers a compelling new frontier for premium safari experiences. Togoro’s stunning open plains and rich wildlife diversity make it a truly unique addition to our portfolio. What Makes…
Uganda has officially approved six new national parks, increasing the total to 16. The move is aimed at strengthening conservation, protecting wildlife habitats and diversifying its tourism offering. The newly gazetted parks (Bukaleba, Echuya, Kyambura, Kigezi, Toro and Katonga) were previously forest and wildlife reserves. Cabinet ratified the decision as part of national efforts to…
The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita will welcome guests again on November 1 following an extensive seven-month renovation project. Among the updates are redesigned pool villas and private residential rentals, a new overwater wellness facility, Oseyan Spa, and reconceptualised dining experiences. Source: Four Seasons Redesigned by 1508 London, the resort’s villas and residential rentals feature…
The Balete Ba Lekgophung Development Trust has announced that Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge, in Madikwe Game Reserve, will be under new management from October 1. The trust has appointed TMFL to operate the lodge through its management company, Nightjar Collection, a specialist in safari lodge management. Nightjar Collection oversees properties in the Greater Kruger and Pilanesberg,…
Air Zimbabwe’s Harare-Mutare-Victoria Falls service will now be a permanent route, following its success earlier this month. The airline launched the temporary route to facilitate travel for the Sanganai/Hlanganani/ Kumbanai World Tourism Expo, which took place in Mutare from September 10-12 “This route has received an overwhelmingly positive response across the board. It has evolved from…
CornerSun Destination Marketing is proud to announce its appointment as the official North American representative for Dulini, a leading luxury safari brand with properties across Southern Africa. Effective immediately, CornerSun will serve as the key point of contact for North American travel advisors, tour operators, and industry partners. Dulini’s renowned collection includes three iconic lodges…
A new tour operator, the Zimbabwe Safari Collective, has been launched to stimulate tourism to a selection of five camps and lodges owned and operated by Zimbabwean citizens. The properties promoted by the group are in Mana Pools and Hwange National Park, and at Lake Kariba. Camps include Chitembe Main Camp and Chitembe Tented Camp…
O&L Leisure has successfully completed the acquisition of two Namibian lodges, Le Mirage Resort & Spa in Sossusvlei and Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa in the Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip). The acquisitions form part of the O&L Group Vision 2029 and expand the company’s portfolio to six Namibian destinations. Situated around 20km from…
Zanzibar’s Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries has increased entry fees for marine conservation areas and marine protected areas from September 1. According to a public notice, the fee adjustments apply to Mnemba Island Marine Conservation Area, Menai Bay Conservation Area, Chumbe Island Coral Park, Changuu-Bawe Marine Conservation Area and the Pemba Channel Conservation Area. Non-East…
Auric Air Services Ltd is pleased to announce the launch of scheduled services to Bukoba and Mwanza, commencing 01 October 2025. The routes will be operated by our newly introduced 50-seater Dash 8-300 aircraft, offering increased capacity and enhanced comfort for passengers. The new services will connect Dar es Salaam – Mwanza – Bukoba –…
Ascot Tours would like to invite you to an exclusive educational trip for travel trade professionals, taking place from 2–6 October 2025, just before the Essence of Africa Expo in Malindi. This educational trip is designed to give you first-hand experience of Kenya’s leading coastal resorts and championship golf courses, while creating opportunities for learning…
A new 55km slackpacking trail has been launched by The Carte Collection. It links four accommodation partners within the Northern Drakensberg Nature Reserve. Called the Northern Drakensberg Nature Way, it is a four-day, multi-stage hiking route with luggage transfers between lodges. The trail connects The Cavern, Greenfire Drakensberg Lodge, The Berghouse & Cottages and Montusi…
Written by Beth Rowan of Tapestry Travel In June, six U.S.-based travel advisors embarked on a journey to Uganda, hosted by the Ugandan Embassy in Washington, D.C., and Ambassador Robie Kakonge, Uganda’s Ambassador to the United States. The group represented a wide spectrum of experience: some had traveled extensively across Africa, a few had been…
Kempinski Hotels is to open a new luxury hotel on the banks of the Congo River in Brazzaville in December. According to the brand, the Kempinski Hotel Brazzaville will be the first five-star hotel in the Republic of the Congo. From its location on the banks of the river, guests will be able to explore…
The new route aims to improve direct regional travel options for both business and leisure passengers. The schedule includes two daily return flights, seven days a week: • Morning service: Johannesburg departs 06:35, Gaborone arrives 7.35am; return 8.25am–9.25am. • Afternoon service: Johannesburg departs 4.40pm, Gaborone arrives 5.40pm; return 6.30pm–7.30pm. Group CEO Professor John Lamola said:…
Kenya is planning to increase taxes on local and international air tickets, which have remained unchanged for 13 years. The National Assembly’s majority leader, Kimani Ichung’wah has submitted a Bill which, if passed, will increase the levies on international air tickets by 25% and 20% for domestic air tickets. So far, the Bill has cleared its second…
Marasa Africa has reopened Silverback Lodge in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest following a complete redesign by HesseKleinloog Studio, known for projects such as Singita Kataza House and Kwitonda Lodge. The property includes elevated, glass-lined guest rooms, a restaurant and a dining deck overlooking the forest. The refurbishment aimed to combine contemporary design with Ugandan heritage…
Dolphin Tours & Safaris Ltd is delighted to announce the introduction of a new service designed to make cross-border safari travel smoother and more convenient for your guests. We now offer private transfers between Tarime, Tanzania, and Migori, Kenya, providing a direct and comfortable link between Serengeti National Park and the Masai Mara Reserve. Service…
MORE Collection Trade alert MORE Family Collection Rebrands as MORE Collection Johannesburg, South Africa, 1 September25 – MORE Family Collection has evolved into MORE Collection, following nine months of extensive market research with the travel trade. The word “family” sometimes created confusion, with people perceiving the brand as exclusively for family travellers. The new name…