South African Tourism has asserted that, despite planning challenges in the lead up to Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI), arrangements for the trade show remain on track. South African Tourism COO Darryl Erasmus acknowledged that forward planning for the event – taking place from May 12-15 – was affected by issues related to the appointment of an events…
Auric Air’s Pilatus PCXII private charter service has completed six months of operations, marking a significant milestone in luxury travel across East Africa. Renowned for its spacious and tranquil cabin, eco-friendly efficiency, and ability to access remote destinations, the PCXII has redefined private air travel. With reduced fuel consumption and the capability to land on…
Welcome to PNW APTA Chapter Presents APTA Global Forum, African Show and Essence of Africa! Get ready to be inspired by three amazing presenters who are set to take you on an incredible journey! First up, we have Jessie Tate, APTA Virtual President, who will unveil all the exciting details about APTA’s Global Forum happening…
Your journey into luxury, beauty, Tanzanite education, and heritage awaits As you step into Zanzibar-The Tunnel, you are welcomed into a world where luxury, culture, and education seamlessly blend. This space is home to Tanzanite Experience and Safari in Style, two sister brands that bring you an immersive journey through history, craftsmanship, and authentic African…
Entebbe-based (EBB) Uganda Airlines (UR) will commence scheduled services to the British capital in May. The airline will offer four flights a week between EBB and London Gatwick Airport (LGW), operated with an Airbus A330-800 aircraft. UR’s fleet comprises two A330-800s and four CRJ900s. The airline had hoped to launch the route last year, but…
The Iconic Chimp Sites of Africa: Kibale and Kyambura Volcanoes Safaris, the pioneer of Great Ape ecotourism in Uganda and Rwanda, is delighted to launch a new chimpanzee safari combining two exceptional wildlife ecosystems: Kibale Forest and Kyambura Gorge. Stay three nights each at the newly-opened Kibale Lodge and the award-winning Kyambura Gorge Lodge on this expertly-curated specialist chimpanzee safari. Participate…
Seychelles has officially launched the Seychelles Challenge – a seven-day, six-night sailing event set to take place from July 20-27. Designed to establish the archipelago as a leading sailing destination, the regatta will bring together experienced sailors, enthusiasts and visitors for a multi-island maritime competition. The Seychelles Challenge is being organised by WorldSport and Tourism…
Lalibela Wildlife Reserve in South Africa’s Eastern Cape is undergoing significant expansion through land acquisitions and ecological restoration efforts. The initiative aims to rehabilitate former agricultural land, restoring natural ecosystems and creating a more balanced wildlife habitat. The process includes clearing a former peach and prune farm where the removal of fruit trees and controlled…
The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and national carrier, Kenya Airways (KQ), have entered into a strategic partnership that aims to grow the North American source market by 11% by the close of this financial year. Under the partnership, KQ has extended a 15% discount on published fares from the USA, Canada and Mexico for the…
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has endorsed a landmark agreement that will see key island closures in the Western Cape to protect the critically endangered African penguin. The deal, struck between the fishing industry and conservation organisations BirdLife South Africa and the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds,…
Air France-KLM and CemAir are proud to announce that they have signed and implemented an interline agreement that will expand connections to more destinations across South Africa. Leveraging Air France-KLM’s major gateways in Johannesburg and Cape Town, this strategic collaboration will enable seamless travel between long-haul international flights and regional routes, offering passengers increased flexibility…
Due to runway restrictions and slot constraints, Ethiopian Airlines announces flight cancellations affecting JFK and EWR routes. Impacted flights and dates are as follows: Affected Flights: Airport Flight Number Days Affected Cancellation Period JFK ET 514 / ET 515 Tuesday, Thursday, Friday April 15 – April 14, 2025 EWR ET 508 / ET 509 Tuesday,…
Ascot Tours invites travel agents and tour operators from around the world to join our exclusive familiarization trip, showcasing South Africa as a world-class golf and safari destination. This educational golf tour takes place from 23 September to 5 October 2025. During this trip, you will get the chance to visit and experience the golfing…
CornerSun Destination Marketing is honored to announce its newest client, Cottar’s Safaris, one of the most iconic names in African safari. Beginning March 15, 2025, CornerSun will represent Cottar’s Safaris in North America, continuing the company’s extraordinary legacy of conservation, hospitality, and unparalleled luxury in the Maasai Mara. For more than a century, Cottar’s Safaris…
Qatar Airways has increased its flights from Doha to Durban (via Maputo) from five to seven weekly flights. The airline has also announced frequency increases to several other African cities. Dar es Salaam-Kilimanjaro has seen an increase from three to seven weekly flights, while Entebbe now has 11 weekly flights, up from seven.
Two lionesses introduced into Addo Elephant National Park’s Main Camp in Colchester on March 3 are now roaming the game viewing section of the park. The two-and-a-half-year-old sisters, from !Khamab Kalahari Reserve, had been acclimatising in a boma since December before their release. The new arrivals bring valuable genetic diversity to Addo’s lion population, which…
Ethiopian Airlines will increase frequencies to Nosy Be, Madagascar, from four to six weekly flights on June 20. The two additional services will operate on Wednesdays and Fridays. Flight ET 837 will depart from Addis Ababa at 10h25 and arrive in Nosy Be at 14h35. The return flight ET 836 will depart from Nosy Be…
The East African Community (EAC) is intensifying efforts to position the region as a leading global tourism destination through collaborative marketing. This follows the decision to take a joint stand at ITB Berlin this year, representing the region as a single tourism destination. It is the first step in a broader campaign aimed at improving…
Newmark Hotels & Reserves has opened the Modjadji Master Suite – a new addition to Geiger’s Camp at Motswari Private Game Reserve in Timbavati. The suite has been designed to accommodate two guests with a convertible lounge area for a family of four within its 139 square metre layout. The design embraces alfresco living –…
South Africa recorded a decline in rhino poaching incidents in 2024 with a total of 420 rhinos poached – 79 less than in 2023 when the total was 499. This is according to numbers released by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, showing that KwaZulu-Natal remained the hardest-hit province with a loss of…
Hello fellow Africa lovers! I would like to take a moment to introduce Tembo Wild, a boutique DMC based out of Nairobi, Kenya. Our mission is to build genuine connections through bespoke travel that inspire collective change. We curate custom adventures in over a dozen countries throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, as well as multi-country…
We are looking for an experienced candidate for a major role in established company. 1. You must have traveled to Africa and have an understanding of different countries and what they offer. 2. Candidate must have at least 3 years of planning custom trips to Africa, including competitive quotations. 3. Detailed knowledge on how to…
GILTEDGE has been recognised as Virtuoso’s Top Producing On-Site Partner – Canada for 2025, a prestigious award honouring excellence in luxury travel sales. This accolade underscores GILTEDGE’s commitment to crafting exceptional African travel experiences and its strong partnerships within the Virtuoso network. Cape Town, South Africa – March 12, 2025 – GILTEDGE, a leading global…
The East African Community (EAC) will, for the first time, participate as a unified tourism bloc at ITB Berlin 2025 from March 4-6. Under the theme “Visit East Africa: Feel the Vibe”, the region will highlight its diverse attractions. EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva said this initiative is part of a broader effort to attract international…
Norse Atlantic Airways is to adjust the flight schedule for its London Gatwick-Cape Town route. Frequency will increase from three weekly flights to four from April 1 until April 27. The schedule from April will be as follows: On Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, Norse Atlantic departs Cape Town at 11h00 and arrives at London…
Babylonstoren has introduced an exclusive new accommodation offering, BLOU, in Keurboomstrand on South Africa’s Garden Route. The property, located along a sea-facing strip of land, features eight self-catering cottages set around a central courtyard with a swimming pool, sauna and steam room. BLOU will only be available to guests who have previously stayed at Babylonstoren…
Malawi has officially joined the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) – a step towards enhancing aviation connectivity across the continent. The signing ceremony took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during the 38th African Union (AU) Summit. Malawi’s Foreign Affairs Minister Nancy Tembo signed the SAATM Solemn Commitment in the presence of Dr Amani Abou-Zeid, outgoing AU Commissioner for Infrastructure…
Serengeti Explorer, a new safari lodge in the western corridor of Serengeti National Park, has opened its doors. Positioned in a prime location for wildlife viewing, the lodge offers uninterrupted views and front-row access to the Great Migration. Guests are accommodated in 68 Savannah rooms and six Savannah suites. The lodge also features: An on-site…
With the roll-out of Namibia’s new visa requirements just a few weeks away (April 1), the country has launched the platform for its new visa on arrival (VOA) system. Key features of the new VOA system: Eligible travellers can apply and pay for the VOA online before travelling to reduce processing times at entry points.…
Thursday, March 6th @ 1 pm EST More than just food, Moroccan cuisine is a cultural treasure recognized worldwide. Ranked among the world’s most beloved culinary traditions, it masterfully blends Berber, Arab, Andalusian, and French influences, creating a symphony of flavors that captivate travelers and food lovers alike. From the iconic tagine and fragrant couscous,…
The iconic 5-star D’oreale Grande Hotel at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park has undergone a stunning R49 million refurbishment, transforming its interiors into a dazzling blend of opulence and modern elegance. Two floors of the hotel have been revitalized, featuring a total of 84 newly revamped rooms, including Executive Suites, Superior Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, and…
Our next two webinars, March and April, will help you understand how travel trade shows work, how to maximize opportunities as a travel professional; and choose the right events to attend. You’ll also learn how Hosted Buyer programs and FAM (Familiarization) trips can elevate your business and expand your network. We’ll also cover top travel…
The East African Community (EAC) will, for the first time, participate as an entity having its own stand at the International Tourism Bourse (ITB) – Berlin, the world’s largest tourism trade fair, from 4th – 6th March, 2025. Representing the region as a single tourism destination, the EAC will showcase its diverse attractions under the…
The Gambia is undertaking a bold transformation of its tourism sector with the development of a new marketing strategy and brand identity, designed to capitalise on emerging market trends and attract a more diverse visitor base. Through comprehensive consultation with private sector operators and public sector stakeholders, the initiative seeks to redefine The Gambia’s tourism…
After nearly three decades of welcoming guests from around the world, Sun International’s beloved Grand Dame, The Table Bay Hotel, officially closed its doors on 15 February to embark on an exciting journey of transformation. Come December 2025, the hotel will reopen as InterContinental Table Bay, Cape Town, following a major refurbishment that will elevate…
Travellers from Italy will soon have a new direct European winter connection to Mauritius with ITA Airways flights from Rome set to begin on November 7. The route will be operated twice weekly, on Fridays and Sundays, with an Airbus A330neo. The service will run until March 27 next year. Italy was the Indian Ocean…
South Africa has officially designated Mkambati Nature Reserve in the Eastern Cape its 31st Wetland of International Importance on the Ramsar List. The site, covering over 7 000 hectares along the Indian Ocean, is now listed as Ramsar Site No 2554. The recognition was announced on World Wetlands Day, February 2. Located 71 kilometres from Flagstaff,…
Severe flooding in the Madikwe Game Reserve on South Africa’s border with Botswana has forced the closure of several lodges along the Marico River until the end of April. Unprecedented rainfall – over 400mm in February – caused the Molatedi Dam in Limpopo to overflow and consequent flooding of the Marico River. This caused extensive…
Ishara, a luxury safari camp in the Maasai Mara, closed after last year’s flooding, has reopened following an extensive renovation and various activity and experiential enhancements. The upgrade includes expanded spa and wellness facilities, new culinary offerings, upgraded accommodation and a revitalised Canon Brand Experience Centre for photography enthusiasts. Key additions include an expanded Aya Spa,…
Luxury Travel Marketing, a boutique travel representation firm, based in the U.S., is proud to announce its official launch. Founded by travel industry veteran Todd Neuman, Luxury Travel Marketing specializes in connecting luxury travel brands with key players in the North American market, including top-tier travel advisors and tour operators specializing in international travel. Focusing…
Karibu Camps & Lodges, Tanzania (Flyer attached) Duration: 5 nights When: Pre Show -28th April – 2nd May 2025 or Post Show -12th– 16th May 2025 Where: Day 1: Tarangire National Park –Elephant Springs Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater – Lion’s Paw Day 3: Serengeti –Sametu Camp – Site Visit Woodlands Cost: The cost for the per agent –…
Tanzania’s tourism sector is set to shine at ITB Berlin 2025, and there’s no better place to experience the best of what the country has to offer than at the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) stand. From March 4th to 6th, 2025, TATO members—renowned for their expertise in mountain climbing, luxury safaris, balloon adventures,…
Complimentary flights open access to wilderness safari experiences Nomad Tanzania today announced two flight specials that enhance access to some of Tanzania’s most remote and rewarding wilderness areas. These journeys invite travellers to explore beyond well-known safari routes into the less-visited southern and western regions, where authentic wilderness experiences await. Western Tanzania: Katavi and Mahale…
Index Select is thrilled to introduce the newest partner to their collection: Ishara Reopening this week, we are excited to celebrate and reintroduce the world to the reimagined Ishara in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Whether traveling solo or part of a group, seeking exhilaration or relaxation, Ishara has the space for you to experience everything you’re looking for…
Nomad Tanzania’s recent safari competition has raised £13,100, the money raised will be used to host additional ‘beds for meds’ outreach clinics in the coming months of 2025. Nomad’s ‘beds for meds’ programme reaches villages that sit far beyond conventional healthcare networks – think of it as the ultimate house call – using beds in…
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…