Sierra Leone is entering an exciting new chapter in its tourism story. Ebola-free and rebuilding after its civil war, this West African nation, affectionately known as “Sweet Salone,” is expected to witness a tourism boom in the coming years. (“Sweet Salone” translates to “Sweet Sierra Leone” in Krio, a Creole language.) Under the leadership of…
Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced the following network adjustments in anticipation of the upcoming peak season to ensure more efficient operations: Plaine Magnien, Mauritius Effective October 27, there will be an additional flight from Mauritius to Nairobi. The flights will now operate on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Moroni, Comoros Islands Effective October 28, there will…
Reaching an in-flight connectivity milestone, Qatar Airways has completed its first commercial flight with Starlink’s high-speed internet service in a Boeing 777. The flight from Doha to London earlier this month introduced free, ultra-high-speed, low-latency internet from gate to gate for all passengers. The airline plans to install Starlink across its entire Boeing 777 fleet…
The Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban is to get a R236 million (€11.8m) upgrade, adding a range of new features to position it as a premier tourist destination. eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba announced that the 60 000-seat stadium – originally constructed for the 2010 FIFA World Cup – would receive routine maintenance as well as several enhancements…
Ethiopian Airlines will increase its frequencies between Addis Ababa and Nosy Be from four weekly to daily flights during November. From November 1-30, the additional days will be Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The four-hour flight will depart from Addis Ababa at 10h25 and the return flight at 15h35. The flights will be operated by the…
The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of the Republic of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with UN Tourism, proudly announces the Women in Tourism Regional Congress, a pivotal three-day event aimed at reshaping the tourism landscape and opportunities for African women through enhanced education, technological innovation, and improved finance access. Women make up 54% of…
The start of South African regional carrier FlySafair’s twice-weekly flights between Cape Town and Windhoek on October 22 has been met with excitement from Namibia’s tourism industry, which is also looking forward to increased SAA frequencies from Johannesburg. South Africa is Namibia’s largest tourist source market, accounting for 46% of the country’s arrivals in 2023,…
&Beyond has reopened its Mnemba Island private lodge off the north-eastern coast of Zanzibar after a comprehensive refurbishment by long-time collaborators Fox Browne Creative and Nicholas Plewman Architects. The lodge’s 10 beachfront bandas have been completely rebuilt and enlarged with all interiors replaced. Every banda now features a redesigned private beach lounge with two private…
After a four-year hiatus, Southern Sun is reopening its popular Dar es Salaam hotel in Tanzania. The property has undergone an extensive refresh. Located in the heart of Dar es Salaam’s commercial district, Southern Sun Dar es Salaam borders the historic botanical gardens and neighbours major government offices, embassies and diplomatic missions including Julius Nyerere…
Federal Airlines has announced the expansion of its fleet with the addition of two state-of-the-art Pilatus PC-12 NG aircraft. Each aircraft’s cabin interior offers spacious seating arrangements, large windows for panoramic views, and quiet flying conditions. These additions to its fleet, which can land on shorter airstrips, mean guests will have quicker and more direct…
AFRICAN Sun Limited has completed the highly anticipated restoration and full refurbishment of its flagship Hwange Safari Lodge on the border of Hwange National Park. Work on the overhaul began in March, under the group’s broader programme to refurbish several properties to align with modern global trends. The refreshed lodge features 99 rooms, including 85…
Essence of Africa, the premier international buyers’ forum for African tourism, is launching with strategic emphasis on familiarisation (FAM) trips to drive sustainable growth and increase Africa’s share of the global tourism market. The inaugural event at the Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi, Kenya, from December 2-4 will provide access for pre-qualified international buyers to…
Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Sierra Leone continues to make remarkable strides in the aviation sector, attracting foreign investments that have led to the development of an ultra-modern international airport and a notable increase in flight frequencies to 50 per week. Today, Sierra Leone marks another significant milestone…
Non-profit African Parks is doing amazing work in Malawi, protecting and transforming four major parks: Liwonde National Park, Majete Wildlife Reserve, Mangochi Forest Reserve, and Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve. Their efforts are not just about protecting wildlife but also about boosting local communities and making these wildlife areas sustainable for the future. Take a look at this article exploring how…
State-owned TAAG Angola Airlines has entered into a partnership that will advance the airline’s aims to capture traffic between Africa and the Americas. The airline is the newest member of the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) with a membership list including 50 airlines and 124 industry partners. From its headquarters in Luanda,…
During Mental Health Awareness Month worldwide in October, the Cape Town International Kite Festival, as the Cape Mental Health (CMH) flagship event since 1994, will gather artists, mental health ambassadors, staff, mental health care users, volunteers and others to share their stories of pain, healing and recovery. The theme of this year’s festival is #HopeOnAString.…
Construction of The Residences at Meliá Seychelles is well underway. The development is expected to officially open after construction is completed in the first quarter of 2026. The main buildings for the business and leisure resort project, undertaken by Seafront Development Ltd, have reached roof height. The project is located near L’Escale Resort and across…
Proflight Zambia has acquired its fifth Bombardier CRJ-200 passenger jet, bringing the airline’s total fleet to 12 aircraft and advancing the carrier’s regional expansion plans. The new aircraft, following the introduction of a 30-passenger British Aerospace Jetstream 4100 in July, carries up to 50 passengers. “We are thrilled to welcome the CRJ-200 to our growing…
Bigger and better…Everyone wants a share of the North American market! The landscape for sales calls in North America has changed as buyers have very limited time and many still work remotely, meaning that many US reps find trade shows and events to be the most cost effective way to reach agents. Africa Showcase makes…
Malawi – a place to relax and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul as you unwind on gorgeous beaches, connect with nature in amazing wildlife reserves and feel welcomed by incredibly friendly people. Could there be a more perfect recipe for a total wellness experience? From a traditional yoga retreat or spa experience, to eating…
Sierra Leone is preparing to host the UN Women in Tourism Africa Regional Congress in Freetown from October 29-31, 2024. Under the theme “Beyond Empowerment to Education, Innovation, and Finance Access,” the event is being organised in collaboration with UN Tourism and supported by UN Women and the African Union. The three-day congress will gather prominent…
In a bid to further boost its tourism numbers and grow its economy, Kenya has introduced the Digital Nomad Work Permit and the Transit and Long Connection Travellers Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The initiatives were launched by President William Ruto at the Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2024 in Nairobi. This historic first for the country’s tourism industry…
The mobile Roving Bushtops camp will begin alternating its location between the southern and northern Serengeti from June 2025 to capitalise on seasonal wildlife movements, including the great wildebeest migration, providing better game viewing opportunities year-round. From June to October, the camp will be based in the northern Serengeti about 15 minutes from the Mara…
On Tuesday, October 22, the Namibia Tourism Board will host an exclusive networking event following the World Travel Expo (WTE) in Miami. Held at the Rum Room in Miami Beach, the event offers travel agents and tour operators an opportunity to connect with Namibia’s top tourism suppliers, learn about the destination, and explore exciting travel…
ATTA has announced the appointment of its first African female CEO, Kgomotso Ramothea, with a vision to further expand the continent’s largest tourism network. Ramothea’s appointment comes as James Haigh steps in as ATTA’s new Chair from October 2024, taking over from outgoing Chair Nick Aslin. Ramothea brings over 20 years’ experience in marketing and communications across various industries. Her…
Uber, in partnership with Aquila Private Game Reserve, has launched a full-day ‘Uber Safari’ in Cape Town. As the latest experience in Uber’s ‘Go Anywhere’ series of limited-edition travel products, Uber Safari will be exclusively available on the Uber app from October 1, 2024, until February 1, 2025. The full-day trip includes a pick-up in…
The African Traditional Sports and Games Council (ATSGC) has officially designated Namibia as host of the inaugural African Traditional Sports and Games in 2026. The event aims to celebrate Africa’s cultural heritage through traditional sports, promoting unity and cooperation among nations across the continent. The games are designed to showcase athletic talent and the diverse…
The Malawian government has initiated a programme to enhance tourism on Likoma Island by providing snorkelling and diving courses to local operators. Joyce Storey, Assistant Tourism Officer for Likoma, emphasised that these skills will play a crucial role in attracting more visitors to the island’s rich marine environments. A two-week training course was conducted in…
The Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa (APTA) proudly celebrated the success of its Global Forum 2024, held in Costa Mesa, California, from September 19-22. This event marked APTA’s first Global Forum in the United States since before the COVID-19 pandemic, following the immense success of last year’s Forum in Cape Town, South…
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio addresses the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. He was the second African leader to give a keynote speech at today’s morning session. More info here
Hospitality company Accor has expanded its portfolio in Africa with the opening of a new Sofitel-branded property in Benin. The new Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa offers 198 rooms, including 14 suites and five duplex suites featuring private pools. It will also offer five bars and restaurants, which will open progressively between this month and…
Namoroka Tsingy Camp, a new tented camp in Madagascar’s Tsingy de Namoroka National Park, has officially opened and welcomed its first guests. This new property offers an exclusive experience in one of Madagascar’s most remote natural environments. Key features of the Namoroka Tsingy Camp include: Location: The camp is the only accommodation available within the Tsingy de…
Zanzibar is taking a leap towards sustainable tourism with the Kizimkazi Hiking Loop – a 10 km eco-tourism trail in southern Zanzibar. This collaboration between UNDP Tanzania, State University of Zanzibar and Zanzibar’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities combines technology with nature in promoting cultural heritage and local economic growth. Part of the Bahari Maisha (Ocean Life) Project,…
he roads affected by the snowstorm over the weekend, including the N3 Toll Route, have now been reopened to traffic, according to the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), reporting on Sunday night, September 22. These include key routes in Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape. Heavy snowfall and icy conditions left…
Luxury Johannesburg boutique hotel, 10 2nd Avenue in Houghton Estate, will fall under the management of Dream Hotels & Resorts from October 1. “Dream Hotels is excited to be bringing another property under our umbrella in Gauteng,” said Chris Snyman, Dream Hotels’ Chief Development Officer. “10 2nd Avenue is a perfect fit in our diverse stable,…
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has issued assurances to passengers that it has contingency plans in place to ensure minimal disruption at King Shaka International Airport in Durban as a strike by the KZN E-hailing Council started today (Monday, September 16). The strike is expected to continue until the end of the week. Travellers expecting…
Amani Spa & Wellness has opened its doors at the Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, offering guests a tranquil retreat within the Lowveld landscape. The spa features five treatment rooms including a VIP couple’s suite equipped with a private jacuzzi and outdoor deck. It offers a variety of massages, facials and nail treatments as well as…
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading carrier, recently announced the commencement of its six new weekly flights to Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, starting November 1. The new service will use the Boeing B787 Dreamliner. This new route will strengthen Ethiopia’s presence in South Asia, providing convenient connections between Bangladesh and key destinations across Africa and beyond. …
South African Airways intends to open routes from Johannesburg to Lubumbashi and Dar es Salaam in November, according to a media release issued on September 10. The airline also reports steady, sustainable growth three years after returning to the skies. Interim CEO, Professor John Lamola, said that between August 2022 and August 2024 the airline’s fleet…
The eastern black rhino population in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park has expanded with the arrival of five new rhinos from European zoos. This is the largest translocation of rhinos from Europe to Africa. The move is part of a major international collaboration overseen by Chester Zoo’s conservationists. Mark Pilgrim, Chester Zoo CEO, who manages the…
The coastal community of Bureh Town has unanimously agreed to a private sector management model for new tourism facilities at Bureh Beach. This decision, reached during a meeting organised by Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, is part of the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP). The SLEDP aims to enhance tourism in…
He takes the reins from Nicky Fitzgerald who will remain close to the business as a shareholder and board member. Wendover and his family are deeply embedded in Africa: his son grew up in Madagascar, daughter in Uganda and he and his wife have childhood roots in Africa. He believes the world’s wild spaces and neighbouring communities…
The strike at all major airports in Kenya has been called off. The strike severely disrupted international and domestic flights on Tuesday night, September 9, and Wednesday, September 10, The industrial action left passengers stranded and disrupted flights at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Moi International Airport, Eldoret International Airport, and Kisumu International Airport. It…
We’re just days away from the APTA Global Forum in Costa Mesa, CA, and we’ve saved the best for last—six unforgettable African safari trips and additional fabulous prizes worth nearly $60,000 are up for grabs! With a more intimate event, your chances of winning one of these incredible prizes are exceptionally high! Each trip promises…
The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara has launched two new dining experiences offering travellers the chance to enjoy Zambia’s natural beauty while sampling local flavours. The Gorge Picnic and Zambezi Dining Experience combine scenic locations with locally sourced cuisine. The Gorge Picnic is hosted at Bobo Camp – an area with limited access in the…
Revival of Akagera National Park in Rwanda as a tourist destination is a remarkable success story: the park experienced its best ever tourism year in 2023 when the protected area welcomed 54 000 visitors. Situated in eastern Rwanda, Akagera is one of 22 protected areas managed by conservation NGO African Parks in 12 countries. The NGO…
The village of Cape St Francis in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province is establishing a new calamari route to celebrate the formative role of seafood in the town’s economy. The calamari route will be officially launched on Saturday, September 21. It will include 14 local restaurants offering visitors and food enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy…
Kenya Aviation Workers Union members strike in response to the “unlawful intended sale of JKIA” to Adani Airport Holdings of India. Hundreds of airline passengers found themselves stranded today at Kenya’s largest international airport due to a strike by aviation workers protesting a contentious agreement to lease the airport to India’s Adani Group. The Kenyan…
The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), introduced in the European Union (EU) in 2023, will have implications for small African travel companies with connections to the European market as the legislation forces greater transparency in reporting on sustainability practices of large companies and their value chains. The CSRD requires large and listed companies to report…
The Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa (APTA) is thrilled to announce the finalized list of participating suppliers for the highly anticipated APTA Global Forum, taking place from September 19-22, 2024, in beautiful Orange County, California. This year, we are proud to showcase an exceptional selection of suppliers representing a broad spectrum of…