The 2026 APTA Global Forum is set for September 25–27 in Livingstone, Zambia, at the newly renovated Avani Victoria Falls Resort — steps from Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This year’s program is shaping up to be exceptional, bringing together leading buyers, operators, and destination partners from across North…
Travel advisors selling Africa may be fielding questions about the recently reported Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has also spread into Uganda. While the situation is serious and should be monitored closely, it is important to put the news in context for clients. According to NBC News, the outbreak has grown…
Hilton and Umfolozi Hotel and Spa have signed an agreement for the development of Umfolozi River Hotel in KwaZulu-Natal. The signing marks the brand’s second Tapestry Collection property in South Africa within the past year. The hotel is expected to open in 2028. “With 12 hotels trading and in the pipeline across the country, and…
Privately owned Zimbabwean start-up Flycristal Airways has secured its first aircraft as it prepares to launch domestic and regional charters. Johannes Simau, Founder of Flycristal Airways, told Travel News they would charter a 19-seat Let 410 and an Embraer 120. The Let 410 will initially be deployed on key domestic routes linking Harare to Bulawayo, Mutare, Kariba, and…
Cape Town, Zimbabwe and Namibia have formed a strategic tourism partnership aimed at positioning Southern Africa as a more competitive multi-country destination for international travellers. The agreement, first explored at WTM Africa 2025, focuses on regional coordination, joint marketing and facilitating easier cross-border travel for long-haul visitors. The partnership aims to encourage longer stays, increase…
Industry stakeholders say Botswana’s repeal of anti-gay laws could substantiate the country’s appeal to the international LGBTQ+ travel market and improve confidence among travel advisors and tour operators selling the destination. According to Martina Barth, International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) Membership Manager Africa/UK/Germany, the legislative change sends an important signal to the international travel trade. “It’s…
Airlink will launch the first non-stop flights between Cape Town and Zanzibar from October 3. Flights will operate every Saturday, departing Cape Town at 08h15 and arriving in Zanzibar at 14h30. The return flight will depart Zanzibar at 15h30 on the same day and arrive in Cape Town at 20h50. The route will be served…
The Lux Collective and Cleo Capital Group Ltd have entered into an agreement with the Rwanda Social Security Board to develop and manage lodges and resorts across Rwanda. Destinations include Lake Kivu, Akagera National Park, Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe National Park. The agreement was signed at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali. Phase 1…
Emerging Destinations is pleased to announce the return of Minor Hotels and Anantara resorts in Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique to our portfolio of cool destinations around the globe. Minor Hotels is a global hospitality leader with over 560 hotels and resorts across six continents, a diverse portfolio of F&B businesses and a selection of luxury transportation services. With over…