The 2026 APTA Global Forum is heading to Livingstone, Zambia, September 25–27, 2026, bringing the African tourism community together at Avani Victoria Falls Resort, just steps from one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This year’s Forum marks a major milestone: the first time APTA Global Forum will be hosted in Zambia. Over…
Beyond The Plains Safaris Expands Into Tanzania With New Arusha Office Through Sister Company Serengeti Trails Safaris The Nairobi-based Kenya safari specialist deepens its East Africa footprint with dedicated Tanzania ground operations, offering travel advisors and international clients a single trusted partner for seamless Kenya and Tanzania safari itineraries. NAIROBI, Kenya / ARUSHA, Tanzania —…
Pearl of Africa Experiences is proud to announce the launch of a collection of immersive travel experiences designed to showcase Uganda’s extraordinary wildlife, rich cultural heritage, and meaningful connections for travelers from around the world. As interest in authentic and sustainable travel continues to grow, Pearl of Africa Experiences offers carefully curated journeys that combine…
Lufthansa’s Brussels Airlines Launches Direct Flight to Tanzania As a Strategic Bridge for EU–EAC Economic and Diplomatic Ties The launch of Brussels Airlines’ new direct service between Brussels and Kilimanjaro marks a significant milestone in strengthening economic, tourism, and diplomatic ties between Tanzania and Belgium, while reinforcing Tanzania’s position as a gateway to East Africa…
Kafunta Safaris has officially reopened its two off-the-beaten-track bush camps, Three Rivers Camp and Island Bush Camp, for the start of the 2026 safari season in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. Accessible only during the dry season, both camps offer an intimate safari experience in some of the park’s most remote and scenic areas. Open…
Air Zimbabwe is set to return to the UK market after a 14-year absence, launching nonstop flights between Harare and London Gatwick on July 1, 2026. The historic route restoration promises faster travel for Zimbabwe’s diaspora, stronger business links, increased tourism, and a renewed chapter for the national carrier. Air Zimbabwe is about to rewrite…
Tarangire National Park, Tanzania, June 10, 2026 — Siringit Collection officially announces the opening of Siringit Tarangire Camp, a new luxury safari camp bringing contemporary East African design, locally rooted craftsmanship, and low-impact hospitality to one of Tanzania’s most wildlife-rich regions. Located in the Tarangire National Park amid indigenous flora and elephant corridors, the intimate camp features just 8…
Greetings from Uganda, At Adventure Consults, we have noticed increased concerns among travelers as a result of propaganda, wrong reporting and subsequently negative perception towards Uganda in relation to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In order to contain the spread of the virus, the Ugandan government has closed off all Congo-Uganda…
Bushwise Exclusive has officially relocated and launched its Bushwise Advanced Safari in Botswana, marking a significant product upgrade now available on the Agent Portal. Moving from its previous base at Dunn’s Camp in South Africa, all remaining 2026 and upcoming 2027 advanced safari packages have moved to a new wilderness location in the heart of…
The 2026 APTA Global Forum in Livingstone, Zambia will offer delegates more than a front-row seat to one of Africa’s most iconic natural wonders. As part of the Forum program, attendees will have the opportunity to experience the destination firsthand through a curated Day of Adventure designed to showcase the extraordinary range of experiences available…
The Cape Winelands Airport has cleared a major regulatory hurdle after the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning concluded the appeals process for the project’s environmental authorisation, paving the way for the development to move closer to construction. The airport project received environmental authorisation in October last year following an extensive environmental…
&Beyond has opened two new camps: &Beyond Sandibe Under Canvas and &Beyond Nxabega Under Canvas. Together with the newly refurbished &Beyond Chobe Under Canvas, the camps complete a seven-night circuit through the Okavango Delta. Located just outside the Moremi Game Reserve, &Beyond Sandibe Under Canvas offers game drives, walking safaris and community visits… Read more…
Kenya Airways (KQ) plans to expand its fleet with up to 60 aircraft by 2035. The announcement was made during the KQ Aviation Media Lab in Mombasa at the end of May and reported by the Kenya Association of Travel Agents. The expansion is expected to nearly triple the airline’s current fleet with an initial target…
The elephant population in Mozambique has doubled since 2018 to approximately 21 700, according to the country’s Minister of Agriculture Roberto Albino, citing 2025 census data from the National Administration of Conservation Areas. The data shows a reversal of the earlier decline with elephant numbers falling from 20 000 in 2008 to 10 800 in 2014 and further to…
The rehabilitation of Tanzania’s Nduli Airport has been completed. The airport, a key gateway to Ruaha National Park, reportedly faced infrastructure and operational challenges that may have deterred international visitors. According to Streamline, the US$22.6 million infrastructure project included an expanded runway, which can now accommodate larger aircraft, terminal modernisation and new advanced navigation systems to ensure…
The Wellworth Collection has opened Mikumi Wildlife Lodge in southern Tanzania’s Mikumi National Park. Tanzania’s Prime Minister, Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba, presided over the opening ceremony on May 8. The lodge has 32 double rooms, 14 twin rooms and two suites with outdoor showers. Amenities include air-conditioning, mini-bar fridge, bathroom amenities and space for a baby cot (on…
The Mozambican government has established the National Agency for Tourism Development and Investment (Anditur) to coordinate tourism development, facilitate investment and promote the country as a tourism destination. According to Lusa, a Cabinet-approved decree mandates the agency to coordinate and monitor tourism investments, support strategic tourism projects and promote public-private partnerships in the sector. Anidtur will…
APTA members selling South Africa now have another domestic air option to consider for client itineraries, as LIFT Airlines has joined ARC and the AirlinePros portfolio of represented carriers. Based in South Africa, LIFT operates key domestic routes between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, known as the country’s “Golden Triangle.” The airline currently offers up…
Shenton Safaris, a name synonymous with authentic safari experiences, is proud to announce the unveiling of River Song, an extraordinary new star bed experience at Kaingo Camp that invites guests to spend a night immersed in the sights, sounds and serenity of the Luangwa Valley. For over 33 years, Shenton Safaris has welcomed travellers seeking…
Namibian hospitality leader returns to where her journey began Wolwedans is delighted to announce the appointment of Selma Simaneka Benyameni as Executive Hospitality Manager, marking a meaningful homecoming for one of Namibia’s most accomplished hospitality leaders. Selma returns to Wolwedans nearly two decades after first joining the company in 2007, where she began her career as a Trainee…
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has confirmed that there were no cases of Ebola in Rwanda and that the country remains open for tourism. In a May 25 statement, the RDB said national parks, hotels, conference venues and tourism facilities continue to operate as normal while maintaining health and safety standards. The Ministry of Health has…
Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania is set to open Uhuru VIP Terminal – its newest airport terminal – on July 1. The terminal will be operated by Miracle Concierge. It will provide check-in support, immigration assistance and security screening alongside direct boarding and arrival clearance services. A lounge area will serve meals and drinks while additional…
Uganda Airlines has suspended Kinshasa flights until further notice, following recent Ebola developments in the region. “This decision has been taken as a precautionary measure in the interest of health, safety and wellbeing of our passengers, crew and the wider public,” the airline said in a statement. Those affected by the cancellations are advised to…
Effective June 10, Emirates will operate its direct daily Durban services, EK775 and EK776. Currently, the flights operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The flights operate according to the following schedule: EK776 departs Durban at 18h40 and arrives in Dubai at 05h00, the following day. EK775 departs Dubai at 10h15 and arrives in Durban…
Effective June 15, Etihad will resume flights between Abu Dhabi and Johannesburg. The flights will operate three times weekly. The route restoration comes as Gulf carriers continue rebuilding schedules after severe operational disruptions caused by regional airspace restrictions and conflict-related closures earlier this year. In March, Etihad suspended scheduled commercial services to and from Abu…
Mashatu Game Reserve once again welcomed guests and riders from around the world for the 2026 edition of the Land of the Giants Cycling Event — a seven-day wilderness cycling experience combining adventure, conservation and connection in one of Botswana’s largest private game reserves. Held within the vast and varied terrain of the Northern Tuli…
Jenman African Safaris has introduced Wild Wonders of Madagascar, a thirteen-day guided group tour designed for travellers who want to discover the island’s rare wildlife, diverse landscapes, and unique ecosystems in one seamless journey. The tour explores some of Madagascar’s standout regions, from the rainforests of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park to the lush forests of Montagne d’Ambre…
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…
We are pleased to share the current progress update on the Uhuru VIP Terminal at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), officially opening on 1st July 2026. Operated by Miracle Concierge, the Uhuru VIP Terminal introduces a refined and seamless way to move through the airport. Designed around flow, efficiency, and attention to detail, it offers a…
Botswana is largely known for its Okavango Delta. Yet, the Northern Tuli in its far eastern corner (aka the “Land of Giants”) offers a completely unique safari that truly has be experienced … and right now is the perfect time to visit! In the words of our owner, Stephen Lansdown CBE, “You haven’t been to…
How to Confidently Sell Uganda: Gorilla Trekking, Culture, Luxury Lodges & Seamless On-the-Ground Delivery Thursday, May 14th at 1pm ET Register HERE Uganda offers one of the most complete and authentic travel experiences in Africa — from mountain gorillas and chimpanzee tracking to classic safari, rich culture, and high-quality lodge experiences, all within one destination.…
In early 2026, Hideaways Africa conducted a cross-border guides training programme, bringing together field guides from properties across Zimbabwe and Botswana. The training was hosted at Hideaways Nantwich Lodge and focused on strengthening guiding standards, improving field-based interpretation, and aligning guest experience across the portfolio. The initiative forms part of an ongoing annual programme designed…
Air Tanzania has launched its inaugural Dar es Salaam–Seychelles route, marked by a ceremonial welcome at Seychelles International Airport. The new connection strengthens regional integration, boosts multi-destination tourism, and links East Africa’s safari experiences with the Indian Ocean’s luxury beach destinations, enhancing global travel access. Read more from eturbonews
Auberge Collection has expanded into Africa with the launch of Auberge Safari, a collection of nine safari camps and lodges across Tanzania. The portfolio brings together conservation-led safari operators Legendary Expeditions and Chem Chem Safari under one umbrella. The properties are located across Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, including the Serengeti, Lake Manyara, Arusha and the…
Singita has completed upgrades to Lebombo – a 15-suite lodge in the Kruger National Park. The main lodge now includes an art gallery showcasing pieces from across Southern Africa, alongside artefacts and objects found on the concession, as well as a lounge area. The lodge’s interiors now feature a brown and cream palette with fabrics,…
Namibia’s Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has confirmed that only concession shuttle vehicles and certain lodge-based guides will be permitted to transport visitors along the final 4×4 stretch to Deadvlei from May 1, tightening access beyond what many operators expected following last year’s postponement. From May 1, self-drive vehicles will no longer be permitted beyond the 2×4…
Great news for delegates heading to Livingstone this September — the Avani Victoria Falls Resort, official host hotel of the 2026 APTA Global Forum, has just completed a full renovation of its guest accommodations. All 50 Superior rooms and four Suites have been redesigned with a contemporary feel inspired by the Zambezi riverfront, featuring natural…
Dulini, one of Southern Africa’s most celebrated families of owner-run safari lodges, has officially expanded into Botswana with the acquisition of Daunara Safari Camp — a secluded five-suite retreat on a private island in the heart of the Okavango Delta. The camp will now operate as Dulini Daunara, and marks the founding of Dulini Botswana…
Planned restrictions on heavy vehicles and trains crossing the Victoria Falls Bridge are unlikely to affect tourism operations in the short term as they will likely only take effect once a new road and rail crossing between Zambia and Zimbabwe has been completed. According to CAJ News Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe intend to restrict the use…
A high-water year in northern Botswana is expected to reshape safari experiences with the Okavango Delta at the centre of an unusually dynamic and widespread inundation driven by strong rainfall in the Angolan Highlands and locally within the region. Industry players say the system remains highly variable but agree that this year’s conditions reflect a…
The Marine Hotel in Hermanus, set for refurbishment, will be closed in May and June. The 120-year-old landmark property is part of the Liz McGrath Collection. The ground-floor public areas, including the restaurant, bar and reception, will be updated with new interiors. No structural changes will be made to the building.
Lolelunga Private Reserve, near Kafue National Park in Zambia, has reintroduced two lions into its ecosystem. This marks the return of an apex predator to the reserve for the first time in more than 15 years. The translocation, completed on April 12 in partnership with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife and the Zambia Ministry…