Zanzibar authorities have stopped issuing new land leases in Pemba Island, while destination planning frameworks are finalised, in an effort to avoid repeating development pressures experienced on Unguja Island, the archipelago’s main tourism island. Pemba remains far less developed for tourism than Unguja where most of Zanzibar’s visitor infrastructure is concentrated. Speaking at the recent…
Air Seychelles has announced that its temporary service from Seychelles International Airport to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport has been extended. The service, initially set to conclude on April 20, will run until August 30, according to Air Seychelles’ social media channels. Flights operate on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Flight HM1007 departs from Paris at 19h30 and…
Etihad Airways is expanding its Africa network with new flights to Zimbabwe from March 24, 2027. The airline will launch three weekly flights between Harare and Abu Dhabi with a stop in Lubumbashi, DRC. The airline is also introducing three weekly flights to Kinshasa, DRC, from March 18, 2027.
Delta Hotels by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio, has announced the opening of a property in Madagascar. The new hotel, located in Antananarivo’s business district, is near corporate offices, government buildings and cultural landmarks like the Queen’s Palace. “The hotel offers a calm environment where guests can move easily between work, rest and discovery…
Uganda’s World Athletics Label road race confirms updated route, new finish arena, and full operational plan ahead of August 22, 2026 The Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon has completed a full operational review in Kasese, confirming its 2026 race course, infrastructure plan, and finish arena ahead of race day on August 22nd, 2026. The three-day exercise…
Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust (VSPT) is delighted to announce the launch of the Kyambura Chimpanzee Monitoring Project, based at the VSPT Research Centre, Kyambura Gorge Lodge, in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. In partnership with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), the project will establish the first permanent, science-based monitoring programme for the isolated group of chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge.…
Following recent industry discussions, we reaffirm that Tanzania’s EU Air Safety List inclusion relates to regulatory oversight and does not reflect the operational safety of individual airlines or impact domestic aviation. Miracle Air operations continue as normal, fully compliant, fully insured, and delivered under the responsibility of a licensed operator. Our operations have been independently…
Air Seychelles will introduce a special service between Seychelles and Istanbul to maintain access to key international markets in response to ongoing regional challenges affecting Gulf carriers. The service will run twice weekly from May 2 to June 27. Flights will depart Istanbul at 22h15 on Tuesdays and Saturdays and arrive in Seychelles at 07h00…
Bamba Victoria Falls has launched a new product on the Zambezi River with the Bamba Boat Sunset Cruise, which commenced on April 1. The new offering is a double-decker cruise boat operating daily from Zambezi National Park. It accommodates up to 24 guests on a 2.5-hour sunset experience, including a four-course canapé menu, premium drinks and…
In an urgent effort to save one of the world’s rarest antelopes, four critically endangered eastern mountain bongos are being relocated from European zoos to the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy. Native only to central Kenya’s highland forests, these striking chestnut-coated animals have been severely threatened by hunting and habitat loss. By integrating these new arrivals…
GILTEDGE Opens 2026 with Major Industry Recognition and Global Travel Nominations Cape Town, South Africa – 10 April 2026 – Luxury travel specialist GILTEDGE has begun 2026 with significant international recognition, securing two customer service awards, two Virtuoso trophies, and multiple global nominations across luxury travel and golf tourism. The awards highlight the company’s…
A Sparkling Shift: Why International Visitors Are Investing in Diamonds and Tanzanite in South Africa In recent years, South Africa has seen a notable shift in the way international visitors engage with luxury retail. Beyond safaris, wine estates, and iconic landscapes, a growing number of travellers are choosing to leave with something far more enduring:…
Tanzania has unveiled an ambitious new private-sector led platform aimed at transforming how conservation is financed and managed, as the country seeks to position itself as a global leader in sustainable, high-end wildlife tourism. The launch of the SWICA Operators Association of Tanzania (SOAT) brings together private investors operating in Special Wildlife Investment Concession Areas…
Member news from Jenman African Safaris Zimbabwe has quietly re-established itself as one of Southern Africa’s most compelling safari destinations, and the industry is paying attention. After years of uncertainty that dampened international interest, the country is seeing a meaningful uptick in traveler demand, driven not by marketing spend but by the quality of the…
Kafunta Safaris has officially reopened two of its properties, Kafunta River Lodge and The Sunset House, for the 2026 safari season in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia. Located on the floodplains of the Luangwa River, both properties offer access to one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich regions, known for its walking safaris and strong concentration of…
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Air Gorongosa Launches as New Chapter in Mozambique Aviation Mozambique, 6 April 2026 Today marks the official launch of Air Gorongosa, a reimagined aviation brand designed to connect Mozambique’s people, landscapes, and opportunities while reinforcing confidence in the country as a world-class travel destination. Evolving from Safari Air, Air Gorongosa represents more than…
The Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority has announced that scheduled Air Tanzania flights to Seychelles have been postponed until further notice. In the interim, passengers are encouraged to stay informed via Air Tanzania’s official website and social media platforms.
In the last 12 months, the Radisson Hotel Group has signed over 15 new hotels, bringing its total in Africa, including its pipeline, to over 100. Recent signings include: South Africa: Radisson Serviced Apartments Umhlanga, scheduled to open in 2029, will offer 155 rooms in studios and apartments. It will be located in a newly…
Condor will introduce a fourth weekly flight between Johannesburg and Frankfurt from May 11. Flights will depart from Johannesburg at 18h35 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays and arrive in Frankfurt at 06h00 the following day.
Severe flooding has struck the Luangwa Valley in Zambia following heavy rainfall that caused both the Lupande and Msandile Rivers to burst their banks. The region is experiencing its worst flooding in nearly two decades, with widespread impact on communities surrounding one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife destinations, South Luangwa National Park. The flooding has…
Uganda Airlines will receive $113 million in government funding to acquire 10 new aircraft, boosting direct connectivity and tourism. The move comes as disruptions affecting Gulf carriers such as Qatar Airways and Emirates are pushing African airlines to expand routes and reduce reliance on Middle East hubs. Read more from Tourism Update
Following an exceptional season in Ndutu, marked by dramatic wildlife encounters, lush plains, and abundant rainfall, TAASA Migration Camp now follows the herds northwest as they move toward the Grumeti River. Reopening near the Belo Belo plains, the camp is ideally positioned to witness large concentrations of the Great Migration. Set just meters from the…
Join the PNW APTA Chapter for a delightful afternoon as our guest speaker, Debora Roberts, brings the magic of Karen Blixen properties to life! Experience where classic safari romance meets effortless luxury, think vintage elegance, sweeping savannahs, and those unforgettable “this is Africa” moments your clients will cherish forever. You’ll leave inspired, energized, and ready to…
The Diar Group has announced the development of two mixed-use residential and hospitality properties on Kenya’s coastline: Diani Beach Residences and Oceara Residences. Both properties will be branded CityBlue Hotels. The group will partner with Staroot Real Estate in the development and management of Diani Beach Residences. Oceara Residences is secured through a deal with Sands…
Bush Ways Botswana will open Mababe Tented Camp this month (April 2026). The property is set on the banks of the Khwai River in the Mababe private concession and will open seasonally from April to December. Shared spaced includes a tented lounge. Mababe Tented Camp will comprise eight Meru-style tents accommodating a maximum of 16…
As part of Hilton’s broader strategy to grow in sub-Saharan Africa, the global hospitality company is to open a new Hilton Garden Inn Polokwane in South Africa and a Hilton Lusaka Pyramid in Zambia. Hilton said it had signed 29 deals in 15 countries over the past year, which would see its African footprint growth…
Ugandan wildlife authorities have reintroduced rhinos into a remote protected area where they were once poached into extinction, an event seen by conservationists as a milestone in efforts to support the recovery of a species threatened by poaching. On Tuesday, two southern white rhinos from a private ranch in the East African country were reintroduced into Kidepo…
Thursday, May 28th at 1pm EDT Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5223337094598713430 Join Lori Voss of Wilderness Seekers as she introduces 1-year-old AMAYA Lodge, set within the wildlife-rich Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Blending contemporary design with raw safari, AMAYA offers close-up Big Five sightings, low-impact luxury, and a standout experience: a wildlife filmmaking game drive, where guests step…
Two of the world’s 12 Long Run Accredited Global Ecosphere Retreats have undertaken a leadership immersion between Kenya and Indonesia. Cottar’s Safaris (Maasai Mara, Kenya) and Nikoi and Cempedak Islands (Indonesia) will undertake a cross-continental CEO Exchange in April, as Louise Cottar, CEO of Cottar’s Safaris, and Andrew Dixon, CEO of Nikoi and Cempedak Islands,…
Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 will take place May 11–14 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban, in partnership with Durban Tourism, Tourism KwaZulu-Natal, and the KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission. BONDay kicks off on May 11, with Trade Show Days running May 12–14. Non-hosted buyer applications are now open. The show brings together a broad…
Miracle Concierge is delighted to announce that Ziwani Lounge is now officially open and welcoming travellers at Lake Manyara Airport, offering an extraordinary airport experience designed to deliver comfort and effortless travel. Inspired by the tranquil waters and natural beauty of Lake Manyara, Ziwani Lounge is where every journey begins with ease and elegance at…
Hideaways Africa has introduced new closed Toyota Land Cruiser safari vehicles for guest airport transfers at Hideaways Mankwe Tented Retreat and Hideaways Camelthorn Bush Camp, both located in the NG43 private concession in the Greater Moremi region of Botswana, as well as Hideaways Mogotlho Safari Lodge, situated in the Khwai River on the NG41 private…
Following one of the strongest rainy seasons northern Botswana has experienced in recent years, Moremi Game Reserve is expected to reopen on 26 March 2026 after a temporary closure caused by seasonal flooding. The significant rainfall across the Okavango Delta region has brought welcome conditions to the ecosystem. Increased water levels, renewed grazing areas, and…
Tuesday, March 31 @ 2pm UK time Register here Join APTA member Kafunta Safaris on this Selling Zambia Off The Beaten Track webinar hosted by The Travel Hub Collection and Zambian Ground Handlers. Discover Zambia beyond the key safari destinations. This session explores the full breadth of what this remarkable country has to offer, uncovering…
Songa Africa has opened bookings for Icyayi Songa Lodge in the foothills of Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest National Park. The lodge, due to open in May, features a tea-inspired theme reflecting the surrounding plantations. A render of the outdoor shower at Icyayi Songa Lodge. It will feature 20 suites including family villas. The 166 square metre…
Silverback Lodge Relaunches in Uganda, Setting a New Benchmark for Conservation-Led Luxury in Bwindi On World Wildlife Day, 3 March 2026, Marasa Africa marks the official international launch of Silverback Lodge, unveiling a completely rebuilt and reimagined flagship property next to Uganda’s extraordinary Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. High-res images: Silverback Tuesday 3 March…
Luxury Africa Curated Experiences Across Southern & East Africa Join PNW APTA Chapter for an exciting and inspiring presentation designed specifically for Travel Advisors seeking to elevate their luxury Africa portfolio. Presenters are: Rita Anagnostopouls – US Sales and Marketing Manager Shai Goodman – Mateya Safari Lodge They will take you on a curated journey through…
Beyond the Plains Africa Safaris is a specialist safari and wilderness operator focused on delivering immersive, experience-led journeys across Africa’s most remarkable landscapes. The company works closely with carefully selected camps, lodges, and guiding partners to create authentic, conservation-minded experiences that connect travelers with the continent’s wildlife, culture, and natural heritage. To support its continued…
Join First Diamonds for their FIRST BEACH PARTY an exclusive evening celebrating the achievements of 2025 and setting the stage for an extraordinary 2026. In partnership with: Botany House | BAE Estates | Cobra Car Experience | TopWatch | Imali Express | Yacoob Yachts | Grand Africa | Rove SA | Rabinowitz Photography First Diamonds…
Nairobi, Kenya — Boutique safari operator Beyond the Plains Safaris has officially announced the launch of its 2026 Kenya and Tanzania Safari Series, while opening new partnership opportunities for international tour operators and travel advisors seeking reliable ground handlers for Kenya safaris and Tanzania safaris. Based in Nairobi, Beyond the Plains Safaris is a locally…
Absent for two decades, white rhinos have been reintroduced to Garamba National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). According to a statement issued by African Parks, the park lost its last northern white rhino to poaching in early 2006 when wildlife populations were declining and armed groups were active in the region.…
The V&A Waterfront is set to open a R230 million (US$14 million) superyacht marina in October. The developers say this will be the first-ever superyacht marina in sub-Saharan Africa and it aims to position Cape Town on the global stage as a premium superyacht berthing destination with the port also pursuing Gold Anchor accreditation. The development comes…
Fastjet has launched afternoon flights between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe. Flight FN8504 departs daily from JNB at 14h30 and arrives in VFA at 16h20. The route improves access for afternoon arrivals on domestic and international flights.
Luxury Africa Curated Experiences Across Southern & East Africa Join PNW APTA Chapter for an exciting and inspiring presentation designed specifically for Travel Advisors seeking to elevate their luxury Africa portfolio. Presenters are: Rita Anagnostopouls – US Sales and Marketing Manager Shai Goodman – Mateya Safari Lodge They will take you on a curated journey through…
The African travel community has lost one of its most respected and recognizable figures with the passing of Jim Holden, founder of Holden Safaris and a longtime friend to many across the APTA community. Born in Lusaka, Zambia (then Northern Rhodesia), Jim’s life and career were deeply shaped by Africa from the very beginning. He…
Ticket sales for the 2026 APTA Global Forum only opened in mid January but already the show is 47% sold out! We expect the show to be completely sold out by spring so if you plan to attend, the time to register is now! Taking place September 25–27, 2026, in Livingstone, Zambia, at the Avani…
Kenya’s tourism industry is navigating an unusually challenging period as two major disruptions are slowing the flow of visitors and complicating logistics for tour operators: the aviation crisis in the Middle East and severe flooding in parts of the country. Middle Eastern carriers operate some of the fastest and most affordable routes into East and…
The Zimbabwean government has increased VAT (value-added tax) and applied it to tourism services. In light of this the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority has announced increases to entry fees for the Victoria Falls rainforest. Entry for international day visitors is now as follows until further notice: Rainforest main gate: USD58 per person VIP gate: USD174pp…
The East African Community (EAC) stepped onto the global tourism stage at ITB Berlin 2026, unveiling the first promotional video for its regional tourism brand, “Visit East Africa – Feel the Vibe.” Premiered at the world’s leading travel trade fair in Berlin, the video highlights East Africa’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, cultures and travel experiences, as…
APTA members looking to connect with African suppliers from the comfort of their desks have a final opportunity to join OurAfrica.Travel 2026, a virtual trade show running March 16–20. The platform brings together 200+ exhibitors spanning Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands for a week of scheduled meetings, product updates, and networking. The format is…