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 Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) wishes to inform all tourism stakeholders, including tour operators, guides, and drivers, that we are receiving alarming reports of severe flooding in Serengeti, where several vehicles have already been swept away by flood waters and there are reports of people missing. It is extremely concerning that some drivers…
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…
Virgin Limited Edition has announced a redesign of Ulusaba in South Africa’s Sabi Sand. Both lodges – Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge – closed at the end of January 2026 and will reopen on April 1, 2027. Rock Lodge will feature nine suites including five new Rock suites and two interleading Makwela suites. The two…
Nyumbu Luxury Collection is preparing to open a new lodge, Upeo Serengeti, in Tanzania’s northern Serengeti with a soft opening scheduled for September. The lodge’s name, Upeo, meaning “horizon” in Swahili, reflects the property’s design, which frames expansive views across the northern Serengeti landscape. The design intends to integrate with the surrounding environment. The lodge…
This year, from the 1st – 7th May 2026, riders and guests from around the world will gather in Mashatu Game Reserve for something truly extraordinary — the EPIC Land of the Giants Cycling Event. For a few unforgettable days, riders traverse 120-180km of ancient elephant paths, open plains and winding riverbeds on mountain bikes, guided by expert rangers…
The Environment and Land Court in Narok, Kenya, has dismissed a petition seeking to halt operations at the Ritz-Carlton Maasai Mara Safari Camp. The petition, filed by Joel Meitamei Ole Dapash, raised concerns related to the camp’s location along the Sand River within the Maasai Mara National Reserve. In response, the camp’s developers confirmed that…
Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) has shown support for Cabinet’s drive towards halting captive lion breeding in South Africa with new provincial legislation designed to phase out captive lion facilities: The agency will no longer issue permits to new captive lion facilities. The captive breeding of lions will no longer be permitted. The importing of lions…
The Cape Winelands Airport is facing a final hurdle before construction can commence as several appeals from neighbouring landowners await a decision from Anton Bredell, the Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning. The airport project secured environmental authorisation in October 2025 following an extensive assessment process but its progression towards a…
Minor Hotels, in partnership with Dubai-based Infinity Developments, is developing the NH Collection Pemba Island Resort in Tanzania. The 145-room resort is scheduled to open in February 2030 a short drive from Pemba Airport. It will feature a selection of guest rooms, suites and villas as well as dining and MICE facilities. “Introducing the NH…
Thursday, April 16th at 1pm Eastern Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/718905136507949658 Kaelo Destinations: Extraordinary Places with Meaningful Impact Join us for an exclusive introduction to Kaelo Destinations, a premium collection of extraordinary places shaped by natural beauty, authenticity and purpose. From the award-winning safari landscapes of Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana to the acclaimed secluded coastal escape…
Kenya plans to upgrade and expand Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) over the next five years under a US$2 billion modernisation programme. The Government Delivery Unit (GDU) and the Kenya Airports Authority reviewed the implementation status of airport projects across the country and unveiled a breakdown of expansion plans for NBO. According to the…
Air Congo, the newly established flag carrier of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has announced a significant expansion of its route network, marking a major milestone in its evolution from a domestic operator to a regional player in Africa’s aviation landscape. The airline, which commenced operations in December 2024 with domestic flights out…
In a major step for the aviation sector, Kenya Airways has completed its first intra-African flight from Nairobi to Cape Town using a 50% blend of Sustainable Aviation Fuel, in line with international standards set by International Air Transport Association and the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, Sunday Tribune reported. The airline…
The Hilton Durban closed on February 5 following the end of a management agreement between Hilton and the property owner, African American Properties Hotel Pty, a subsidiary of the Bin Otaiba Hotel Group. “Despite our continued efforts to maintain a constructive partnership, the management agreement came to an end on February 5, 2026. As a result,…
Val du Charron Wine & Leisure Estate in Wellington, Western Cape, has fully reopened following a six-month partial closure for upgrades. The refurbishments include upgraded facilities, additional rooms and a refresh of its dining venues. The estate’s four-star guesthouse has added 20 rooms to its offering, bringing the total number of rooms to 40. Read…
Auric Air has added a new aircraft, the Cessna Grand Caravan 5H-ABA, to its fleet. The aircraft is configured with executive-style seating and is now operating across the airline’s network in Tanzania and elsewhere in East Africa. It is also available for private charter. According to the airline, the aircraft maintains the Grand Caravan’s operational…
A new zipline adventure experience has launched at Houw Hoek Hotel on the N2 in the Overberg region of the Western Cape. Developed by Cape Canopy Tour in partnership with Houw Hoek Hotel, the product is a single, continuous dual-line ride completed in approximately 30 minutes. It operates on a fully free-sale basis with no…
AMAYA lodge in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, South Africa, has a new contact number, which is now WhatsApp only due to limited cellular signal at the lodge. 📱 New WhatsApp number: +27 (0) 77 297 4524 ⚠️ The lodge does not receive reliable signal, so normal calls will unfortunately not go through. 📩 For…
Thursday, March 26th @ 1pm eastern Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2037056850221552733 Join us for a short, inspiring webinar created especially for APTA as Victoria Falls Safari Collection unveils its newest luxury lodge addition. Discover how this remarkable property enhances the timeless appeal of Victoria Falls, elevating a visit into a fully immersive, once-in-a-lifetime experience. We’ll explore how…
Experience it to sell it Ascot Tours is pleased to invite our travel partners to an exclusive 12-day educational tour offering direct exposure to premier golf and travel experiences across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. Participants will play golf at Fancourt, Stellenbosch Golf Club, Erinvale, and Elephant Hills, alongside site inspections at De Zalze and Leopard Creek…
Mozambique’s tourism sector has been caught off guard by the sudden implementation of a new e-visa and electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system launched in collaboration with VFS Global. Natalie Tenzer-Silva, Director of Dana Tours, expressed “deep concern” about the manner in which the new e-visa system was implemented. “A significant concern is the complete lack…
The City of Cape Town officially opened the Bo-Kaap Market on February 14 and 15, formally recognising it as a permanent public trading space. The market has been operating since December 2025. “It was great fun visiting the bustling Bo-Kaap Market on Saturday as Capetonians and tourists came out to enjoy this iconic part of…
Several Malawi lodges have detailed plans for improvements in 2026, including the addition of 21 luxury family suites at Makokola Retreat on the shores of Lake Malawi. In addition to the new suites, the lodge is renovating its swimming pool and revamping its coffee lounge. Other lodges undergoing enhancement include: Kaya Mawa (Likoma Island) with…
Built for Agents Ready to Sell Kenya Date: 7–18 June 2026 Ascot Tours is pleased to announce the 2026 Kenya Educational Tour, taking place from 7 to 18 June 2026. This 11-night, multi-region golf and destination experience is designed specifically for international travel agents and tour operators who want firsthand product knowledge of Kenya and…
Nomad Tanzania is delighted to announce the opening of Kusini, a new tented camp set among the granite kopjes of the remote southern Serengeti. Kusini is not about being in the middle of everything — it’s about being exactly where we want to be: on the edges of the national park, away from the busier…
Abelana Game Reserve, which confirmed significant flood damage at Abelana River Lodge following last month’s flooding across Limpopo, says the property will require extensive clean-up and refurbishment despite minimal structural damage. In a statement, the reserve said Abelana River Lodge’s 20 suites and public areas were affected. The recovery period is expected to be about…
SANParks has provided updates on the status of several camps in the Kruger National Park (KNP) affected by heavy flooding in January. Partial reopening of Letaba Rest Camp – which suffered extensive damage to accommodation, fencing and main areas – will take at least three months. The camp will only be fully operational towards the…
Following last year’s successful second edition on the Kenyan coast, Essence of Africa has announced that its third edition will take place at Diamonds Bijoux in Zanzibar from 20–22 October 2026, continuing the event’s journey across Africa’s leading tourism destinations. The decision to host the 2026 edition in Zanzibar aligns with growing global interest in…
Malawi’s position as one of Africa’s most compelling emerging safari destinations continues to strengthen, with significant upgrades and new experiences rolled out across the country’s leading parks and lodges in 2025 — and further developments planned for 2026. In Liwonde National Park, managed by African Parks, infrastructure improvements enhanced both guest comfort and safari capacity.…
RIU Hotels & Resorts has opened Riu Palace Swahili, its third hotel in Tanzania, in Nungwi, northern Zanzibar. The 505-room, adults-only property is RIU’s first Elite Club hotel in Zanzibar. The Elite Club area of the property comprises 76 rooms, including 52 with private pools and 24 with sea views. Elite Club guests have access…
Nomad Tanzania is proud to announce the evolution of one of its most iconic adventure experiences. The Expeditionary Walking Camp, beloved for its pioneering spirit and lightweight mobility, has been re‑imagined, refined, and renamed. Today, we introduce Charlie — Nomad’s roving, ultra‑light private camp that embodies the original ethos of expeditionary safaris in Tanzania. Charlie…
Pan-African infrastructure investor Harith has signed a Sale and Purchase Agreement to acquire FlySafair, in a transaction that could see South Africa’s largest domestic airline move into entirely local ownership, subject to regulatory approvals. The deal remains subject to approvals from the Competition Commission and aviation regulators, including the Air Services Licensing Council (ASLC). While…
Luxury conservation brand Singita has announced two upcoming, purpose-driven running events designed to blend adventure, conservation and female empowerment in East Africa. In February 2027, Singita will partner with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to host the Ubumwe Women’s Trail in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. The multi-day, all-women event combines trail running with a guided…
A new purpose-built eight-seater “Panga boat” has been introduced by Governor’s Camp for Lake Naivasha excursions at its Loldia House property in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Dubbed MV Furukombe by the Loldia House team, the boat is powered by a 100HP four-stroke engine and enables early boat rides and access to Crescent Island and Naivasha Raptor Centre…
Rwanda is staking a bold claim in Africa’s aviation and tourism landscape with the development of the US$2 billion Bugesera International Airport infrastructure project envisioned to transform the country into a regional air transport hub. Located 40km south of Kigali, the new airport is expected to fundamentally change how travellers, investors and airlines access the country…
Volcanoes Safaris is delighted to share new special offers for 2026! Experience expertly-curated mountain gorilla, chimpanzee, and wildlife safaris, led by expert guides, to Volcanoes Safaris’ five award-winning luxury, hand-built lodges based near the finest great ape sites in Rwanda and Uganda. Participate in sustainable conservation and community projects, developed by the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust (VSPT) and in partnerships with leading conservation…
Franschhoek, South Africa, 2 February 2026 – Classic Portfolio, the leading collection of independently owned lodges and camps in Africa’s wild (and not so wild places) announces the launch of its refreshed Classic Portfolio website. While the core content remains familiar, the update focuses on improved navigation and clearer information structure, allowing travel advisors and…
Zambia’s Department of Immigration has announced updated visa fees, effective 1 January 2026 until further notice. Travel advisors and operators should note the following changes: Visa Fee Updates Single-entry visa: increased from USD 25 to USD 50 Double-entry visa: increased from USD 40 to USD 80 Multiple-entry visa: increased from USD 75 to USD 80…
Takims Holidays is pleased to announce it has received a formal commendation from the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA), recognizing over 10 years of dedicated work along the historic southern coast of Tanzania. This recognition highlights the company’s success in managing specialized logistics required to bring international cruise ship guests to the legendary Ruins of Kilwa…
MASHATU: LAND OF LEOPARDS DOCUMENTARY We’re excited to share that Mashatu: Land of Leopards, the acclaimed wildlife documentary filmed entirely within Mashatu Game Reserve, will officially be airing soon on Nat Geo Wild! 🐆🎥 Save the dates Thursday 5th February – airing in Germany on Nat Geo Wild at 8pm. Sunday 8th February 2026 – airing in many…
Wonderful ways to stretch your clients’ dollars with a long stay and free night offers. Long Stay Savings 10% Long Stay Discount for guests staying 5 nights or more at any one, or combination, of Bush and Beyond Properties. A minimum of two-night stay per property is required. Day rooms and split night stays at…
Malawi Tourism has released a round-up of the expansion plans and product enhancements lined up for some of the country’s tourism operators this year. Land & Lake Safaris Lake & Land Safaris, which runs a variety of guided and self-drive tours throughout the country, has introduced new gap year and “bucket list” travel tours and…
As we kick off 2026, we want to share several important updates that reflect the collective voice of our members and the continued evolution of APTA as a stronger, more impactful association. Member Vote: Moving Forward TogetherThank you to everyone who participated in our recent member vote. By an overwhelming margin, members voted in favor…
In a move set to redefine cross-border luxury travel in East Africa, Auric Air and FlyALS have announced the launch of an exclusive “Wing-to-Wing” partnership, effective 01 June 2026. This strategic collaboration establishes a seamless aerial bridge between two of the continent’s most iconic wilderness destinations: Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara…
APTA is pleased to welcome Kafunta Safaris (Zambia) as its newest member, ahead of the APTA Global Forum taking place in Livingstone this September. Kafunta Safaris is a family-owned safari operator based in South Luangwa National Park, where it has been hosting guests for close to 30 years. The company is known for its focus…