Africa Tourism News
WHY SOME OF AFRICA’S MOST PROMISING ROUTES STILL HAVE NO FLIGHTS
Two of Sub-Saharan Africa’s strongest unserved routes still have no direct flight: Johannesburg to Mumbai, and Brussels to Cape Town. Both appear in the Airbus Exploring the Horizons study among high-demand corridors where passengers continue to route through a third city because no carrier has yet launched a service. Some of the continent’s connectivity gaps have narrowed over the past year. Qantas added Perth to Johannesburg, Edelweiss introduced its A350 service to Windhoek, Air Congo announced a Brussels link to Kinshasa, and Ethiopian secured approval to serve Mauritius. If those routes can move from proposal to operation, why do others with similarly strong demand remain unserved? That question sat at the centre of a discussion at AviaDev Africa 2026 in Gaborone, the continent’s main route development forum, where airlines, airports and tourism bodies meet to build new air links. It was chaired by Natalia Rosa, Project Lead at the Southern Africa Tourism Alliance (SATA).
Preferred Hotels & Resorts Unveils Two of Africa’s Most Anticipated Openings Of 2026
This year, Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand, is introducing two of the continent’s most anticipated escapes for 2026: a barefoot-luxury eco-lodge on Zanzibar’s peaceful southeast coast and an intimate safari retreat set deep within Madikwe Game Reserve, one of South Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas.
Dream Safari Season Commences at Botswana’s Mashatu
Botswana is largely known for its famous Okavango Delta. But the Northern Tuli in its far eastern corner AKA the “Land of Giants” offers a completely unique experience that truly has to 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 Botswana unless you’ve been to Mashatu”.
Hariom Travels & Tourism LLC - reshaping the narrative of African tourism
In the ever-evolving tapestry of global travel, where ambition meets cultural connection, a Dubai-based company is quietly reshaping the narrative of African tourism. Hariom Travels & Tourism LLC, long recognized among industry insiders for its expansive reach and nuanced understanding of emerging markets, is stepping into the international spotlight with a series of prestigious nominations at the upcoming World Travel Awards African Gala Ceremony. Set against the idyllic backdrop of Zanzibar, Tanzania, on 28 August 2026, the ceremony promises to celebrate excellence across the continent’s travel and hospitality sectors. Among the nominees, Hariom Travels & Tourism LLC stands out—not merely for the number of recognitions it has received, but for what those nominations represent. The company is in contention for Leading Travel Management Company titles across five nations: Cameroon, Gabon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Senegal, and the Republic of Congo. It’s a rare distinction that signals both geographic breadth and operational depth
Radisson Hotel Group Surpasses 100 Hotels in Africa, Accelerating 2030 Growth Ambition
Radisson Hotel Group has reached a significant milestone in Africa, with more than 100 hotels across the continent in operation and under development. Radisson Blu continues to anchor the legacy footprint. At the same time, the Radisson brand is the fastest riser, supported by a strong conversion engine and a concrete pipeline that continues to translate into openings. Building on this momentum, the Group has signed over 15 new hotels and roughly 2,500 rooms in the last 12 months, including new market entries in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zimbabwe.
Anantara Stanley & Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel Invites Guests to Experience Africa’s Icons
Anantara Stanley & Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel invites guests to experience the majesty of Victoria Falls paired with the thrill of seeing Africa’s Big Five in their natural habitat. Tucked inside the Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, the property spans 6,100 acres of protected wilderness, offering unparalleled access to Zimbabwe’s most iconic landscapes.
TUI Hotels & Resorts contributes to growth in Africa with strong leisure hotel brands
TUI Group continues to expand its hotel business worldwide and pursues ambitious plans to support the African hospitality industry. With its 12 leisure hotel brands, TUI offers unique experiences for holidaymakers and invites them to enjoy the respective region with its culinary delights, natural beauty and cultural heritage. A few weeks ago, the brands TUI Blue and TUI Suneo expanded their portfolio in Africa. In Egypt, TUI Blue Samaya with 143 rooms and an aqua park has been added to the premium brand’s portfolio. The hotel is located in the growing destination of Marsa Alam. For holidaymakers looking for value for money, TUI Suneo Palm Beach Skanes in Tunisia has also opened its doors. With 294 rooms and a large garden area, the hotel is offering an attractive all-inclusive package with a wide range of sports and entertainment options.
Exploring Tanzania: Africa’s Jewel in the Crown
In recent years, Tanzania has emerged as a beacon of adventure and natural beauty in Africa, drawing increasing numbers of tourists eager to experience its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant culture. The country’s allure has been further cemented by the honor of hosting the Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2025 of the esteemed World Travel Awards, showcasing its prominence as a premier global destination.
Ghana opens up visa-free travel to all Africans
All African passport holders are now able to visit Ghana without needing a visa, outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo has said. He announced the plan last month but in his final state-of-the-nation address on Friday he said that the policy had come into effect at the beginning of the year.
Emirates inaugurates Emirates World Store in Kenya, its first in Africa
Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has opened its Emirates World store in Nairobi, Kenya, underscoring its commitment to deliver an elevated customer experience, alongside world-class products and services to the market. This opening introduces the airline’s refreshed retail store concept to Africa for the first time, with more stores planned across the market in the coming months. Centrally located in the ultra-modern Cube, Riverside Drive, the Emirates World store offers customers expert travel advice, either from dedicated consultants or through self-service smart technologies, and immersive displays to bring the airline’s signature product closer to travellers from Kenya.
Have You “Herd”? New Family Happy Hour at Mashatu’s Hide
Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana’s Northern Tuli recently introduced a new “Family Happy Hour” at Matebole Elephant Hide, allowing families with younger children (under 12) to experience this incredible photo hide where they can enjoy close-up wildlife sightings (particularly known for its steady stream of elephants) at eye level.
Pollman’s Tours and Safaris Voted Kenya’s Leading Destination Management Company
Pollman’s Tours and Safaris has been awarded the prestigious title of Kenya’s Leading Destination Management Company at the 2024 Africa Gala Ceremony of the World Travel Awards, held last week at the stunning Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort in Diani Beach, Kenya. This recognition celebrates the company’s outstanding contribution to Kenya’s tourism industry and highlights its role as a trusted leader in providing exceptional travel experiences. The World Travel Awards, often regarded as the highest accolade in the travel and tourism industry, recognize excellence across the globe. Pollman’s achievement in this category is a testament to its dedication to quality, innovation, and service in the field of destination management.