Leading Zimbabwean hospitality group, Africa Albida Tourism, has welcomed the opening of the new $150 million Victoria Falls International Airport. The project is set to usher in a new era of tourism to the region. The airport, which now has the capacity to handle 1.5 million passengers per annum, tripling its previous volume, and is capable of landing some of the world’s largest aircraft, was officially opened by Zimbabwe president Robert Mugabe earlier.

The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority has become the first national tourism organisation from the continent of Africa to join the Pacific Asia Travel Association. The two organisations signed a letter of agreement during the annual Sanganai World Tourism Expo in Bulawayo. The agreement reinforces Zimbabwe’s determination to increase the numbers of international arrivals from influential source markets across the Asia Pacific region.

Wilderness Safaris has announced it will open the new Linkwasha Camp in May 2015. Located in a game-rich private concession in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park, the camp will be the most luxurious accommodation on offer in the area.

The Honorable Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Walter Mzembi, said African tourism leaders must join together with one voice to rally support for tourism with government and the private sector.

Home to Victoria Falls – among the most spectacular sights on Earth – Zimbabwe has long been considered the jewel of African tourism. However, political turmoil has seen the destination slip from the international tourist trail over the past decade. Now, with a semblance of stability returning, Breaking Travel News here examines if the country can turn the corner and reclaim its rightful place.

Indaba 2011 is proving a successful show for Zimbabwean tourism, with stakeholders reporting that they have sealed a number of deals. The development has raised hopes that the country’s tourism sector is on the road to recovery after years in the wilderness.