Airlink expands Mozambican network: New Johannesburg <> Nacala flights from February 2026!

South African regional airline Airlink is set to expand its footprint in Mozambique with the launch of direct flights between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Nacala Airport (MNC) in Nacala from 02 February 2026. The scenic coastal town of Nacala will become Airlink’s seventh destination in Mozambique, joining Maputo, Beira, Pemba, Nampula, Tete, and Vilanculos on the airline’s growing regional network.

The new Johannesburg <> Nacala route will initially operate twice weekly, on Mondays and Fridays, using Airlink’s comfortable and efficient Embraer regional jet aircraft.

Flight schedule (from 02 February 2026):

• 4Z 236: Johannesburg (JNB) 10:30 > Nacala (MNC) 13:10 (Mondays & Fridays)
• 4Z 237: Nacala (MNC) 13:45 > Johannesburg (JNB) 16:35 (Mondays & Fridays)

With the addition of Nacala, Airlink now offers 64 weekly return flights between South Africa and Mozambique, ensuring smooth connectivity between key business and leisure hubs across the region. The new service has been carefully timed to connect seamlessly with Airlink’s domestic and regional routes, as well as intercontinental flights operated by the airline’s global partners.

Passengers can look forward to Airlink’s renowned onboard service, which includes a complimentary light meal, refreshments, and the comfort of a window or aisle seat—no middle seats.

Baggage allowances:

• Discounted Economy: 20kg checked luggage
• Full-Fare Economy: 30kg checked luggage
• Sports Equipment: 15kg free allowance

With its launch of flights to Nacala, Airlink strengthens air connectivity to Mozambique's northern coast, supporting tourism and trade links between South Africa and one of Mozambique's most promising coastal destinations.

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Western Cape: CapeNature goes fully cashless at five nature reserves from February 2026!

CapeNature, the public agency responsible for biodiversity conservation in South Africa's Western Cape, has announced that five of its flagship nature reserves will transition to a fully cashless payment system starting 02 February 2026. The move aims to streamline visitor operations, reduce queue times, and improve the overall nature experience, while minimizing the risks and inconveniences associated with cash handling.

The reserves adopting the new cashless system are:

• Robberg Nature Reserve in Plettenberg Bay
• Keurbooms Nature Reserve in Plettenberg Bay
• Stony Point Nature Reserve in Betty’s Bay
• Bird Island Nature Reserve in Lambert’s Bay
• Walker Bay Nature Reserve – Hermanus

Accepted cashless payment methods:

• Debit/credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• Mobile payments (Scan to Pay)
• Pre-bookings via www.capenature.co.za
• Telephonic bookings through the CapeNature Contact Centre: 087 087 8250

Visitor tips:
Travellers are encouraged to pre-book permits online to guarantee entry and avoid delays at the gate. For those arriving without a booking, speed point devices and QR code mobile-friendly payment options will be available on-site, ensuring a smooth and seamless entry.

This shift to cashless access reflects CapeNature’s commitment to modernizing visitor services and enhancing experiences at some of the Western Cape's most iconic natural destinations.

 

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Kruger National Park: Skukuza Safari Lodge remains open after fire!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that the Skukuza Safari Lodge, located located within the Skukuza Rest Camp in Kruger National Park, remains fully operational, after a fire damaged part of its restaurant dining hall on 29 October 2025.

According to SANParks, guests were safely evacuated from the restaurant, and no injuries were reported during the incident. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

To ensure minimal disruption to guests, a temporary dining facility has been established at the lodge, supported by back-up systems to maintain normal operations. While a section of the restaurant roof was damaged by the fire and water used during firefighting efforts, clean-up and repair work is already underway.

SANParks and aha Hotels & Lodges, which manages the Skukuza Safari Lodge, have expressed their gratitude to the Skukuza Airport emergency team, SANParks rangers, and the Bushbuckridge Fire Brigade for their rapid and effective response that helped contain the situation swiftly.

Further updates on the restoration progress will be shared as they become available.

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Elephants spotted near Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park for the first time in nearly a decade!

In an exciting development for wildlife enthusiasts, four elephants have been sighted near Zutshwa in Botswana’s Kgalagadi region - placing these majestic animals within just 70 kilometres of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. The National Park remains the only major park under South African National Parks (SANParks) management without a resident elephant population.

The sighting, confirmed by Botswana’s Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP), highlights the ongoing cross-border cooperation between DWNP and SANParks in managing this vast conservation landscape shared by Botswana and South Africa.

This is the closest approach of elephants to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in nearly a decade. The last verified report dates back to 2015, when a small group of elephants briefly wandered through the same area before moving on.

While the semi-arid Kalahari ecosystem is not typical elephant terrain, experts suggest the movement could reflect changing migration routes or an expanding elephant range across southern Botswana - possibly influenced by water availability, habitat pressure, or climate shifts.

Visitors to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park are encouraged to stay alert for potential elephant sightings. Anyone spotting these animals is asked to share photos or location details with park officials at the nearest camp, or contact Park Manager Frans van Rooyen directly via email at frans.vanrooyen[at]sanparks.org.

 

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Durban beach update: 21 beaches open for swimming (29 October 2025)!

Good news for beach lovers! Durban’s famous coastline is ready to welcome holidaymakers, with 21 beaches declared safe for swimming this week. Whether you’re planning a surf, a seaside stroll, or a family getaway, the KwaZulu-Natal hotspot promises clean waters, sunny skies, and endless coastal charm.

Durban, the sun-soaked city in KwaZulu-Natal, remains one of South Africa’s most beloved seaside destinations. Renowned for its golden beaches, warm Indian Ocean waters, and year-round subtropical sunshine, the city continues to attract both local and international visitors seeking the perfect coastal getaway.
´To ensure every visit is both safe and enjoyable, the eThekwini Municipality conducts continuous water quality testing and provides regular beach safety updates for all of Durban’s popular coastal spots.

Beaches open for swimming (as of 29 October 2025)
A total of 21 Durban beaches have successfully passed the latest rigorous water quality assessments and are officially safe for swimming. Lifeguards are on duty daily from 06:00 to 18:30, ensuring a secure and family-friendly environment for swimmers, surfers, and beachgoers.

Open beaches include:
Point Beach • uMgababa • uShaka • Addington • North Beach • Bay of Plenty • South Beach • Wedge Beach • Battery Beach • Brighton • Pipeline Beach • Toti Main Beach • Westbrook • Thekwini Beach • Laguna Beach • Country Club • Doonside Beach • mDloti Main • Winklespruit • uMhlanga Main • Bronze Beach

Whether you prefer swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, or simply strolling along Durban’s iconic Golden Mile, these beaches offer clean waters, vibrant atmosphere, and a truly authentic coastal experience.

Beaches temporarily closed
Currently, Anstey’s Beach and Reunion Beach are temporarily closed for swimming due to elevated water contamination levels. While water-based activities are restricted, visitors can still enjoy sunbathing, beach walks, and photography. The municipality will reopen these beaches once the water quality returns to safe swimming standards.

Durban’s public swimming pools
If you’re looking for an alternative to the ocean, Durban also offers 40 public swimming pools spread across the metro area - perfect for families, fitness swimmers, and anyone wanting a refreshing dip in a controlled environment.

With its tropical charm, well-maintained beaches, and a strong commitment to safety and sustainability, Durban continues to shine as South Africa’s ultimate playground by the sea.

 

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Lufthansa Group expands summer 2026 flights to South Africa and Namibia!

The Lufthansa Group has unveiled its Summer 2026 flight schedule, offering enhanced connectivity to South Africa and Namibia. Travellers can now enjoy more frequent departures, nonstop intercontinental access, and seamless travel opportunities, making Europe-to-Southern Africa trips easier than ever.

Munich > Johannesburg: Three weekly nonstop flights
Lufthansa continues its popular nonstop route from Munich to Johannesburg, operating three flights per week on the Airbus A350-900. Passengers benefit from fuel-efficient travel, lie-flat Business Class seats, and state-of-the-art inflight entertainment on the 10.5-hour journey. 

Frankfurt > Cape Town: Expanded weekly service
From Frankfurt, Lufthansa increases Cape Town flights from three to five weekly departures for Summer 2026. The modern widebody aircraft provide comfort, flexibility, and world-class service, while multiple departure days make planning easier for travellers.

Zurich > Windhoek: Edelweiss Air introduces twice-weekly route
Edelweiss Air introduces a Zürich–Windhoek route, flying twice weekly (Monday & Friday) on the Airbus A350. This new service gives Swiss and European travellers direct access to Namibia's deserts, national parks, and vibrant capital city, opening exciting leisure and adventure opportunities.

Zurich > Cape Town: Edelweiss Air extends Cape Town season into early June 2026
Edelweiss Air will extend its seasonal Zurich – Cape Town service into early June, marking its longest-ever South Africa season. Flights will then resume again in early September 2026, offering even more flexibility for European visitors planning late-season trips to Cape Town.
In addition, Edelweiss Air will increase its winter 2025/26 frequencies on the Zurich > Cape Town route from four to five flights per week, ensuring smoother connectivity and more travel options between Europe and Cape Town. 

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Bloemhof crowned South Africa’s “Town of the Year 2025”!

For travellers looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations in South Africa, Bloemhof is a must-see. This tranquil town on the banks of the Vaal River in the North West Province has just been crowned “Town of the Year 2025” in the popular Kwêla “Dorp van die Jaar” competition on kykNET (DStv). Recognised for its charm, community spirit, and scenic riverside setting, Bloemhof is now firmly on the map for visitors seeking authentic small-town experiences.

About the “Dorp van die Jaar” competition
Hosted annually by Kwêla, a popular South African Afrikaans-language lifestyle and magazine TV show broadcast on kykNET (DStv channel 144), in partnership with Lottoland, the competition invites towns across South Africa and Namibia to compete for the title. Public votes determine regional finalists, with one winner from each province going head-to-head in the national final. The winning town receives a R1 million marketing package and cash support for community development — a major boost for local tourism and investment.

Why Bloemhof won
Founded in 1864, Bloemhof (meaning “flower garden”) lies on fertile farmland beside the Vaal River and Bloemhof Dam, a hotspot for fishing, boating, and relaxed outdoor living.
Residents united under the slogan “Rippelspan” (“Ripple Team”) - working together on clean-ups, beautification, and local initiatives that transformed their town’s image. Their dedication impressed both voters and judges, making Bloemhof a symbol of small-town renewal and community pride.

Visit Bloemhof
Bloemhof is about 120 km northwest of Johannesburg, offering visitors peaceful river views, affordable stays, and genuine South African hospitality. The Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve is a must-visit for birdwatching, angling, and tranquil weekend breaks.

A Win With Big Potential
The “Town of the Year” title brings more than recognition - it’s a catalyst for growth. The exposure could attract travellers, new residents, and investors to this hidden gem on the Vaal River. For visitors seeking an authentic dorp experience, Bloemhof now stands proudly among South Africa's best-loved small towns.

Rugby: HSBC SVNS returns to Cape Town in December 2025!

The Mother City will once again take centre stage on the global rugby sevens calendar! World Rugby has confirmed that Cape Town will host the HSBC SVNS 2026 Series from 06 to 07 December 2025, bringing high-energy international sevens action back to the spectacular Cape Town Stadium.

As one of only five returning destinations on the 2026 circuit - alongside Dubai, Singapore, Vancouver and Hong Kong - Cape Town remains a fan favourite for its breathtaking setting, electric atmosphere, and festival-style celebrations.

The HSBC SVNS Series represents the new era of rugby sevens: two action-packed days featuring both men’s and women’s teams, full gender parity, and an enhanced entertainment experience combining sport, music, and culture. Cape Town's leg follows the opening round in Dubai (29–30 November 2025), marking the second stop of the 2026 season.

Fans can expect thrilling matches from the world’s top rugby nations - including South Africa’s Blitzboks and Imbokodo - as well as live performances, themed fan zones, and a vibrant crowd celebrating rugby’s most exciting format.

With the city’s famous hospitality, stunning Table Mountain backdrop, and world-class facilities, the HSBC SVNS Cape Town 2025/26 promises to be one of the highlights of South Africa’s sporting calendar.

Travellers planning to attend are advised to book accommodation early, especially in Green Point, the V&A Waterfront, and Cape Town’s city centre, as hotels and guesthouses fill up fast during the event weekend.

 

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Zambia Airways tightens Johannesburg travel rules: Return or onward ticket now mandatory!

Travellers planning to fly from Zambia to South Africa should take note of new entry requirements recently introduced by Zambia Airways. The national carrier has implemented a mandatory return or onward ticket policy for all passengers travelling between Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. The rule, effective 14 October 2025, aims to ensure smoother immigration clearance and compliance with South African entry regulations.

Zambia Airways confirmed that the directive applies to all foreign nationals, while South African citizens are exempt. Passengers without a valid return or onward ticket will not be accepted for travel, as the new rule will be strictly enforced at check-in.

According to the airline, the decision follows a spike in incidents where passengers were denied entry by South African immigration authorities upon arrival in Johannesburg for failing to show proof of onward travel or sufficient funds for their stay. When such passengers are declared inadmissible, airlines are financially liable for repatriation and related costs. This policy aims to reduce these occurrences and safeguard the airline from operational and financial risk.

Key details of the new enforcement policy

• Who is affected: All non–South African nationals travelling to Johannesburg on Zambia Airways flights.
• Proof required: A valid return or onward ticket must be presented at the point of check-in.
• For one-way ticket holders:
• Travellers intending to return by road must demonstrate the ability to purchase a return ticket if entry is denied.
• Passengers must accept full financial responsibility for any costs associated with being declared inadmissible (INAD), including repatriation and holding facility charges.
• An indemnity form must be signed before departure, acknowledging these terms.

Zambia Airways has emphasised that failure to comply will result in denied boarding.

This measure reinforces the airline’s efforts to align with South African immigration protocols and ensure a hassle-free travel experience between Lusaka and Johannesburg. Passengers are advised to check all entry and documentation requirements before their trip to avoid disruption.

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Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) makes strong progress in restoring flight procedures across South Africa

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has announced major progress in stabilising operations and rebuilding its core technical capacity. According to Acting CEO Matome Moholola, ATNS continues to make steady advances in restoring and validating instrument flight procedures (IFPs) across South Africa’s aviation network, including several key secondary airports.

Moholola confirmed that all flight procedures remain operational at network airports, with only one outstanding procedure at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth. This final procedure has already received approval from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and will become effective on 27 November 2025.

Regional airport updates
ATNS also shared the latest updates on the implementation of IFPs at several regional airports:

• Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) in Mbombela/Nelspruit – Instrument approach procedures have been approved by SACAA and are already available for operational use.
• Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN) in Bloemfontein and Kimberley Airport (KIM) in Kimberley – Procedures and charts approved; effective 27 November 2025.
• Richards Bay Airport (RCB) in Richards Bay, Upington International Airport (UTN) in Upington and Polokwane International Airport (PTG) in Polokwane – Instrument flight procedures are in the final stages of approval and are expected to go live on 25 December 2025.

These positive developments reflect ATNS’s ongoing commitment to strengthening South Africa’s aviation infrastructure, ensuring safer skies and more dependable travel across the country’s airspace network.

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6th World Culinary Awards: These are Southern Africa's top restaurants 2025!

South Africa has once again proven its status as a global culinary hotspot, sweeping top honours at the 6th World Culinary Awards. This prestigious international initiative recognises excellence across the culinary industry, celebrating restaurants, chefs, and destinations that define the art of food. 
Like in the previous year, South Africa was crowned Africa’s Best Culinary Destination 2025, while Cape Town earned the title of Africa’s Best Culinary City Destination 2025. These accolades reflect the country’s growing reputation for world-class dining experiences, diverse cuisines, and innovative culinary offerings.

Africa’s Best Restaurants of 2025 (South Africa only)
The awards highlighted excellence across multiple countries and categories, showcasing South African establishments exclusively:

• Africa’s Best Restaurant 2025: FYN (Cape Town)
• Africa’s Best Rooftop Restaurant 2025: The 11th Floor (Johannesburg)
• Africa’s Best New Hotel Restaurant 2025: Guild Restaurant @ Steyn City Hotel by Saxon (Steyn City, Johannesburg)
• Africa’s Best Chinese Cuisine Restaurant 2025: The Red Room at Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel (Cape Town)
• Africa’s Best French Cuisine Restaurant 2025: Le coin Français by Darren Badenhorst (Franschhoek)
• Africa’s Best New Restaurant 2025: Amare (Cape Town)
• Africa’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Qunu @ Saxon Hotel, Villa & Spa (Johannesburg)
• Africa’s Best Fine Dining Experience 2025: MERTIA (Stellenbosch)
• Africa’s Best Indian Cuisine Restaurant 2025: Thali (Cape Town)
• Africa’s Best Landmark Restaurant 2025: Life Grand Cafe Waterfront (Cape Town)
• Africa’s Best Japanese Cuisine Restaurant 2025: Nobu Cape Town (Cape Town)

From rooftop gems in Johannesburg to fine dining experiences in Stellenbosch, South Africa's culinary landscape continues to impress both local and international food lovers.

Southern Africa’s top culinary establishments by country:
The awards also celebrated outstanding restaurants and hotel dining experiences across Southern Africa, highlighting the region’s growing culinary excellence:

• Angola:
• Angola’s Best Restaurant 2025: Café Del Mar (Luanda)
• Angola’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Kimera @ EPIC SANA Luanda (Luanda)
• Botswana:
• Botswana’s Best Restaurant 2025: Table50Two (Gaborone)
• Botswana’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Xigera Restaurant @ Xigera Safari Lodge (Masarwa, Okavango Delta)
• Eswatini:
• Eswatini’s Best Restaurant 2025: Ramblas Restaurant (Mbabane)
• Eswatini’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Together & Co. Restaurant @ Hilton Garden Inn Mbabane (Mbabane)
• Mozambique:
• Mozambique’s Best Restaurant 2025: MOOD Restaurant & Bar (Maputo)
• Mozambique’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Clube Naval @ Avani Pemba Beach (Pemba)
• Namibia:
• Namibia’s Best Restaurant 2025: Jetty 1905 (Swakopmund)
• Namibia’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Stratos Restaurant & Bar @ Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino (Windhoek)
• South Africa:
• South Africa's Best Restaurant 2025: FYN (Cape Town)
• South Africa's Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Qunu @ Saxon Hotel, Villa & Spa (Johannesburg)
• South Africa's Best Culinary Experience 2025: The Waterside (Cape Town)
• Zambia:
• Zambia’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: The Theatre of Food @ Avani Victoria Falls Resort (Livingstone)
• Zimbabwe:
• Zimbabwe’s Best Restaurant 2025: Victoria Twenty Two (Harare)
• Zimbabwe’s Best Hotel Restaurant 2025: Livingstone Room @ The Victoria Falls Hotel (Victoria Falls)

A Celebration of culinary excellence
The winners were determined following a year-long search for the world’s leading culinary brands. Votes were cast by both industry professionals and the general public, with the top nominee in each category earning the coveted title. These awards underscore Southern Africa’s dedication to world-class hospitality and innovative cuisine, positioning the region as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

With Cape Town leading the way as Africa’s premier culinary city and neighbouring countries showcasing outstanding restaurants, travellers can look forward to an unforgettable gastronomic journey - from traditional South African flavours to globally inspired culinary masterpieces across the region.

Congratulations to all the winners for raising the bar and showcasing the best of Southern Africa’s food culture.

 

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Airlink to launch Johannesburg–Zanzibar flights in June 2026!

South African regional airline Airlink has announced an exciting new route connecting Johannesburg to the tropical paradise of Zanzibar, starting June 2026. The service will feature Airlink’s brand-new Embraer E195-E2 flagship aircraft, designed for comfort and efficiency, with seating for 136 passengers.

Passengers flying Airlink can enjoy complimentary meals and refreshments, spacious legroom, and the airline’s signature no-middle-seat cabin configuration, offering a choice of aisle or window seats. Luggage allowances are: 20kg for discounted economy tickets, 30kg for full-fare economy, plus an additional 15kg sporting equipment allowance - perfect for holidaymakers planning water sports or safaris.

Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht highlighted the strategic advantage of the route:
“Zanzibar's proximity to Johannesburg, our main hub, makes it easily accessible for customers based in Gauteng. Our schedule is designed to connect seamlessly with other Airlink flights across South Africa and the SADC region, and our partnerships with leading global airlines ensure smooth connections to destinations worldwide.”

Flight Schedule (from June 2026):

• Johannesburg > Zanzibar: Wednesdays & Sundays, 12:00 – 16:35
• Zanzibar > Johannesburg: Mondays & Thursdays, 12:00 – 14:55

Founded in 1992, Airlink is Southern Africa’s premier privately-owned regional airline. Its modern fleet of over 65 aircraft connects numerous destinations across Southern Africa, Madagascar, and St Helena, while international travel is facilitated through partnerships with trusted intercontinental airlines, including its FlyNamibia franchise.

Whether for business or leisure, Airlink’s new Johannesburg–Zanzibar route opens seamless access to one of East Africa’s most iconic island destinations.

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Namibia: City of Windhoek renames streets and stadium!

The City of Windhoek has announced a series of official street name changes, effective Friday, 24 October 2025. According to a public notice issued on 20 October 2025, these updates are part of the municipality’s ongoing initiative to celebrate and preserve the legacy of distinguished Namibians who have made remarkable contributions to the country’s social, cultural, and developmental heritage.

In Khomasdal, Rolls Royce Street and Isabella Street will now be known as Reverend Frederick Joseph Street, while Street 1A and Street 1B in Auasblick will be renamed Immanuel Karuhumba Street.

In Olympia, Sydney Atkinson Street becomes Aaron Shihepo Street, and in Windhoek North, Sheffield Street will carry the new name Simataa Khama Street/Link.

In Katutura, Barug Street will be renamed Dr Fleming Aspara Street, and the Khomasdal Stadium will officially take on the new name Bobby Sissing Stadium.

The City of Windhoek confirmed that the physical installation of new street signs reflecting these changes will take place in the near future.

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Kruger National Park to keep its iconic name - no change confirmed by government!

The South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has confirmed that there has been no official amendment or approval to change the name of the Kruger National Park. According to the Department, no notice has been published in the Government Gazette under Section 20 of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act 57 of 2003, and the park therefore remains legally and officially the Kruger National Park.

“There is nothing in progress to change the name of the Kruger National Park, and I certainly have no intention of approving any request,” said Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Dr Dion George.

Under the Protected Areas Act, only the Minister has the legal authority to assign or amend the name of a national park. Schedule 2 of the Act lists all official national parks, with Kruger National Park appearing under Item 11. Any future proposal to alter this name would have to follow a formal legislative process, which includes public consultation and official publication in the Government Gazette - a process that has not been initiated.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has also urged the public, media outlets, and social platforms to avoid spreading unverified claims about a potential name change. False information not only undermines public confidence but also distracts from the vital work of protecting South Africa’s wildlife and ecosystems. Citizens are encouraged to rely solely on official government communications for accurate updates.

About Kruger National Park
Established in 1926, Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and most iconic wildlife sanctuaries, stretching across nearly 20,000 km² of pristine bushveld in Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Home to the Big Five, over 500 bird species, and an extraordinary range of biodiversity, the park attracts millions of visitors each year. Beyond its natural heritage, Kruger National Park is a cornerstone of South Africa’s tourism economy and a global symbol of wildlife conservation.

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Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry: South Africa vs New Zealand 2026 fixtures confirmed!

Rugby fans, brace yourselves for a historic showdown! The highly anticipated alternating quadrennial tour between South Africa and New Zealand, branded as Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, has been officially announced. The inaugural 2026 edition will see the Springboks host the All Blacks from August to September, delivering an unforgettable series of matches across South Africa.

Full Tour Fixtures & Venues
The All Blacks kick off the tour against top South African franchises before engaging in four epic Test clashes with the Springboks. Here’s the complete 2026 schedule:

Friday, 07 August – DHL Stormers vs New Zealand at DHL Stadium, Cape Town
Tuesday, 11 August – Hollywoodbets Sharks vs New Zealand at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
Saturday, 15 August – Vodacom Bulls vs New Zealand at Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Saturday, 22 August – First Test: South Africa vs New Zealand at Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Tuesday, 25 August – Lions vs New Zealand at Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Saturday, 29 August – Second Test: South Africa vs New Zealand at DHL Stadium, Cape Town
Saturday, 05 September – Third Test: South Africa vs New Zealand at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
Saturday, 12 September – Fourth Test: South Africa vs New Zealand (neutral venue to be announced)

This format blends high-octane franchise games with intense international Tests, reviving the classic touring tradition that rugby fans have long cherished.

Historic Context & Significance
The 2026 tour marks 30 years since New Zealand's last major South African tour, which featured an eight-match schedule and concluded with a historic 2-1 Test series victory for the All Blacks. The reciprocal 2030 tour will see South Africa visiting New Zealand for the first professional-era tour, further cementing the rivalry.

Back-to-back Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok captain Siya Kolisi said: “This is going to be something huge and something this generation will never forget. These are the tours we’ve only heard of. To experience this for the first time, where it’s like a Lions tour, is unbelievable for us as a group.”

Tickets & Priority Access
Tickets, including match bundles, will go on general sale early next year. Fans can sign up for priority access and pre-sale notifications at greatest-rivalry.com to secure their seats for this once-in-a-generation rugby spectacle.

 

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Proflight Zambia launches seasonal Lusaka–Livingstone–Maun route from May 2026!

Zambian regional airline Proflight Zambia is set to expand its network with the launch of a new seasonal route connecting Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka and Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone to Maun Airport (MUB) in Maun, Botswana, starting May 2026. The seasonal service will operate three times per week until October 2026, enhancing air connectivity between two of Southern Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations — Victoria Falls and the Okavango Delta.

Announced by Proflight Zambia CEO Anthony Irwin at the 55th Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) Annual General Assembly held in Lusaka from 16 to 19 October 2025, the new route underscores the airline’s commitment to supporting tourism and trade in the region. By linking Zambia’s capital, Lusaka, and Livingstone - its premier tourism hub on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls - with Maun, the gateway to Botswana's Okavango Delta, Proflight Zambia aims to make multi-destination travel across Southern Africa easier and more accessible.

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Cape Town welcomes the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour for the first time!

From 22 October to 26 October 2025, the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour (Elite16) lands in Cape Town, marking the first-ever South African edition of the world’s premier beach volleyball series.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, Camps Bay Beach in Camps Bay will transform into a buzzing beach arena - bringing together fast-paced matches, beach culture, live music, and a festival atmosphere.

The Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour, organized by Volleyball World and the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB), is one of the sport’s most prestigious global events - rivalled only by the Olympics and World Championships.

Tickets, travel & viewing tips

• Tickets: General Access Ticket R150 – R500, VIP passes R1,500 – R3,000
• Seating in grandstands is limited, so arriving early is smart. 
• For the best vantage point, try to secure seats facing Table Mountain - not only will you see the matches, but you’ll also get one of the world’s most iconic backdrops.
• Use public transport or shared rides to reach Camps Bay during peak spectator hours - parking will be constrained.

Experience world-class volleyball, beach entertainment, local food stalls, and Cape Town's legendary coastal energy as the world’s best athletes compete for glory on South African sand.

 

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Cape Town offers free entry to Nature Reserves during the Great Southern Bioblitz 2025!

The City of Cape Town has announced an exciting opportunity for nature lovers and citizen scientists alike — free entry to all City nature reserves in Cape Town from Friday, 24 October to Monday, 27 October 2025, in celebration of the Great Southern Bioblitz 2025.

This annual event brings together cities across the southern hemisphere in a friendly competition to record and showcase local biodiversity - from plants and insects to birds, mammals, and marine life. The goal is to raise awareness of the region’s incredible ecosystems and inspire communities to take part in conservation.
Participants can join in by simply exploring nature and uploading their wildlife observations to the iNaturalist app or website. Every sighting recorded during the four challenge days will automatically be added to the Cape Town Bioblitz project, helping scientists and environmentalists better understand the city’s natural heritage.

“Each year, cities across the southern hemisphere go head-to-head to see who can capture the widest range of plant and animal species, and Cape Town is always in the running to lead the way. Once again, we’re opening our nature reserves to residents, free of charge, so that everyone can join in the fun of discovering and recording our city’s incredible biodiversity,“ said the City’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder, a budding photographer, or simply curious about the flora and fauna around you, this is the perfect time to get outdoors, connect with nature, and contribute to real scientific research.

Please note: free entry applies only to access the City of Cape Town's nature reserves for the Bioblitz event. Recreational activities or other paid services within the reserves will still be charged at normal rates.

How to participate:

• Download the iNaturalist app or visit www.inaturalist.org
• Join the Cape Town project page
• Upload your plant and animal sightings between 24 and 27 October 2025

 

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