Malawi plans reciprocal visa policy: Major source markets could lose visa-free access!

Malawi’s Minister of Finance, Joseph Mwanmvekha, announced in the 2025–26 Mid-Year Budget Review Statement on 21 November 2025 that the country plans to revoke visa-free entry for most previously exempt nationalities. According to the announcement, “visa-free access to Malawi is being revoked with immediate effect and visa application fees will apply on a reciprocity basis.”

Under the proposed policy, travellers from countries that require Malawian nationals to obtain a visa will now need to apply for a Malawian visa prior to travel. Visa fees will also be aligned with what the traveller’s home country charges Malawian citizens. Only nationals of countries that offer Malawians visa-free entry will continue to access Malawi without a visa.

This change could have significant implications for tourism. Some of Malawi’s most important long-haul source markets -  including Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Netherlands, France, Australia and Canada - may lose visa-free access if they do not offer Malawians the same privilege. Tourism stakeholders caution that stricter entry requirements, longer lead times for visa approvals and higher costs could dampen demand during peak travel periods. Tour operators may also need to adjust itineraries and booking processes, potentially affecting travel confidence and regional multi-country packages that include Malawi. 

However, according to Joseph Nkosi, Public Relations Officer at the Ministry of Tourism, the reciprocity proposal must still be tabled before Malawi's Parliament before it can take effect. [src]

Current Malawian visa fees range from US$50 for a seven-day transit visa to US$75 for a single-entry visa valid for up to 90 days.

 

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South Africa: ATNS restored instrument flight procedures (IFPs) at two airports!

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) of South Africa has announced that the instrument flight procedures (IFPs) at Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN) in in Bloemfontein and Kimberley Airport (KIM) in Kimberley are officially approved and operational again since 27 November 2025.

The IFPs for both airports’ Runway 02 had been temporarily suspended as part of ATNS’s ongoing instrument procedure maintenance programme, which ensures full compliance with international aviation safety standards and alignment with ATNS’s own safety management systems. Their reinstatement marks another important step in stabilising operations and rebuilding critical capacity within South Africa's airspace management infrastructure.

ATNS also reaffirmed its previously published timeline for additional reinstatements:

• Polokwane International Airport (PTG) in Polokwane is expected to resume instrument flight procedures on 25 December 2025.
• Upington International Airport (UTN) in Upington is set to follow on 22 January 2026.

Once these procedures are restored, all major South African airports will once again have operational instrument flight procedures for at least one primary runway - a significant milestone for the country’s aviation sector.

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Air Tanzania to launch Dar es Salaam – Victoria Falls – Cape Town route in December 2025!

Air Tanzania is set to expand its regional network with a brand-new route connecting Dar es Salaam, Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), and Cape Town from 11 December 2025. The airline will operate two weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays, marking Air Tanzania’s first-ever entry into the Cape Town market.

Only the south-bound service from Dar es Salaam to Cape Town will include a stopover in Victoria Falls. The north-bound return flight will operate nonstop, offering travellers a direct connection from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam.

The new route will be served by the Airbus A220-300, a modern, fuel-efficient aircraft already used across Air Tanzania’s regional network.

Flight Schedule:

• Dar es Salaam > Victoria Falls > Cape Town
• Dar es Salaam 11:50 – 13:50 Victoria Falls – 14:50 – 17:45 Cape Town – 18:55
• Cape Town > Dar es Salaam (nonstop)
• Cape Town 18:55 – Dar es Salaam 01:10+1

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Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) announces revised 2025/26 tariffs for provincial nature reserves!

The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) has confirmed that revised tariffs for the 2025/26 financial year will come into effect on 12 December 2025 across all provincial nature reserves in Mpumalanga. The updated pricing includes a 7% increase for South African citizens and Southern African Development Community (SADC) nationals, while foreign visitors will see a 15% increase.

According to the MTPA, tariffs have traditionally been set lower than comparable destinations, and the adjustments are intended to better align with operational costs, conservation priorities and ongoing infrastructure upgrades.

Key adjustments for 2025/26

• Blyde River Canyon
• All Access Tickets (one day, one entry to all MTPA viewpoints on the Panorama Route)
• R161.00 pp – South African citizens
• R203.00 pp – SADC nationals
• R385.00 pp – Foreign visitors
• Wild camping sites:
• Remain R2,500.00 in standard season
• Increase slightly to R2,600.00 during high season
• Filming rates remain unchanged.    

Expanding Visitor Experiences 
The MTPA will continue rolling out new tourism activities across selected reserves to strengthen its product offering. These additions are aimed at attracting more domestic travellers while giving all visitors expanded options to enhance their experience in Mpumalanga's natural spaces.

About Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA)
The MTPA manages 15 protected areas across Mpumalanga's three district municipalities. Its mandate includes promoting responsible tourism, safeguarding biodiversity and ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources for the benefit of local communities and visitors alike.

MTPA Protected Areas

• Ehlanzeni District
• Andover Nature Reserve
• Barberton Nature Reserve
• Blyde River Canyon
• Mahushe Shongwe Nature Reserve
• Manyeleti Nature Reserve
• Mthethomusha Nature Reserve
• Gert Sibande District
• Nooitgedacht Dam Nature Reserve
• Songimvelo Nature Reserve
• Nkangala District
• Loskop Dam Nature Reserve
• Mabusa Nature Reserve
• Mkhombo Nature Reserve
• Ohrigstad Dam Nature Reserve
• S.S. Skosana Nature Reserve

 

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Cape Town Festive Lights Switch-On 2025: Free concert, road closures & full event guide!

Cape Town’s iconic Festive Lights Switch-On returns to the Grand Parade on Sunday, 30 November 2025, with a free open-air concert expected to draw more than 80,000 people. The annual event marks the start of the festive season and will once again light up Darling and Adderley Streets with its popular display.

This year’s music line-up is headlined by DJ Zinhle, supported by GoodLuck, Kurt Darren, Tarryn Lamb, Karabo Mogane, Early B & Justin Vega, DJ Masoodah and Heavenly Quartez. A special cultural tribute featuring Emo Adams, Loukmaan Adams, Alistair Izobell, Jody Abrahams and Fancy Galada - together with the Street Stylers - will celebrate Cape Town’s vibrant artistic heritage.

The six-hour show runs from 16:00 to 22:00, hosted by Joe Barber, Bubblegum & Boere Jules and Carl Wastie. The festival area opens at 13:00, with access through 13 controlled entry chutes around Adderley, Castle, Plein, Shortmarket, Longmarket, Hout and Church Streets. Bag checks will be conducted, and alcohol, drugs, fireworks, weapons, umbrellas, gazebos and gas canisters are not permitted.

Parents attending with children are encouraged to use the KID SMART Project, offering free temporary ID bracelets to help reunite lost minors with guardians. Multiple water points will be available across the Grand Parade and Adderley Street.

Road closures around City Hall will affect traffic from 25 November to 02 December, with Darling Street closed for stage construction. On 30 November, Darling, Adderley, Longmarket and surrounding streets will be shut from 05:00–05:00 the next day. Several MyCiTi routes, including Route 106, will be diverted via Strand Street, skipping the Groote Kerk stop.

The full list of road closures is available here. 

 

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One of Cape Town's streets ranked among the world’s coolest in 2025!

One of Cape Town’s streets, Kloof Street, has been named the 22nd coolest street in the world on Time Out’s 31 Coolest Streets in the World 2025 list. The annual ranking highlights streets that combine a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, culture, and nightlife, attracting both locals and visitors.

Why Kloof Street made the list
Time Out describes Kloof Street as a leafy urban thoroughfare at the base of Table Mountain, blending historic architecture with contemporary shops, restaurants, and cafés. Its mix of established favourites and newer businesses gives the street a dynamic, evolving character.

Selene Brophy, Time Out Cape Town’s City Editor, notes that Kloof Street is like “Long Street’s more refined sibling,” maintaining its Cape Town identity while continually adapting to trends.

Things to do on Kloof Street
Visitors walking along Kloof Street, from the CBD up toward Tamboerskloof, can enjoy:

• Kloof Konbini – Japanese-inspired street food and snacks.
• Blondie – A casual Mediterranean restaurant.
• Vadivelu – South Indian cuisine known for its regional flavours.
• Kloof Street House – A Victorian-era building converted into a restaurant with a unique interior.
• Evening options – Bars and cocktail spots such as One Park, Van Hunks, Asoka, and Rick’s Café.

What the recognition means
Being listed among the world’s coolest streets highlights Cape Town’s urban appeal in addition to its natural attractions. The ranking brings attention to local businesses and supports tourism by showcasing the city’s combination of heritage, food culture, and social spaces.

Tips for visitors

• Walk the street to explore both historic buildings and modern businesses.
• Plan meals ahead, especially at popular restaurants.
• Explore local boutiques for unique shopping finds.
• Use e-hailing services for safe travel at night.

Kloof Street’s appearance on Time Out’s 2025 list reinforces Cape Town’s growing reputation as a destination that blends culture, cuisine, and urban vibrancy in one accessible, walkable street.

 

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Hartbeespoort Dam: NSRI issues urgent safety warning as water hyacinth chokes!

The South African National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has issued a strong alert to the public regarding hazardous conditions at Hartbeespoort Dam, where rapidly spreading water hyacinth is creating dangerous and unpredictable circumstances for anyone considering launching boats or watercraft.

Hartbeespoort Dam, located in South Africa’s North West Province near the town of Hartbeespoort and roughly an hour from both Johannesburg and Pretoria, is one of the country’s most popular recreational water bodies. Nestled between the Magaliesberg mountain range, it attracts thousands of visitors for boating, fishing, and water sports. However, recurring water hyacinth infestations have become a major environmental and safety challenge.

(c) NSRI

Vast sections of the dam are now blanketed by thick mats of floating hyacinth, which are expected to expand significantly in the coming summer weeks. Seasonal growth, combined with frequent and sudden wind shifts, is causing these dense clusters to drift quickly across the water - transforming previously navigable channels into blocked or impassable routes within minutes.

Key dangers linked to current hyacinth conditions at Hartbeespoort Dam:

• Watercraft becoming trapped in dense vegetation and unable to return to shore.
• Engines overheating or failing due to tangled plant material and hidden debris.
• Concealed hazards such as illegal fishing nets or submerged objects caught within the hyacinth.
• Sudden wind changes pushing large hyacinth mats across the dam, cutting off escape routes.

While NSRI crews remain on standby for critical emergencies, the organisation stresses that conditions are severely compromised and should not be underestimated.

If you still choose to launch a boat, NSRI advises you to:

• Check the latest weather and wind forecasts before departure.
• Closely monitor hyacinth movement before and during your trip.
• Share your planned route and return time with someone on land.
• Carry sufficient supplies and protective gear in case you become stranded.
• Keep a charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch, wear a lifejacket at all times, and log your journey using the NSRI SafeTRX app.

The NSRI urges all visitors to exercise extreme caution as Hartbeespoort Dam faces one of its most challenging hyacinth surges in recent years.

 

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Uganda Airlines & Airlink sign Interline Agreement to boost seamless tavel across Southern Africa!

Uganda Airlines, the national carrier of Uganda, has entered a new Interline agreement with South Africa’s regional airline Airlink – a strategic move that greatly expands regional connectivity across Southern Africa. The partnership links Uganda Airlines’ network with Airlink’s extensive route map via Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), offering travellers smoother, easier regional travel.

Under the agreement, passengers can now book a single ticket for seamless journeys from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) in Entebbe to more than 45 destinations across South Africa and the wider Southern African region. Travellers will benefit from through-check-in of baggage, simplified transfers in Johannesburg, and the convenience of one itinerary for their entire trip.

The new partnership unlocks several key advantages for travellers:

• Expanded Network Access: Direct, single-ticket access to Airlink’s broad network, including sought-after destinations such as Cape Town, Durban, Victoria Falls, Windhoek, Gaborone, and more.
• Seamless Travel Experience: Passengers enjoy smooth connections with automatic baggage transfer between both airlines, eliminating repetitive check-ins.
• More Travel Options Across Africa: The agreement also enhances travel opportunities for Airlink customers, who can now easily connect into Uganda Airlines’ growing African network - supporting increased tourism, trade, and business travel across the continent.

This collaboration marks a significant step toward strengthening intra-African air connectivity and improving convenience for travellers exploring East and Southern Africa.

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Addo Elephant National Park: Major restoration of Hapoor Dam underway!

South African National Parks (SANParks) announced in February 2025 that Hapoor Dam, one of the most iconic waterholes in Addo Elephant National Park, is no longer suitable for wildlife use. Regular monitoring revealed that the dam’s clay-based substrate creates mobility problems for smaller and younger animals, prompting the need for a long-term, sustainable solution.

To improve safety and ensure reliable access to water, SANParks plans to build a new 45 × 30 m concrete dam, approximately two metres deep, similar in size to the current waterhole. The new structure will be constructed on the opposite side of the road from the existing dam. Once complete, the original Hapoor Dam will be rehabilitated and fenced off to allow the area to recover ecologically.

SANParks has confirmed that Phase 1 of the Hapoor Dam restoration officially began this morning. Visitors are asked for patience over the coming months, as this is a major infrastructure project that will take time to complete - but will ultimately enhance wildlife safety and long-term water management within Addo Elephant National Park.

Hapoor Dam is named after “Hapoor,” one of Addo Elephant National Park's most famous dominant bull elephants, renowned for his size, strength, and decades-long reign in the park. Located along the main game-viewing loops in the Addo Main Camp section, the waterhole is one of the park’s busiest wildlife hubs, regularly attracting large elephant herds and offering visitors some of the most reliable and memorable sightings.

 

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Cape Town: Flight schedules at Cape Town International Airport (CPT) under pressure amid jet fuel shortage!

Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town is currently experiencing a jet fuel shortage after a South African Revenue Service (SARS) audit led to the detention of Jet A-1 stocks at Burgan Cape Terminals in the Port of Cape Town. These reserves normally provide about 20 days of buffer supply, but cannot be released until the audit is concluded.

Some airlines operating from the airport are already feeling the impact of the fuel shortage. SABC News reports that both local and international flights have been affected, while the Lufthansa Group has warned passengers about possible short-notice schedule changes between 19 and 24 November 2025 due to uncertain fuel availability. Although not all disruptions are confirmed, several airlines are preparing for delays or adjustments as the situation develops.

Temporary relief for domestic airlines
To keep operations stable, Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) and fuel suppliers have introduced an interim plan:
From 19 November 2025, four domestic airlines may uplift fuel from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg), provided arrangements are made in advance.

ACSA maintains that Cape Town International Airport (CPT) remains operational and says the fuel issue poses no risk to G20 Summit aviation readiness, with the summit taking place in Johannesburg this weekend.

Industry urges quick resolution
The Fuels Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA) supports the audit but stresses that prolonged delays could harm tourism, airline operations, and the Western Cape economy. FIASA is calling for an expedited conclusion.

Summary
Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town is managing a significant jet fuel constraint due to a SARS audit holding back major fuel stocks. Domestic airlines have a temporary workaround via Johannesburg, while international flights face more uncertainty. Authorities and industry are working to resolve the situation swiftly amid heightened travel demand and the G20 Summit.

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Durban beaches update: 22 beaches safe for swimming this summer (20 November 2025)!

Great news for holidaymakers heading to KwaZulu-Natal! As of 20 November 2025, 22 beaches along Durban’s world-famous coastline have been declared safe for swimming after the latest round of water quality tests by the eThekwini Municipality. With warm Indian Ocean currents, golden sandy shores, and Durban’s vibrant beachfront culture, the city is ready to welcome swimmers, surfers, and families looking for the perfect summer escape.

Durban – South Africa’s iconic coastal playground
With its subtropical climate, celebrated Golden Mile, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle, Durban remains one of South Africa’s most popular beach destinations. From sunrise surf sessions and weekend park runs to bustling beachfront markets and oceanfront cafés, the city’s laid-back rhythm attracts travellers from across the globe.

To safeguard this valuable coastline, the eThekwini Municipality conducts continuous water quality monitoring and publishes regular safety updates. These efforts ensure clean, safe, and environmentally responsible beach experiences for all visitors.

Beaches currently open for swimming (as of 20 November 2025)
A total of 22 Durban beaches have successfully passed the latest safety checks and are open daily for swimming, with lifeguards on duty from 06:00 to 18:30.

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 • Reunion

These beaches offer excellent water quality, safe swimming zones, and that unmistakable Indian Ocean atmosphere that makes Durban a year-round favourite for swimming, surfing, and bodyboarding.

Beach temporarily closed
Anstey’s Beach remains temporarily closed due to elevated contamination levels. Swimming and surfing are currently restricted, but the beachfront is still open for sunbathing, strolling, and photography. The beach will reopen once water quality meets required safety standards.

Durban’s public swimming pools
Prefer a more controlled environment? Durban operates 40 public swimming pools across the metro. Ideal for families, fitness swimmers, and anyone looking for calm waters, these pools are clean, well-maintained, and monitored by trained lifeguards.

Table Mountain National Park: Temporary closure of Newlands picnic site!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the Newlands Picnic Site in Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town has been closed since 19 November 2025 for the RMB Ultra-Trail Cape Town®. The site will serve as the final aid station for participants before they cross the finish line, with the closure remaining in effect until 24 November 2025.

Visitors are encouraged to explore alternative picnic spots within Table Mountain National Park, such as Oudekraal, Tokai, or Silvermine, and SANParks apologizes for any inconvenience caused.

The RMB Ultra-Trail Cape Town® attracts trail runners from around the world to experience the stunning mountain trails of the Cape Peninsula. Distances range from the 16km route up to the challenging 100-mile race, offering options for all levels. Participants and spectators alike can enjoy Cape Town's dramatic landscapes, where Table Mountain National Park stretches from Table Bay to Cape Point, flanked by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

 

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SANParks launches major road upgrade project at Mapungubwe National Park & World Heritage Site!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has started a major road upgrade project at Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site in South Africa's Limpopo on 13 November 2025. For travellers, this means better access, smoother drives, and improved connectivity to some of the park’s most important heritage and viewpoint sites.

Funded through the SADC Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCA) Financing Facility with support from the German Government via the KfW Development Bank and implemented with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the project aims to make travelling through Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site safer and more comfortable—especially for visitors exploring remote sections of the park.

The upgrades will also strengthen day-to-day park operations, including law enforcement and anti-poaching patrols, ultimately contributing to a more secure and well-managed visitor environment.

As part of the Greater Mapungubwe Transfrontier Conservation Area shared with Botswana and Zimbabwe, the improved road network will help visitors experience this unique cultural landscape and its diverse wildlife with greater ease.

 

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Kruger National Park: Bateleur Bird Hide to close temporarily for maintenance!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the Bateleur Bird Hide, located just outside the Bateleur Bushveld Camp in the northern Kruger National Park, will be temporarily closed for maintenance and repairs from 21 – 23 November 2025.
The hide, one of the camp’s most popular viewing spots, is a classic Kruger-style wooden structure overlooking a small waterhole and seasonal stream. With its raised viewing platform, quiet seating area, and steady surfaces for lenses and binoculars, Bateleur Bird Hide is a favourite among photographers and birders looking for close-up wildlife encounters. Visitors can usually expect elephants, antelope, and a variety of bird species stopping by to drink. The facility is normally open to both camp residents and day visitors.

About Bateleur Bushveld Camp
Nestled on the banks of the Mashokwe Spruit, around 40 km south-west of Shingwedzi Rest Camp, Bateleur Bushveld Camp is the oldest and smallest of Kruger National Park's bushveld camps. Named after the iconic African raptor, the camp is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, excellent birdlife, and superb game viewing in the surrounding mopane and woodland savannah.
One of Bateleur Bushveld Camp's standout features is its exclusive access to two scenic dams - Silwervis and Rooibosrand. These water sources are reserved for Bateleur Bushveld Camp residents only, ensuring unrushed sightings and a traffic-free experience even during busier periods.

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Western Cape: CapeNature introduces permit fees at Outeniqua World Heritage Site and Nature Reserve!

CapeNature has announced that from 15 December 2025, visitors to the Outeniqua World Heritage Site and Nature Reserve will be required to pay a permit fee, with all revenue directed toward vital conservation efforts. These initiatives are designed to keep the reserve clean, safe, and enjoyable for hikers, families, and nature enthusiasts alike.

The new permit fee is set at R55 per adult and R35 per child aged 4 to 17, while children under 4 can enter free of charge. Wild Card holders will continue to enjoy complimentary access. Permits can be conveniently purchased online via CapeNature’s website (under the Garden Route region) or on-site at the main gate starting 15 December 2025.

Outeniqua Nature Reserve is a beloved destination for hikers and families, offering stunning mountain views, fynbos landscapes, and well-maintained trails. To enhance visitor experience and support sustainable tourism, permit limits will be applied per trail. The online booking system will display availability in real time, helping visitors plan ahead.

• Trail access: The Cradock Pass Trail is open to the public immediately, while the Kouma, George, and Cradock Peak trails will open in a phased approach following maintenance and improved signage. Limited numbers per trail ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
• Picnic & facilities: The reserve currently offers one picnic site next to the main office, comfortably accommodating 20 visitors with three picnic benches and open grass space for blankets. A second picnic site is under construction, and restroom facilities are available for all visitors.
• Trail locations: All trails except the Kouma Trail are located in the Witfontein section, while the Kouma Trail begins on the Ruiterbos side of the reserve.
• Opening hours: The reserve is open daily from 07:30 to 16:00, with extended access during summer months allowing hikers to start early on the Cradock and George Peak trails. Security personnel can verify online permits for early starters.
• Accessibility: Conveniently located near the Garden Route town of George and easily reachable from Mossel Bay, Knysna, and Oudtshoorn, the Outeniqua Nature Reserve is approximately five hours’ drive from Cape Town. Covering 40,000 hectares, the reserve spans the Outeniqua Mountain range, bridging the coastal region and the semi-arid Klein Karoo.

 

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South Africa: Springboks to host England, Scotland & Wales in July 2026 as Nations Championship kicks off!

South Africa is set for a blockbuster winter of rugby in July 2026, with the Springboks hosting England, Scotland and Wales in three massive Test matches on home soil. These fixtures form the heart of the brand-new Nations Championship, a groundbreaking global tournament launched this week by SANZAAR and Six Nations Rugby. 
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. After July’s blockbuster fixtures, South Africa will roll straight into Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry in August 2026, extending the country’s status as one of the world’s top rugby destinations that year.

South Africa’s July 2026 home tests (Nations Championship)
The heart of the 2026 international season:

• 04 July 2026: South Africa vs England
• 11 July 2026: South Africa vs Scotland
• 18 July 2026: South Africa vs Wales

These Tests will deliver consecutive northern-hemisphere showdowns on South African soil, drawing huge crowds and creating a festival atmosphere in and around the country’s major rugby cities. Venues and kick-off times for the Boks’ three home Tests next July will be confirmed by SA Rugby in due course.

A New Era for World Rugby
The July Tests form part of the inaugural Nations Championship, a groundbreaking biennial tournament launched by SANZAAR and Six Nations Rugby. The competition brings together the 12 top teams in the global game:

• Southern Hemisphere: South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina plus invitational teams Japan and Fiji
• Northern Hemisphere: England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, Wales

Matches will be played across the established July and November Test windows, giving fans meaningful, structured fixtures every two years.

November 2026 European tour: Italy, France & Ireland
After the July home Tests and Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry in August 2026, the Springboks will head north for three away matches:

• 06–08 November 2026: Italy vs South Africa
• 13–15 November 2026: France vs South Africa
• 21 November 2026: Ireland vs South Africa

These fixtures complete a full season of Springbok matchups against all Six Nations opponents - a major attraction for fans travelling to Europe.

Finals weekend in London: A new global rugby festival
The Nations Championship will conclude with a unique Finals Weekend, scheduled for 27–29 November 2026 at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, London. Across three days of double-headers:

• The top teams from each hemisphere will compete to become the first Nations Championship champions.
• Every match will contribute points toward determining the dominant hemisphere of the season.
• Fans can expect a Rugby World Cup–style atmosphere outside a World Cup year.

Looking ahead

• There will be no tournament in 2027 due to the Rugby World Cup.
• In 2028, the fixtures reverse: France, Ireland and Italy tour South Africa, while the Boks head to the UK to face England, Scotland and Wales.

 

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G20 Summit Johannesburg: Road closures and travel alerts for road users in Gauteng (18–23 November 2025)!

As South Africa prepares to host world leaders for the G20 Summit in Johannesburg (22–23 November 2025), authorities are urging Gauteng residents, daily commuters, and both local and international travellers to plan ahead. Extensive traffic disruptions and significant road closures are expected across Johannesburg, Pretoria/Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni from 18 to 23 November 2025.

In a joint statement, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD), Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), and South Africa Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that high-security routes and major transport corridors will experience rolling closures to accommodate official convoys and summit movements. Travellers using these routes should prepare for delays, limited access, and extended travel times throughout the summit period.

Where to expect the most disruptions

Major national and regional highways
Several main highways forming Gauteng's core mobility network will be directly affected:

• N1 (multiple interchanges including Atterbury, Garsfontein, Botha, Samrand, Olifantsfontein, Allandale, Bucculeuch, Winnie Mandela Drive, Maraisburg, and more)
• N3 north and south, including the major flyover
• N12 (Elands, Voortrekker, Reading, Comaro, Kliprivier, Xavier, Diepkloof)
• N14
• R21 southbound (including Atlas and Voortrekker off-ramps)
• R24 west / N12 west junction

These routes are widely used by airport travellers, commuters, buses, taxis, logistics operators, and cross-provincial traffic.

Johannesburg’s M1 and key urban arteries
The M1, a major north–south route, will see intermittent closures between:

• Woodmead · Marlboro · Grayston · Corlett · Glenhove · Oxford · St Andrew · Jan Smuts · Empire · Smit · Carr · M2 Crown · Booysens · Xavier · Golden Highway

Popular commercial districts, residential areas, and business zones will also be affected:

• Sandton
• 5th Street · Maude Street · Daisy Street · Rivonia Road · Grayston Drive · Katherine Street
• Melrose Arch
• Whiteley Road · Melrose Boulevard · Athol Oaklands Road
• Rosebank, Westcliff, Parkview
• Oxford Road · Glenhove Road · Jan Smuts Avenue
• Fourways
• Winnie Mandela Drive
• Roodepoort
• Hendrik Potgieter Road
• Nasrec (Expo Centre Area)
• Rand Show Road · Booysens Reserve Road · Nasrec Road · Golden Highway

Full closures to take note of

• Grayston Drive: Fully closed on 22 November 2025 (04:00–10:00)
• Golden Highway: Closed from 17 November 2025
• Nasrec Road: Closed 22–23 November 2025  between Rand Show Road and Shaft 17 Road
• Rand Show Road: Northern section closed 22–23 November 2025 (N1 to Nasrec Road)
• Booysens Reserve Road: Limited access 22–23 November 2025 , with several intersections blocked

Expect delays and detours, particularly around Sandton, Nasrec, southern Johannesburg, and key G20 activity zones.

G20 Social Summit in Ekurhuleni (18–20 November 2025)
Travellers moving around the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre should expect delays along:

• 1st Road · View Point Road · North Rand Road · Trichardt Road · Northern Road

These will form part of the official security perimeter.

How convoy closures will operate
When VIP convoys are in motion, roads will be completely closed—with restricted access for:

• motorists
• taxis and buses
• cyclists
• pedestrians

Closures may last 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on movement schedules.

Peak Operations for Rolling Closures

• 22 & 23 November 2025:
• Morning: 07:00 – 10:00
• Evening: 17:00 – 20:00

Plan errands, commutes, airport transfers, school runs, and appointments outside these hours where possible.

Useful alternative routes

• Between OR Tambo International Airport & Pretoria/Tshwane
• Use the M57 instead of the R21.
• Between Johannesburg & Ekurhuleni
• Use regional roads via Germiston, Kempton Park, or Bedfordview instead of the R24/N12.
• Roodepoort / West Rand
• Use Beyers Naudé Drive, Ontdekkers Road, or Christiaan De Wet Road.
• Fourways & Northern Suburbs
• Use Main Road, Cedar Road, and Witkoppen Road.
• Sandton / Rosebank / Parktown
• Use parallel routes including Corlett Drive, Sandton Drive, and 11th Avenue.
• Southern Johannesburg & Nasrec Area
• Use Chris Hani Road, Main Reef Road, Crownwood Road, Soweto Highway, N17, and Adcock Ingram Road.

Travel tips for all road users in Gauteng

• Allow extra travel time—delays of 30–90 minutes are likely.
• Use real-time navigation apps such as Google Maps or Waze.
• Check your route before departing, especially for airport transfers or business meetings.
• Expect heightened security around hotels, conference venues, malls, and tourist areas.
• Public transport users should anticipate delays during peak convoy times.
• Avoid unnecessary travel through Sandton, Nasrec, Rosebank, and OR Tambo corridors during restricted hours.

 

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LATAM Brasil to launch São Paulo <> Cape Town flights in September 2026! [update]

update (03 December 2025): LATAM Brasil has released the schedule of its nonstop service between São Paulo and Cape Town. Effective July 2026 (!), flights will operate on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays (São Paulo > Cape Town) and on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays (Cape Town > São Paulo). It will be served by a Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with 30 business-class seats and 270 economy seats.
Flight LA8060 will depart São Paulo at 22:45 and arrive in Cape Town at 10:55 the following day, while flight LA8061 will depart Cape Town at 15:50 and arrive in São Paulo at 20:00.
The new service will offer connections from São Paulo to more than 60 destinations in Brazil, and over 120 throughout the region. 

Great news for travellers between South America and Southern Africa! LATAM Brasil – the Brazilian arm of the LATAM Airlines Group – has announced that it will launch a brand-new nonstop service between São Paulo and Cape Town in September 2026. The route will initially operate three times per week, offering a much-needed boost in connectivity between Brazil and South Africa’s Mother City.

According to LATAM Brasil, the new intercontinental route will be operated with the airline’s modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, offering a quieter cabin, improved fuel efficiency, and an enhanced passenger experience. The launch further strengthens the carrier’s growing long-haul network and expands its presence in Africa, complementing the existing service between São Paulo and Johannesburg.

For travellers, the upcoming São Paulo <> Cape Town flights will significantly reduce travel time between the two cities and create new opportunities for tourism, trade, and business. Cape Town's popularity as a global leisure destination continues to rise, while São Paulo remains one of the most important cultural and economic hubs in Latin America.

LATAM Brasil’s announcement comes at a time of renewed interest in South American–African connectivity. The airline already partners with Airlink through an interline and codeshare agreement, allowing seamless travel to destinations across Southern Africa. The new Cape Town service will further enhance these connections and provide an attractive option for travellers looking for easy links between Brazil, South Africa, and beyond.

More details - including schedules, frequencies, and ticket sales - are expected to be released closer to the launch date.

online flight booking on TravelComments.com >> 

 

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