Eswatini's Umhlanga Reed Dance 2026: Dates, visitor tips and what to expect

If you're planning a trip to Eswatini in late August 2026, you have the chance to experience one of Africa's most remarkable cultural events. The official dates for the 2026 Umhlanga Reed Dance have now been confirmed, with celebrations running from 25 August to 31 August 2026.

The highlight of the festival takes place on Monday, 31 August 2026, when tens of thousands of young women gather at the Royal Residence in Ludzidzini to participate in the main ceremony attended by His Majesty King Mswati III. The day is also a public holiday in Eswatini.

What is the Umhlanga Reed Dance?

The Umhlanga Reed Dance is Eswatini's best-known cultural celebration and one of the country's most important annual traditions. During the festival, unmarried women from across Eswatini—and increasingly from neighbouring countries—collect tall reeds from riverbanks before carrying them to the Queen Mother's Royal Residence at Ludzidzini.

The reeds are presented to the Ndlovukazi (Queen Mother) and used to rebuild the protective reed fence surrounding her residence. Throughout the week, participants sing, dance and celebrate together, with the main ceremony creating an unforgettable display of colour, music and tradition.

While the festival is visually spectacular, it is important to remember that it is first and foremost a cultural and ceremonial event for the people of Eswatini, not a performance staged for tourists. Visitors are warmly welcomed to observe respectfully, but the celebrations remain deeply rooted in Swazi customs and traditions.

Visiting the Umhlanga Reed Dance as a Traveller

For visitors, the best day to attend is 31 August 2026, when the largest gathering takes place at Ludzidzini. Thousands of maidens, led by members of the royal family, dance and sing before presenting their reeds to the Queen Mother in one of Africa's largest cultural ceremonies.

To help international visitors, the Eswatini Tourism Authority operates a Tourist Information Centre within the visitor area at Ludzidzini. A restaurant marquee is also available during the event.

Access to the ceremonial arena is open to tourists, but visitors cannot freely explore the Royal Residence itself. If you'd like a deeper understanding of the traditions and ceremonies, joining a local guided tour is highly recommended.

Photography Rules

Photography is permitted for visitors on Days 6 and 7, including the main ceremony on 31 August 2026, when the maidens process with their reeds and perform in the main arena.

Photography during other parts of the festival is generally restricted to accredited media, so always follow instructions from organisers and respect any areas where cameras are not permitted.

Planning Your Trip

Accommodation in and around Lobamba, Ezulwini and Mbabane tends to fill up well in advance of the festival, so early booking is advisable if you plan to attend.

For travellers seeking experiences beyond the usual sightseeing itinerary, the Umhlanga Reed Dance offers a rare glimpse into one of Southern Africa's most enduring living traditions. Rather than watching a performance created for visitors, you'll be witnessing a cultural ceremony that remains deeply significant to the people of Eswatini. Attending with curiosity, respect and an appreciation for local customs makes this not only a memorable travel experience, but also an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage.

 

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South Africa Travel Update: What the recent protests mean for visitors

If you've been following international news, you may have seen reports about anti-immigration protests and rising tensions in South Africa over the past few weeks. Understandably, many travellers are now wondering whether it's still safe to visit the country.

The short answer is yes.

While the protests attracted significant media attention and prompted a major security response, South Africa's tourism industry has continued to operate normally. Tourism services, including airports, flights, hotels and major attractions, have remained open and available to visitors.

Here's what travellers should know before they go.

What happened?

In recent weeks, anti-immigration protests took place in several parts of South Africa, fuelled by concerns over illegal immigration, unemployment and crime. Authorities deployed thousands of police officers and members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) ahead of planned nationwide demonstrations at the end of June.

Although there were isolated incidents of violence, looting and intimidation—mainly affecting foreign-owned businesses in some communities—the widespread unrest that many had feared did not materialise.

Law enforcement maintained a visible presence throughout the demonstrations, and hundreds of arrests were made in connection with public violence, looting and immigration-related offences.

What is the situation now?

As things stand, the situation has largely stabilised.

Most visitors travelling to South Africa are unlikely to notice any difference to their holiday. Tourism infrastructure continues to function normally, including:

• International and domestic airports
• Scheduled airline services
• Hotels, guesthouses and lodges
• National parks and private game reserves
• Guided tours and safari operators
• Popular attractions across the country

The protests have primarily been concentrated in certain townships and urban communities rather than areas frequented by international tourists.

Will my trip be affected?

For most travellers, probably not.

Whether you're planning to explore Cape Town, Johannesburg or Durban, drive the Garden Route, enjoy a safari in the Kruger National Park, visit the Cape Winelands or discover the Drakensberg, your itinerary is unlikely to be affected.

You may notice:

• Increased police visibility in some cities
• Occasional demonstrations or marches
• Temporary road closures around protest areas
• Continued media coverage of the situation

However, these are not expected to impact the vast majority of tourism activities.

What should travellers do?

As with any destination, it's sensible to stay informed and use common sense.

Before and during your trip:

• Keep an eye on local news and official travel advice.
• Avoid demonstrations or large public gatherings.
• Follow guidance from your accommodation or tour operator.
• Allow a little extra travel time if you're driving through major cities.
• Stick to the usual personal safety precautions that apply when travelling anywhere in South Africa.

If you're visiting townships as part of a guided cultural experience, continue to do so with reputable operators who monitor local conditions.

Could the situation change?

It's possible that further localised protests could take place over the coming weeks.

The issues behind the demonstrations—such as unemployment, economic pressures and immigration policy—have not disappeared overnight. However, there is currently no indication that widespread disruption to tourism is expected.

Authorities have demonstrated that they are prepared to respond quickly to maintain public order, and the tourism industry continues to operate normally.

Should you cancel your trip?

Based on the current situation, there is no reason for most travellers to cancel or postpone their visit to South Africa solely because of the recent protests.

Millions of South Africans continue with daily life, and visitors are still enjoying everything the country has to offer—from spectacular wildlife and world-class wine estates to dramatic coastlines and vibrant cities.

As always, staying informed and exercising normal travel awareness is the best approach.

The bottom line

South Africa remains one of Africa's most rewarding travel destinations, and the recent anti-immigration protests have had only limited impact on the country's tourism sector.

Travellers should remain aware of developments, avoid protest areas and follow local advice, but for most visitors, holidays and business trips can continue as planned.

If you're planning a visit in the coming weeks, expect open attractions, operating flights, unforgettable wildlife experiences and the warm hospitality for which South Africa is known.

 

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Southern Africa’s cleanest and most polluted places: IQAir 2025 Air Quality Rankings

The IQAir World Air Quality Report 2025 provides one of the most comprehensive global datasets on air pollution — and highlights a clear contrast across Southern Africa, from exceptionally clean small towns to more polluted urban hubs.

PM2.5 — fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometres — is considered the most harmful air pollutant, as it can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. The report benchmarks all results against the World Health Organization (WHO) annual guideline of 5 µg/m³, which defines the threshold for clean air.

Globally, only a small share of cities worldwide meet this standard, highlighting the ongoing challenge of air pollution worldwide.

Southern Africa: A mixed air quality picture

Southern Africa shows significant contrasts in air quality, shaped by urbanisation, geography, and industrial activity.

South Africa dominates both ends of the spectrum

• Smaller towns - particularly in the Western Cape and Northern Cape - rank among the cleanest in Africa, with PM2.5 levels close to or even below WHO guidelines.
• At the same time, inland urban and industrial areas- especially in Gauteng and the Vaal Triangle - regularly record elevated PM2.5 levels, often several times above recommended levels.

This dual pattern reflects the country’s diverse environmental conditions, from sparsely populated semi-desert regions to densely populated industrial hubs.

Urban vs rural divide

• Urban centres: Higher PM2.5 from traffic, industry, domestic fuel use and dust.
• Rural and safari regions: Generally cleaner air, with occasional dust-related spikes.

Cleanest air in Southern Africa (2025)

These locations stand out for their exceptionally low PM2.5 levels, making them ideal for travellers seeking fresh air and outdoor experiences:

1. Nieuwoudtville, South Africa — ~1.0 µg/m³ (Meets WHO)
One of the cleanest air locations not only in Southern Africa but globally. Ideal for nature-focused travel and wide-open landscapes.

2. Worcester, South Africa — ~6–8 µg/m³
Consistently among the region’s cleaner towns, benefiting from lower traffic and limited heavy industry.

3. Cape Town, South Africa — ~7–10 µg/m³
Coastal winds help disperse pollution, keeping air quality relatively moderate compared to inland cities.

4. Mossel Bay, South Africa — ~8–9 µg/m³
Another coastal destination with comparatively clean air and favourable wind conditions.

5. Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), South Africa — ~10–12 µg/m³
Generally cleaner than most major metros, making it a solid urban option for travellers.

Most polluted locations in Southern Africa (2025)

These cities record significantly higher PM2.5 levels, often due to traffic, industry and seasonal conditions:

6. Lusaka, Zambia — ~20–25 µg/m³
Elevated pollution levels linked to urban growth, traffic and limited emissions controls.

7. Johannesburg, South Africa — ~24+ µg/m³
A major economic hub where traffic, industry and winter inversion layers frequently trap pollutants.

8. Vereeniging, South Africa — ~34 µg/m³
Located in an industrial region, with consistently high particulate levels.

9. Centurion, South Africa — ~37 µg/m³
Among the highest PM2.5 readings in the region, reflecting dense urbanisation and traffic.

Limited monitoring coverage
Many countries in Southern Africa — including Namibia, Mozambique and Zambia — still have limited air quality monitoring, meaning they are underrepresented in global rankings rather than necessarily cleaner.

What drives these differences?

The rankings reflect a clear pattern across Southern Africa:

• Coastal and rural areas tend to have cleaner air due to wind dispersion and lower emissions
• Inland urban and industrial zones experience higher pollution from traffic, energy production and domestic fuel use
• Seasonal factors such as dry weather, dust and temperature inversions can worsen air quality

At the same time, many countries in the region still have limited monitoring coverage, meaning some areas may not yet be fully represented in global datasets.

What this means for travellers

Air quality across Southern Africa varies, but for most travellers it remains well within the range of what many visitors from Europe or other urbanised regions are already accustomed to.

• Cities remain highly rewarding destinations: Places like Johannesburg, Cape Town and Lusaka offer vibrant culture, food and urban experiences, with air quality broadly comparable to many large international cities.
• Coastal and rural areas often feel noticeably fresher: Travellers combining city stays with nature or beach destinations may experience a clear contrast in air quality.
• Conditions fluctuate naturally: Weather, wind and time of day influence air quality, but these variations are part of normal urban travel environments worldwide.
• Sensitive travellers can plan accordingly: Those with respiratory concerns may prefer quieter times of day or include more time in less densely populated areas.

Bottom line

The IQAir World Air Quality Report 2025 highlights differences across Southern Africa, but in practical terms, most travellers will find conditions comparable to other global travel destinations.

• Cities are comfortable and enjoyable to explore
• Rural and coastal areas provide an added sense of openness and fresh air
• Air quality is a useful point of awareness, not a barrier to travel

Southern Africa continues to offer a diverse and rewarding travel experience — with air quality differences that are worth understanding, but rarely a reason to change plans.

 

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Durban listed among the Best Places to Travel in 2026

Great news for South African tourism: Durban has earned a spot on Time Out’s prestigious list of The Best Places to Travel in 2026, ranking an impressive 14th worldwide. For travellers planning their next adventure, this recognition puts South Africa’s laid-back coastal city firmly on the global must-visit map.

A new resort puts Durban in the spotlight
A key factor behind the ranking is the upcoming Club Med “Beach and Safari” resort, scheduled to open in July 2026. The new development is expected to combine Indian Ocean beach access with safari and cultural experiences linked to the Zulu Kingdom, strengthening Durban's appeal to international visitors.

Beaches, surf and outdoor access
Time Out notes Durban's warm Indian Ocean waters, popular surf breaks and long stretches of golden beaches. The city also provides easy access to some of KwaZulu-Natal’s most varied landscapes, including hiking in the Drakensberg, Big Five safari reserves, wetlands and the Midlands Meander arts route.

A distinctive food culture
Durban's culinary scene remains one of its strongest attractions. The city’s large Indian community has shaped a diverse food culture, from street food classics like bunny chow to spice markets and beachfront dining.

A practical alternative to South Africa’s classic stops
While many visitors focus on Cape Town or Kruger National Park, the recognition from Time Out reflects Durban's growing visibility as a well-rounded destination combining coast, culture, food and access to nature - all within one region.

Also Note: Just behind Durban on Time Out’s 2026 ranking is St Helena, named 15th. This remote island offers dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich history, including Napoleon’s exile. With St Helena Airport having reclaimed its Category 6 classification, regular air service has resumed, keeping the island as accessible as it was before the temporary downgrade—ideal for travellers seeking a combination of history, nature, and tranquillity.

Here is the complete list of the best places to visit in 2026:

1. The Canadian Rockies
2. Rabat, Morocco
3. Algodões, Bahia, Brazil
4. Hamburg, Germany
5. Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand
6. Mendoza, Argentina
7. Cirencester, England
8. Central Vietnam
9. Nepal
10. Favignana, Sicily
11. Gothenburg, Sweden
12. Oaxaca, Mexico
13. Rottnest Island, Australia
14. Durban, South Africa
15. St Helena Island
16. Barra dos Remédios, Ceará, Brazil
17. Prince Edward County, Canada
18. Norfolk Island, South Pacific
19. Hong Kong 

 

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FlySafair named most on-time airline in MEA 2025!

Aviation analytics firm Cirium has announced the results of its annual On-Time Performance Review, and South Africa’s low-cost carrier FlySafair has emerged as the most punctual airline in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region for 2025.

Based on Cirium’s extensive and independently verified data - sourced from more than 600 real-time global information feeds - FlySafair achieved an impressive 91.06% on-time arrival rate across 62,805 scheduled flights during 2025. This performance secured the airline the top position in the regional rankings, reinforcing its reputation for operational reliability and efficiency.

Another strong South African performer, Airlink, ranked fifth in the MEA region. The privately owned regional airline recorded an 84.47% on-time departure rate across 84,361 flights in 2025, underlining its consistency across an extensive domestic and regional network.

South African Airways (SAA), South Africa’s state-owned flag carrier, was placed eighth in the regional rankings. SAA achieved an on-time performance score of 81.26%, based on 24,461 flights operated during the year—marking continued operational stabilisation following its post-business-rescue recovery.

Cirium defines an on-time arrival as a flight reaching the gate within 14 minutes and 59 seconds of its scheduled arrival time. Airport punctuality is measured using the same 14:59-minute threshold for scheduled departures.

online flight booking on TravelComments.com >> 

 

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eSwatini announces dates for the 2025 Umhlanga Reed Dance!

eSwatini Tourism has officially confirmed the dates for the 2025 Umhlanga Reed Dance, the most iconic cultural festival in eSwatini. This year’s event will begin on 02 September 2025, with the main day (Day 7) taking place on Monday, 08 September 2025. On this day, the grand ceremony will unfold in the presence of His Majesty King Mswati III at the Ludzidzini Royal Residence in Lobamba. Notably, 02 September 2025 will be observed as a public holiday in eSwatini.

Photography guidelines for tourists:
Visitors are welcome to witness and photograph the festivities on Day 6 and Day 7. These days feature two of the most visually striking moments:

• The colourful procession of maidens carrying freshly cut reeds to the Royal Residence.
• The spectacular mass dance in the main arena on the final day.

The Umhlanga Reed Dance, or simply Umhlanga, is a centuries-old Swazi tradition honouring purity, unity, and respect for the monarchy. Unmarried and childless young women from across the Kingdom of eSwatini present newly cut reeds to the Queen Mother to fortify and protect her residence. This symbolic act is followed by days of celebration through singing, dancing, and cultural rituals.

Tens of thousands of maidens, led by Swazi princesses, gather at the Queen Mother’s village dressed in vibrant traditional attire – beaded skirts, colourful sashes, and ceremonial accessories. They sing, dance, and perform in front of thousands of spectators, embodying the spirit of cultural pride and unity. King Mswati III attends the main day to honour the maidens and, on occasion, may use the event to court a future bride.

For travellers, the Reed Dance is offering:

• Authentic cultural immersion into one of Africa’s most respected royal traditions.
• Unique photography opportunities of one of the largest traditional gatherings in Southern Africa.
• A chance to explore Lobamba and the surrounding attractions in the beautiful Ezulwini Valley.

Travel tip: Accommodation in and around Lobamba fills up quickly during this period, so book early to secure your spot for the most iconic cultural festival in eSwatini.

 

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South Africa dominates list of Africa’s least polluted cities!

Swiss air quality technology company IQAir has released its 2024 Annual World Air Quality Report, published in March 2025. This comprehensive report provides detailed insights into global air pollution trends, including rankings of the world’s most and least polluted countries, territories, and cities.
For the 2024 edition, PM2.5 air quality data was compiled from 8,954 cities across 138 countries, regions, and territories, using information from over 40,000 regulatory-grade and low-cost monitoring stations. PM2.5 (particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less) is widely recognized as one of the most harmful air pollutants due to its ability to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.

According to IQAir, 12 of the 15 least polluted cities in Africa are located in South Africa. Topping the list is Nieuwoudtville in the Northern Cape, which recorded a PM2.5 concentration of just 1.2 µg/m³ -  the lowest on the African continent and well below the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline of 5.0 µg/m³. Remarkably, Nieuwoudtville has maintained this standard for four consecutive years.

Other South African cities in the top rankings for clean air include:

• Worcester – 6.5 µg/m³ (2nd in Africa)
• Cape Town – 7.2 µg/m³ (3rd in Africa)
• Mossel Bay – 8.3 µg/m³ (5th in Africa)
• eSikhaleni – 8.4 µg/m³ (6th in Africa)
• George – 8.6 µg/m³ (7th in Africa)
• Port Shepstone – 8.8 µg/m³ (8th in Africa)
• Sunset Beach – 9.4 µg/m³ (9th in Africa)
• Gqeberha – 10.4 µg/m³ (10th in Africa)
• Empangeni – 10.6 µg/m³ (11th in Africa)
• Richards Bay – 11.4 µg/m³ (13th in Africa) 
• Mokopane – 12.3 µg/m³ (15th in Africa)

Despite this positive trend, the report also highlights regions of concern. Centurion and Vereeniging, both located in Gauteng, rank among Africa's most polluted cities:

• Centurion – 37.0 µg/m³ (11th most polluted in Africa)
• Vereeniging – 34.0 µg/m³ (14th most polluted in Africa)

Overall, South Africa recorded a decrease in its national average PM2.5 concentration, dropping from 19.9 µg/m³ in 2023 to 18.8 µg/m³ in 2024, a reduction of 1.1 µg/m³. This positions South Africa as 47th worst out of the 131 countries ranked.
Pretoria, the administrative capital, showed notable improvement, falling below the 20 µg/m³ threshold for the first time since 2019. However, not all cities followed this positive trajectory. Johannesburg and eMbalenhle saw increases in PM2.5 levels, with eMbalenhle experiencing a sharp rise from 16.5 µg/m³ to 26.7 µg/m³, more than five times the WHO’s recommended limit.

Out of the South African cities with year-on-year data, 20 recorded an increase, 18 saw a decrease, and only Nieuwoudtville remained below the WHO guideline.

The number of African cities meeting data inclusion standards in the report increased from 79 in 2023 to 106 in 2024, yet only 24 out of 54 African countries had qualifying city-level air quality data.
Understanding PM2.5 and Health Risks

PM2.5 refers to airborne particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller. Due to their small size, these particles can penetrate the respiratory system and have been linked to cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, and respiratory infections.

PM2.5 particles originate from both human activities and natural sources, including:

• Vehicle emissions and combustion engines
• Power plants and industrial activities
• Biomass burning (wood, coal, crop residue)
• Agricultural practices
• Dust storms and wildfires

Given the serious health implications, World Health Organization (WHO) recommends an annual PM2.5 concentration of no more than 5 µg/m³.

Zimbabwe’s Online Border Management System (OBMS) now fully operational at major entry points!

The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) has announced that Zimbabwe’s Online Border Management System (OBMS) is now fully operational. Introduced by the Department of Immigration in January, the OBMS is a digital platform aimed at streamlining immigration procedures and improving efficiency for travellers and border officials alike.
The OBMS allows travellers to apply for visas online and benefit from automated immigration clearance through electronic gates (e-gates). This innovation is expected to reduce processing times, minimize paperwork, and enhance the overall travel experience when entering or exiting Zimbabwe.

The system is now live at several key ports of entry, including:

• Beitbridge Border Post between Zimbabwe and South Africa 
• Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare
• Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ) in Bulawayo
• Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) in Victoria Falls

By digitising visa applications and immigration procedures, Zimbabwe is taking a significant step towards modernising border control and promoting seamless travel for both international tourists and regional visitors.

Cape Town: Cape Town Pride to host Africa's first WorldPride!

The organizers of the annual Cape Town Pride, a gay pride event in Cape Town ending with a pride parade, have announced that they have won the bid to host the WorldPride 2028 in the Mother City. This is the first time a WorldPride will be held in Africa. Cape Town Pride beat fellow bidder Guadalajara Pride, Mexico, after the bid was presented to members of InterPride, the international organization that brings together 548 Pride organizers from 76 countries across the world, at the 42nd Annual General Meeting & World Conference which was held from 23 to 27 October 2024 in Medellín, Colombia.
WorldPride is an international event that features a human rights conference, an arts and culture program, social events, as well as a march to highlight LGBT+ community (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, queer, questioning, intersex, non-binary, asexual, polysexual, genderqueer and gender variant people) realities across the world. It gathers Pride organizers, local and international speakers, artists, activists, politicians and participants across all walks of life.
The next WorldPride takes place from 17 May to 8 June 2025, in Washington DC, USA, followed by WorldPride Amsterdam, in The Netherlands, from 31 July to 8 August 2026.

Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an

Ein Beitrag geteilt von Cape Town Pride (@capetownpride)

Mozambique: Tourism bodies call for travel postponement amid potential protests! [update #6]

update (15 November 2024): According to media reports, the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post between South Africa and Mozambique has been reopened again.

update (14 November 2024): According to SATSA's latest Mozambique update (13 November 2024), popular tourist destinations and resorts in Mozambique remain largely unaffected, however, visitors should be prepared for potential challenges including delays at the country’s borders, public gatherings in urban centres (which may turn violent) and limited access to some businesses and services. However, there are reports of more protests between 13 and 15 November 2024.
According to news24 on 13 November 2024, the Border Management Authority (BMA) commissioner Michael Masiapato said operations at the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post between South Africa and Mozambique were temporarily halted for safety reasons.

update (11 November 2024): SABC yesterday reported that operations are gradually returning to normal at the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post between South Africa and Mozambique.

update (07 November 2024): According to "Club of Mozamnbique", the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post was opened on this morning. It then got closed again by the Border Management Authority. This follows news that protesters in Mozambique are edging closer to the border despite the Mozambican military being deployed.

update (07 November 2024): SABC reports that the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post has been partially reopened. SABC is quoting the the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Michael Masiapato, saying that Mozambique has assured them that it’s safe to partially reopen the port of entry as they have deployed the military to the border.

update (06 November 2024): SATSA has released an update on the current situation in Mozambique. South Africa's Border Management Authority (BMA) announced the temporary closure of the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post due to safety concerns on the Mozambican side on 05 November 2024.
Key tourism destinations in Mozambique remain unaffected but there have been more reports of unrest in urban areas.
According to SATSA CEO David Frost, opposition leaders suggested that the week-long protest action would culminate in a mass demonstration in Maputo on 07 November 2024. 

The Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA), a non-profit organization based in South Africa that serves as the leading voice for inbound tourism in the region, in cooperation with Africa’s Eden, a registered non-profit company based in Botswana that focuses on promoting sustainable tourism across several African countries, are encouraging travellers intending to visit Mozambique over the next week to postpone their plans. Following recent election-related unrest, Mozambique’s opposition leaders have called for week-long protest action, including public demonstrations and a national strike, from Thursday, 31 October 2024 to Thursday, 07 November 2024.
According to SATSA/Africa's Eden, the full impact on the tourism industry in Mozambique is currently unclear. However, the next seven days may see public protests across the country as well as mass mobilisation in Maputo. The Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post between South Africa and Mozambique, as well as other key border crossings, may be impacted by civil action. Access to Maputo International Airport (MPM) in Maputo may be intermittently affected by road blockades. Access to healthcare may also be affected in areas with ongoing protests. At this point, popular tourism destinations across Mozambique are planning to remain open and hotels and tourism services to remain operational during the next seven days. We'll keep you posted!

eSwatini: The dates of the Umhlanga Reed Dance 2024 have been announced!

eSwatini Tourism has confirmed the dates of the 2024 Umhlanga Reed Dance. The biggest cultural event in eSwatini is set to start on  27 August 2024, with the main day (Day 7) set to take place on Monday (02 September 2024). It will be on this day when the main ceremony occurs, with the dancing attended by His Majesty King Mswati III. 02 September 2024 will be a public holiday in eSwatini.
Tourists visiting the Umhlanga Reed Dance are allowed to take photographs on Days 6 and 7 (main day) – as the maidens walk to deliver the reeds to the Royal Residence, and then as they dance in the main arena. 

The Reed Dance ceremony, also known as "umhlanga", is a centuries old tradition where the eSwatini's unmarried and childless females present their newly cut reed to the Queen Mother to protect her residence. The highlight of the event is the reed-giving ceremony. Tens of thousands of maidens from eSwatini, led by Swazi princesses, gather at the Queen Mother's royal village, the Ludzidzini Royal Residence in Lobamba, dressed in traditional attire; bright short beaded skirts with colourful sashes revealing their bare breasts to dance and sing and celebrate the unification of the Kingdom’s women. King Mswati lll, who sometimes makes use of the occasion to publicly court a prospective fiancée, joins the celebrations to pay tribute to the maidens.  

Namibia: New rhino poaching figures!

According to the Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism (MEFT), Namibia has lost 19 black rhinos and nine white rhinos to poaching the first three month of 2024. Out of these 28 rhinos, 19 were poached in the Etosha National Park, of which 10 were found during a campaign in March 2024 to dehorn rhinos to reduce the risk of them becoming poaching targets. Five rhinos were killed on private farms in Namibia, three rhinos were poached in rhino custodianship farms, and one in the Kunene region. 

Namibia is home to a third of the entire remaining population of back rhino on the planet and the second largest white rhino population in the world after South Africa. The country also has the largest population of free-roaming black rhinos as well as the largest population of black rhinos in protected areas.

Malawi lifts visa requirements for travellers from 48 (?) countries! [update]

update (09 February 2024): According to Minister Kamtukule, visa waiver for 48 countries have been introduced. The Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2024, lists 67 countries as well as nationals from the Southern African Developement Community (SADC) except for those countries that subject Malawians to a visa requirement.

The Malawian Minister of Tourism, Vera Kamtukule, announced on Facebook that the Government of Malawi is lifting visa requirements for travellers from selected countries from around the world in order to boost tourism and trade. According to Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2024, Malawi is now granting visa waivers to 48 countries, such as Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, the UK and the US. The new requlation also includes nationals from the Southern African Developement Community (SADC) except for those countries that subject Malawians to a visa requirement. The new visa regulation became effective on 07 February 2024.

Zambia among ABTA's "10 Destinations to Watch in 2024"!

The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) has announced its 10 Destinations to Watch in 2024. Based on the trends and buying habits of the UK travelling public as well as industry and insights, the list offers holidaymakers inspiration for their trips this year and insight on places ABTA anticipates will become increasingly popular with the UK traveller. Zambia is the only country in Africa that made it to the list of the 10 destinations for 2024. ABTA describes the southern African country as follows: "Zambia offers nature at its finest with a wealth of national parks teeming with wildlife, mighty waterfalls, and friendly vibrant cities. For animal lovers, very few countries compare - with almost a third of the country set aside for wildlife." [src.] Congratulations Zambia!

ABTA's 10 Destinations to Watch in alphabetical order are:

• Albania
• Aruba
• Crete
• Extremadura
• Mauritius
• Saxony
• The Tyrol
• Vietnam
• Zambia

Zimbabwe introduces an Online Border Management System (OBMS)! [update #2]

update (15 October 2024): As part of Zimbabwe's new Online Border Management System (OBMS), 14 electronic gates (e-gates) are currentyl being installed at RG Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare. 

update (16 August 2024): The pilot phase of Zimbabwe's Online Border Management System (OBMS) is now underway at RG Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare. According to the Zimbabwean Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Kazembe Raymond Kazembe, the OBMS will be implemented at all border posts, with completion expected by the end of the year.We'll keep you posted!

The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), the national brodcaster of Zimbabwe, is reporting that Zimbabwe is set to introduce an Online Border Management System (OBMS). The new system is being rolled out in a phased approach during 2024. The ZBC quotes Chief Immigration Officer Ms Respect Gono saying that the OBMS will be starting this January with major border posts and is envisaged to link the entire country of Zimbabwe by the end of 2024. According to Ms Gono, the OBMS will come with a cocktail of functionalities that will improve our efficiency including e-gates, online visa application, improved security and others. We'll keep you posted!

Angola among CNN's top travel destinations for 2024!

The CNN Travel Team has revealed its list of the world's 24 best places to visit in 2024. According to the travel experts of the multinational news channel and website, all these destinations "are still largely undiscovered, or alluring in the offseason, or frequently overlooked for their larger first cities or neighbors". Angola is the only African destination on the list of the 24. CNN writes about the country the following: "This southern African nation is trying hard to make a break on the tourism scene, having recently introduced a quick-approval tourism e-visa. While major tourism infrastructure might not be up to speed yet, it’s a chance to explore a country still off the travel radar." Congrats Angola!

CNN's best places to visit 2024 [src.]:

• Sumba, Indonesia
• Turkey’s Black Sea coast
• Tartu, Estonia
• Tainan, Taiwan
• Northwest Michigan
• Trans Dinarica Cycle Route, Balkans
• Culebra, Puerto Rico
• Angola
• Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
• South Korea
• Albania
• Chile
• Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia
• Macedonia, Greece
• Panama
• Galicia, Spain
• Singapore’s offshore islands
• Mérida, Mexico
• Morocco
• Florida’s freshwater springs
• Texas Hill Country
• Fujairah
• Greenland
• Uzbekistan

Angola lifts tourist visa requirement for travellers from 98 countries! >>

Zimbabwe and Saint Kitts and Nevis sign visa free travel agreement!

Zimbabwe and Saint Kitts and Nevis, an island country and microstate consisting of the two islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis in the West Indies, have signed an Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption for holders of Diplomatic, Official and Ordinary Passports. The agreement was signed in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Debate by Dr Denzil Douglas, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saint Kitts and Nevis and his Zimbabwean counterpart, Frederick Shava. According to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Saint Kitts and Nevis, diplomatic relations beteen the island country and Zimbabwe were established on 30 November 30 2021, but "there has not been any significant cooperation between the two countries" since signing the declaration.

South Africa: South African Airways set to introduce scheduled flights to its 12th destination in Africa!

South Africa's flag carrier, South African Airways (SAA), has announced the launch of scheduled flights to its 12th destination in Africa. The airline will operate a new service to Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire. Effective 14 November 2023, South African Airways will operate three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ) in Abidjan. The service will be via Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana, on board an Airbus A330-300 with full-lie flat business class seats. Bookings open for sale on 28 September 2023.
In addition, this route will also provide an airfreight link between Accra, Abidjan and Johannesburg therefore enhancing the trade links between these three major cities with the rest of the South African Airways' network. 

online flight booking on TravelComments.com >>

African Parks to release 2,000 southern white rhino into the wild over the next 10 years!

African Parks, a conservation NGO that manages 22 protected areas in partnership with 12 governments across Africa, has announced that it will take over the 7,800 hectare "Platinum Rhino" site near Klerksdorp in South Africa's North West province from wealthy property developer turned conservationist/wildlife rancher/rhino breeder John Hume (81). The world’s largest private captive rhino breeding operation is home to over 2,000 southern white rhino, which is equivalent to 15% of the world's remaining wild population of southern white rhino. According to African Parks, it has one clear objective: to rewild these rhino over the next 10 years to well-managed and secure areas, establishing or supplementing strategic populations, thereby de-risking the future of the species. The breeding programme will be phased out and the project will end once all the rhino are released into the wild. This is one of the largest continent-wide rewilding endeavours to occur for any species.

John Hume's "Patinum Rhino" farm went up for auction on 26 April 2023 due to financial reasons, but did not receive any bids. On 04 August 2023, African Parks CEO Peter Fearnhead confirmed in a statement that his organisation had agreed to take over the farm and and all its rhinos – with the endorsement of the South African Government, which will support African Parks with technical and scientific advice, and the African Rhino Specialist Group of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

African Parks is a non-profit conservation organisation that takes on the responsibility for the rehabilitation and long-term management of protected areas, in partnership with governments and local communities. African Parks manages 22 national parks and protected areas in 12 countries covering over 20 million hectares in Angola, Benin, Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Republic of Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, South Sudan, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

eSwatini: The dates of the Umhlanga Reed Dance 2023 have been announced!

eSwatini Tourism has confirmed the dates of the 2023 Umhlanga Reed Dance. The biggest cultural event in eSwatini is set to start on the 29 August 2023, with the main day (Day 7) set to take place on Monday (04 September 2023). It will be on this day when the main ceremony occurs, with the dancing attended by His Majesty King Mswati III. 04 September 2023 will be a public holiday in eSwatini.
Visitors are welcome to visit the annual Umhlanga Reed Dance, but are vastly outnumbered by the participants! This is a traditional event that allows spectators, not one that exists for spectators.

The Reed Dance ceremony, also known as "umhlanga", is a centuries old tradition where the eSwatini's unmarried and childless females present their newly cut reed to the Queen Mother to protect her residence. The highlight of the event is the reed-giving ceremony. Tens of thousands of maidens from eSwatini, led by Swazi princesses, gather at the Queen Mother's royal village, the Ludzidzini Royal Residence in Lobamba, dressed in traditional attire; bright short beaded skirts with colourful sashes revealing their bare breasts to dance and sing and celebrate the unification of the Kingdom’s women. King Mswati lll, who sometimes makes use of the occasion to publicly court a prospective fiancée, joins the celebrations to pay tribute to the maidens.