South Africa: Three international airlines are set to increase flights!

Three international airlines, namely Cathay Pacific (Hong Kong), TAAG Angola Airways (Angola) and Ethiopian Airways (Ethiopia) are planning to increase operations to South Africa. According to South African Government Gazette Vol. 696, No. 48831 (19 June 2023), the Department of Transport has granted applications by the airlines to boost the number of weekly flights to and from OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town, and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban.

Cathay Pacific (11 return flights per week):

• Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) in Hong Kong <> OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg
• daily (7) flights per week
• Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) in Hong Kong <> Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town
• 3 flights per week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
• Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) in Hong Kong <> King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban
• 1 flight per week on Saturdays 

Cathay Pacific will resume flights to South Africa on 02 August 2023 and will initially operate three weekly flights between Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) in Hong Kong and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) Johannesburg.

TAAG Angola Airlines (23 return flights per week):

• Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD) in Luanda <> King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban
• 3 flights per week
• Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD) in Luanda <> OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg
• 13 flights per week
• Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD) in Luanda <> Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town
• 7 flights per week

Ethiopian Airways (35 return flights per week):

• Bole International Airport (ADD) in Addis Ababa <> OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg
• 21 flights per week
• Bole International Airport (ADD) in Addis Ababa <> Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town
• 14 flights per week

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South Africa: South African Airways (SAA) resumes intercontinental operations!

South Africa's national flag carrier, South African Airways (SAA), has announced the airline's first intercontinental route, since the airline successfully emerged from an intensive Business Rescue process and Covid-19 lockdown. The airline is set to introduce flights to São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport (GRU) in São Paulo (Brazil) four times a week, twice out of Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town (Tuesdays and Saturdays) and twice out of OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg (Mondays and Thursdays). Bookings opened for sale on 29 June 2023, with launch flights out of Cape Town on 31 October 2023 and from Johannesburg on 06 November 2023.

Northern winter season (October to December):

• Cape Town 12:55 > 16:35 São Paulo (Tuesdays and Saturdays)
• São Paulo 18:05 > 06:40 Cape Town (Tuesdays and Saturdays)
• Johannesburg 11:20 > 16:15 São Paulo (Mondays and Thursdays)
• São Paulo 17:45 > 07:45 Johannesburg (Mondays and Thursdays)

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Namibia: Temporary closure of District Road 212 (Rosh Pinah - Aussenkehr)! [update]

update (05 July 2023): The Namibian Roads Authority (RA) has announced that the Rosh Pinah - Aussenkehr road (DR 212) is open to traffic again. However, road users are urged to continue to take precaution when driving in wet conditions.

The Namibian Roads Authority (RA), whose core business is to construct and maintain Namibia's road sector, has informed the public that the Rosh Pinah - Aussenkehr road (DR 212) has been temporarily closed due to wet and slippery conditions, following recent heavy rainfall in some parts of the //Karas Region. The RA is requesting the public to strictly adhere to the erected closure signs and to not attempt to use this road. Furthermore, road users are advised to use the alternative route (Aussenkehr - Noordoewer - Keetmanshoop - Aus - Rosh Pinah) until further notice. We'll keep you posted!

South Africa: Malaria drug shortage!

According to a joint press release by the South African Society of Travel Medicine (SASTM), the South African Paediatric Association (SAPA), the Southern African Society of Paediatric Infectious Diseases (SASPID) and the South African Malaria Elimination Committee (SAMEC), South Africa is currently facing a shortage of malaria prophylaxis for toddlers, young children (under 8 years) and pregnant women ahead of the winter holiday exodus to high-risk malaria areas. There is an imminent stockout of Malanil® Paediatric, the only medicine for the prevention of malaria in toddlers, young children and pregnant women in South Africa, as stocks of the only current supplier, AcinoSwiss, will expire by end July 2023.
Mefloquine, the only other medication suitable for babies and pregnant women who must travel to malaria risk areas, is no longer being marketed in South Africa. Doxycycline, which is not suitable for use in toddlers, young children (under 8 years) and in pregnancy, is currently available, but there have also been intermittent shortages of it in the last two years inSouth Africa.
As an interim measure, South Africans (as well as all travellers in South Africa!) are advised not to travel to high-risk malaria areas if travelling with young children, unless travel is unavoidable. If travel cannot be deferred at all, travellers should make strict use of all measures to avoid mosquito bites at all times and seek urgent, expert medical attention for anyone with the symptoms of a flu-like illness, namely fever, headache, cold shivers, nausea and vomiting, muscle and joint pain. These signs and symptoms may be difficult to detect in babies and young children, increasing the risk of a delayed diagnosis and death. [src.: SASTM)

Also read:

Malaria: South African Malaria Risk Map >>
South Africa: Cases of Malaria on the rise! [update] >>

The South African Backpackers Meander - a new approach to promote backpacking in South Africa!

Twenty-six of South Africa's finest backpackers hostels have joint forces to promote backpacking in the country. The South African Backpackers Meander community is characterized by its inclusivity and openness as well as its almost eccentric individuality of each member. Each establishment you will encounter along your journey through South Africa will be different, interesting and will definitely not follow the mould or corporate structure you will find in more formal accommodation.
The South African Backpackers Meander invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey through the breath-taking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and diverse wildlife of South Africa. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time backpacker, whether you young or just plain young at heart, you'll find a warm welcome and a wealth of knowledge from fellow travellers who have embarked on similar journeys.

As you meander through South Africa, you'll discover a multitude of wonders that will leave you awestruck and gobsmacked. From the golden savannahs of Kruger National Park, the thick Bush of Addo Elephant National Park, the rugged peaks of the Drakensberg, to the dramatic coastline of the Garden Route. The South African Backpackers Meander encompasses the very best of what South Africa has to offer. Whether you're an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, this route caters to every traveller’s desires.
Immerse yourself in the cosmopolitan vibe of Cape Town, a city nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the glistening Atlantic Ocean. Explore the bustling markets of the Bo-Kaap, wander through the historic streets of the Cape Malay Quarter, and surf the famous Sunset Beach. Take the road less travelled along the rugged coast of False Bay all the way past whales, wine (Hermanus) and white sharks till you reach the southernmost point of Africa at Cape Agulhas.
Venture along the breath-taking Garden Route, a stretch of coastline renowned for its stunning beaches, majestic cliffs, and verdant forests. Hike through the enchanting Tsitsikamma National Park, kayak alongside playful dolphins in Plettenberg Bay, and soak up the bohemian vibes of Knysna, a town nestled beside a tranquil lagoon. Take the plunge off the highest bungy in the world or a gentle Zipline through the trees.
No visit to South Africa is complete without a safari adventure, and the South African Backpackers Meander has you covered. Embark on thrilling game drives in Addo Elephant National Park, where you'll have the chance to encounter Africa's iconic Big Five – lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalos. The raw beauty of the African bush will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Throughout your journey, if you follow the map, you'll have the opportunity to stay in charming and affordable backpacker accommodations, where you can connect with fellow travellers from around the world. Share stories around the bonfire, exchange tips and recommendations, and forge friendships that will last a lifetime.
The South African Backpackers Meander promises an adventure like no other, where you'll traverse diverse landscapes, encounter extraordinary wildlife, and embrace the warmth and hospitality of the South African people. So, pack your backpack, bring your adventurous spirit, and enjoy a remarkable journey through the heart of South Africa.

[This article was only partly written by us. It is rather a guest post by John from Orange Elephant Backpackers in Addo and the South African Backpackers Meander community.]

South Africa: Airlink to increase flights between Johannesburg <> Vilanculos!

South African regional carrier Airlink has announced that it will increase flights between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Vilankulo Airport (VNX) in Vilanculos, Mozambique. The airline currently operates daily flights on the route and will introduce additional flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays in response to increased demand for direct services to the popular Mozambican coastal town. The schedule change becomes effective on 08 January 2024. Airlink will terminate flights between Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), located located 27 km north east of Mbombela (Nelspruit), and Vilanculos from 05 January 2024.

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Namibia/Zambia: The Katima Mulilo border post to operate on a 24-hour basis! [update]

update (21 August 2023): According to a public notice issued by the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security on 18 August 2023, the Katima Mulilo Border Post between Namibia and Zambia will be operating 24 hours from 22 August 2023.

The Katima Mulilo border post between Namibia and Zambia will soon operate 24 hours a day. The Namibian Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Albert Kawana, announced on 23 June 2023, that the new operating hours will become effective on 31 July 2023. According to the Minister, this is one of the steps the (Namibian) government is taking to ensure smooth trade and services with its neighbouring countries. The Katima Mulilo border post is located on the Walvis Bay-Ndola-Lubumbashi Development Road, the fastest-growing economic corridor in Namibia.