12 December 2025

North West Parks & Tourism Board (NWPTB): Cashless access now in effect at Pilanesberg and Kgaswane, with more reserves to follow!

The North West Parks & Tourism Board (NWPTB) has issued an update on the rollout of its new tariff structure and modernised access systems across provincial nature reserves. Pilanesberg National Park and Kgaswane Mountain & Nature Reserve are now in their second week of full implementation, with both the revised tariffs and the electronic controlled-access system fully operational.

Other NWPTB-managed nature reserves in the North West Province have already adopted the new tariffs and will shift to cashless gate operations from this weekend, with controlled access to be introduced next as part of NWPTB’s broader modernisation programme.

NWPTB
also confirmed that a phased upgrade of visitor infrastructure at Pilanesberg National Park will begin shortly. Initial improvements will focus on hides, picnic sites and ablution facilities, followed by long-term enhancements to the park’s road network. These developments form part of the organisation’s strategy to improve visitor experience, strengthen sustainability and raise overall tourism standards across the province’s protected areas.

 

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Durban beaches update: 22 of 23 beaches safe for swimming ahead of the festive season!

Travellers planning a KwaZulu-Natal beach holiday can rely on updated water quality information for Durban’s coastline. The eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that 22 of the city’s 23 beaches are safe for swimming, based on coastal water quality tests conducted on 11 December 2025. With holiday travel increasing, the announcement offers straightforward guidance for visitors preparing for trips to Durban.

Durban’s coastline ready for summer
Durban remains one of South Africa’s most popular seaside destinations, known for its warm Indian Ocean waters, subtropical climate, and the iconic Golden Mile. The wide beaches, accessible promenade, and vibrant surf culture continue to attract families, athletes, and holidaymakers throughout the year.
The municipality’s ongoing water quality monitoring programme ensures that beach conditions are measured consistently, helping safeguard both visitor wellbeing and the marine environment.

Beaches currently open for swimming

A total of 22 beaches in Durban meet current water quality standards and are open daily. Lifeguards are on duty from 06:00 to 18:30, and visitors are encouraged to swim only within designated zones.

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

Temporary beach closure
Battery Beach, centrally located along Durban’s Golden Mile, remains temporarily closed after recent tests showed elevated contamination levels. All in-water activities, including swimming and surfing, are currently restricted. The beachfront itself remains open for walking, relaxation, and photography. The municipality will reopen the beach once water quality meets the required safety standards.

Durban’s public swimming pools

Visitors who prefer swimming in a controlled environment can choose from 40 public swimming pools across the metro. These facilities are maintained to strict safety standards and monitored by trained lifeguards, offering a reliable alternative to ocean swimming.

 

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11 December 2025

Durban plans major new beachfront amusement park for 2027!

Travellers planning a trip to Durban can look forward to a major new attraction on the Golden Mile. The eThekwini Municipality has announced a R1 billion redevelopment of the former Durban Funworld site into a world-class amusement park, scheduled for completion in 2027.
The project will be delivered by Masithu Consulting and Project Managers (MCPM), a Durban-based company with extensive experience in major urban developments. It forms a key part of the City’s long-term strategy to upgrade the beachfront, boost tourism and bring new family-friendly entertainment to the promenade.

What visitors can expect
The new Durban Amusement Park will offer a mix of high-adrenaline rides and family attractions, including:

The park is being designed in partnership with two leading Italian engineering firms known for their work with Ferrari World, Universal Studios and Disneyland.

...
(c) Durban.gov.za

A new energy along the promenade
Located in a prime position on Durban's beachfront, the park will introduce new public spaces and enhancements, such as:

  • Neon-lit walkways for improved safety and night-time ambience
  • Panoramic viewing decks overlooking the coastline
  • Themed food courts and leisure hubs
  • Activity zones for all age groups
  • An alcohol-free, family-focused environment

These additions aim to activate the promenade day and night, offering travellers more to see and do while exploring Durban's Golden Mile.

When will construction begin?
Work will start once the remaining statutory and commercial processes are completed. The City will release updates as the project moves forward. 

 

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10 December 2025

Durban Water Quality Update: Most beaches safe for swimming ahead of the 2025 festive season!

The eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that 21 of Durban’s 23 beaches are safe for swimming as of 10 December 2025, following the latest round of coastal water quality testing. With the festive season approaching and domestic and international visitor numbers set to rise, this update offers welcome clarity for travellers planning a KwaZulu-Natal beach holiday.

Durban’s coastline ready for the summer holidays

Durban continues to rank among South Africa’s most popular seaside destinations, known for its warm Indian Ocean currents, subtropical climate, and the iconic Golden Mile. The city’s wide beaches, accessible promenade, and year-round surf culture remain a major draw for families, fitness enthusiasts, and holidaymakers seeking a classic coastal getaway.
The municipality’s ongoing water quality monitoring programme ensures that beach conditions are tracked consistently throughout the year. Regular testing and public reporting form part of Durban’s commitment to safeguarding both visitor health and the marine environment.

Beaches currently open for swimming
A total of 21 beaches in Durban have met the latest water quality standards and are open daily for swimming. Lifeguards are on duty from 06:00 to 18:30, and beachgoers are encouraged to swim only in designated areas.

Beaches open:
Point BeachuMgababauShakaAddingtonNorth BeachBay of PlentySouth BeachWedge BeachBattery BeachBrightonPipeline BeachToti Main BeachWestbrookThekwini BeachLaguna BeachCountry ClubDoonside BeachmDloti MainWinklespruitReunionAnstey's Beach

Temporary beach closures
Two beaches - uMhlanga Main and Bronze Beach - remain temporarily closed due to elevated contamination levels detected during recent tests. Swimming, surfing, and all in-water activities are currently restricted. However, the beachfront remains open for walking, sunbathing, and photography. The eThekwini Municipality will reopen both beaches once water quality returns to the required safety thresholds.

Durban’s public swimming pools
Travellers who prefer swimming in a controlled environment can choose from 40 public swimming pools operated across the metro. These facilities are suitable for families, recreational swimmers, and visitors seeking an alternative to open-water swimming. All pools are maintained to strict safety standards and monitored by trained lifeguards.

 

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North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) launches cashless entry system and prepares new online booking platform!

The North West Parks & Tourism Board (NWPTB) introduced new card-only, cashless gate-takings systems at Pilanesberg National Park and Kgaswane Mountain & Nature Reserve on 01 December 2025. This upgrade forms part of the NWPTB’s broader Turnaround Strategy, aimed at strengthening and modernising the organisation’s revenue collection processes.

The NWPTB confirmed that all remaining NWPTB-managed nature reserves in the North West Province will soon migrate to the same cashless system. The transition is expected to standardise operations across the network, reduce financial risks, and improve overall financial controls.

According to a press release issued on 09 December 2025, the newly implemented system has operated smoothly since activation, with no disruptions reported.

The NWPTB also announced that it is finalising a new online booking and payment platform, set to launch in the near future. The digital system will allow visitors to plan trips, secure bookings, and complete payments online, enhancing visitor convenience while supporting increased investment in conservation across all provincial reserves.

 

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Namibia Airports Company (NAC) confirms re-certification of Namibia’s international airports to 2027!

Namibia Airports Company (NAC) has confirmed the successful re-certification of the country’s two international gateways, Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek and Walvis Bay International Airport (WVB) in Walvis Bay. Both airports achieved an Effective Implementation (EI) score of 83% following a rigorous assessment by the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The new aerodrome certificates, issued on 05 December 2025, affirm that Namibia’s key international airports continue to meet the strict safety, operational and technical standards set out in the Namibia Civil Aviation Regulations (NAMCARs Parts 139 and 140). The renewed certification also demonstrates full alignment with the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), ensuring Namibia maintains globally recognised aviation compliance.

The aerodrome certificates for both Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek and Walvis Bay International Airport (WVB) in Walvis Bay remain valid until 06 December 2027.

online flight booking on TravelComments.com >> 

 

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Cape Town festive season driving guide: Safe airport routes & high-risk intersections!

Cape Town Tourism, the official Regional Tourism Organisation for the City of Cape Town, has issued an updated set of safety guidelines for motorists travelling in and around the Mother City this festive season. With thousands of visitors expected and holiday traffic increasing across major road corridors, travellers are encouraged to stay alert, plan ahead, and take simple precautions to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

Staying aware on Cape Town’s roads
Holiday travel in Cape Town is generally safe and trouble-free. However, a handful of intersections and arterial routes have experienced occasional smash-and-grab incidents. Whether you are a local resident returning home or a visitor navigating unfamiliar suburbs, heightened situational awareness is essential.

Recommended airport travel routes
To support safer and more predictable travel between Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town and key parts of the metro, the following routes are recommended:

Motorists should exercise additional caution when approaching these N2 off-ramps and segments:

High-risk intersections to approach with caution
Cape Town Tourism has highlighted several locationsin Cape Town that warrant elevated awareness due to previous incidents: 

Practical safety tips for motorists

To reduce risks and ensure a more secure driving experience in Cape Town, Cape Town Tourism recommends the following:

  • Store valuables such as mobile phones, handbags, wallets, and laptops out of sight - preferably in the boot or under the seat.
  • Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially at intersections, traffic lights, and slow-moving traffic.
  • Maintain a safe following distance to allow for strategic manoeuvring.
  • Keep windows closed and doors locked, particularly when coming to a stop or entering high-risk zones

 

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