Augrabies Falls National Park trails temporarily closed for maintenance

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the Dassie Interpretative Trail and Gorge Trail at Augrabies Falls National Park are temporarily closed for essential maintenance.

• The Dassie Interpretative Trail is a scenic loop that offers close-up views of local wildlife, particularly rock hyrax (dassies), and provides interpretative signage about the park’s unique flora and fauna.
• The Gorge Trail takes hikers along the dramatic edge of the Orange River gorge, showcasing breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding rugged landscape.

Visitors are encouraged to explore other park highlights, including viewpoints, picnic areas, and the main falls promenade, while SANParks works to maintain and enhance these key hiking routes. We will provide updates; travellers are advised to check trail conditions before planning their visit.

 

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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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Upgrades coming to Nossob Rest Camp in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: What visitors should know

Travellers planning a Kalahari safari should note that South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed scheduled upgrade and maintenance work at Nossob Rest Camp in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. The project forms part of ongoing investment to improve infrastructure and visitor comfort in one of Southern Africa’s most iconic wilderness destinations.

Work is expected to begin around 25 February 2026 and continue for approximately four months. Planned improvements include upgrades to campsite ablution facilities, premium campsites, and riverfront units, ensuring better long-term standards for future guests.

Importantly, all existing bookings remain valid, and accommodation availability will not be affected during the upgrade period. Visitors staying at Nossob Rest Camp during these months should, however, expect construction activity, maintenance vehicles, and occasional noise, which park management aims to keep to a minimum.

These enhancements are part of SANParks’ broader strategy to maintain high-quality facilities while protecting the exceptional wilderness experience that makes the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park such a sought-after safari destination.

 

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National Gardens Week 2026 in South Africa: Dates, free entry & travel tips

International travellers: free entry during National Gardens Week 2026 is available only to South African citizens and residents.

South Africa’s extraordinary biodiversity takes centre stage during the National Gardens Week 2026, running from 09 – 15 March 2026. During this week, botanical and zoological gardens across the country are alive with activity, special events, guided walks, yoga sessions, and other outdoor wellness experiences - perfect for nature lovers and families.

South Africa is the third most biodiverse country in the world, home to over 95,000 known species and remarkable levels of endemism. The National Gardens Week celebrates this natural heritage while promoting conservation, education, and wellbeing.

Free entry dates

During the National Gardens Week, the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) offers free entry exclusively to South African citizens and residents at most botanical and zoological gardens. 

Garden / Zoo	Province	Free Entry Dates	Notes
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden	Western Cape	09 – 13 March 2026	Flagship garden in Cape Town
Harold Porter National Botanical Garden	Western Cape	09 – 15 March 2026	Coastal fynbos garden
Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden	Western Cape	09 – 15 March 2026	Arid region flora
Hantam National Botanical Garden	Northern Cape	09 – 15 March 2026	Succulent-rich
Free State National Botanical Garden	Free State	09 – 15 March 2026	Central plateau plants
KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden	KwaZulu-Natal	09 – 15 March 2026	Subtropical flora
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden	Gauteng	09 – 13 March 2026	Famous waterfall and hiking trails
Pretoria National Botanical Garden	Gauteng	09 – 13 March 2026	Central Gauteng garden
Lowveld National Botanical Garden	Mpumalanga	09 – 15 March 2026	Rainforest and indigenous plants
Kwelera National Botanical Garden	Eastern Cape	09 – 15 March 2026	Coastal forest reserve
Thohoyandou National Botanical Garden	Limpopo	09 – 15 March 2026	Northern flora diversity
National Zoological Garden of South Africa	Pretoria	09 – 13 March free, 14 –15 March R26pp	Popular wildlife destination
Mokopane Biodiversity Conservation Centre	Limpopo	09 – 15 March 2026	Conservation-focused centre

 Note for international visitors: Standard entrance fees still apply during the week.

The 2026 theme - “Your free passport to nature: celebrate, restore and protect all life” - encourages visitors to reconnect with nature through guided walks, yoga sessions, conservation education, and relaxed outdoor activities.

Important Travel Tip: Gardens Will Be Busy

Even though free access is limited to citizens and residents, visitors should expect higher crowds at popular gardens during the National Gardens Week 2026. The event attracts tens of thousands nationwide.

Expect:

• Busy parking areas and longer queues
• Packed picnic lawns and cafés
• Peak crowds on weekends and during free-entry weekdays when many locals take advantage of the offer

Tips for travellers:

• Arrive early in the morning
• Visit midweek for a calmer experience
• Pack a picnic to avoid restaurant queues
• Explore less busy regional gardens if possible

About SANBI and its Gardens

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) manages South Africa's network of 11 National Botanical Gardens and two National Zoological Gardens, protecting rare and endangered species while giving visitors a chance to experience the country’s unique biodiversity up close.

These gardens are living museums, research hubs, and conservation centres, offering hiking trails, exhibitions, birdwatching, picnic areas, and educational programs — making them ideal stops for travellers who want to combine sightseeing with immersive nature experiences.

Why travellers should add this to their itinerary

The National Gardens Week is a unique opportunity to see South Africa's gardens buzzing with life, community events, and conservation activities. Even if you’re not eligible for free entry, visiting during this period is rewarding - just plan ahead, expect crowds, and enjoy your “passport to nature.”

 

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St Helena Airport regains full operations as flights resume from 17 February 2026

last updated 18 February 2026 

The St Helena Government (SHG) has confirmed that in close liaison with South African regional airline Airlink, an early flight window to Ascension Island has been agreed.  This arrangement will support those whose travel plans were disrupted by the recent closure, including passengers awaiting onward connections to the Falkland Islands via Ascension.
The flight scheduled for Tuesday, 24 February 2026, will arrive and depart for Ascension Island on the same day. A return flight from Ascension will then arrive in St Helena on 25 February 2026, before departing onward to Johannesburg.  

last updated 17 February 2026  

Following the restoration of Category 6 status at St Helena Airport, the first scheduled Airlink flight has successfully landed, bringing back all waiting residents and half of the stranded tourists. An urgent medical patient was also transported, avoiding a separate medevac. The remaining tourist backlog is expected to clear with Saturday’s flight. Bookings for future flights are now open, and work is underway with Ascension Island Government to schedule flights to Ascension Island. Spare parts for fire tender R2 were delivered, with full operational capability expected later this week. Daily updates will end, with key messages shared as needed. 

last updated 17 February 2026 

After a short period of disruption, commercial air travel to St Helena is back on track. Authorities have confirmed that St Helena Airport has regained Category 6 firefighting accreditation, allowing full air operations and scheduled flights to resume.

This update is especially important for travellers planning trips to the remote South Atlantic island of St Helena, where air access is the primary gateway for tourism and essential travel.

Firefighting accreditation restored

On 15 February 2026, airport authorities confirmed that Category 6 accreditation has been reinstated following extensive technical work on the airport’s rescue and firefighting fleet.

The milestone was achieved through the efforts of airport mechanics supported by specialist engineers from Marcé. Full commissioning tests were successfully completed using fire tender R1, which will operate alongside R3 and the St Helena Fire and Rescue Service.

The results were reviewed and accepted by the independent regulator Air Safety Support International (ASSI), clearing the airport to resume normal commercial operations.

Repairs to the R2 fire tender are continuing, but officials confirmed this does not affect the newly restored accreditation. Longer-term fleet replacement options are being explored with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office to strengthen future resilience.

First flights resume with limited passenger availability

The first scheduled flight to St Helena operated by Airlink is planned for today (17 February 2026), subject to favourable weather conditions.

However, travellers should note an important limitation:

• No tickets will be sold for the 17 February 2026 flight or the 21 February 2026 service.
• Passengers who already hold bookings for these flights should travel as planned.
• Remaining seats will be used primarily for repatriation passengers, allocated based on the length of travel delays.
• Travellers should not contact the airline or the airport directly - updates will be provided by Solomon & Company (St Helena).

When normal bookings reopen

For travellers planning future trips to St Helena, there is positive news:

• New bookings will reopen from Tuesday, 24 February 2026 onwards.
• Ticket sales are expected to resume soon once the backlog of delayed passengers has been cleared.

This timeline marks the return of reliable air access to one of the world’s most remote destinations.

What this means for travellers

The restoration of firefighting capability removes the last operational barrier to regular flights. For visitors, this means:

• Travel planning to St Helena can resume with confidence
• Tourism recovery on the island can restart
• Future flight schedules should stabilise in the coming weeks

If St Helena has been on your bucket list, the window to plan new trips is reopening - just be prepared for short-term booking pressure as demand returns.

Travel tip: Once bookings reopen, expect limited seat availability initially. Early planning and flexibility will be key for securing flights to the island.

 

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Cape Town International Airport (CPT) Upgrade 2026–2029: What travellers should expect

Travellers passing through Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town should prepare for a major construction phase starting in March 2026 and running until 2029. The project forms part of a nationwide airport modernisation programme led by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) - and while the long-term benefits are significant, the next three years will bring noticeable disruption.

How much will the upgrade cost?

ACSA has confirmed a R9 billion investment specifically for Cape Town International Airport (CPT), forming part of a wider R21.7 billion national airport infrastructure programme across South Africa.

Key cost breakdown announced so far:

• R6.1 billion: New realigned main runway
• R2.4 billion: New domestic terminal development
• Additional funding: Expansion of the international terminal, upgraded security, aircraft stands and infrastructure

This makes the Cape Town upgrade one of the largest airport investments in the country since the 2010 World Cup expansion.

Why the airport is being expanded

Cape Town has seen strong travel demand and growing long-haul connectivity. Airlines and airport planners have flagged increasing congestion in terminals, baggage systems and aircraft parking areas. The upgrade is designed to expand capacity and future-proof the airport for long-term tourism growth.

The major upgrades in simple terms

Terminal expansion and passenger flow improvements
Construction begins with upgrades to the domestic arrivals area, followed by broader terminal expansion. Travellers can expect:

• Larger domestic and international terminal capacity
• Improved baggage handling systems
• Upgraded security infrastructure
• More space to ease peak-season congestion

A brand-new runway
One of the most significant developments is the construction of a new, longer runway costing more than R6 billion. This will allow:

• More flight movements
• Accommodation of larger aircraft
• Growth in long-haul routes

New domestic terminal infrastructure
A new domestic terminal (valued at R2.4 billion) will significantly boost capacity and ease congestion during busy travel periods.

Expanded airside and airport infrastructure
Additional upgrades include:

• Expanded aircraft parking stands
• International terminal expansion
• Modernised security and airport systems

Together, these projects represent one of the biggest upgrades in the airport’s history.

How construction will affect travellers

Cape Town International Airport (CPT) will remain open throughout the works, but passengers should expect temporary disruption until 2029.

Likely impacts include:

• Changing terminal layouts and signage
• Temporary walking routes and construction zones
• Longer walking distances
• Busier passenger areas at peak times

Travel tips for the next three years

If you’re flying via Cape Town between 2026 and 2029:

• Arrive earlier than usual (especially for international flights)
• Follow airport signage closely
• Allow extra time for check-in, security and boarding
• Monitor airline updates and allow flexibility

The long-term payoff

Once completed, travellers can expect:

• More flights and improved connectivity
• Reduced congestion
• Faster baggage and security processing
• A modern, larger airport ready for future travel growth

Bottom line: Expect short-term inconvenience - but a significantly improved Cape Town International Airport (CPT) by the end of the decade.

 

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Planning Your 2026 Zimbabwe trip? Here’s what you’ll pay at Victoria Falls & National Parks

Travelling to Zimbabwe is becoming more expensive. The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has implemented immediate increases to conservation and park entrance fees across the country - including the iconic Victoria Falls and key safari destinations.

Importantly, the increase follows Zimbabwe's introduction of value-added tax (VAT) on tourism services, which is now being applied to park entry and conservation fees - further raising the cost for international travellers.

Here’s a clear, traveller-focused breakdown of the new prices and what they mean for your Zimbabwe trip planning.

Victoria Falls entrance fee increase (2026)

The biggest change affects entry to the Victoria Falls Rainforest, one of Africa’s most visited natural attractions.

New Victoria Falls entry fees (per person, per entry)

• Zimbabwe residents: US$7 (unchanged)
• SADC residents: approx. US$35 (previously ~US$30)
• International visitors: US$58 (previously US$50)

The increase primarily targets international tourism revenue while local pricing remains stable. The newly introduced VAT on tourism services is now incorporated into these updated fees.

What this means:
If you visit the Victoria Falls multiple times during your stay (which many travellers do due to changing water levels and light conditions), costs add up quickly.

Premium experiences at the Falls are now pricier

• VIP Gate (fast-track / private access)
• International tourists: US$174 (previously US$150)

• Moonlight / “Moonbow” viewing
• International tourists: US$116 (previously US$100)

These special experiences remain bucket-list highlights, but now sit firmly in the premium travel bracket.

Safari park conservation fees also increased

Daily conservation fees have been raised across Zimbabwe's flagship wildlife areas, including:

• Mana Pools National Park
• Sapi Safari Area
• Chewore Safari Area

New daily conservation fees (per person)

• Zimbabwe residents: US$8
• SADC visitors: US$18
• International visitors: US$24

These fees are typically paid in addition to accommodation and activity costs when visiting safari lodges, and VAT is now part of the overall pricing structure.

Why Zimbabwe is raising park fees

Zimbabwe relies heavily on tourism revenue to fund conservation. The new 2026 tariff structure aims to:

• Support wildlife protection and anti-poaching efforts
• Maintain park infrastructure and visitor facilities
• Increase hard-currency revenue for conservation programmes
• Align pricing with a high-value, low-volume tourism strategy
• Incorporate newly introduced VAT on tourism services

This shift mirrors trends seen across southern Africa.

How this compares to visiting Victoria Falls' Zambia side

The Zimbabwe side has long been the more expensive side of Victoria Falls, and the gap has widened further with this increase and the addition of VAT.

Many travellers now combine:

• 1–2 visits on the Zimbabwe side (best panoramic views)
• A visit from Zambia for activities and budget balance

What travellers should budget in 2026

Typical Zimbabwe visit costs now include:

• Victoria Falls entry: US$58 per visit
• Moonlight viewing: US$116
• Safari conservation fee: US$24 per day
• Optional VIP Falls access: US$174

For families or multi-day stays, this represents a noticeable increase in overall trip cost.

Traveller takeaway

Zimbabwe remains one of Africa’s most spectacular destinations - but it is increasingly positioning itself as a premium safari and nature destination.

If Zimbabwe is on your bucket list:

• Plan your Falls visits strategically
• Budget for multiple park fees
• Consider combining Zimbabwe and Zambia for value

The experience is still world-class - but planning ahead is now more important than ever.

Tip: When budgeting your Southern Africa itinerary for 2026 and beyond, allow extra park fees in Zimbabwe compared with previous years.