World's Best Beaches 2026: Four South African beaches make the Corona Beach 100

Southern Africa's coastline has once again earned global recognition, with four South African beaches securing places on the prestigious 2026 Corona Beach 100 list. The annual ranking celebrates some of the world's most iconic coastal destinations and serves as a valuable source of inspiration for travellers searching for their next beach escape.

This year's list sees Wilderness Beach in Wilderness along South Africa's Garden Route making its debut, joining returning favourites Camps Bay Beach in Camps Bay (Cape Town), Boulders Beach in Simon's Town (Cape Town) and Kraalbaai Beach in Langebaan. Elsewhere in the region, Tofo Beach in Inhambane (Mozambique) and Nosy Iranja in Madagascar have also earned places among the world's most celebrated beaches.

What is the Corona Beach 100?

The Corona Beach 100 is an annual global beach guide curated by Corona in partnership with a panel of oceanographers, surfers and travel journalists. Rather than focusing solely on popularity, the list highlights beaches that excel in three key areas:

• Scenic aesthetics
• Beachside culture
• Connection to nature

The result is a carefully curated collection of destinations that offer more than just beautiful sand and sea, showcasing beaches where visitors can enjoy memorable experiences in remarkable natural settings.

Wilderness Beach makes its debut

Wilderness Beach proudly joins the 2026 Corona Beach 100 list, adding another outstanding destination in South Africa's Western Cape to this prestigious global ranking.

Located along the famous Garden Route, Wilderness is renowned for its long stretches of golden sand, dramatic ocean views and unspoilt natural surroundings. Backed by lush forests and overlooked by rugged mountains, the beach offers a sense of space and tranquillity that can be difficult to find at more developed coastal destinations.

For travellers exploring the Garden Route, Wilderness serves as an ideal stop between George and Knysna. The area is particularly popular for beach walks, paragliding, dolphin watching and outdoor adventures within the nearby wilderness areas and nature reserves.

South Africa's coastal gems shine on the world stage

Three Western Cape beaches return to the 2026 Corona Beach 100 list, showcasing the province's remarkable coastal diversity.

Camps Bay, Cape Town
Arguably South Africa's most famous urban beach, Camps Bay combines white sand, turquoise waters and one of the country's most spectacular mountain backdrops. With the Twelve Apostles mountains rising behind the beach and a lively promenade lined with restaurants and cafés, it remains a favourite among both local and international visitors.

Boulders Beach, Cape Town
Home to one of the world's most accessible African penguin colonies, Boulders Beach offers a unique wildlife experience on the Cape Peninsula. Boardwalks allow visitors to observe the penguins up close while helping to protect their sensitive habitat.

Kraalbaai Beach, Langebaan
Situated within the West Coast National Park near Langebaan, Kraalbaai is famous for its calm turquoise waters and striking white sand. During the warmer months, the lagoon resembles a tropical destination more commonly associated with island nations than South Africa's west coast.

Mozambique's Tofo Beach Earns Global Recognition

One of the most celebrated beach destinations in Mozambique, Tofo Beach in Inhambane makes its first appearance on the Corona Beach 100 list.

Located in Inhambane, Tofo Beach has become internationally known for its exceptional marine life encounters. Divers and snorkellers regularly have opportunities to swim alongside whale sharks, manta rays and other pelagic species.

The beach's relaxed atmosphere, vibrant local culture and growing tourism infrastructure continue to make it one of Southern Africa's most rewarding coastal destinations.

Madagascar's Nosy Iranja retains its place among the world's best beaches

Madagascar's stunning Nosy Iranja once again features on the Corona Beach 100 list, reaffirming its status as one of the Indian Ocean's most spectacular coastal destinations.

Often referred to as "Turtle Island", Nosy Iranja consists of two islands connected by a spectacular sandbar that emerges at low tide. Crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches and abundant marine life have helped establish the destination as one of the Indian Ocean's hidden gems.

For travellers seeking a more remote tropical island experience, Nosy Iranja offers some of Madagascar's most picturesque coastal scenery and continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Why this matters for travellers

The strong showing by South Africa, Mozambique and Madagascar on the 2026 Corona Beach 100 list highlights the incredible diversity of beach experiences available across Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean region.

Whether you're looking for penguin encounters near Cape Town, the untouched beauty of the Garden Route, world-class diving in Mozambique or idyllic island escapes in Madagascar, the region continues to offer some of the most rewarding coastal destinations anywhere in the world.

For travellers planning their next beach holiday, these internationally recognised destinations provide an excellent starting point for exploring some of Africa's finest shorelines.

 

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Addo Elephant National Park Main Camp to experience power outage on 11 June 2026

Visitors staying at Addo Elephant National Park's Main Camp on Thursday, 11 June 2026, should be aware of a temporary electricity outage scheduled for late morning.

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the electricity supply to the entire Main Camp will be switched off from 11:00 for approximately two hours. The interruption is required to connect infrastructure associated with a new spa facility currently under construction within the camp.

Guests visiting Addo Elephant National Park during this period can still enjoy game drives, wildlife viewing and other outdoor activities as normal. However, visitors staying in Main Camp accommodation should plan accordingly, as electrical appliances, charging facilities, lighting and certain guest services may be temporarily unavailable while the work is carried out.

The new spa forms part of ongoing efforts to enhance visitor facilities at Addo Elephant National Park, one of South Africa's premier Big Five destinations and home to more than 600 elephants.

SANParks has apologised for any inconvenience caused and thanked visitors for their understanding while the essential infrastructure work is completed.

Travellers scheduled to stay at Main Camp on 11 June are advised to ensure that electronic devices are charged in advance and to make any necessary arrangements before the outage begins.

 

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Visiting the Okavango Delta in July: Weather, wildlife & safari tips

July is one of the very best months to visit Botswana's Okavango Delta. While much of Southern Africa is deep into the dry season, the annual floodwaters that originated months earlier in Angola continue to arrive in the Delta, transforming the Kalahari sands into a vast oasis of channels, lagoons and islands. Combined with cool winter temperatures and outstanding wildlife concentrations, July offers some of the most rewarding safari experiences anywhere in Africa.

Whether you are planning a luxury mokoro safari, a fly-in lodge stay or a mobile camping adventure, here is what to expect from the Okavango Delta in July.

Weather & landscape

July falls in the heart of Botswana's winter and is one of the driest months of the year.

Daytime temperatures are usually pleasant, ranging between 22°C and 28°C, while overnight temperatures can drop sharply, sometimes falling below 5°C in the early mornings. Guests heading out on dawn game drives should be prepared for surprisingly cold conditions.

The most remarkable feature of the Delta in July is the arrival of the annual floodwaters. Despite little or no local rainfall, water levels continue to rise as floodwaters from Angola's highlands spread across the Delta's intricate network of channels.

Large areas become accessible only by boat or mokoro, creating spectacular scenery of water-filled lagoons, papyrus-lined channels and lush islands surrounded by floodplains. The contrast between the surrounding dry Kalahari landscape and the water-rich Okavango Delta is particularly striking at this time of year.

For photographers, July offers excellent conditions. Clear blue skies, low humidity and soft winter light create ideal opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography.

Fauna

The Okavango Delta supports one of Africa's richest wildlife ecosystems, and July is among the best months to experience it.

Large populations of elephants move throughout the Delta, often gathering in impressive numbers around permanent water sources. Botswana is home to the world's largest elephant population, and sightings in July are frequent and memorable.

Buffalo herds can number in the hundreds, while plains game such as impala, red lechwe, tsessebe, kudu, zebra and giraffe are commonly encountered throughout the region.

The Okavango Delta is also one of Southern Africa's premier predator destinations. Lions, leopards, cheetahs, spotted hyenas and African wild dogs are all regularly sighted. The renowned predator-rich concessions of the Delta often produce multiple predator encounters during a single stay.

Aquatic wildlife is equally impressive. Hippopotamus populations are abundant, while Nile crocodiles bask along riverbanks and channels.

Birdwatchers can still enjoy excellent sightings despite the departure of many migratory species. African fish eagles, saddle-billed storks, kingfishers, herons, jacanas and numerous raptors remain highly visible throughout the Okavango Delta.

Animal behaviour & sightings

July's dry conditions begin concentrating wildlife around reliable water and grazing areas, improving game-viewing opportunities.

Elephants spend much of the day moving between feeding grounds and water sources, often creating dramatic crossings through channels and floodplains. Watching large breeding herds navigate waterways is a classic Okavango Delta experience.

Predator activity tends to increase during the cooler winter months. Lions and wild dogs often remain active later into the morning and emerge earlier in the afternoon than during the hotter summer season.

African wild dogs are particularly rewarding to track in July. Several Okavango Delta concessions are recognised among the best places in Africa to observe these endangered predators hunting and interacting within their packs.

Leopards frequently utilise the Delta's riverine forests and large trees, where they rest during the day and survey their territories. The combination of open floodplains and wooded islands creates ideal habitat for sightings.

The annual flood also influences animal movement. Species such as red lechwe thrive in the wetland environment, while predators adapt their hunting strategies around waterways and islands where prey concentrations increase.

Boat and mokoro excursions often provide unique perspectives on wildlife behaviour that are impossible to experience on traditional vehicle-based safaris.

Travel Tips

Book early

July falls within Botswana's peak safari season. The most sought-after lodges and camps are often fully booked many months in advance, particularly in private concessions and premium wildlife areas.

Pack for cold mornings

Even though daytime temperatures are comfortable, early morning game drives can be extremely chilly. Warm jackets, fleece layers and a beanie are highly recommended.

Include water-based activities

July is one of the best months for mokoro excursions and boat safaris. Water levels are usually sufficient in many parts of the Delta to fully enjoy these uniquely Okavango Delta experiences.

Consider a combination safari

Many travellers combine the Okavango Delta with the nearby Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe National Park or the Makgadikgadi Pans. July's dry-season conditions make these combinations particularly rewarding.

Bring good photography equipment

The combination of exceptional wildlife densities, beautiful floodplain scenery and excellent winter light makes July one of the year's best months for photography.

Is July a good time to visit the Okavango Delta?

July is arguably one of the finest months to experience the Okavango Delta. The arrival of the annual floodwaters creates breathtaking landscapes, while cool temperatures and increasing wildlife concentrations deliver outstanding safari opportunities.

For travellers seeking classic Delta scenery, exceptional predator sightings, water-based safari activities and comfortable weather, July represents the start of Botswana's world-class peak safari season.

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Air Zimbabwe returns to London after 14-year absence

Air Zimbabwe is set to resume direct flights between RG Mugabe International Airpot (HRE) in Harare and London Gatwick Airport (LGW) in London from 01 July 2026, marking the national carrier's return to the UK market after a 14-year absence.

The route was once a cornerstone of Air Zimbabwe's international network before long-haul operations were suspended in 2012. Since then, travellers between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom have relied on one-stop services via hubs such as Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Doha, Dubai and Kigali.

The return of non-stop flights will be welcomed by Zimbabweans living in the UK, business travellers and tourists planning trips to destinations such as Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park.

For visitors, a direct connection removes the need for lengthy transit stops and makes Zimbabwe more accessible from one of its most important long-haul source markets.

The relaunch also comes at a time when Zimbabwe's tourism industry continues to recover, with growing interest in the country's wildlife, safari and adventure tourism offerings.

Questions remain about the long-term sustainability of the route, with Air Zimbabwe reportedly planning to operate the route through an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) agreement with Spanish carrier Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas, which will provide the aircraft and operational support. As with any newly launched route, travellers should keep an eye on schedules and operational updates during the first months of operation.

Nevertheless, the return of direct flights between Harare and London represents one of the most significant developments in Zimbabwean aviation in recent years and could provide a welcome boost for both tourism and business travel.

For travellers heading to Zimbabwe in the second half of 2026, the prospect of a direct flight from London is certainly good news.

 

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South Africa’s iconic Choo Tjoe Train set for return on Garden Route by 2027

The long-awaited return of one of South Africa's most iconic railway experiences has taken another significant step forward. Plans to restore the historic Outeniqua Choo Tjoe tourist train along the Garden Route are gaining momentum, with project leaders now aiming to have the first section between Knysna and Sedgefield operational by 2027.

According to a report by the George Herald, the latest update was presented by Classic Rail CEO Alan McVitty and communications consultant Martin Hatchuel during a recent meeting of the Plettenberg Bay Men's Probus Club.

For travellers, the revival of the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe would mark the return of one of the country's most scenic rail journeys. The route once carried visitors through indigenous forests, across dramatic coastal landscapes and over estuaries between George and Knysna, becoming a beloved attraction for both domestic and international tourists.

Significant progress is already being made on the ground. Clearing operations have commenced along sections of the railway line between Knysna and Belvidere, where invasive vegetation has encroached on the tracks during years of inactivity. Railway safety regulations require a three-metre clearance on both sides of the line before services can resume.

Project planners are also exploring an innovative sustainability initiative that could see timber removed during the clearing process converted into charcoal and marketed under the Choo Tjoe brand.

Meanwhile, engineering assessments are under way on two of the route's most important structures: the Knysna Estuary Bridge and the Kaaimans River Bridge near Wilderness. Both bridges require extensive evaluation and rehabilitation before trains can operate safely, although project leaders indicated that viable engineering solutions have already been identified.

Work is also progressing behind the scenes to secure and restore suitable rolling stock. Plans include the refurbishment of both steam and diesel-electric locomotives, together with passenger coaches. Depending on weather conditions and wildfire risks along the route, locomotives may operate using coal, diesel or bunker fuel.

The initial phase of the project focuses on restoring services between Knysna and Sedgefield. If successful, it could pave the way for the eventual return of the full George-to-Knysna railway experience that made the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe famous.

For visitors to the Garden Route, the prospect of once again travelling by rail through some of South Africa's most spectacular coastal scenery is an exciting development. While considerable work remains before the first passengers can board, the latest progress suggests that the dream of seeing the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe steaming through the Garden Route may finally be moving from vision to reality.

 

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Victoria Falls in July: Weather, water levels, wildlife and travel tips

July is one of the best months of the year to visit Victoria Falls. Straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the world's largest sheet of falling water enters the heart of the dry season during July, bringing comfortable temperatures, excellent wildlife viewing and increasingly clear views of the falls themselves.

For travellers planning a Southern African safari or multi-country adventure, July offers an outstanding combination of pleasant weather, reliable wildlife sightings and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

Weather and water levels

July marks the middle of the dry winter season across much of Southern Africa. Days at Victoria Falls are typically sunny and mild, while nights and early mornings can feel surprisingly cool.

Daytime temperatures generally range between 24°C and 28°C, while overnight lows can drop to around 7°C to 10°C. Visitors heading out on early morning game drives, walking safaris or sunrise excursions should pack a warm jacket or fleece.

Water levels remain substantial during July, although they are noticeably lower than during the peak flood season between March and May. This creates some of the year's most rewarding viewing conditions.

During the high-water months, immense spray clouds can obscure large sections of the falls. By July, the reduced spray allows visitors to enjoy much clearer panoramic views of iconic sections such as the Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Rainbow Falls from the Zimbabwean side.

The Zambian side also becomes increasingly accessible, with more viewpoints opening up as water levels continue to recede.

Photography conditions are particularly good during July. Clear skies, lower humidity and reduced spray make it easier to capture uninterrupted views of the gorge and waterfall.

Activities and wildlife

July is one of the busiest safari months in Southern Africa for good reason. Dry conditions force wildlife to concentrate around rivers, waterholes and permanent water sources, making animal sightings more predictable.

The nearby Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia offer excellent opportunities to spot elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, antelope and a wide range of bird species.

River cruises on the Zambezi are especially popular during July. Sunset cruises provide opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles and elephants coming to the river's edge while enjoying spectacular African sunsets.

Adventure activities are also in full swing during the dry season. Popular options include:

• Helicopter flights over Victoria Falls
• Scenic microlight flights (from the Zambian side)
• White-water rafting in the Batoka Gorge
• Gorge swings and ziplining
• Bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge
• Guided walking tours of the falls
• Canoe safaris on sections of the upper Zambezi

July is widely regarded as one of the best months for white-water rafting. Lower water levels expose more of the Batoka Gorge and create some of the world's most exciting commercial rapids.

For travellers interested in wildlife photography, the combination of dry vegetation, clear skies and concentrated animal populations creates exceptional opportunities throughout the wider Victoria Falls region.

Travel Tips

Book accommodation early
July falls within Southern Africa's peak safari season. Hotels, safari lodges and popular guesthouses in both Victoria Falls town and Livingstone can fill up months in advance. Early reservations are strongly recommended.

Pack for temperature changes
Visitors often underestimate how cool winter mornings can be. Layered clothing works best, allowing you to stay warm during early activities and comfortable during warmer afternoons.

Carry a light rain jacket
Although the dry season is well established, visitors exploring viewpoints close to the falls can still get soaked by lingering spray, particularly on the Zimbabwean side.

Consider staying longer
Many travellers only spend one or two nights at Victoria Falls. However, three to four nights allows enough time to experience the falls, enjoy river activities, take a safari excursion and explore both sides of the border.

Bring binoculars
Wildlife viewing opportunities extend far beyond the waterfall itself. Binoculars are useful for river cruises, game drives and birdwatching excursions.

Check visa requirements
Travellers planning to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia should investigate the KAZA Univisa, which often offers a convenient way to cross between the two countries and visit attractions on both sides of the falls.

Is July a good time to visit Victoria Falls?

July is arguably one of the most balanced months to experience Victoria Falls. Visitors enjoy pleasant winter weather, clearer views of the waterfall, excellent wildlife viewing and access to a wide range of adventure activities.

While the waterfall may not be at its most powerful, the reduced spray reveals dramatic views that many travellers miss during the flood season. Combined with peak safari conditions across the wider region, July remains one of the most rewarding months to visit one of Africa's greatest natural wonders.

 

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Good News for Travellers: All Durban beaches meet water safety standards

Travellers heading to Durban this winter can look forward to beach days with added peace of mind. The latest water quality results released by the eThekwini Municipality on 04 June 2026 confirm that all of Durban's regularly monitored bathing beaches currently comply with South Africa's national recreational water quality standards.

The positive update comes as KwaZulu-Natal enters its popular winter tourism season, with visitors from across South Africa and abroad flocking to the city for its warm Indian Ocean waters, mild climate and vibrant beachfront attractions.

All major Durban beaches currently open

According to municipal testing, the following beaches are open for swimming, surfing and recreational activities:

1. Point Beach
2. uMgababa Beach
3. uShaka Beach
4. Wedge Beach
5. Brighton Beach
6. Country Club Beach
7. Westbrook Beach
8. mDloti Main Beach
9. Anstey's Beach
10. Thekwini Beach
11. Laguna Beach
12. uMhlanga Main Beach
13. Bronze Beach
14. South Beach
15. Doonside Beach
16. Addington Beach
17. North Beach
18. Bay of Plenty Beach
19. Battery Beach
20. Toti Main Beach
21. Pipeline Beach
22. Winklespruit Beach
23. Reunion Beach

The update is particularly welcome for visitors staying along Durban's famous Golden Mile, where beach activities remain a central part of the holiday experience. From early morning jogs and surfing sessions to family beach outings and oceanfront dining, travellers can continue to enjoy the city's iconic coastline.

Why Durban remains a top winter beach destination

While much of South Africa experiences cooler winter temperatures, Durban enjoys a subtropical climate that keeps outdoor activities attractive throughout the year.

Popular visitor hotspots include:

• The Golden Mile beachfront promenade
• uMhlanga's beaches and luxury resorts
• uShaka Marine World
• North Beach surfing areas
• Durban's beachfront restaurants and cafés

The combination of warm weather, accessible beaches and family-friendly attractions continues to make Durban one of South Africa's most popular coastal destinations.

Ongoing water quality monitoring

Durban's coastal water quality programme operates year-round to ensure beaches remain safe for residents and visitors.

The monitoring system includes:

• Regular seawater sampling
• Accredited laboratory testing
• Continuous compliance assessments
• Public reporting of water quality results

Beaches are only declared safe for recreational use once testing confirms they meet national standards.

This ongoing monitoring plays an important role in maintaining traveller confidence, particularly following the infrastructure and environmental challenges experienced along parts of the KwaZulu-Natal coastline in recent years.

Alternative options for families

Families travelling with young children may also wish to explore Durban's network of municipal swimming pools. The city operates around 40 public pools across the metro area, many of which are supervised by lifeguards and provide a safe alternative when sea conditions become rough.

Tips for a safe day at the beach

Before heading into the water, travellers should:

• Swim between designated lifeguard flags
• Follow instructions from lifeguards
• Check beach notices and warning signs
• Avoid swimming immediately after heavy rainfall
• Be aware of strong currents and surf conditions

The bottom line

The latest water quality results provide encouraging news for anyone planning a winter escape to Durban. With all monitored bathing beaches currently meeting national safety standards, visitors can enjoy the city's famous coastline with confidence.

Whether you're planning a family holiday, a surfing weekend or simply looking for some winter sunshine, Durban's beaches remain one of South Africa's premier coastal attractions.