Malaria in Southern Africa in August 2026: Risk areas & travel advice

August marks the heart of the dry season across much of Southern Africa. Cooler temperatures and lower humidity generally reduce mosquito activity in many regions, but malaria remains a year-round health risk in several popular safari and holiday destinations. Travellers should not assume that the dry winter months are malaria-free, especially when visiting low-lying areas, river valleys and tropical regions.

If you're planning a safari in the Kruger National Park, an Okavango Delta adventure, a Victoria Falls holiday or a beach escape to Mozambique, understanding the current malaria risk and taking appropriate precautions should form part of your travel planning.

Malaria risk areas in Southern Africa

Malaria transmission varies significantly across Southern Africa. While some countries have made substantial progress towards elimination, others continue to experience year-round transmission, particularly during and after the rainy season. Although August generally sees lower transmission than the summer months, the parasite remains present in many destinations.

South Africa

Malaria risk in South Africa is limited to the country's far north-east. Risk areas include:

• Kruger National Park
• The far north-eastern parts of Limpopo Province
• The lowveld areas of Mpumalanga
• Northern KwaZulu-Natal, including parts of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park region

Popular destinations such as Cape Town, the Garden Route, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, the Drakensberg and the Eastern Cape are malaria-free.

Mozambique

Much of Mozambique remains a malaria risk area throughout the year, with the highest transmission typically occurring during and after the rainy season.

Risk exists along virtually the entire coastline and inland regions, including:

• Maputo Province
• Inhambane
• Vilanculos
• Bazaruto Archipelago
• Beira
• Gorongosa National Park
• Quelimane
• Nampula
• Ilha de Moçambique
• Pemba
• Quirimbas Archipelago
• Niassa Reserve

Travellers should take malaria prevention seriously regardless of the season.

Zimbabwe

Malaria occurs mainly in Zimbabwe's lower-altitude areas.

Higher-risk destinations include:

• Victoria Falls
• Zambezi National Park
• Hwange National Park
• Mana Pools National Park
• Kariba
• Matusadona National Park
• Gonarezhou National Park
• Eastern lowveld areas

Harare, Bulawayo and the Eastern Highlands generally have little or no malaria risk.

Zambia

Much of Zambia remains a malaria area, including:

• South Luangwa National Park
• Lower Zambezi National Park
• Kafue National Park
• Liuwa Plain National Park
• Kasanka National Park
• Bangweulu Wetlands
• Victoria Falls (Livingstone)

Transmission continues throughout the year, although mosquito numbers are usually lower during winter.

Botswana

Botswana's malaria risk is concentrated in the northern parts of the country.

Risk areas include:

• Okavango Delta
• Moremi Game Reserve
• Chobe National Park
• Savuti
• Linyanti
• The Panhandle
• Kasane

The Central Kalahari, Gaborone and much of southern Botswana are considered malaria-free.

Namibia

Malaria risk is seasonal and mainly confined to the north of Namibia.

Areas where precautions remain advisable include:

• Etosha National Park (particularly the northern sections)
• Caprivi (Zambezi Region)
• Kavango East and West
• Ruacana
• Mahango Game Reserve
• Bwabwata National Park

Windhoek, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Sossusvlei and most of central and southern Namibia are malaria-free.

eSwatini

eSwatini has made significant progress towards malaria elimination.

A low seasonal risk remains in the far eastern Lowveld near the Mozambique border, while Mbabane, Ezulwini Valley and most tourist areas are regarded as malaria-free.

Malawi

Malaria occurs throughout much of Malawi, including:

• Lake Malawi
• Liwonde National Park
• Majete Wildlife Reserve
• Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve
• Nyika National Park (lower surrounding areas)
• Blantyre
• Lilongwe

Preventive measures are recommended throughout the country.

Lesotho

Lesotho is malaria-free.

Angola

Malaria remains widespread across Angola, particularly outside the highland regions.

Popular destinations where precautions are recommended include:

• Luanda
• Kissama National Park
• Benguela
• Lobito
• Lubango (lower risk than coastal areas but precautions may still be advised depending on itinerary)

Travellers should seek destination-specific medical advice before departure.

Why August matters for malaria awareness

Although malaria transmission generally reaches its lowest levels during the Southern Hemisphere winter, the disease does not disappear. Mosquitoes remain active in warmer low-altitude areas, along major rivers and in tropical regions where temperatures stay suitable for transmission.

August is also an important month because many international visitors arrive during the excellent safari season. Cooler weather, sparse vegetation and outstanding wildlife viewing attract thousands of travellers to malaria-endemic national parks, including Kruger, Chobe, the Okavango Delta, South Luangwa and Victoria Falls.

Because mosquito numbers are often lower than in summer, travellers sometimes become less vigilant about preventive measures. However, even a single infected mosquito bite can transmit malaria.

Malaria remains a serious disease that can become life-threatening if diagnosis and treatment are delayed. Early symptoms—including fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and fatigue—may resemble influenza and can appear up to several weeks after returning home. Anyone developing flu-like symptoms after visiting a malaria area should seek medical attention immediately and mention their recent travel history.

Malaria prevention tips for travellers

The good news is that malaria is largely preventable with sensible precautions.

Before travelling:

• Consult your doctor or a travel medicine clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure if possible.
• Ask whether antimalarial medication is recommended for your itinerary.
• Ensure you understand how and when to take any prescribed medication.

While travelling:

• Apply an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or IR3535 to exposed skin.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers and closed shoes after sunset.
• Sleep in air-conditioned rooms where available or under an insecticide-treated mosquito net.
• Keep doors and windows screened or closed during the evening.
• Consider treating clothing with permethrin where appropriate.
• Reduce outdoor exposure during dusk and dawn, when malaria-carrying Anopheles mosquitoes are typically most active.

After returning home:

• Monitor your health for several weeks after travel.
• Seek urgent medical care if you develop fever, chills or flu-like symptoms.
• Always inform healthcare providers that you recently travelled to a malaria-risk area.

Final thoughts

August offers some of Southern Africa's finest safari conditions, with exceptional wildlife viewing, mild daytime temperatures and excellent road conditions across many destinations. While malaria risk is generally lower than during the rainy season, it remains an important health consideration in several of the region's most popular national parks and wilderness areas.

With appropriate preventive measures, awareness of your destination's malaria risk and prompt medical attention if symptoms develop, travellers can minimise their risk and enjoy a safe and memorable Southern African adventure.

Disclaimer: This article provides general travel health information and should not replace personalised medical advice. Malaria recommendations may vary according to your age, medical history, pregnancy status and specific itinerary. Consult your healthcare provider or a travel medicine specialist before travelling to malaria-endemic areas.

 

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Etosha National Park in August 2026: Wildlife, weather & travel tips

August is one of the best months to visit Etosha National Park. With the dry season firmly established, wildlife congregates around the park's permanent waterholes, making game viewing exceptionally rewarding. Sparse vegetation, mild daytime temperatures and virtually no rainfall also make it easier to spot animals across Etosha's iconic salt pan and open plains.

If you're planning a Namibia safari in August 2026, here's what to expect.

Weather & landscape

August is comfortably cool during the early mornings, with temperatures often dropping to around 5–10°C before sunrise. Warm clothing is essential for dawn game drives. By midday, temperatures usually climb to 24–29°C under clear blue skies, while rainfall is extremely unlikely.

The landscape has now reached the height of the dry season. Grasses are short, many smaller waterholes have dried up, and animals increasingly depend on Etosha's permanent springs and pumped waterholes. Visibility across the savanna is excellent, allowing visitors to spot wildlife from considerable distances.

The famous Etosha Pan remains a striking white expanse that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding golden grasslands and mopane woodland.

Fauna

Etosha National Park offers some of Africa's finest self-drive wildlife viewing, and August is among the very best months for sightings.

Visitors have excellent chances of encountering:

• elephants
• Black and white rhinoceros
• Lions
• Leopards
• Cheetahs
• Spotted hyenas
• Giraffes
• Zebra
• Blue wildebeest
• Springbok
• Gemsbok (oryx)
• Eland
• Kudu
• Black-faced impala
• Warthogs

Birdwatching shifts away from the migratory species of summer, but more than 300 resident bird species remain active, including raptors, ostriches, secretary birds, kori bustards and numerous waterbirds around the larger waterholes.

Animal behaviour & sightings

August is prime time for watching wildlife interactions at Etosha's famous waterholes.

Large elephant herds visit waterholes throughout the day, while black rhinos become increasingly active after sunset. Okaukuejo's floodlit waterhole remains one of Africa's finest places to observe rhinos, elephants and occasionally lions without leaving camp.

Predators benefit from the concentration of prey. Lions are frequently seen resting near waterholes during the day before becoming active towards dusk. Hyenas patrol many of the same areas after dark, while cheetahs often hunt across the open plains where visibility is at its best.

The dry conditions also make smaller mammals easier to locate, and visitors often enjoy excellent sightings of jackals, bat-eared foxes and honey badgers.

Because vegetation is now sparse, game drives generally produce more consistent sightings than during Namibia's green season.

Travel tips

August falls within Namibia's peak safari season, so booking accommodation well in advance remains highly advisable.

When visiting Etosha National Park in August 2026, keep the following in mind:

• Pack warm clothing for early morning game drives and evenings.
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and plenty of drinking water for daytime drives.
• Start your game drives shortly after the gates open and return to camp during the hottest hours before heading out again in the late afternoon.
• Spend time at the larger waterholes rather than constantly driving—many memorable sightings come to those who wait patiently.
• A good pair of binoculars greatly enhances wildlife viewing.

Fuel situation in Etosha

Travellers should currently plan very carefully regarding fuel in and around Etosha National Park. Reports continue to indicate that fuel availability inside the park and at some Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) facilities remains unreliable or unavailable. Visitors are strongly advised to enter the park with a full tank and avoid depending on fuel inside Etosha National Park itself.

Road works & road conditions

In August 2026, visitors to Etosha National Park should still expect mixed road conditions, with refurbishment work continuing on key internal routes. The main impact is likely to be around the Okaukuejo–Halali–King Nehale corridor, where travel may be slower than usual and some detours may remain in place. Most roads inside the park are gravel, so driving conditions can vary from relatively smooth to rough and corrugated, depending on traffic and maintenance work.

For August safari planning, it is wise to allow extra time between camps and to check the latest road situation at the gate or camp reception before setting out each day. Gravel roads in Etosha National Park can deteriorate quickly after rain or heavy use, so cautious driving is important, especially on longer transfers and during early morning or late-afternoon game drives. Visitors should also keep fuel, water, and basic supplies topped up, as distances inside the park can take longer than expected.

The ongoing refurbishment work should be seen as a long-term improvement for the park, even if it creates some short-term inconvenience for visitors in August. For now, Etosha National Park remains very much open for self-drive safaris, but the best experience will come from a flexible itinerary and realistic driving times.

Why visit Etosha in August?

For many travellers, August represents the sweet spot of Namibia's safari calendar. Cool mornings, comfortable afternoons and outstanding wildlife concentrations create superb conditions for photography and game viewing.

Whether you're watching elephants gather at a waterhole, waiting for a black rhino to emerge after sunset or witnessing a pride of lions resting beside the Etosha Pan, August consistently delivers some of the most memorable wildlife experiences in Southern Africa. 

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Durban beaches update: 22 of 23 beaches now safe for swimming

Visitors planning a trip to Durban can look forward to spending time on the city's famous beaches. According to the latest beach water quality results released by the eThekwini Municipality on 11 July 2026, 22 of Durban's 23 regularly monitored bathing beaches currently meet South Africa's national recreational water quality standards, making them safe for swimming, surfing and other water-based activities.

Only Laguna Beach remains closed to swimmers after recording elevated E. coli levels.

Good news for beachgoers

The latest results are encouraging for both local residents and holidaymakers visiting KwaZulu-Natal's Golden Mile or Durban's northern and southern beaches.

South Africa classifies recreational water quality as:

• Excellent: Less than 130 E. coli per 100 ml
• Acceptable: Between 130 and 500 E. coli per 100 ml
• Poor: More than 500 E. coli per 100 ml

All beaches currently open for swimming achieved either excellent or acceptable water quality ratings.

Which beaches are open?

The following monitored beaches are currently open for swimming:

• Central Durban: Wedge, Point, uShaka, Addington, South, North, Bay of Plenty, Battery, Country Club and Thekwini.
• North Coast: Westbrook, Umdloti Main, Umhlanga Main and Bronze Beach.
• South Coast: Toti Main, Anstey's, Brighton, Umgababa, Doonside, Winklespruit, Pipeline and Reunion.

Laguna Beach is the only monitored bathing beach that remains closed after recording an E. coli count of 1,234, well above the national recreational guideline. Visitors may still access the beach, but swimming is not permitted.

What do the results mean?

Several popular beaches recorded excellent water quality, including Westbrook, Point, Addington, Battery Beach, Pipeline, Anstey's Beach and Toti Main. Other favourites, such as Umhlanga Main, North Beach, South Beach, uShaka Beach and Bay of Plenty, also comfortably met national standards.

Only Bronze Beach, Umgababa, Winklespruit, Reunion and Thekwini Beach fell into the "acceptable" category, but all remain safe for recreational use.

Planning a Durban beach holiday

The latest results are welcome news for travellers, with virtually Durban's entire monitored coastline now open for swimming during the city's pleasant winter season.

As water quality can change after heavy rainfall, visitors should always check the latest municipal updates and swim only at lifeguard-protected beaches between the designated bathing flags.

With 22 monitored beaches currently meeting national recreational water quality standards, Durban remains one of South Africa's top coastal destinations for a beach holiday.

 

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Okavango Delta in August: Weather, wildlife & safari guide

August is one of the finest months to visit Botswana's Okavango Delta. The annual floodwaters from Angola have spread across much of the delta, transforming the Kalahari into a vast oasis of shimmering lagoons, papyrus-lined channels and wildlife-rich islands. Combined with cool, dry weather and exceptional game viewing, August offers some of the best safari conditions anywhere in Africa.

Whether you're planning your first Botswana safari or returning to experience the Delta in a different season, here's what to expect from the Okavango Delta in August.

Weather & landscape

August falls in the heart of Botswana's dry winter. Days are pleasantly warm with plenty of sunshine, while nights and early mornings remain chilly—particularly on open game drives and mokoro excursions.

Typical temperatures include:

• Morning: 5–10°C (occasionally close to freezing)
• Afternoon: 26–31°C
• Rainfall: Virtually none

By August, the Okavango's famous flood has reached much of the central and northern Delta. Ironically, despite being the dry season, this is when water levels are often close to their annual peak. Crystal-clear channels wind through dense papyrus beds, floodplains sparkle in the sunlight, and many islands become surrounded by permanent water.

Away from the Delta itself, Botswana's surrounding landscapes are becoming increasingly dry. Vegetation continues to thin, making wildlife easier to spot while creating dramatic contrasts between the lush Delta and the surrounding Kalahari.

The combination of abundant water, open floodplains and excellent visibility makes August one of the Delta's most photogenic months.

Fauna

The Okavango Delta supports one of Africa's greatest concentrations of wildlife, and August showcases its incredible biodiversity.

Large populations of African elephants dominate many parts of the Delta, with family groups regularly crossing channels or gathering along the water's edge. Buffalo herds can number several hundred animals, while plains game remain abundant throughout the region.

Commonly seen species include:

• Elephant
• Buffalo
• Hippo
• Crocodile
• Lion
• Leopard
• African wild dog
• Spotted hyena
• Cheetah (mainly in open concession areas)
• Giraffe
• Zebra
• Blue wildebeest
• Red lechwe
• Sitatunga
• Tsessebe
• Impala
• Greater kudu
• Warthog
• Chacma baboon
• Vervet monkey

Birdlife remains outstanding despite the absence of most migratory species. African fish eagles provide the soundtrack to the Delta, while saddle-billed storks, herons, egrets, kingfishers, bee-eaters, jacanas and numerous raptors are regularly encountered.

Animal behavior & sightings

August consistently delivers some of Botswana's finest wildlife viewing.

As water becomes increasingly scarce outside the Delta, animals from surrounding areas continue moving towards permanent water sources. This concentrates wildlife around floodplains, lagoons and channels, increasing the frequency of memorable sightings.

Predators also benefit from these conditions.

Lions frequently patrol the edges of floodplains where buffalo and antelope congregate, while leopards remain active in riverine forests and wooded islands. August is also one of the best months to encounter the endangered African wild dog, with several packs actively hunting before the onset of their denning season.

Hippos spend much of the day in deeper channels before emerging to graze after sunset, while crocodiles are increasingly active in the warming sunshine.

Elephants are particularly impressive during August. Large breeding herds often move between islands, and bulls regularly swim across deep channels—one of the Delta's most iconic safari spectacles.

The cooler mornings also encourage prolonged wildlife activity, meaning game drives often remain productive well into the day.

Travel tips

August marks the peak safari season, so advance planning is essential.

Book accommodation early. Many of Botswana's premier camps and lodges fill up six to twelve months in advance, particularly those in private concessions offering exclusive safari experiences.

Pack for both warm and cold conditions. Layered clothing works best, as temperatures can vary dramatically between sunrise and mid-afternoon. A warm fleece or insulated jacket is highly recommended for early morning game drives and mokoro excursions.

Other useful tips include:

• Bring binoculars for birdwatching and distant predator sightings.
• Pack a good camera with a telephoto lens—wildlife viewing is exceptional.
• Neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, olive and beige) is ideal for safari activities.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat remain essential despite the cooler weather.
• Consider combining the Okavango Delta with the Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe National Park or the Makgadikgadi Pans for a varied Botswana itinerary.

Water-based activities are at their seasonal best in August. Traditional mokoro trips glide through flooded reed beds, while motorboat safaris provide access to deeper channels and remote islands. Walking safaris also become increasingly rewarding thanks to the cooler temperatures and excellent game concentrations.

Why visit the Okavango Delta in August?

For many safari enthusiasts, August represents the Okavango Delta at its absolute best. Floodwaters are widespread, wildlife viewing is outstanding, temperatures are comfortable and virtually every safari activity is operating under ideal conditions.

If you're looking for classic Botswana safari experiences—from elephants crossing flooded channels to lions stalking the floodplains and silent mokoro journeys through pristine wilderness—August is one of the most rewarding months to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Victoria Falls in August: Weather, water levels, wildlife & travel tips

August is one of the most rewarding months to visit Victoria Falls, the spectacular natural wonder on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. During this time of year, the Zambezi River has moved well beyond its peak flood levels, revealing a different side of the falls: clearer views, dramatic rocky gorges, excellent wildlife viewing and some of the most exciting adventure activities on the river.

Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya – “The Smoke That Thunders”, Victoria Falls offers a completely different experience in August compared with the high-water months earlier in the year. Instead of the enormous spray clouds that can hide sections of the falls, travellers can enjoy better visibility, warmer weather and easier access to activities such as helicopter flights, river cruises and seasonal experiences on the Zambezi.

Weather and water levels: Dry season views and comfortable sightseeing

August falls in the middle of the dry winter season in Victoria Falls. Days are generally sunny, dry and pleasantly warm, while mornings and evenings can still feel cool. Average daytime temperatures are usually around the mid to high 20s°C, with cooler early mornings that are ideal for walking tours and wildlife activities. Rain is extremely unlikely during this period, making August one of the most reliable months for outdoor exploration.

The Zambezi River continues to recede after the spectacular flood season between March and May. By August, water levels are considerably lower, and the character of Victoria Falls changes. The reduced spray means visitors can often enjoy clearer views of the individual cascades, the cliffs and the dramatic gorge below.

For photographers, August is an excellent month. The combination of blue skies, lower humidity and improved visibility creates ideal conditions for capturing the scale of the falls. The Zimbabwean side usually offers some of the most extensive viewpoints, while the Zambian side provides unique perspectives across the gorge and access to seasonal adventure experiences.

The lower water levels also open the door to some of Victoria Falls' most famous activities. Depending on conditions, Devil’s Pool and visits to Livingstone Island on the Zambian side become possible during the lower-flow season, while white-water rafting on the Zambezi is generally at its best once river levels allow safe access.

Activities and wildlife: Adventure, scenery and safari experiences

August is a fantastic month to combine Victoria Falls with a Southern African safari. The surrounding bush is dry, vegetation is thinner and animals increasingly gather around remaining water sources, making wildlife easier to spot.

A visit to the falls themselves remains the highlight. On the Zimbabwean side, travellers can explore the rainforest trails and viewpoints overlooking the main cataracts, while the Zambian side offers different angles and access to experiences closer to the edge of the falls when conditions permit.

Popular activities in August include:

• Guided Victoria Falls walking tours – Learn about the geology, history and local traditions surrounding one of Africa’s greatest natural landmarks.
• Helicopter flights over Victoria Falls – The famous “Flight of Angels” provides the ultimate aerial perspective, especially when clearer conditions reveal the full shape of the falls and the winding Zambezi River.
• Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River – A relaxed way to spot hippos, crocodiles and a variety of waterbirds while enjoying one of Africa’s famous sunsets.
• White-water rafting – Lower water levels typically create better conditions for rafting adventures through the Batoka Gorge.
• Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool experiences – A bucket-list activity for adventurous travellers visiting during the appropriate water-level window.

Wildlife viewing around Victoria Falls can also be surprisingly rewarding. The surrounding areas are home to elephants, buffalo, antelope, baboons and monkeys. A short drive away, destinations such as Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and nearby safari areas offer opportunities to see elephants, giraffes, zebras and other African wildlife.

Many travellers also combine Victoria Falls with a safari in Chobe National Park in Botswana, which is only a few hours away and is famous for large elephant herds and excellent river-based wildlife viewing.

Travel tips for visiting Victoria Falls in August

August is part of the peak travel season at Victoria Falls, so accommodation and popular activities can become busy, especially around international holiday periods. Booking tours, lodges and activities in advance is recommended.

Choose your side of the falls carefully

Both Zimbabwe and Zambia offer excellent experiences:

• The Zimbabwean side generally provides more viewpoints and is often preferred by first-time visitors who want to experience the full scale of Victoria Falls.
• The Zambian side offers different perspectives and is particularly attractive for travellers interested in adventure activities such as Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool when open.

Pack for changing temperatures

Although August days are warm, early morning game drives, boat cruises and evening activities can be chilly. Bring:

• Light layers for cool mornings
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen
• A reusable water bottle
• A waterproof bag or cover for cameras and electronics

Allow at least two nights

Victoria Falls deserves more than a quick stopover. Two to three nights allow enough time to visit both sides of the falls, enjoy a sunset cruise, experience an adventure activity and still have time to relax.

Combine Victoria Falls with a wider Southern African itinerary

August is one of the best months for combining Victoria Falls with safari destinations in Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia or Namibia. The dry season creates excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, while the comfortable weather makes travelling between destinations easier.

Victoria Falls in August: Is it worth visiting?

For travellers looking for the perfect balance between spectacular scenery, comfortable weather and adventure opportunities, August is one of the best months to visit Victoria Falls. The falls may no longer be at their most powerful, but the improved visibility, exciting activities and excellent wildlife opportunities make this a truly memorable time to experience one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders.

 

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Garden Route travel update: Tsitsikamma Suspension Bridge remains open to visitors

Travellers heading to the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park can still enjoy one of the area’s most iconic experiences. The famous Suspension Bridge at Storms River Mouth remains open to visitors while refurbishment work continues.

The upgrade project, which started earlier in 2026, is aimed at strengthening and replacing important structural elements of the bridge to ensure it remains safe, durable and enjoyable for future generations of visitors. The work is being carried out while preserving the character and unique atmosphere that make the Suspension Bridge such a memorable stop along the Garden Route.

The refurbishment was initially expected to be completed by 23 June 2026, but ongoing periods of difficult weather conditions in the region have slowed construction progress. The completion date has now moved to the end of August 2026.

The good news for visitors is that access to the bridge has not been affected. South African National Parks (SANParks) is using a phased construction approach, allowing travellers to continue walking across the Suspension Bridge and enjoying the spectacular views over Storms River Mouth while the work takes place.

The Suspension Bridge is one of the highlights of any visit to Tsitsikamma. Hanging above the meeting point of the Storms River and the Indian Ocean, the bridge offers stunning coastal views and is a favourite stop for photographers, families and nature lovers exploring the Garden Route.

Visitors planning a trip to Storms River Mouth during the refurbishment period can therefore keep the Suspension Bridge on their itinerary. It remains one of the best ways to experience the dramatic coastline, forest scenery and natural beauty of Tsitsikamma.

 

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Etihad Airways and fastjet Zimbabwe announce interline, codeshare and frequent flyer partnership

Travelling to Zimbabwe is set to become even easier after Etihad Airways and fastjet Zimbabwe signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a new interline partnership, codeshare agreement and frequent flyer partnership.

Once implemented, the partnership will allow travellers to book seamless journeys on a single ticket, with convenient onward connections from Harare to Victoria Falls, Bulawayo and Johannesburg aboard fastjet Zimbabwe. Ticket sales are expected to open on 24 August 2026.

The agreement also supports Etihad Airways' new direct service between Abu Dhabi and Harare, which is scheduled to launch on 24 March 2027. The new route will provide international travellers with easier access to some of Zimbabwe's most popular destinations, particularly Victoria Falls.

In addition to the planned interline partnership and codeshare agreement, the airlines also intend to introduce a frequent flyer partnership, enabling eligible passengers to earn and redeem Etihad Guest miles across both airlines in the future.

For travellers, the new MoU marks another positive step towards improved air connectivity between Zimbabwe and the rest of the world, making future trips to destinations such as Victoria Falls more convenient.

 

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