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

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

Cathay Pacific (11 return flights per week):

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

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

TAAG Angola Airlines (23 return flights per week):

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

Ethiopian Airways (35 return flights per week):

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

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

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

Northern winter season (October to December):

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

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

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

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

South Africa: Malaria drug shortage!

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

Also read:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table Mountain National Park: Impact of floods caused by recent heavy rains!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has released an update on the current situation in Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town following the recent heavy rains and floods in the region, which severely impacted most areas of the National Park. SANParks is still conducting assessments on the extent of the damage and regularly updating the alerts to park users of the dangerous areas they need to avoid until further notice. The estimated damage to the infrastructure is still yet to be determined as there are new reports of infrastructure damage on a daily basis.
The following areas have been affected by the recent floods. SANParks urges the park users to exercise caution or avoid the mountain trails where slippery, wet, and muddy conditions persist to avoid having accidents and requiring rescue. Affected areas includes:

• Newlands Forest - eroded trails and fallen trees/branches.
• Tokai - Level 5 cycling trail in Upper Tokai closed due to landslides, boulders, and debris in the road. The area is currently inaccessible for cyclists and vehicles.
• Rhodes Memorial - Tar road lifted, fallen trees, mass amounts of debris in the road, and eroded trails. The road is closed until further notice.
• Schusterskraal Boardwalk (Scarborough) closed pending repairs as a result of erosion underneath the boardwalk.
• Landslide on Tafelberg Jeep track and lots of rock fall on the tar road..
• Landslide along Constantia Nek hiking trail leading up to the dam area.
• Sink hole and a fallen tree in Deer Park.
• Landslides discovered along Camps Bay Pipe Track
• Ouwa Pad in Silvermine closed.
• Landslide off the hiking trail to the Admiral's Waterfall in Simonstown.
• Road verge erosion discovered in Silvermine East Management track.

According to Table Mountain National Park Manager, Ms. Megan Taplin, the intensive work to repair the infrastructure damage will be carried out once the weather conditions become more favorable. In the meantime, some repair work is being carried out by park rangers and volunteers. The winter rains have been predicted for the duration of the season and SANPArks will continue to ensure the safety of the users.
We'll keep you posted!

|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park: The upcoming flower season in the arid Richtersveld region might be one of the best in decades!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that there is a good chance that the upcoming flower season in the arid Richtersveld region of the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park will be one of the best in decades. This is due to exceptional rainfall the region experienced during the month of May and June 2023. The low mountains in the central parts of the National Park from Akkedispas to Helskloof received between 20-80mm of rain during these months whilst the high mountains, Vandersterrberg and the Ploegberg to Stinkfontein mountains in the Richtersveld World Heritage Site received between 100-120mm of rain.
Since the 26 May 2023 unusually cold temperatures persisted, accompanied by almost windless days. These conditions have been the most ideal conditions in almost two decades as little evaporation happened in between rainfall episodes, and the close proximity of the rain intervals has led to rare conditions to cause mass germination of annual seeds.
If the good current weather conditions persist, annual flower displays might start from mid July, during which times exceptional flower displays can be seen. The flower season is usually between mid-July through to the end of August but can even extend to September 2023 this year.

The |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park spans some of the most spectacular arid and desert mountain scenery in southern Africa – and includes the Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa. The Peace Park straddles two countries, earning it two different names: It is |Ai-|Ais in Namibia and Richtersveld in South Africa. The quickest way to get to the National Park from the N7 (South Africa) and the B1 (Namibia) is to turn off at Steinkopf and approach via Port Nolloth and Alexander Bay with only the last 80km being on dirt.

Survey: FlySafair named Best Low-Cost Airline in Africa for the third consecutive year!

For the third year in a row, South African airline FlySafair has been named Best Low-Cost Airline in Africa in the 2023 Skytrax World Airline Awards. Fastjet (Zimbabwe) came in second in the ranking, followed by Nouvelair (Tunisia), Jambojet and fly540 (both Kenya). FlySafair was also named eigth Best Airline in Africa and its staff fourth Best in Africa 2023. South African Airways scooped the award for having the best Cabin Crew in Africa 2023, was named third Best Airline in Africa 2023, came in forth in the World’s Most Improved Airlines 2023 category and its staff was rated second Best in Africa 2023. Southern Africa’s largest independent airline measured by flight movements, Airlink, was named third Best Regional Airline in Africa 2023.

The Skytrax World Airline Awards 2023 are based on customer responses to an online survey which was operated from September 2022 to May 2023. Over 100 customer nationalities participated in the survey. All survey entries were screened to identify IP and user information, with duplicate, suspect or ineligible entries deleted. More than 325 airlines are featured in the final Award results.

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Cape Town: SANParks has reiterated that kitesurfing is not permitted at Noordhoek Lagoon!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that it has reassessed the situation and reiterated the decision that kitesurfing is not permitted at Noordhoek Lagoon in Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town. The decision has been carefully considered and was made in the context of SANParks conservation mandate as well as in the interests of all users. According to SANParks, concerns have recently been raised by environmental and recreational user groups concerning the use of the Noordhoek Beach’s seasonal backshore lagoon that forms above the high water mark of the beach area. Kitesurfing at the backshore lagoon is officially prohibited since 2007. SANParks communicated the decision at the time and signage to this effect was erected at the car park and on the trail to the beach.

SANParks decision to ban kitesurfing at Noordhoek Beach’s seasonal backshore lagoon is mainly based on environmental reasons:

• Environmental Impact
  The lagoon represents a rare, if not unique, habitat type on the Peninsula. Because it experiences relatively limited human disturbance, it acts as a refuge for roosting birds driven from rocky-shore roosts by high levels of human disturbance.
• Fauna
  The area is a vital breeding ground for the African Black Oystercatcher, which is a Red Data Book species – a very threatened  species. The horse-riding community has agreed to restrict access here for these reasons. The results have been positive and to nullify this success by permitting an additional impactful activity such as high-speed kitesurfing would be a retrogressive step. The lagoon margins also support breeding pairs of White-fronted Plover which, while not threatened, struggle to breed along that coastline due to high levels of urbanization and human disturbance. The pan is also a significant commuting zone for Cape Clawless Otters on their way between the sea and Noordhoek wetlands.
• Flora
  The dune vegetation, vital for the functioning of the dune ecosystem, is easily disturbed. To permit an additional activity that threatens its health is highly undesirable.
• Access And Erosion
  If the vegetation is denuded erosion will set in. Additionally, in order to access the proposed site, users would use different approach routes. Proper conservation practice channels managed access through sensitive areas to limit the damage. New access routes will lead other path users to the desired routes, which will have a negative impact on the dune vegetation.
• Impact on other Users
  The horse-riding community has stated that kitesurfers spook horses. This places riders in danger of being thrown or horses bolting and endangering other users and horses in danger of injuring themselves. In addition, the lagoon is a popular place for families with young children. Speeding kiteboards impact on the peace and safety of the area, the birdlife, and other users.

Namibia: FlyNamibia introduces flights to Lüderitz!

Namibian privately-owned airline FlyNamibia has annunced that it will launch a new service to the coastal town of Lüderitz in the Karas Region of southern Namibia. The airline is set to operate five weekly nonstop flights on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between Eros Airport (ERS) in Windhoek and Lüderitz Airport (LAD), located about 9 km southeast of the center of town, on the B4 road. Flights will depart Windhoek at 07:15 and arrive in Lüderitz at 08:15, while flights from Lüderitz will depart at 13:30 and arrive in Windhoek at 14:30. Flights will commence on 03 July 2023.

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South Africa: FlyCemAir to launch a new service to Zimbabwe! [update]

update (21 June 2023): FlyCemAir will launch its new four weekly service to Johannesburg and Victoria Falls on 09 August 2023. Flights will be operated on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

• Johannesburg 11:20 > 13:00 Victoria Falls
• Victoria Falls 13:30 > 15:05 Johannesburg

South African domestic and regional carrier FlyCemAir has announced that it will launch a new service to Zimbabwe. According to postings on Facebook and LinkedIn, the airline will commence flights between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) in Victoria Falls in August 2023. However, FlyCemAir has not announced a launch date and schedule. We'll keep you posted!

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South Africa: This city is one of the Top 5 "solo travel" destinations in Africa!

British travel adventure company Explore! recently analysed 24 months’ worth of Google data to find out which places around the world solo travellers are getting more interested in. According to the study, Cape Town in South Africa ranked second best African destination for solo travellers. The "Mother City" saw an 144% increase in yearly Google searches for "solo travel" . The island of Mauritius (+ 147%) gained the biggest increase in interest based on yearly Google searches on the African continent. Cairo in Egypt secured third place with 108% followed by the Seychelles in fourth with 45% and the Kenyan capital Nairobi taking fifth place.

Explore! compiled a comprehensive list of over 580 locations around the world (including 108 countries, 321 cities, 107 regions and the 50 states in the USA). These locations were then each analysed in Google Keyword Planner with + [solo travel] (e.g. Cape Town solo travel, Mauritius solo travel, Seychelles solo travel etc.) to find the total accumulative number of Google searches made worldwide in the last 12 months (April 2022 to March 2023). This was compared with the total accumulative number of Google searches made worldwide in the previous 12 months (April 2021 – March 2022). The difference in annual search totals per destination was calculated to see which destinations have the highest percentage jump in search volume interest.

South Africa: Tourist arrivals jump 102,5% in the first quarter of 2023!

The South African Department of Tourism has published its latest tourism data for the first quarter of 2023. According to the statistics, South Africa had 2.1 million international visitors between January 2023 and March 2023. This is a significant 102.5% increase compared to the same period in 2022. However, it is still 21.5% lower than the 2019 levels. The African continent led the way with 1.6 million arrivals between January 2023 and March 2023, followed by 387 000 visitors from Europe and 104 000 visitors from the Americas.

The foreign direct spend in South Africa soared to an astounding R25.3 billion during the first quarter of 2023, marking a 143.9% increase compared to the first three month of 2022. Between January 2019 and March 2019, the foreign direct spend in South Africa was R25.6 billion.

Western Cape: CapeNature has closed some areas within its Nature Reserves due to the current adverse weather conditions!

CapeNature, the public institution with the responsibility for biodiversity conservation in South Africa's Western Cape, has informed the public that the current adverse weather conditions in the province have affected operations at some of its Nature Reserves such as Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve, Gamkaberg Nature Reserve, Limietberg Nature Reserve and the Cederberg Wilderness Area. These adverse weather conditions are expected to continue for the next few days, so that CapeNature took the decision to close certain areas within the Nature Reserve mentioned above as these are compromised due to the heavy rainfall. We'll keep you posted!

Zimbabwe: The expansion project of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare is now complete! [update]

update (18 July 2023): Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on 14 July 2023 commissioned the new Chinese-funded expanded terminal at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare, the main gateway to Zimbabwe.

The expansion project of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare, Zimbabwe, is now complete and is expected to be commissioned on 13 July 2023 14 July 2023, while the refurbishment of the older terminal area is set to be finished by December 2023.
The US$153 million project, which started in 2018, included the expansion of the terminal building to increase the airport's annual passenger capacity from the current 2.5 million to 6 million, the installation of four new aerobridges (one being able to handle an Airbus A380) and four new baggage carousels, the construction of a new fire station, the relocation of the satellite fire station, the rehabilitation of an existing apron, the construction of a new VIP pavillion, the rehabilitation of the existing international and domestic terminal buildings as well as the upgrading of equipment for passenger facilitation, check in counters, baggage handling and access control.

According to Zimbabwean newspaper "The Herald", travellers will start using the extension by the end of June 2023.

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) formerly known as Harare International Airport is located 15 kilometres south of Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe. The airport is the main gateway into the country.

Cape Town: Update on the state of Table Mountain National Park following the recent adverse weather conditions! [update #4]

update (20 June 2023): SANParks is advising visitors to Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town of fallen trees in Deer Park and Rhodes Memorial Parking. The Rhodes Memorial Gate is still closed to the public until further notice.
The Cecilia Ridge, Rooikat Ravine, and Spilhaus Ravine are very unstable at the moment due to rockfall. SANParks kindly requests Park users to exercise caution in the National Park, and preferably wait for more favorable weather conditions before venturing into it.

update (20 June 2023): SANParks has released more updates on the state of Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town following the adverse weather conditions: 

• Another landslide has been discovered in Upper Tokai as well as erosion of the management leading to the Mast/Tower.
• Park users should also take note of the damaged roads in Sandy Bay and Karbonkelberg area. 
  

update (18 June 2023): SANParks has released more updates on the state of Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town following the current adverse weather conditions:

• Landslides have been discovered along Camps Bay Pipe Track.
• A road verge erosion has been discovered along Silvermine East Management track. 
• Landslide off the hiking trail to the Admirals Waterfall in Simonstown.
  

update (16 June 2023): SANParks has released more updates on the state ofTable Mountain National Park in Cape Town following the current adverse weather conditions:

• Landslides have been discovered along Camps Bay Pipe Track.
• Ouwa Pad in Silvermine closed.
• A sink hole is developing in Deer Park. The area will be cordoned off and repaired once weather conditions become favorable.
  
• Upper Tokai: Level 5 trail in Tokai to be closed due to boulders and debris in the road. The area is currently inaccessible for cyclists and vehicles.
• Constantia Nek hiking trail: For your own safety, please avoid the area as far as possible.

South African National Parks (SANParks) is urging visitors to Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town to proceed with caution or avoid carrying out activities due to the current adverse weather conditions the Mother City has been experiencing over the past two days. According to a notice issued by SANParks, the following areas are affected (as of 15 June 2023):

• Newlands Forest:
• eroded trails and fallen trees/branches.
• Tokai:
• Caution around the Arboretum. Lots of flooding in and around Tokai - picnic site, Orpen Road, northern perimeter of Lower Tokai, Tokai greenbelt and onto the M3.
• Rhodes Memorial:
• Tar road lifted, mass amount of debris in the road, eroded trails. Road closed until further notice.
• Schusterskraal Boardwalk (Scarborough) is closed pending repairs as a result of erosion underneath the boardwalk
• Mudslide on Tafelberg Jeep track and lots of rockfall on the tar road
• Mudslide along Constantia Nek hike leading up to the dam area.
• Report of a developing sink hole in Deer Park - rangers will assess the area to pin point the exact location.

We'll keep you posted!

Airlink & LATAM Airlines have signed an interline agreement!

South African regional carrier Airlink and the largest airline in Latin America, LATAM Airlines, have signed a new interline agreement. The agreement becomes effective on 02 September 2023 (04 September 2023?) when LATAM resumes flying from São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport (GRU) in São Paulo (Brazil) and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg after a pause of more than three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the agreement, LATAM passengers will be able to access 47 destinations in 14 African countries and St Helena Island.
An Interline agreement between airlines allows passengers to change from one flight on one airline to another flight on another airline without having to gather their bags or check-in again.

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Iziko Museums of South Africa: Free entry to selected museums on Youth Day!

Iziko Museums of South Africa has announced that it will be offering free entry to selected museums in Cape Town on Youth Day (16 June 2023). This includes the South African Museum (25 Queen Victoria Street), Slave Lodge (Corner Adderley and Wale Streets), Bo-Kaap Museum (71 Wale Street), Rust en Vreugd (78 Buitenkant Street), and the Koopman's de Wet House (35 Strand Street).

• South African MuseumMonday to Sunday
  09:00 – 17:00
• Slave Lodge
  Monday to Saturday 09:00 – 17:00
• Bo-Kaap Museum
  Mondays to Saturdays from 09:00 – 17:00
• Rust en Vreugd
  Thursday and Friday 09:00 - 16:00
• Koopman's de Wet House
  Thursday and Friday 09:00 - 16:00

Iziko Museums of South Africa operates 11 national museums in Cape Town as well as collection-specific libraries, a world-class Social History Archive and the most advanced digital Planetarium and Digital Dome on the African Continent. 

Cape Town: SANParks increases safety on Table Mountain!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town has received eighteen so-called Tourism Safety Officers who will join Park Rangers in their daily safety patrols. The programme is in partnership with the Western Cape Government: Department of Community Safety and provides for the officers to be stationed in Table Mountain National Park to assist Park Rangers with their daily activities. Their duties are mainly visible policing and assisting rangers with their daily conservation and tourism duties.

"Table Mountain National Park is an open-access park surrounded by the City of Cape Town and requires more support to combat criminal activities affecting our visitors as well as tackle environmental crime. The Tourism Safety Officer team will boost our existing visitor safety and law enforcement work alongside our rangers", said Manager, Table Mountain National Park Ms. Megan Taplin.

Table Mountain National Park was proclaimed on 29 May 1998 for the purpose of protecting the natural environment of the Table Mountain Chain, and in particular the rare fynbos vegetation. The National Park contains two well-known landmarks: Table Mountain, for which the park is named; and the Cape of Good Hope, the most southwestern extremity of Africa.
Table Mountain National Park is a Natural World Heritage Site and home to one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. It stretches 70km from Signal Hill and Table Mountain in the north to Cape Point in the south and includes a Marine Protected Area and many of the beaches around the Cape Peninsula.

South Africa: Seasonal rainfall & temperature outlook (June - October 2023)!

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has released the Seasonal Climate Watch for the period June 2023 to October 2023. According to the seasonal outlook, the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is currently in a neutral state. However, forecasts indicate that it will likely move into weak El Niño state during late-winter and early-spring and eventually strengthening into a strong El Niño state for the remainder of the summer season. ENSO’s impact is expected to be limited for the current forecast period until the summer season starts which will likely be impacted by a strong El Niño state if early predictions are correct.

The multi-model rainfall forecast indicates above-normal rainfall for most of South Africa during winter (June - August) through to early-spring (August - October). This is still only relevant for the south-western parts of the country during winter but also relevant for South Africa's eastern coastal areas during spring.
Minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be mostly above-normal countrywide for the forecast period.

Portugal: TAP Air Portugal launches a second service to Angola!

TAP Air Portugal, the flag carrier of Portugal, has announced the launch of flights between Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) in Porto and Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD) in Luanda, Angola. The airline will operate two weekly return flights on Wednesdays and Sundays to Angola's capital. Flights will be operated on board TAP Air Portugal's new Airbus A330neo with 264 seats in Economy Class and 34 lie-flat seats in Executive Class.

• Porto 13:30 > 21:35 Luanda
• Luanda 23:20 > 07:45+1 Porto

TAP Air Portugal already serves Luanda from Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) in Lisbon.

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South Africa: South African Airways to receive six new aircaft & resume intercontinental flights within two months!

South African Airways (SAA) has announced that it has been given the permission to lease a wide-body aircraft as well as five narrow-body aircraft - all of them Airbus equipment. This paves the way for South Africa's national carrier to relaunch international routes and increase seat capacity for its regional and domestic destinations. The aircraft will be delivered before the end of this calendar year.
According to SAA's Interim CEO, Professor John Lamola, a Request for Proposals (RFP) is currently out for four A320 narrow-body aircraft. The other two - an A330 and A320 have already been secured from the lessor community on the same terms as the ones issued in the RFP. Lamola further announced that the four aircraft that we are ordering will all be deployed by September 2023.

Derek Hanekom, who chairs the interim board of South African Airways, told Biznews in an interview (see video) that by the end of 2023, SAA is planning to operate 18 regional and domestic routes as well as two intercontinental/international routes. One of the intercontinental destinations will be São Paulo in Brazil, which will be launched probably about two months from now (05 June 2023). The other intercontinental destination will be announced by the end of October 2023. Other destinations SAA is looking at include London, Frankfurt, Perth and New York. As of now, South African Airways is flying to two domestic destinations (Johannesburg <> Cape Town and Johannesburg <> Durban) as well as to ten continental/regional destinations in Africa. The airline currently operates seven (owned or leased) aircraft.

Mozambique: LAM-Mozambique Airlines introduces a new service to Lusaka, Zambia!

The flag carrier of Mozambique, LAM - Mozambique Airlines, is set to introduce a new service between Maputo and Lusaka, Zambia, with a stopover in Harare, Zimbabwe, as part of the airline's South African countries' capital inclusion strategy. Effective 30 June 2023, LAM will operate three weekly retrn flights on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays to the Zambian capital. The new route will be operated with the Embraer 145 model aircraft, which has a capacity of 50 seats.

• Maputo 12:30 - 14:05 Harare
• Harare 14:45 - 15:50 Lusaka
• Lusaka 16:30 - 17:35 Harare
• Harare 18:15 - 19:50 Maputo

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Malawi has lifted all Covid-19 travel related restrictions at points of entry!

The Government of Malawi has announced that with effect vom 05 June 2023 all Covid-19 travel related restrictions for entry into Malawi are lifted. A Covid-19 vaccination certificate or a negative Covid-19 PCR test result are no longer a requirement for entering the country. Outgoing travellers leaving Malawi are responsible for checking and complying with entry requirements in the countries of their destination and/or transit.
The decision to adjust the Covid-19 measures was made in the light of the current Covid-19 situation in Malawi and follows a World Health Organization (WHO) announcement that Covid-19 is now an established and ongoing health issue which no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

Western Cape: The Ski Hut in the Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve burnt down!

The Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve in the the Western Cape in South Africa has announced that its popular Ski Hut burned down during the last weekend. According to a statement on Facebook, the police is currently busy with a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire. The management of the Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve further announced that the Ski Hut will be rebuilt and that they will have something better to offer their guests "after the dust had settled". We'll keep you posted!

The Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve is situated on the working fruit, vegetable and protea farm Erfdeel about 35km outside of Ceres and about two hours from Cape Town. The reserve covers more than 1 000 ha of mountain area, including the Matroosberg Peak, the highest mountain in the Cape Winelands with a height of 2,247 m above sea level.

South Africa: Geelbek Restaurant in West Coast National Park changes opening times in June & July 2023!

South African National Park (SANParks) has announced that the Geelbek Restaurant in the West Coast National Park in the Western Cape in South Africa will only be open on weekends and then closed on weekdays in June 2023 and July 2023. The restaurant will be open again throughout the week in August and September 2023. 

Situated right on the picturesque Langebaan lagoon, the Geelbek Restaurant offers spectacular views of the West Coast National Park and the lagoon. It is surrounded with breathtaking natural vistas of flamingos and other birdlife, with a huge variety of game and wildlife. This Cape Dutch building is a National Monument and was renovated three times since it was first built in 1744.

South Africa: Airlink to launch flights to Malawi! [update]

update (14 September 2023): On 06 September 2023 Airlink touched down in Blantyre, wrapping up the successful inauguration of its new dual Malawi routes – the other destination being Lilongwe.

South African regional carrier Airlink is set to launch flights to Malawi. The airline is planning to operate three weekly flights between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and both Kamuzu International Airport (LLW) in Lilongwe and Chileka International Airport (BLZ) in Blantyre from 23 September 2023. Airlink will fly their 37-seat Embraer Regional Jets on both new routes. Malawi becomes the 16th country to be included in Airlink’s route network.

• Johannesburg 11:00 > 13:20 Lilongwe on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
• Lilongwe 14:10 > 16:35 Johannesburg on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
• Johannesburg 11:00 > 13:05 Blantyre on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays
• Blantyre 14:15 > 16:35 Johannesburg on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays

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