Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Adjusted Christmas Day shop hours announced!

The management of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has announced that the shops in the National Park will change its operating hours on Christmas Day (25 December 2024). The shops at Nossob Rest Camp and Mata-Mata Rest Camp will operate from 07:00 to 17:00, while the shop at Twee Rivieren Rest Camp will be open from 07:30 to 17:00. Additionally, the Christmas lunch at the Twee Rivieren restaurant will be served between 12:00 and 15:00. Normal trading hours for the shops and restaurant will resume on 26 December 2024.

Zambia waives visa requirements for 53 countries, aiming for tourism growth!

The Zambian Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security has announced a visa waiver for citizens of 53 countries under Statutory Instrument No. 78 of 2024. This decision raises the total number of countries with visa-free access to Zambia to 167. The new policy will come into effect on 01 January 2025.
Zambia anticipates a rise in international tourist arrivals, aiming to reach three million annually by 2026. In comparison, the country recorded over 1.5 million tourist arrivals in 2023.

"While the government is committed to opening doors to international travellers, we are also mindful of the need to maintain national security. This is the reason why the department of immigration is focusing on implementing a mix of pre-entry and post-entry migration management measures", said Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu

The 53 countries whose nationals will no longer require a visa to enter Zambia are: 

1. Albania
2. American Samoa
3. Andorra
4. Argentina
5. Aruba
6. Bhutan
7. Bosnia and Herzegovina
8. Bouvet Island
9. Brunei Darussalam
10. Cape Verde
11. Christmas Island
12. Cocos (keeling) Islands
13. Comoros
14. Cook Islands
15. Costa Rica
16. Dominican Republic
17. Faroe Islands
18. French Polynesia
19. French Southern Territories
20. Greenland
21. Guam
22. Guatemala
23. Guyana
24. Hungary
25. Iceland
26. Israel
27. Laos
28. Liberia
29. Liechtenstein
30. Macedonia
31. Madagascar
32. Micronesia
33. Moldova
34. Monaco
35. Morocco
36. Netherlands Antilles
37. New Caledonia
38. Northern Mariana Islands
39. Palau
40. Panama
41. Papua New Guinea
42. San Marino
43. Sandwich Islands
44. Sao Tome and Principe
45. South Georgia And the South Sandwich Islands
46. Suriname
47. Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands
48. Switzerland
49. Turkey
50. Ukraine
51. Vatican City State
52. Virgin Islands
53. Wallis and Futuna Islands

King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban: All e-hailing pick-up and drop-off locations have been relocated!

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has announced an update regarding the designated e-hailing pick-up and drop-off points at King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban. To enhance convenience and streamline operations, all e-hailing pick-up and drop-off activities have been relocated from the previous Pick-Up Zone to the Multi-Storey Parkade (undercover parking) on Level -1.
This adjustment aims to provide a smoother and more efficient experience for passengers and drivers alike. The new arrangement takes effect immediately, starting today, 20 December 2024. 

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Durban beach update: 21 beaches open for swimming, 2 closed due to water quality!

The eThekwini Municipality, the local government body responsible for governing and managing Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, has issued updated lists as of 18 December 2024, detailing the status of local beaches and swimming pools. According to the updates, 21 beaches in Durban are open and deemed safe for swimming, while two beaches remain closed due to water quality concerns. Additionally, 33 swimming pools across Durban are open to the public.

The following beaches are open for swimming:
- operating hours 06:00 - 18:30 -

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

Beach(es) closed for swimming:

1. Anstey's Beach
2. Reunion

Recreational activities other than swimming at beaches closed for swimming are allowed!

Durban beach update: 20 beaches open for swimming, 3 closed due to water quality!

The eThekwini Municipality, the local government body responsible for governing and managing Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, has released updated lists of beaches that are currently (as of 13 December 2024) open and safe for swimming, closed for swimming and of swimming pools that are currently open to the public. According to the lists, 20 beaches in Durban are currently open for swimming, while swimming at three beaches is prohibited due to water quality. 33 swimming pools in Durban are currently open to the public. 

The following beaches are open for swimming:
- operating hours 06:00 - 18:30 -

1. uShaka
2. Addington
3. Battery Beach
4. Bay of Plenty
5. Point Beach
6. North Beach
7. South Beach
8. Wedge Beach
9. Thekwini Beach
10. Laguna Beach
11. Country Club
12. mDloti Main
13. uMhlanga Main
14. Bronze Beach
15. uMgababa
16. Brighton
17. Winkelespruit
18. Toti Main Beach
19. Pipeline Beach
20. Warner Beach

Beach(es) closed for swimming:

1. Anstey's Beach
2. Reunion
3. Westbrook
   

 Recreational activities other than swimming at beaches closed for swimming are allowed!

France: Air France extends seasonal Cape Town Route until end of April 2025!

The flag carrier of France, Air France, has announced an extension of its seasonal route between Paris and Cape Town. The airline will continue operating its service between Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) until 27 April 2025, covering the Easter period. From 30 March to 27 April 2025, the route will maintain its current schedule of three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, addressing the increased travel demand during this time.

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Namibia: Roads Authority opens upgraded 170 km stretch of the MR91!

The Namibian Roads Authority (RA), whose core business is to construct and maintain Namibia's road sector, has announced that a 170 km section of Main Road 91 (MR 91) between Gobabis and Aminuis has been opened. The road was upgraded to bitumen standards.
The MR 91 is approximately 239 km long. It connects the Omaheke Region and the Hardap Region and the Trans-Kalahari Highway, which links the harbor at Walvis Bay in the Erongo Region to South Africa via Botswana.
As part of the project, the RA also upgraded the access road from Aminuis to the Toasis village. The access road serves as a link between the Aminuis Village and Rietquelle Settlement, including the Toasis village, where the Chief Hosea Kutako Memorial Museum and Homestead Shrine are located. This 24-kilometre access road was upgraded to low-volume seal standards.
The remaining section of the MR91 from Aminuis to Aranos is expected to be completed in the second half of 2025.

The Chief Hosea Kutako Memorial Museum and Homestead Shrine honors the legacy of Chief Hosea Komombumbi Kutako (1870–1970), a revered figure in Namibia's anti-colonial struggle. He was the paramount chief of the Ovaherero people and a staunch advocate for justice and human rights during Namibia's turbulent colonial period under German and later South African rule.
The site includes the chief's homestead, which has been declared a national heritage site. It features a memorial shrine and exhibits highlighting Chief Kutako's contributions to Namibia's fight for independence.

Durban: Two beaches are currently closed for swimming due to water quality!

The eThekwini Municipality, the local government body responsible for governing and managing Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, has released updated lists of beaches that are currently (as of 10 December 2024) open and safe for swimming, closed for swimming and of swimming pools that are currently open to the public. According to the lists, 21 beaches in Durban are currently open for swimming, while swimming at two beaches is prohibited due to water quality. 33 swimming pools in Durban are currently open to the public. 

The following beaches are open for swimming:
- operating hours 06:00 - 18:30 -

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

Beach(es) closed for swimming:

1. Anstey's Beach
2. Reunion

 Recreational activities other than swimming at beaches closed for swimming are allowed!

Cape Town steakhouse ranked among the world’s best!

Time Out, the renowned global magazine for culture, entertainment, and events, recently surveyed its network of editors and international writers about their favourite spots for a steak in their city. Among the standout recommendations, Iron Steak and Bar in Cape Town earned the impressive title of the sixth best steak restaurant in the world. Located on Bree Street, the heart of the city’s culinary scene, Iron Steak and Bar is celebrated for its perfectly cooked steaks, prepared on the distinctive Spanish Vulcano Grez grill. The menu features a range of options, from premium cuts to the exceptional flat iron steak. Congratulations!

Time Out's 10 best steaks in the world:

1. El Toro, Agadir (Morocco)
2. Klaw, Miami (USA)
3. Adega Solar Minhoto, Lisbon (Portugal)
4. La Cabrera, Buenos Aires (Argentina)
5. Clover Grill, Paris (France)
6. Iron Steak and Bar, Cape Town (South Africa)
7. Alfie’s, Sydney (Australia)
8. Fireside, Hong Kong
9. Lana, Madrid (Spain)
10. Le Relais de Venise l’Entrecôte, London (UK)

The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality has closed another popular beach in East London! [update]

update (11 December 2024): The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality has announced that following water quality tests conducted in the last few days, Nahoon Beach in East London has been reopened.

The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in South Africa's Eastern Cape has closed another popular beach in East London on 06 December 2024. According to the Municipality, following a spillage, Nahoon Beach remains closed until officials confirm two cleared days of acceptance lab test results. Eastern Beach in East London is already closed since mid-November 2024 due to exposed rocks, which are an imminent danger to bathers and forming dangerous rip currents.

Nahoon Beach is located in the suburb of Nahoon in East London. It's situated along the coastline, just a few kilometers northeast of the East London city center. The beach lies adjacent to the Nahoon River, which flows into the Indian Ocean nearby, creating a beautiful lagoon area.  Nahoon Reef is famous among surfers for its powerful, consistent waves, catering to both advanced and beginner surfers.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Nossob Rest Camp switches to 24-hour solar power!

The South African National Parks (SANParks) management of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has announced that the Nossob Rest Camp now also has 24-hour electricity supply. SANParks switched from generator power for 17 hours per day to solar power for 24 hours per day. In October 2024, the Mata-Mata Rest Camp switched to 24-hour solar power.

Situated along the Nossob Riverbed, the Nossob Rest Camp is approximately 160 km north of Twee Rivieren Rest Camp, the southern entrance gate to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. The camp has a shop, a fuel station and a swimming pool. While the Nossob Rest Camp itself is accessible by 2WD vehicles, many roads and trails are better suited for 4x4 vehicles, especially after rain.

Travel Update: Refueling challenges at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg! [update #2]

update (11 December 2024): ACSA has released some more information about the refueling challenges OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg experienced on 09 December 2024 between 09:05 and 13:01. According to ACSA, the technical problem was due to a drive shaft that sheared (or shattered). This prevented the pumping of jet fuel from storage tanks to the aprons, which enables the re-fuelling of aircraft. The repair work was conducted in compliance with rigorous safety procedures. This encompasses depressurisation, drainage of fuel, purging the system of hydrocarbons and associated gasses and the implementation of specialised rigging to ensure the safe completion of work.
This refuelling technical challenges directly impacted approximately 177 flights and 22 073 passengers between 09:05 and 13:01 when flights resumed. The knock-on effect of this four-hour delay impacted a further number of flights and passengers, over the 13:00 to 23:00pm period when the backlog was cleared.  The total impact on the ACSA network was 483 flights and 49 429 passengers as well as 31 flights cancelled for the day. This took place against an estimated total number of 1500 flights and 110 000 passengers which are normally processed through ACSA’s network daily. Therefore, about a third of the flights were impacted and about half the daily passengers were impacted.

update (09 December 2024): ACSA just announced that the fuel system at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is now fully operational, and fuel trucks are on their way to the apron. Operations are currently back to normal. 

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has announced that OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is currently facing refueling challenges, affecting the ability of airlines to refuel aircraft as usual. As a result, some flights may experience delays. ACSA has assured the public that technicians are working diligently to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. We’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Safe travels!

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Airlink & Air France-KLM signed a new codeshare agreement!

French-Dutch multinational airline holding company Air France-KLM implemented a new codeshare agreement with South African regional airline Airlink, effective 03 December 2024.
This commercial partnership enhances connectivity for travellers, offering Air France and KLM customers access to an extensive range of destinations in Southern Africa via OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town. At this stage, the codeshare agreement is active on 14 Airlink domestic destinations in South Africa.
Air France-KLM and Airlink plan to expand the partnership in the future, with additional destinations to come in Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, St Helena, Zambia and Zimbabwe (expansion subject to approval by the relevant authorities).
Air France and KLM currently operate up to 14 weekly flights to Johannesburg and 14 weekly flights to Cape Town on departure from their respective hubs at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) in Amsterdam.

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South Africa: Seasonal rainfall & temperature outlook (December 2024 to April 2025)!

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has released the Seasonal Climate Watch for the period December 2024 to April 2025. According to the seasonal outlook, the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is currently still in a neutral state and is predicted to weaken further. Current predictions indicate the development of a weak La Niña state only during mid-summer and therefore may only affect South Africa’s summer rainfall during the latter parts of the season. There is also still significant uncertainty in the predictions at this stage on whether a La Niña event will occur.
Current predictions indicate above-normal rainfall for parts of the north-eastern central and coastal areas of South Africa, with most parts of the summer rainfall areas expected to recieve below-normal rainfall. During the latter parts of summer (February to April 2025) there is a widespread increase in chances for above-normal rainfall over the summer rainfall areas, potentially indicating a very late influence from the potential La Niña event.
Minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be mostly above-normal in South Africa for the
forecast period. However, the southern coastal areas of the country indicate that below-normal temperatures are more likely throughout the summer period.

TAZARA suspends passenger train services in Tanzania for urgent track repairs!

The Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) has announced the temporary suspension of passenger train services between Dar es Salaam and Mbeya in Tanzania, including the Kilimanjaro Ordinary Train and the Udzungwa train, effective 29 November 2024. According to TAZARA, this decision follows multiple track closures caused by a series of more than ten unforseen incidents. These events have necessitated temporary closures of various sections of the railway line to faciltate urgent repairs. TAZARA is expecting to resume normal operations in Tanzania by 12 December 2024. We'll keep you posted!

The Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) is a bi-national railway, jointly owned by the Government of Tanzania and the Government of Zambia on an equal share-holding basis. The 1,860 km-rail runs from Tanzania and East Africa’s major seaport of Dar es Salaam into the heart of Zambia's Central Province, terminating at New Kapiri-Mposhi, where it is further linked by road and rail to Zambia's capital city, Lusaka (about 200 km), Zambia's mining nerve centre, the Copperbelt province (about 100 km) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

South Africa: South African Airways (SAA) facing possible strike by its pilots! [update #3]

update (07 December 2024): South African Airways (SAA) has announced that the pilots' strike, which began on 05 December 2024, has been suspended as of 02:00 this morning. This resolution follows successful negotiations between SAA Executive Management and the South African Airways Pilots Association (SAAPA). The airline is expected to return to a 100% flight schedule by 08 December 2024, with more than 100 pilots returning to their duties by 12:00 today (07 December 2024). We'll keep you posted!

update (05 December 2024): According to Khaya Buthelezi, SAA's senior manager of corporate relations, flights to Perth in Australia and Sao Paulo in Brazil have both been canceled as no partner airlines could be found to transfer passengers to.

update (05 December 2024): The pilots started striking this morning at 07:00. According to SAA, the strike's length is unclear. It will impact all SAA-operated flights on domestic and regional routes, including Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha, Windhoek, and Mauritius. However, flights by SAA’s codeshare and Star Alliance partners will operate as scheduled.

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South African Airways (SAA) is facing a strike by its pilots. The airline announced on 03 December 2024  that after protracted wage negotiations it has received a notification from the SAA Pilots Association (SAAPA) expressing their intent to embark on a strike action commencing 05 December 2024. According to SAA, the management of the airline is doing everything possible to avoid a strike by pilots, or any disruptions to its operations, especially during the December peak season.

“SAA has only recently regained its operational viability after emerging from business rescue in 2021. In order not to disrupt this momentum, we are committed to ongoing negotiations with SAAPA and to do everything possible to reach a fair settlement that is mutually beneficial to both the pilots and the company”, said SAA Interim Chief Executive Officer Professor John Lamola.

We'll keep you posted!

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Cape Town: Major upgrades coming to Muizenberg beachfront!

The City of Cape Town has announced that the refurbishment of the Muizenberg beachfront is set to commence by mid-February 2025. The project entails major upgrades to public amenities and replacing the aged seawalls, and will be complete by the end of 2026.
The upgrade of the Muizenberg beachfront, which will be done in phases, will take place at Surfer’s Corner, on the western part of the beachfront along Beach Road, including the connection to the St James walkway, the Surfer’s Corner steps, the main promenade area and the existing informal gravel parking area along the railway line and eastern parking area.
The first work of the project will commence along the western section of Surfer’s Corner, next to the railway line. The beach will remain open and accessible at all times.

The  refurbishment of the Muizenberg beachfront will include the following upgrades and repairs:

• a new stepped revetment coastal protection infrastructure
• clay pavers on the existing parking area along the railway line
• new ablution facilities
• a new pergola
• an upgraded playground
• relocation of all eight beach huts

Muizenberg is located along the False Bay coastline in Cape Town, approximately 25 km from the city center. It is part of the southern suburbs and is easily accessible via road or train. The beach is famous for its wide, sandy shoreline and gentle waves, making it one of the most popular destinations in Cape Town.
 

South Africa: Airlink halts flights to Lesotho over safety soncerns at Maseru Airport! [update]

update (04 December 2025): Airlink has announced that firefighting services at Moshoeshoe I International Airport (MSU) in Maseru have been restored. As a result, the airline's flights will operate as scheduled from tomorrow, Thursday 05 December 2024.

South African regional airline Airlink has announced the disruption of its daily service between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Maseru in Lesotho due to the unavailability of fire and rescue services and equipment at Moshoeshoe I International Airport (MSU). According to the airline, today’s (03 December 2024) flights on the route have all been cancelled. Airlink will resume flights to Maseru as soon as the airport operator has restored the necessary emergency support services. We'll keep you posted!

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Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Early closure of Twee Rivieren shop & restaurant on 6 December 2024!

The management of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has announced that the shop and the restaurant at Twee Rivieren Rest Camp will be closing earlier than normal on 06 December 2024. This is due to the National Park's annually Awards function:

• Twee Rivieren Shop will be open from 07:30 to 18:00 on 06 December 2024
• Twee Rivieren Restaurant will be open from 08:30 to 18:00 on 06 December 2024

Twee Rivieren is largest rest camp in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and its administrative headquarters. The camp is situated on the banks of the dry Nossob riverbed. Activities and facilities are diverse, as are the animals and plants found both within the camp and in the surrounding areas. Besides the new Interpretation Centre, Twee Rivieren Rest Camp has a reception, shop, fuel, restaurant, information centre and swimming pool. This is the only camp with 24 hrs electricity and cell phone reception in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. 

Durban: Two beaches are currently closed for swimming due to water quality!

The eThekwini Municipality, the local government body responsible for governing and managing  Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, has released updated lists of beaches that are currently (as of 02 December 2024) open and safe for swimming, closed for swimming and of swimming pools that are currently open to the public. According to the lists, 21 beaches in Durban are currently open for swimming, while swimming at two beaches is prohibited due to water quality. 33 swimming pools in Durban are currently open to the public. 

The following beaches are open for swimming:
- operating hours 06:00 - 18:30 -

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

Beach(es) closed for swimming:

1. Anstey's Beach
2. Reunion

 Recreational activities other than swimming at beaches closed for swimming are allowed!

Festive season 2024/25: Kruger National Park enforces gate quotas for day visitors!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that daily quotas for day visitors will once again apply at the entrance gates of Kruger National Park during the festive season 2024/25. Three time slots have been introduced, of which day visitos can choose from. Visitors are urged to make pre-bookings for their visits prior to their arrival. The three time slots are as follows:

• Time slot 1: 05.30 to 08:00
• Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00
• Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards

Pre-booked day visitors are prioritised at the gate but must arrive within their booked time slots. Late arrivals will be treated as non-booked and will not receive preference. It’s also important to note that Wild Card members are not exempt from the pre-booking fee.
Once the daily quota has been reached, only people who made pre-bookings are allowed to enter Kruger National Park. The rest will have to queue and rely on the people moving out of the park to create space for them; this situation does not affect overnight guests.

• All guests (drivers and passengers) will be required to identify themselves upon admission (by producing a South African driver’s license, identity document or passport); please ensure you are in possession of one of these documents and have them ready.
• Pre-booking is crucial for day visitors, as it allows them to secure up to 80% of the Day Visitor Quota per gate. This can be done via SANParks Reservations offices and online.
• Day Visitor pre-bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of R56 per adult and R28 per child, which must be paid in advance. This fee ensures their space because they would have been counted in the number that made the daily quota.
• Day Visitors who have pre-booked will still be required to pay Conservation Fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter Kruger National Park. The Conservation Fee for SA residents as well as Zimbabwe and Mocambique nationals (passport required to prove this) is R128 per adult and R64 per child (between ages 2 – 11). For nationals of Eswatini and other SADC countries, the conservation fees are R257 per adult and R128 per child. The standard conservation fees of R535 for adults and R257 for children apply to all other guests.
• Guests are reminded of the secure and convenient cash-free payment system at the gates (Paul Kruger, Phabeni, Numbi, Malelane and Crocodile Bridge) and fuel stations in the southern part of Kruger National Park. This system ensures a smooth and hassle-free entry and exit from the park.
• Vehicles without licence plates will not be allowed to enter/exit the park at the entrance gates; any vehicle found inside the park without front and rear licence plates will be impounded, and the driver will be charged under the NEMPA ACT and fined.
• Ranger services, SANDF, and Protection Services will be full force to ensure compliance and prevent poaching. The upgraded camera technology will assist them, vigilant law enforcers, and the public, who have shared information to assist in numerous arrests.
• Visitors are urged to observe Kruger National Park's rules, which are primarily intended to ensure safe and pleasant experiences. By respecting these rules, visitors contribute to the preservation of the park’s natural beauty and the safety of all its inhabitants. They are further urged to plan their trips and allow sufficient time to enjoy the bush, relax, and arrive safely at their destination.

South Africa: Airlink expands Nairobi service with additional night flights!

South African regional airline Airlink is set to increase flights to Nairobi in Kenya. The airline will add three weekly night flights to its service between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi from 30 March 2025. The extra flights provide greater choices travellers flying between the two cities and bolster Airlink’s daily service which it launched last year, when it became the first private sector airline to compete on the route.

Airlink’s 98-seat Embraer E190 jetliners will operate the additional flights on these days and at these times:

• Johannesburg 20:30 > 01:30 Nairobi on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays
• Nairobi 02:15 > 05:35 Johannesburg on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays

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Kruger National Park Calendar - January!

Weather:

• height of summer
• very hot & humid days
• warm nights
• often spectacular lightning storms

Temperatures:

• between 18°C - 34°C (Fahrenheit: e.g. 34°C = [(34x9)]/5 + 32 = 93.2°F)
• visit our webcam page for live footage from Kruger National Park!

Landscape:

• vigorous plat growth everywhere in the park
• tree canopy very thick
• fig trees in fruit
• mopane tree in flower

Animal Activity:

• height of the impala breeding season
• predators out to get their young
• most resident non-raptor birds breeding
• animal activity all over the park
  

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South Africa: South African Airways eyes international growth with new routes to Europe, US, and Asia!

South African Airways (SAA) is gearing up for significant growth in its international operations, according to interim CEO John Lamola. In an interview with Bloomberg, Lamola revealed plans to expand the airline's global network, including launching flights to London in the UK by December 2025. Additional destinations under consideration include the United States, Germany, and China.
Lamola also noted growing interest from banks eager to discuss potential lending arrangements with SAA. These funds would support the airline's ambitious route expansion plans.
Currently, SAA operates a fleet of 16 aircraft and serves 16 destinations. The airline is set to receive seven additional planes in 2025, enhancing its capacity to expand into key markets in Europe, North America, and Asia.

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Western Cape: Herold's Bay Beach in Herold's Bay is temporarily closed! [update]

update (02 December 2024): The George Municipality announced on 29 November 2024 that Herold's Bay Beach in Herold's Bay is reopened for swimming and surfing at own risk.

The George Municipality in South Africa's Western Cape has announced that Herold's Bay Beach in Herold's Bay is temporarily closed to swimming and surfing. According to the Municipality, this is due to a failure on the pumpline between the Herold's Bay Sewer Pump Station and the Waste Water Treatment plant. Suction services have been dispatched to contain the spill and a contractor is en route for repairs. The cleanup will be handled in terms of standard requirements. We'll keep you posted!

Herold's Bay is a picturesque seaside village situated about 18 km southwest of George. The village is easily accessible via the N2 highway and George Airport (GRJ) in George, which is just a 10-minute drive away. Herold's Bay Beach is a small but pristine stretch of sand, ideal for sunbathing, fishing, surfing and swimming.

Durban: Four beaches are currently closed for swimming due to water quality!

The eThekwini Municipality, the local government body responsible for governing and managing  Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, has released updated lists of beaches that are currently (as of 27 November 2024) open and safe for swimming, closed for swimming and of swimming pools that are currently open to the public. According to the lists, 19 beaches in Durban are currently open for swimming, while swimming at four beaches is prohibited due to water quality. 33 swimming pools in Durban are currently open to the public. 

The following beaches are open for swimming:
- operating hours 06:00 - 18:30 -

1. uShaka
2. Addington
3. mDloti Main
4. uMhlanga Main
5. Bronze Beach
6. Westbrook
7. uMgababa
8. Brighton
9. Winkelespruit
10. Toti Main Beach
11. Pipeline Beach
12. Warner Beach
13. Point Beach
14. North Beach
15. South Beach
16. Wedge
17. Thekwini Beach
18. Laguna Beach
19. Country Club

Beach(es) closed for swimming:

1. Anstey's Beach
2. Reunion
3. Battery Beach
4.  Bay of Plenty
   

Recreational activities other than swimming at beaches closed for swimming are allowed! 

Kruger National Park: Swimming pool at the Shimuwini Bushveld Camp is temporarily closed!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the swimming pool at the Shimuwini Bushveld Camp in Kruger National Park is temporarily closed. According to SANParks, this is due to maintenance work "necessary to enhance your future Kruger experience".
Shimuwini Bushveld Camp is located in the northern region of Kruger National Park, along the banks of the Letaba River. The self-catering bushveld camp is the most modern of the bushveld camps in the National Park, , being completely rebuilt after the floods in 2000. Only residents and no day visitoirs are allowed in the camp and on the access roads to Shimuwini Bushveld Camp. Phalaborwa Gate, about 50 km (31 miles) away, is the closest and most convenient access point to the Camp.

East London: ATNS secures approval for Runway 11 instrument landing system at King Phalo Airport (ELS)!

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), the company that provides air traffic, navigation, training and associated services within South Africa, has announced that the instrument landing system (ILS) flight procedure for Runway 11 at King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London has been approved by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). According to ATNS, this ensures that both runways, 29 and 11, at the airport will have valid procedures in place. As a result of this development, flight operations at King Phalo Airport (ELS) are expected to improve, reducing the likelihood of flight disruptions as witnessed recently. We'll keep you posted!

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Durban: Two beaches are currently closed for swimming due to water quality!

The eThekwini Municipality, the local government body responsible for governing and managing  Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, has released updated lists of beaches that are currently (as of 22 November 2024) open and safe for swimming, closed for swimming and of swimming pools that are currently open to the public. According to the lists, 21 beaches in Durban are currently open for swimming, while swimming at two beaches is prohibited due to water quality. 33 swimming pools in Durban are currently open to the public. 

The following beaches are open for swimming:
- operating hours 06:00 - 18:30 -

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

Beach(es) closed for swimming:

1. Anstey's Beach
2. Reunion 

Recreational activities other than swimming at beaches closed for swimming are allowed! 

Mountain Zebra National Park: Renovations to some Family Cottages set to begin!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that renovations to some of the Family Cottages at the Mountain Zebra Rest Camp in the Mountain Zebra National Park will commence on 29 November 2024. The upgrade is expected to be finished by mid-December 2024. As such, some noise is expected in the Rest Camp during this time.
The Mountain Zebra Rest Camp is located about 12 kilometres from Mountain Zebra National Park's entrance gate and offers comfortable family cottages, a campsite with communal facilities, a restaurant and a shop. The entrance gate to the National Park is located approximately 12 km southwest of Cradock, in South Africa's Eastern Cape. The gate is situated along the R61 road.

Botswana: Air Botswana launches flights to two regional destinations!

According the booking system on Air Botswana's website, flights to Durban in South Africa and Windhoek in Namibia are set to be launched next month. Direct flights between Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban will commence on 01 December 2024, while a direct service between Gaborone and Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek will be introduced on 04 December 2024. Both direct services will be operated three times a week on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

• Gaborone 07:30 > 08:50 Windhoek on Sundays & Fridays
• Gaborone 12:00 > 13:20 Windhoek on Wednesdays
• Windhoek 09:35 > 10:55 Gaborone on Sundays & Fridays
• Windhoek 14:25 > 15:45 Gaborone on Wednesdays

• Gaborone 11:40 > 13:10 Durban on Sundays & Fridays
• Gaborone 07:30 > 09:00 Durban on Wednesdays
• Durban 13:55 > 15:25 Gaborone on Sundays & Fridays
• Durban 09:45 > 11:15 Gaborone on Wednesdays

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Namibia: Road betterment works begin on critical route connecting Khaudum National Park!

The Namibian Roads Authority (RA), whose core business is to construct and maintain Namibia's road sector, has announced that the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Works and Transport, John Mutorwa, today (21 November 2024) officiated the groundbreaking for phase 1 of the road betterment works on District Road 3472 (Ndiyona to Djaradjara) in the Kavango East Region.  
District Road 3472 is a vital artery connecting the Khaudum National Park to Trunk Road 0804 (Rundu-Ndivundu) on the northern side and Shikerete Village and Tsumkwe Settlement on the southern side. It also links numerous schools and clinics in the Kavango East region. The project will be constructed over 12 months.



Khaudum National Park is one of Namibia's most remote and rugged wildlife destinations. Located in the northeastern part of the country, near the border with Botswana, the National Park covers an area of approximately 3,842 square kilometers and is part of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA).

South Africa: CemAir introduces a new seasonal service to George!

South African domestic and regional carrier CemAir is set to introduce a new seasonal service between Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town and George Airport (GRJ) in George. From 01 December 2024 to 19 January 2025, the airline will operate four weekly return flights on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Nestled in the heart of South Africa's Garden Route and at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains, George lies between Cape Town (approximately 430 km west) and Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth (330 km east). It’s on the N2 national highway.

Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays:

• Cape Town 15:45 > 16:45 George
• George 17:15 > 18:15 Cape Town

Mondays:

• Cape Town 16:15 > 17:15 George
• George 17:45 > 18:45 Cape Town

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Durban: Six beaches are currently closed for swimming due to water quality!

The eThekwini Municipality, the local government body responsible for governing and managing  Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, has released updated lists of beaches that are currently (as of 18 November 2024) open and safe for swimming, closed for swimming and of swimming pools that are currently open to the public. According to the lists, 17 beaches in Durban are currently open for swimming, while swimming at six beaches is prohibited due to water quality. 33 swimming pools in Durban are currently open to the public. 

The following beaches are open for swimming:
- operating hours 06:00 - 18:30 -

• Wedge
• uShaka
• Point Beach
• Addington
• North Beach
• South Beach
• Bay of Plenty
• Battery Beach
• Thekwini Beach
• Laguna Beach
• Country Club
• mDloti Main
• uMhlanga Main
• Bronze Beach
• uMgababa
• Brighton
• Winkelespruit

Beach(es) closed for swimming:

• Westbrook
• Anstey's Beach
• Reunion
• Toti Main Beach
• Pipeline Beach
• Warner Beach
  

Recreational activities other than swimming at beaches closed for swimming are allowed! 

Eastern Cape: Flight delays at King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London! [update #2]

update (21 November 2024): Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has informed passengers that weather reports for 21 November 2024 indicate clear visibility, with no interruptions expected. We'll keep you posted!

update (20 November 2024): According to Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), today's disruptions at King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London were not due to the absence of instrument flight procedures for Runway 11, which was in use. The cloud base was at 100 feet and therefore below the acceptable minima. As a result, some flights were diverted toKing Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban and Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth. 

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has informed the public that King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London in South Africa's Eastern Cape is currently experiencing flight delays. According to ACSA, this is due to inclement weather in the Eastern Cape. ACSA has also informed the public that some flights have been diverted to King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban and that "delays are anticipated throughout the morning". The situation is getting closely monitored. We'll keep you updated!

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Ranking: Namibia tops Africa in road quality!

The Namibian Roads Authority (RA) announced that, according to Statista, Namibia has the highest road quality infrastructure in Africa. The country reached an index rating of 5.57 on a scale from 1 (lowest) to 7 (highest) in terms of road condition and extensiveness. Egypt and Benin followed with a score of 5.53 and five, respectively. South Africa has the continent's 10th highest road quality infrastructure with a score of 3.97.
Namibia boasts an extensive road network, spanning over 48,875 km (2017). 6,664 km are standard bitumen roads, 412 km are low-volume bitumen roads, and the rest are gravel. Major highways include the A1 freeway between Windhoek and Okahandja (74 km) and the B1 highway (1,522 km), which runs from the northern border with Angola at Oshikango to the southern border with South Africa at Noordoewer.

Statista is a global data and business intelligence platform with extensive statistics, reports, and insights on over 80,000 topics from 22,500 sources in 170 industries.

South Africa crowned "Most Desirable Destination for Wildlife & Nature"!

The readers of Wanderlust, a UK based independent travel magazine, crowned South Africa the "Most Desirable Destination for Wildlife & Nature" in the 23rd Annual Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards. The country was also voted 7th in the category of "Most Desirable Country". Cape Town in South Africa came in 5th in the category "Most Desirable City". Congratulations!
For the second consecutive year, Australia retained its crown as "Most Desirable Country (World)", while Italy was named "Most Desirable Country (Europe)". Tokyo sooped the award as the "Most Desirable City (World)" and the "Most Desirable City (Europe)" award went to Madrid in Spain.
According to Wanderlust, over 3.5 million votes were cast by their 168,000 readers for the annual travel awards.

East London: One of the city's most popular beaches is temporarily closed!

The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in South Africa's Eastern Cape has temporarily closed one of the most popular and most central beaches in East London. According to the Municipality, parts of the Eastern Beach have been washed away leaving exposed rocks. This is an imminent danger to bathers and forming dangerous rip currents. Parts of the road and pavement have also been eroded.

Eastern Beach is located in East London's suburb Quigney, which is situated east of the central business district (CBD). The beach stretches along the Indian Ocean coastline and is bordered by Esplanade Road. Quigney's main thoroughfare is known for its hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants catering to beachgoers.

Zambia: Proflight Zambia signed its first interline ticketing agreement with a European airline partner!

Zambian privately owned regional carrier Proflight Zambia has signed its first interline ticketing agreement with a European airline partner. The new partnership with Turkish Airlines becomes effective in November 2024 and allows the Turkish flag carrier airline to issue tickets connecting its passengers seamlessly to Proflight Zambia's domestic and regional routes, making travel easier and more convenient.
With the partnership, travellers can now access Zambia’s vibrant destinations such as South Luangwa National Park and Livingstone, plus major destinations across Southern Africa on a single ticket, enhancing their travel experience.
Turkish Airlines is currently serving 53 destinations in Türkiye and 296 internationally across 130 countries.

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SANParks: Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park adjusts shop hours for stocktaking in late November 2024!

The management of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has announced that due to monthly stocktaking all shops in the National Park will have to temporarily change its operating hours on selected dates at the end of November 2024. The shops at Nossob Rest Camp (on 21 November 2024) and  Mata-Mata Rest Camp (on 26 November 2024) will only be open from 07:00 to 09:00 and from 15:00 to 19:45, while the shop at Twee Rivieren Rest Camp will only be open from 15:00 to 19:15 on 27 November 2024.

Cape Town: Cape Town Pride to host Africa's first WorldPride!

The organizers of the annual Cape Town Pride, a gay pride event in Cape Town ending with a pride parade, have announced that they have won the bid to host the WorldPride 2028 in the Mother City. This is the first time a WorldPride will be held in Africa. Cape Town Pride beat fellow bidder Guadalajara Pride, Mexico, after the bid was presented to members of InterPride, the international organization that brings together 548 Pride organizers from 76 countries across the world, at the 42nd Annual General Meeting & World Conference which was held from 23 to 27 October 2024 in Medellín, Colombia.
WorldPride is an international event that features a human rights conference, an arts and culture program, social events, as well as a march to highlight LGBT+ community (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, queer, questioning, intersex, non-binary, asexual, polysexual, genderqueer and gender variant people) realities across the world. It gathers Pride organizers, local and international speakers, artists, activists, politicians and participants across all walks of life.
The next WorldPride takes place from 17 May to 8 June 2025, in Washington DC, USA, followed by WorldPride Amsterdam, in The Netherlands, from 31 July to 8 August 2026.

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