Durban: Three 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 31 October 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. 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. Westbrook
13. mDloti Main
14. uMhlanga Main
15. Bronze Beach
16. Warner Beach
17. uMgababa
18. Reunion
19. Brighton
20. Winkelespruit

Beach(es) closed for swimming:

1. Anstey's Beach
2. Toti Main Beach
3. Pipeline Beach

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

Mozambique: Tourism bodies call for travel postponement amid potential protests! [update #6]

update (15 November 2024): According to media reports, the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post between South Africa and Mozambique has been reopened again.

update (14 November 2024): According to SATSA's latest Mozambique update (13 November 2024), popular tourist destinations and resorts in Mozambique remain largely unaffected, however, visitors should be prepared for potential challenges including delays at the country’s borders, public gatherings in urban centres (which may turn violent) and limited access to some businesses and services. However, there are reports of more protests between 13 and 15 November 2024.
According to news24 on 13 November 2024, the Border Management Authority (BMA) commissioner Michael Masiapato said operations at the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post between South Africa and Mozambique were temporarily halted for safety reasons.

update (11 November 2024): SABC yesterday reported that operations are gradually returning to normal at the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post between South Africa and Mozambique.

update (07 November 2024): According to "Club of Mozamnbique", the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post was opened on this morning. It then got closed again by the Border Management Authority. This follows news that protesters in Mozambique are edging closer to the border despite the Mozambican military being deployed.

update (07 November 2024): SABC reports that the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post has been partially reopened. SABC is quoting the the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Michael Masiapato, saying that Mozambique has assured them that it’s safe to partially reopen the port of entry as they have deployed the military to the border.

update (06 November 2024): SATSA has released an update on the current situation in Mozambique. South Africa's Border Management Authority (BMA) announced the temporary closure of the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post due to safety concerns on the Mozambican side on 05 November 2024.
Key tourism destinations in Mozambique remain unaffected but there have been more reports of unrest in urban areas.
According to SATSA CEO David Frost, opposition leaders suggested that the week-long protest action would culminate in a mass demonstration in Maputo on 07 November 2024. 

The Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA), a non-profit organization based in South Africa that serves as the leading voice for inbound tourism in the region, in cooperation with Africa’s Eden, a registered non-profit company based in Botswana that focuses on promoting sustainable tourism across several African countries, are encouraging travellers intending to visit Mozambique over the next week to postpone their plans. Following recent election-related unrest, Mozambique’s opposition leaders have called for week-long protest action, including public demonstrations and a national strike, from Thursday, 31 October 2024 to Thursday, 07 November 2024.
According to SATSA/Africa's Eden, the full impact on the tourism industry in Mozambique is currently unclear. However, the next seven days may see public protests across the country as well as mass mobilisation in Maputo. The Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post between South Africa and Mozambique, as well as other key border crossings, may be impacted by civil action. Access to Maputo International Airport (MPM) in Maputo may be intermittently affected by road blockades. Access to healthcare may also be affected in areas with ongoing protests. At this point, popular tourism destinations across Mozambique are planning to remain open and hotels and tourism services to remain operational during the next seven days. We'll keep you posted!

Kruger National Park Calendar - December!

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

Kruger National Park tours >>
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Garden Route National Park: Access requirements for the Komsepad section of the Knysna Lakes Section!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the implementation of access requirements for the Komsepad section of the Knysna Lakes Section of the Garden Route National Park from 01 November 2024. The access requirements, including standard conservation and cycling permit fees which are not new, are part of a broader effort to manage the area effectively. Permit fees collected will directly support the maintenance, security, and continued conservation of the park’s resources, ensuring they remain available for public enjoyment and ecological sustainability. Cyclists and other regular park visitors may obtain daily permits at the Komsepad entry gate or pre-book them through SANParks' Diepwalle office.

The Knysna Lakes Section of the Garden Route National Park is a beautiful and ecologically diverse area in South Africa’s Western Cape, centered around the Knysna Estuary. This section is renowned for its lush indigenous forests, unique marine and estuarine ecosystems, and historical charm. It’s a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts, bird-watchers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature.

South Africa's Blue Flag beaches, boats & marinas 2024/25!

A total of 48 beaches in South Africa, along with four marinas and seven tourism boats were recognised for meeting the highest environmental management, education, safety, accessibility, and sustainability standards, earning them the esteemed full Blue Flag status. 18 Blue Flag pilot sites were recognised this year for their efforts in meeting the minimum requirements for Blue Flag status.
The Western Cape has achieved the highest number of Blue Flag sites, with 31 beaches, all seven tourism boats and three of the four Blue Flag marinas. The Eastern Cape has been awarded one Blue Flag marina site, as well as eight Blue Flag beaches. KwaZulu-Natal has been awarded nine Blue Flag beaches.

Photo by Sebastian Canaves on Unsplash

Western Cape Blue Flag beaches:

1. Cape Town - Silwerstroomstrand  
2. Cape Town - Clifton 4th  
3. Cape Town - Camps Bay  
4. Cape Town - Llandudno  
5. Cape Town - Muizenberg  
6. Cape Town - Bikini
7. Cape Town - Melkbosstrand
8. Cape Town - Fishhoek  
9. Kleinmond (Overstrand Municipality) - Kleinmond  
10. Hermanus (Overstrand Municipality) - Grotto
11. Struisbaai (Cape Agulhas Municipality) - Struisbaai
12. Witsand (Hessequa Municipality) - Witsand
13. Still Bay (Hessequa Municipality) - Preekstoel
    
14. Still Bay (Hessequa Municipality) - Lappiesbaai
15. Still Bay (Hessequa Municipality) - Jongensfontein
16. Gouritzmond (Hessequa Municipality) - Gouritzmond 
17. Still Bay (Hessequa Municipality) - Stilbaai Wes
18. Mossel Bay - De Bakke
19. Mossel Bay - Hartenbos
20. Mossel Bay - Klein Brak
    
21. Mossel Bay - Santos    
    
22. Mossel Bay - Glentana
23. Wilderness (Garden Route District & George Municipality) - Wilderness
24. Herold's Bay (Garden Route District Municipality) - Herold's Bay
25. Victoria Bay (Garden Route District Municipality) - Victoria Bay
26. Plettenberg Bay (Bitou Municipality) - Robberg 5
    
27. Keurboomstrand (Bitou Municipality) - The Waves
28. Natures Valley (Bitou Municipality) - Nature's Valley
29. Plettenberg Bay (Bitou Municipality) - Lookout
    
30. Keurboomstrand (Bitou Municipality) - The Dunes  
31. Plettenberg Bay (Bitou Municipality) - Singing Kettle
    

Western Cape Blue Flag marinas:

1. Cape Town - V&A Waterfront
2. Knysna - Thesen Islands (Home Owners)   
3. Knysna - Thesen Islands (Thesen Harbour Town)  

Western Cape Blue Flag tourism boats:

1. Plettenberg Bay (Offshore Adventures) - Robberg Express
2. Plettenberg Bay (Offshore Adventures) - Oceanic Express
3. Gansbaai (Marine Dynamics) - Slashfin
4. Gansbaai (Dyer Island Cruises) - Whale Whisperer
5. Gansbaai (Dyer Island Cruises) - Dream Catcher
6. Gansbaai (White Shark Diving Company) - White Shark
7. Gansbaai (White Shark Diving Company) - Shark Bait
   

Eastern Cape Blue Flag beaches:

1. Jeffreys Bay (Kouga Municipality) - Dolphin
2. Cape St Francis (Kouga Municipality) - Cape St Francis 
3. Gqeberha (Nelson Mandela Municipality) - King's
   
4. Gqeberha (Nelson Mandela Municipality) - Humewood
5. Gqeberha (Nelson Mandela Municipality) - Hobie
6. Kenton-on-Sea (Ndlambe Municipality) - Kariega
7. Port Alfred (Ndlambe Municipality) - Kelly's
8. Kenton-on-Sea (Ndlambe Municipality) - Middle Kenton-on-Sea

Eastern Cape Blue Flag Marina:

1. Port Alfred (Ndlambe Municipality) - Royal Alfred

KwaZulu Natal Blue Flag beaches:

1. Hibiscus Coast (Ray Nkonyeni Municipality) - Marina  
2. Hibiscus Coast (Ray Nkonyeni Municipality) - Trafalgar
3. Hibiscus Coast (Ray Nkonyeni Municipality) - Southport
4. Hibiscus Coast (Ray Nkonyeni Municipality) - Umzumbe
   
5. Hibiscus Coast (Ray Nkonyeni Municipality) - Ramsgate
   
6. Hibiscus Coast (Ray Nkonyeni Municipality) - Hiberdene
7. Pennington (Umdoni Municipality) - Pennington
8. Blythedale (Kwadukuza Municipality) - Blythedale
9. Ballito (Kwadukuza Municipality) - Thompson Bay
   

Managed by WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa) in South Africa and internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), the Blue Flag Programme sets rigorous environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria for coastal destinations worldwide. Since 2001, WESSA has led in promoting sustainable tourism and coastal management through the Blue Flag and Green Coast Programmes in South Africa.

Cape Town: Tokai Forest picnic site in the Table Mountain National Park closed until further notice!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the Tokai Forest picnic site in the Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town is currently closed until further notice due to the water supply disruption resulting in the ablution facilities being out of service. Cyclists are advised to make use of the parking area in the picnic site to fulfill their activities. SANParks encourages visitors to make use of other alternatives in the Table Mountain National Park such as the Newlands, Oudekraal, and Silvermine picnic areas.
The Tokai Forest picnic site is situated within the larger Tokai Forest area, which is part of the Table Mountain National Park and about 20 kilometers south of Cape Town's city center. The site is easily accessible by car, and there is ample parking available. The main entrance is at Tokai Road, off the M3 highway.

Tanzania: Air Tanzania introduces flights to Johannesburg!

Air Tanzania, the flag carrier airline of Tanzania, has announced the introduction of scheduled flights to Johannesburg in South Africa. The airline will operate five weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. The route will be operated with a Boeing 737 aircraft, offering a two-class cabin configuration. Business Class will offer 16 seats while Economy Class will have 165 seats. Air Tanzania's new service to Johannesburg will commence on 30 November 2024.

• Dar es Salaam 11:00 > 13:15 Johannesburg
• Johannesburg 14:15 > 18:30 Dar es Salaam

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Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Mata-Mata Rest Camp switches to 24-hour solar power, with more camps to follow!

The South African National Parks (SANParks) management of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has announced that the Mata-Mata Rest Camp now has 24-hour electricity supply. SANParks switched from generator power for 17 hours per day to solar power for 24 hours per day. According to SANParks, the other main camps in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park will also switch to green solar power in the near future. We'll keep you posted!

Mata-Mata Rest Camp is situated on the banks of the Auob River on the western boundary of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. The camp borders Namibia and is surrounded by thorny Kalahari dune bushveld. The camp has a reception, swimming pool, shop and fuel facilities. There is no telephone or cellphone reception. Mata-Mata Rest Camp is 2,5-hours drive from Twee Rivieren Rest Camp.

Cape Town: Table Mountain Cableway is temporarily out of service following a fire! [update #2]

update (29 October 2024): The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC) has announced that the Table Mountain Cableway will resume normal operations on 30 October 2024, weather dependent. All outlets, retail and food and beverage will be open. People who have bought tickets have a window period in which to use those tickets or they can request for a refund. Anyone who celebrated their birthday during October 2024 will be able to redeem their free birthday ticket during the month of November 2024.

update (26 October 2024): The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC) has announced that all commercial activities at the Cableway will be closed to the public until the new week. We'll keep you posted!

Cape Town's Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC) has announced earlier today (25 October 2024)  that the Table Mountain Cableway will be temporarily out of service following a fire on 24 October 2024 that damaged the parking garage and administration building at the Lower Station. According to the City of Cape Town's Fire and Rescue Services a burning bank of lithium batteries caused the fire.
Structual engineers are set to arrive this morning at the Lower Station to investigate the damage caused by the fire. The flames did not reach the machinery that operates the cable cars. However, the cable car service will remain suspended until further notice while the engineers carry out their tests today. The TMACC hopes to provide an update on a possible reopening date as soon as possible. We'll keep you posted!

South Africa: Cape Town named world's best city for food 2024!

Cape Town in South Africa has been named the best cities for food in the world in Condé Nast Traveller's 2024 Readers' Choice Awards (UK edition). The Mother City got a score of 95.65%. According to Condé Nast Traveller, Cape Town is "a veritable melting pot of exceptional food" and "a sprawling city consisting of distinct corners and crevices where various tastes rule what’s devoured" [src.]. Milan in Italy was named second best city of food 2024, followed by Valencia in Spain and Tokyo in Japan. Congratulations!

The best cities for food in the world: Readers' Choice Awards 2024:
(The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.)

1. Cape Town, South Africa – Score 95.65
2. Milan, Italy –  95.20
3. Valencia, Spain –  95.00
4. Tokyo, Japan –  94.78
5. Porto, Portugal –  94.48
6. Hong Kong, China –  93.94
7. Bangkok, Thailand –  93.71
8. Rome, Italy –  93.33
9. Singapore –  92.90
10. Sydney, Australia –  92.50

Namibia: FlyNamibia resumed flights to Lüderitz!

Namibian privately-owned domestic and regional carrier FlyNamibia has resumed weekday flights to the coastal town of Lüderitz in the Karas Region of southern Namibia. The resumption of the domestic flights is in partnership with TotalEnergies EP. The new service between Eros Airport (ERS) in Windhoek and Lüderitz Airport (LAD) in Lüderitz was launched on 15 October 2024. FlyNamibia operates daily return flights from Monday through Friday between the two destinations.
Lüderitz Airport (LAD) is located about 9 km southeast of the center of town, on the B4 road.

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Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Lijersdraai Picnic Site gets an upgrade! [update]

update (11 November 2024): The upgrading of the Lijersdraai Picnic Site ablution facilities at Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has been completed.

The South African National Parks (SANParks) management of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has announced that the ablution facilities at Lijersdraai Picnic Site will get an updgrade. Work on the ablution facilities at the picnic site is set to begin on 28 October 2024 and will be completed by 12 November 2024. There will be facilities available to use during this period.

Lijersdraai Picnic Site is situated on the Botswana side of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. It lies along the Nossob Riverbed, a seasonal river that rarely flows but provides an essential lifeline to the park’s wildlife through its underground water and vegetation. The Lijersdraai Waterhole is situated about  5 km north of Lijersdraai Picnic Site.
The Lijersdraai Picnic Site is approximately 70 kilometers north of the Nossob Rest Camp, which is the nearest main camp in the vicinity. It's one of the more remote picnic spots in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, offering travelers a serene, solitary place to stop.

Cape Town: Date for the Adderley Street Festive Lights Switch-On 2024 has been announced!

The City of Cape Town has announced that the annual Adderley Street Festive Lights Switch-On 2024 and the largest outdoor free entertainment concert at Grand Parade will take place on Sunday, 01 December 2024. This year’s event, now in its 55th year, promises a stellar line-up of performances, a brand-new competition, video mapping and of course, the much-loved and anticipated switching on of the lights in Adderley Street, all of which will bring the Cape Town's vibrant culture to life. The theme of the Adderley Street Festive Lights Switch-On 2024 will be “Cape Town: People of Hope.” The free event will take place between 16:00 - 22:00 at the Grand Parade (in front of Cape Town's City Hall) and Adderley Street. 

Eastern Cape: Significant flight disruptions at King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London! [update]

update (22 Octobe 2024): According to Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), today's flight disruptions at King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London were not related to the instrument flight procedure maintenance programme. ATNS can confirm that flight procedures for the two runways in this airport are operational. This morning, the airport experienced severe weather conditions that fell below acceptable approach minima. The cloud base was under 300 feet, requiring missed approaches (go-arounds) until conditions improved.

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 significant flight disruptions, which have impacted both inbound and outbound flights. According to ACSA, this is due to adverse weather conditions today, 22 October 2024.
The disruptions have been compounded by lapsed Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) procedures. ACSA and ATNS are coordinating efforts to address these procedural lapses and restore normal flight operations promptly. All passengers affected by delays are advised to contact their airlines directly for information regarding rebooking and are further encouraged to verify the status of their flights before traveling to the airport. We'll keep you posted!

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Durban: Three 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 October 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. 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. Westbrook
13. mDloti Main
14. uMhlanga Main
15. Bronze Beach
16. Warner Beach
17. uMgababa
18. Reunion
19. Brighton
20. Winkelespruit

Beach(es) closed for swimming:

1. Anstey's Beach
2. Toti Main Beach
3. Pipeline Beach

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

George Airport (GRJ): Adverse weather conditions are currently affecting operations! [update]

update (21 October 2024): Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), which operates George Airport (GRJ), confirmed that due to adverse weather conditions, some flights to and from  George Airport (GRJ) have been cancelled until further notice.

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), the company that provides air traffic, navigation, training and associated services within South Africa, has informed the public that inclement weather conditions are currently affecting operations at George Airport (GRJ) in George in South Africa's Western Cape. According to ATNS, this adverse weather is negatively impacting airport operations. We'll keep you posted!

Runway Status:
Runway 29 (RWY 29): Although RWY 29 has a valid flight procedure, it is currently unavailable due to prevailing wind conditions. This may result in flight delays and potential diversions.
Runway 11 (RWY 11): Wind direction favours this runway, however, the flight procedure for RWY 11 was submitted to the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) for approval yesterday. We are expecting an outcome soon. [src.]

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Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Upgrading of the Kalahari Tented Camp commences! [update]

update (15 November 2024): The management of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park of has announced that the maintenance of the roofs at Kalahari Tented Camp has been completed!

The South African National Parks (SANParks) management of Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has announced it is in the process of upgrading the roofs of the units at Kalahari Tented Camp. The upgrading  commences today (21 October 2024) and is expected to be completed by 15 December 2024.
The Kalahari Tented Camp is located about three km from the Mata-Mata Rest Camp where Kalahari Tented Camp residents can refuel and get basic supplies at the shop. The camp, which boasts 15 desert tents, is designed in such a way that residents feel they have only themselves and the desert for company. The Kalahari Tented Camp is accessible by 4x4 vehicles, though a high-clearance vehicle is recommended due to the rugged roads within the park. Check-in and check-out processes are done through the Mata-Mata Rest Camp.

Northern Cape: Unleaded fuel still not available in Augrabies National Park! [update]

update (27 November 2024): South African National Parks (SANParks) management of Augrabies National Park  just confirmed that unleaded fuel (95) is still not available inside the National Park.

South African National Parks (SANParks) management of Augrabies National Park has confirmed that unleaded fuel (95) is still not available inside the National Park. For the time being, SANParks recommends travellers to refuel their vehicles outside the Augrabies National Park at the the petrol stations in Augrabies or Kakamas (see map below). Unleaded fuel (95) is not available inside the National Park since early September 2024. We'll keep you posted!

Augrabies National Park is located in the South Africa's Northern Cape, near the town of Kakamas. It is centered around the Augrabies Falls, a spectacular 56-meter waterfall on the Orange River. The park covers an area of about 820 km² and is known for its rugged landscapes, unique ecosystems, and dramatic granite formations.

Namibia: Temporary traffic deviation on road between Windhoek <> Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH)!

The Namibian Road Authority (RA) has announced that a new temporary traffic deviation on the Windhoek <> Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) road upgrade project is in place since 17 October 2024. The affected area starts about 3 kilometres east of the current temporary airport turnoff and about 0.4 kilometres west of the M51 road turnoff. The deviation will channel traffic around the construction site and will be in effect until July 2025. According to the RA, road signs have been installed to guide motorists through the temporary routes. Travellers on their way between Windhoek and Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) are advised to allow for an extra five minutes of travel time.

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Namibia: NWR made changes to its shuttle service operations in Sossusvlei!

Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR), the state-owned enterprise mandated to run the tourism facilities within the protected areas of Namibia, has ceased operations of its shuttle service from the 2x4 area in Sossusvlei on 15 October 2024. The shuttle service is now operating exclusively from the Sesriem Campsite. According to the NWR, clients who have already booked shuttle service vouchers or tickets to Deadvlei will now be ferried from the Sesriem Campsite instead, and new tickets must also be purchased there.

Sossusvlei is one of the most iconic and visually stunning destinations in Namibia. It is located in the southern part of the Namib Desert, within the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Sossusvlei is famous for its towering red sand dunes, some of the tallest in the world. These dunes are primarily made of iron-rich sand that gives them their distinct red and orange color due to oxidation. Deadvlei is a clay pan located near Sossusvlei. It’s famous for its ancient, dried-up camel thorn trees, some of which are thought to be over 900 years old.
The Sesriem Campsite is located near the entrance to Sossusvlei and the Namib-Naukluft National Park. The distance between the Sesriem Campsite and Sossusvlei is approximately 60 kilometers.

Garden Route: CemAir suspends flights to Plettenberg Bay until April 2025!

South African domestic and regional carrier CemAir has announced that the suspension of flights to Plettenberg Bay Airport (PBZ) in Plettenberg Bay has been extended to 10 April 2025 due to the continued downgrade of the airport by the SA Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). The airline hopes that by April 2025 the airport will have regained its Category 5 certification, which will allow CemAir to resume its scheduled service
All flights booked from Johannesburg to Plettenberg Bay until 10 April 2025 date will automatically be rebooked on CemAir's service to George Airport (GRJ) in George. Passengers will receive an automated booking change notification with new flight details.
For CemAir's Cape Town passengers travelling to Plettenberg Bay the airline will be introducing a flight between Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and George during peak periods. Passengers travelling on these days will receive an automated booking change notification with their new travel details. Passengers travelling on days where no alternative CemAir flight is available will be provided with a credit for the value of their fare.

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Kruger National Park: Fire incidents at two Rest Camps!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that fire incidents occurred at two rest camps in the Kruger National Park on 14 October 2024. There was no life lost or injuries sustained at both rest camps. The first fire broke out at Satara Rest Camp where embers from a braai fire landed on the thatch roof of a chalet setting it alight. The fire was quickly contained before spreading to other structures. A similar incident occurred at Olifants Rest Camp requiring that three chalets be evacuated. This fire was also contained although it proved impossible to remove belongings of guests. Affected guests were relocated to nearer rest camps.
Kruger National Park is currently experiencing hot, windy and dry weather conditions. and visitors are urged to extinguish braai fires immediately after utilization for purposes such as cooking of food. This will greatly minimize the possible risk of fire with its consequent damage to structures and the environment.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Park shops with changed opening hours due to stocktaking at the end of October 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 October 2024. The shops at Nossob Rest Camp (on 24 October 2024) and  Mata-Mata Rest Camp (on 29 October 2024)  will only be open from 07:00 to 09:00 and from 15:00 to 19:15, while the shop at Twee Rivieren Rest Camp will only be open from 15:00 to 19:15 on 30 October 2024.

Ranking: Cape Town named world's best value long haul holiday destination!

A report from Post Office Travel Money (UK) has revealed that Cape Town in South Africa is currently the world's best value long haul holiday destination. Local price falls, together with a weaker South African rand, have combined to bring costs for (British) visitors down by 12% since last autumn. This makes Cape Town best value of 32 resorts and cities surveyed for the 15th annual Long Haul Holiday Report from Post Office Travel Money. According to the findings of this long haul holiday cost of living barometer, the average daily cost of 10 typical tourist purchases for travellers in Cape Town is curently £55.59. This includes a cup of filter coffee, 330ml bottle of local lager, 330 ml bottle of cola, 175ml glass of wine, cocktail, small chocolate bar, 1.5 litre bottle of supermarket mineral water, 200ml bottle of suncream, 50ml tube/bottle of insect repellent, three-course evening meal for two adults including a bottle of house wine. The barometer basket for Cape Town in 2024 is more than 14% lower than in last year’s best-value destination Hoi An in Vietnam.
Last time Cape Town was named best value destination in Post Office Travel Money’s annual long haul holiday cost of living barometer was in 2018.

Top 10 best value long haul destinations:

1. Cape Town, South Africa | total cost: £52.66 | -12.0% since 2023
2. Tokyo, Japan |total cost: £64.07 | -13.5% since 2023
3. Hoi An, Vietnam | total cost: £64.80 | +21.1% since 2023
4. Bali, Indonesia | total cost: £67.70 | -7.9% since 2023
5. Mombasa, Kenya | total cost: £68.53 | +13.8% since 2023
6. Delhi, India | total cost: £74.90 | -1.0% since 2023
7. Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt | total cost: £76.47 | -16.4%  since 2023
8. Colombo, Sri Lanka | total cost: £78.14 | -14.8% since 2023
9. Santiago, Chile | total cost: £88.92 | -14.3% since 2023
10. Montego Bay, Jamaica | total cost: £93.74 | -9.4% since 2023

South African Airways (SAA): More flights to key destinations!

South African flag carrier, South African Airways (SAA), has announced a significant increase in its flight frequencies to key African destinations, starting next month. Starting in November 2024, SAA will operate 12 weekly flights to both RG Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare and Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, up from the current 10 times a week to Harare and up from 7 to Lusaka. Flights to Lagos (Nigeria) and Accra (Ghana) will increase to four times a week, up from three weekly flights. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), SAA will enhance its presence by flying five times a week to N'djili Airport (FIH) in Kinshasa. Domestically, SAA will increase its flights to Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) to three times a day.

South African Airways (SAA) is also set to increase the frequency of its flights to Mauritius and Perth in Western Australia. The airline will begin flying twice daily to Mauritius from the beginning of December 2024 to coincide with peak holiday season. The first additional frequency to Perth will commence in December 2024 and the second will be added from January 2025, taking the number of return flights to Perth five times a week.

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Mthatha Airport (UTT): Flight disruptions expected due to inclement weather conditions!

Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), the company that provides air traffic, navigation, training and associated services within South Africa, has informed the public that inclement weather conditions are currently affecting operations at Mthatha Airport (UTT) in Mthatha in South Africa's Eastern Cape. Flight disruptions can therefore be expected.
Mthatha Airport (UTT) does have a valid Instrument Flight Procedure for runway (RWY) 14, the runway currently in use today (11 October 2024). However, due to the severe weather conditions this morning, operations are adversely affected as safety is prioritised. We'll keep you posted!

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eSwatini: Eswatini Air launches a complimentary shuttle service to/from King Mswati III International Airport (SHO)! [update #2]

update (29 October 2024): Eswatini Air has made slight changes to the shuttle service schedule.

update (11 October 2024): Eswatini Air has released the schedule for its new airport schedue connecting Mbabane, Ezulwini, Matsapha, and Manzini with King Mswati III International Airport (SHO):

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The flag carrier of the Kingdom of eSwatini, Eswatini Air, is set to introduce a complimentary shuttle service for all its passengers travelling to and from King Mswati III International Airport (SHO). The shuttle stops include Mbabane, Ezulwini, Matsapha, and Manzini. Eswatini Air's new shuttle service will commence operations on 12 October 2024. The shuttle service can easily be booked on Eswatini Air's website right after completing the purchase of flight tickets. Alternatively, passengers can book via the airline' service centres.

King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) is located near the town of Sikhuphe, about 70 kilometers from the eSwatini's capital, Mbabane, and approximately 80 kilometers from Manzini, the country's largest urban area.
Eswatini Air was founded in 2022 by the Royal Eswatini National Airways Corporation (RENAC), which is fully owned by the government of eSwatini. The airline launched its inaugural flights in March 2023. Eswatini Air focuses on regional flights within southern Africa. The airline is currently operating scheduled flights between eSwatini and Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban (all South Africa) and Harare (Zimbabwe).

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5th World Culinary Awards: South Africa named Africa's Best Culinary Destination 2024!

The winners of the 5th World Culinary Awards, the global initiative to recognise and reward excellence in the culinary industry, have been announced. South Africa was crowned Africa's Best Culinary Destination 2024, while Cape Town was named Africa's Best Culinary City Destination 2024.
Epice in Franschhoek was voted Africa's Best Restaurant 2024, Siba The Restaurant @ The Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town was awarded Africa's Best Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant 2024, Salsify at the Roundhouse in Camps Bay was named Africa's Best Landmark Restaurant 2024, SALON in Cape Town won the category Africa's Best New Restaurant 2024, TANG V&A Waterfront in Cape Town was voted Africa's Best Asian Cuisine Restaurant 2024, Babel @ Babylonstoren in the Cape Winelands was named Africa's Best Farm-to-Table Restaurant 2024 and The 11th Floor in Bedfordview scooped the award for being Africa's Best Rooftop Restaurant 2024. Congratulations! The results follow a year-long search for the world’s leading culinary brands. Votes were cast by culinary industry professionals and the general public, with the nominee gaining the most votes in a category named as the winner.

The winners of the 5th World Culinary Awards by country (Southern Africa):

Angola's Best Restaurant 2024
Restaurante KOOK Angola, Luanda
Angola's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
La Boqueria @ InterContinental Luanda Miramar, Luanda

Botswana's Best Restaurant 2024
Two Six Seven Kitchen + Bar, Gaborone
Botswana's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
Xigera Restaurant @ Xigera Safari Lodge, Okavango Delta

Eswatini's Best Restaurant 2024
Ramblas Restaurant, Mbabane
Eswatini's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
The Lihawu Restaurant @ The Royal Villas, Ezulwini Valley

Mozambique's Best Restaurant 2024
Salt Restaurant & Bar, Maputo
Mozambique's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
Bistro @ Avenida Hotel Maputo, Maputo

Namibia's Best Restaurant 2024
Ocean Cellar Oyster & Wine Bar, Swakopmund
Namibia's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
Stratos Restaurant & Bar @ Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino, Windhoek

South Africa's Best Restaurant 2024
Epice, Franschhoek
South Africa's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
Azure Restaurant @ The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Cape Town
South Africa's Best Culinary Experience 2024
Marble Restaurant, Johannesburg

Zambia's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
Kubu @ The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara, Livingstone

Zimbabwe's Best Restaurant 2024
Restaurant Johannes De Bruijn, Harare
Zimbabwe's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024
MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant @ Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Victoria Falls

South Africa: Seasonal rainfall & temperature outlook (October 2024 to February 2025)!

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has released the Seasonal Climate Watch for the period October 2024 to February 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 La Niña state during the start of the summer season, however, there is still significant uncertainty in the predictions.
Current predictions focus on the early- and mid-summer seasons and indicate wetter conditions over the interior of South Africa. The north-eastern parts however at this stage indicate drier conditions extending through to the mid-summer period. These predictions may change if the ENSO predictions become more certain towards a La Niña state.
Minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be mostly above-normal in South Africa for the forecast period (October 2024 to February 2025).

Kruger National Park: Mopani Rest Camp to experience water disruption!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that Mopani Rest Camp in Kruger National Park will experience water disruption on 09 October 2024 and 10 October 2024 for three hours each day (most likely between 11:00 – 14:00). According to SANParks, this is due to scheduled maintenance work for the plumbing that must happen.

Mopani Rest Camp is one of the larger and more popular camps in Kruger National Park, located in the northern part of the park. The nearest entrance gate is Phalaborwa Gate, approximately 74 kilometers to the south. Letaba Rest Camp is the closest camp to Mopani Rest Camp. It is located approximately 50 kilometers to the south.

Eastern Cape: Bad weather grounds flights at King Phalo Airport (ELS)! [update #2]

update (09 October 2024): The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) just announced that operations at King Phalo Airport (ELS) in East London in South Africa's Eastern Cape have returned to normal.

update (08 October 2024): Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) SOC Limited has confirmed that the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has assured the entity that instrument flight procedures for one of the airports two precision approach runways (Runway 11) are being expedited and approvals are expected tomorrow, 09 October 2024.

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) just announced that due to adverse weather conditions in East London in South Africa's Eastern Cape, all inbound and outbound flights have been postponed at King Phalo Airport (ELS) today, 08 October 2024, until further notice. ACSA will monitor the weather conditions throughout the day, and should conditions allow for optimal safe flight operations, will resume normal operations. We'll keep you posted!

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UK: British Airways boosts capacity to South Africa!

The flag carrier airline of the United Kingdon, British Airways, is set to increase capacity on its London to Johannesburg route. The airline will introduce a second daily Airbus A380 service between Heathrow Airport (LHR) in London and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, South Africa, during the Northern summer 2025 season. From 01 June 2025 the second daily Airbus A380 service will replace the Boeing 777-300ER currently operating on this route (BA56/BA57).
The additional Airbus A380 flights will provide 215 more seats between London and Johannesburg - 173 more economy seats, 15 more in premium economy, 21 more in business class and six more in first class than the Boeing 777-300ER. The schedules for the daily flights remain unchanged.

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