South African Malaria Risk Map (Dec 2025) – Risk areas, season & advice

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) of South Africa has published its updated South African Malaria Risk Map (December 2025) - an essential reference for anyone planning travel to the country’s north-eastern regions.

While most of South Africa remains malaria-free, certain border areas continue to experience seasonal malaria transmission, particularly during the warmer, wetter months. Below is a clear breakdown of the current malaria-risk areas, seasonality, and what it means for travellers.

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(c) https://www.nicd.ac.za/diseases-a-z-index/malaria/

Where is malaria found in South Africa?

Malaria transmission in South Africa is geographically limited and highly seasonal. The disease occurs mainly in the north-eastern provinces, especially along international borders.

High-Risk (Endemic) Areas

The highest malaria risk is found in parts of:

• Limpopo – especially districts bordering Zimbabwe and Mozambique
• Mpumalanga – including the Lowveld region
• KwaZulu-Natal – particularly the far northern Maputaland area

Within these provinces, travellers visiting the Kruger National Park and surrounding Lowveld areas should be aware that this is a seasonal malaria transmission zone.

Risk is typically highest from September through May, with peak transmission during the mid-summer months (January to April).

Moderate-Risk Areas

Some districts adjacent to high-risk zones are classified as moderate or low seasonal risk areas. In these regions:

• Preventative mosquito measures are strongly recommended.
• Antimalarial prophylaxis may be advised depending on duration of stay, accommodation type, and individual health profile.

Travellers should consult a healthcare professional or travel clinic before departure for personalised advice.

No Malaria Risk Areas

The majority of South Africa - including its major tourism and business hubs - remains malaria-free.

There is no malaria transmission risk in:

• Johannesburg
• Cape Town
• The Garden Route
• Eastern Cape
• The Free State, Northern Cape, and North West provinces (outside specific border zones)

Travellers visiting these destinations do not require antimalarial medication.

Understanding malaria seasonality in South Africa

Malaria transmission in South Africa is seasonal, influenced by rainfall, humidity, and temperature.

• Peak season: January – April
• Transmission period: September – May
• Low-risk winter period: June – August

Even outside peak months, isolated cases can still occur in endemic areas. Preventative measures remain advisable year-round in risk zones.

Malaria Prevention for Travellers

If your itinerary includes a malaria-risk area, prevention is essential. The mosquito species that transmits malaria bites primarily between dusk and dawn.

1. Avoid mosquito bites

• Apply insect repellent containing DEET or equivalent active ingredients.
• Wear long sleeves and trousers in the evenings.
• Use mosquito nets where provided.
• Ensure accommodation has functioning window screens or air conditioning.

2. Consider chemoprophylaxis
For high-risk areas such as parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, northern KwaZulu-Natal, and the Kruger region, healthcare professionals may recommend:

• Starting antimalarial medication before entering the risk zone.
• Continuing treatment for the prescribed period after departure.

The decision depends on age, pregnancy status, medical history, and duration of exposure.

3. Know the symptoms
Malaria symptoms typically develop 7–15 days after infection and may include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea

If you develop flu-like symptoms after visiting a malaria area - even weeks later - seek medical attention immediately and inform your doctor about your travel history.

Why the NICD Risk Map matters
The updated malaria risk map from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) provides:

• Clear geographic delineation of endemic zones
• Seasonal risk classification
• Guidance for clinicians and travellers
• Support for South Africa's ongoing malaria elimination efforts

South Africa continues to make significant progress toward malaria elimination, but imported cases and cross-border transmission remain challenges - particularly along the Mozambique and Zimbabwe borders.

Key Takeaways for Travellers

• Malaria in South Africa is geographically limited to north-eastern border regions.
• The Kruger National Park and Lowveld fall within seasonal risk zones.
• Major cities such as Johannesburg and Cape Town are malaria-free.
• Peak transmission occurs during the summer rainfall season.
• Preventative measures and medical consultation are recommended before travelling to endemic areas.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the official NICD malaria risk map and speak to a qualified healthcare provider prior to travel.

 

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Kruger National Park in April: Weather, wildlife, sightings & travel tips

Kruger National Park remains one of Africa’s premier safari destinations year-round, and April is truly special. As the high summer heat dissipates and the landscape begins its transition toward the dry season, Kruger National Park showcases a vibrant mosaic of wildlife, waterholes teeming with activity, and landscapes still lush from summer rains. This guide breaks down what to expect in April - from weather and terrain to animal behavior and practical travel tips - so you can plan your trip with confidence.

Weather & landscape in April

April in Kruger National Park marks the tail end of the rainy season, and weather patterns reflect this transition:

Climate characteristics

• Temperatures: Warm days (highs ~26–32 °C / 79–90 °F) with comfortably cooler nights (lows ~14–18 °C / 57–64 °F).
• Rainfall: Sporadic afternoon showers early in the month taper off as April progresses.
• Humidity: Decreases compared to summer months, making mornings and evenings pleasant.

These conditions keep the park’s vegetation lush and green - yet you’ll start to notice grass length shortening and fruits maturing on trees.

Landscape & scenery

• Roads and tracks can still be soft or muddy early April due to recent rains.
• Rivers and pans are usually full, creating scenic waterways and vibrant birdlife hotspots.
• Post-January flood effects: Earlier in the year, heavy rains and flooding affected sections of the southern and central park, particularly around the Sabie and Olifants Rivers. Some low-lying tracks and riverine paths experienced temporary closures or damage; by April, many areas have reopened, but check current road conditions before departure, as restoration efforts continue in places.

April’s blend of lush green scenery and receding rains makes Kruger National Park exceptionally photogenic. However, the thick vegetation after the summer rains can sometimes make wildlife harder to spot than during the dry winter months.

Fauna - What wildlife you can see in April

April is one of the best months for wildlife viewing in Kruger National Park, because animals begin to concentrate around permanent water sources:

Big Five & major species

• Elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and rhinos remain active and visible throughout the park.
• Elephants are very active as they traverse between diminishing water-rich areas.
• Buffalo herds congregate near large rivers and dams.

Other notable animals

• Hippos and crocodiles are abundant around rivers like the Sabie, Luvuvhu, and Olifants.
• Plains game - zebras, giraffes, impalas, kudu - are easier to spot as grazing zones become more open.
• Birdlife thrives with migratory species still present before the imminent dry-season exodus.

Birdwatching

• Wetland areas are alive with storks, kingfishers, egrets, and herons.
• Raptors (e.g., fish eagles) are particularly noticeable around full water bodies.

Animal behavior & sightings in April

April’s climatic offset shapes wildlife behavior:

Water dependence
As rains diminish, animals are less dispersed than during peak summer. This leads to:

• Higher concentrations at waterholes and rivers — excellent for sightings from both game drives and hides.
• Longer observation opportunities as animals repeatedly return to the same watering spots.

Predator activity

• Early mornings and late afternoons are peak times for big cat activity.
• Predators frequent water edges where prey congregates — a great advantage for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Migration & movement
Some southbound bird migrations continue, while many mammals start congregating near the permanent water sources that will define dry-season movements.

Travel tips for visiting Kruger National Park in April

 Planning & logistics

• Book early: April is popular due to favorable weather and great wildlife viewing.
• Kruger National Park gates: Most open early morning (~05:30–06:00) and close around sunset; verify seasonal times.
• Self-drive or guided safari: Both are excellent — self-drive allows flexibility, while guided tours offer expert insights into animal behavior.

4×4 & road conditions

• Some gravel roads remain soft early in the month; 4×4 vehicles are preferable for less-maintained trails.
• After the January floods, certain river crossings or low-lying tracks may still be under repair - always check the latest SANParks road condition updates before departure.

Packing essentials

• Light layers: Warm mornings, hot afternoons, and cool evenings.
• Rain gear & waterproof cases: April showers are possible.
• Binoculars and camera gear: For optimal wildlife and landscape photography.
• Insect repellent: Especially around late afternoons.

Health & safety

• Malaria precaution: Kruger National Park is in a malaria zone; consult a travel clinic for prophylaxis.
• Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are indispensable.

Why April is a great time to visit Kruger National Park

• Excellent wildlife visibility with strategic animal movement toward reliable water sources.
• Comfortable weather and lush scenery.
• Fewer intense rains than earlier months, yet landscapes remain verdant.
• Great for photography, birding, and predator watching.

Kruger National Park in April strikes a sweet spot between the tail end of summer abundance and the onset of dry-season clarity. Whether you’re seeking your first safari or are a seasoned visitor, April offers rich experiences and unforgettable sightings.

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How the Middle East escalation is affecting flights to and from Southern Africa (Updated: 28 February 2026)

last update 23 March 2026 

Limited flight activity through major Middle Eastern hubs continues to evolve amid the extended Middle East conflict. Dubai International Airport and other Gulf airports are operating reduced schedules, with carriers adjusting operations daily due to ongoing regional tensions and safety concerns. Indian carriers have announced several flights out of Dubai, but airlines like IndiGo are warning of potential last‑minute schedule changes. Travellers in or heading to Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, or South Africa should continue to check their airline’s updates and expect possible delays or limited availability. 

last update 17 March 2026

Flight operations through key Gulf hubs remain unstable following renewed security incidents. The United Arab Emirates temporarily closed its airspace again due to missile and drone threats linked to Iran’s ongoing response, causing further disruptions at major hubs including Dubai International Airport. Although flights have since resumed, airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways continue to operate reduced and highly flexible schedules. Travellers to and from Southern Africa should expect continued volatility, delays, and last-minute changes.

last update 16 March 2026

Flight operations in and out of major Gulf hubs are still far from normal, even as some services slowly resume. Dubai International Airport briefly suspended flights after a drone strike caused a fuel-tank fire, but airlines such as Emirates are now running limited schedules again under tight safety measures. Regional airspace remains high-risk and restrictions persist, so travellers between Southern Africa and global destinations should continue to expect disruptions, reroutes, and last-minute schedule changes as carriers prioritise safety and evacuation-focused services. 

last update 11 March 2026  

International flight operations between the Middle East and Southern Africa remain limited as airlines cautiously rebuild schedules following last week’s disruptions. Carriers including Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways continue to operate selected services, often prioritising repatriation and passengers affected by earlier cancellations. While routes linking Gulf hubs with countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia are gradually resuming, capacity remains limited and travellers should expect ongoing schedule adjustments. 

last update 10 March 2026 

International flight operations through the Middle East remain extremely limited as the regional security situation continues to evolve. Most flights currently operating are focused on repatriation and evacuating stranded travellers, rather than restoring normal commercial schedules. Airlines including Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways are running selected services under special approvals, prioritising passengers already affected by cancellations. Travellers planning journeys to Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, or South Africa should expect continued disruptions and limited seat availability. 

last update 09 March 2026  

Limited international flights are gradually resuming following last week’s major aviation disruption linked to the Middle East conflict and Iran’s subsequent response. Airlines including Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways have restarted selected services, including some routes between Dubai and South Africa. While this marks a gradual improvement, flight schedules remain limited and airlines continue to operate cautiously due to ongoing security concerns and airspace restrictions across parts of the Middle East. Travellers flying between Southern Africa and global destinations via major hubs such as Dubai International Airport and Hamad International Airport may still experience delays or last-minute schedule changes. 

last update 06 March 2026 

In the latest developments on the Middle East aviation disruption, Emirates has now resumed limited flights from the United Arab Emirates to South Africa, with services landing in Cape Town and Johannesburg from Dubai. This follows intense efforts by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and other governments to assist thousands of travellers stranded by the ongoing regional conflict. More than 6,400 South Africans are reported to still be stranded and are being urged to make use of these constrained flights where available. At the same time, Qatar Airways has also begun organising limited relief flights to assist passengers affected by temporary airspace closures and conflict?related disruptions. Regular commercial schedules remain heavily constrained, and passengers are advised to travel only after receiving confirmed flight notifications from their airline.  

last update 05 March 2026

Limited flight operations have begun to resume from major Gulf hubs, with carriers such as Emirates and Etihad Airways gradually restarting selected services. However, schedules remain far from normal and many flights are still cancelled or delayed due to ongoing airspace restrictions and the heightened security situation across parts of the Middle East following Iran’s response to recent military strikes. For travellers heading to or from Southern Africa — particularly those connecting through hubs such as Dubai International Airport, Hamad International Airport, or Abu Dhabi International Airport — disruptions may continue in the coming days. Importantly, airspace across Southern Africa itself, including South Africa, remains open and flights within the region are operating normally, with most disruption limited to international connections via the Middle East. 

last update 04 March 2026  

Since yesterday, there has not been a return to normal flight operations. Limited flights have resumed in the most disrupted Middle Eastern hubs, but major commercial schedules remain suspended, airspace is still high-risk, and the situation continues to cause widespread disruption across global aviation networks. For travellers in Southern Africa or those planning flights to or from the region in the near future, this means continued uncertainty with connections via Gulf hubs - particularly if your itinerary routes through Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi - and a higher likelihood of delays, cancellations or schedule changes until stability returns. 

last update 03 March 2026 

There has been a slight operational shift since yesterday. Both Emirates and Etihad Airways have begun operating a limited number of flights, primarily focused on repatriation, aircraft repositioning and selected services under government coordination. However, this does not represent a full return to normal schedules. Regular commercial operations through major Gulf hubs remain heavily restricted, and airspace closures linked to the ongoing conflict - including Iran’s retaliatory actions and the resulting heightened regional security environment - continue to affect flight planning and routing. For Southern African travellers, this means that while some departures are resuming, schedules remain fluid, cancellations are still possible, and onward connections via Dubai or Abu Dhabi may be subject to short-notice changes. 

last update 02 March 2026

ACSA strongly advises travellers scheduled to depart from South African airports to the Middle East and the UAE not to proceed to airport precincts until they have confirmed their flight status directly with their respective airlines.

Since yesterday, the situation has not resolved and disruptions have deepened. Middle Eastern airspace closures remain widespread, airlines continue cancelling and rerouting flights, and travellers remain stranded or facing chaotic conditions at major hubs. These dynamics still indirectly affect Southern African travel — especially those connecting via Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi — through schedule changes and uncertainty in long-haul operations. 

last update 01 March 2026 

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) confirmed earlier today that the current closure of UAE airspace is affecting flights operated by Emirates and Qatar Airways thus far.
Current Flight Disruptions:
• O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB): 8 cancellations (7 outbound and 1 inbound).
• Cape Town International Airport  (CPT): 4 cancellations (outbound).
• King Shaka International Airport  (DUR): 2 cancellations (outbound).

Passengers are strongly advised to contact their airlines or relevant embassies directly for the latest flight schedules and status updates. 

last update 01 March 2026  

Since yesterday, the situation hasn’t eased; in fact, ongoing airspace closures and the responses to Iran’s involvement are continuing to disrupt flights in and out of South Africa and Southern Africa, especially services via Gulf hubs like Dubai and Doha. The disruptions remain significant, with more cancellations and reroutes likely while the regional conflict and related airspace restrictions are unresolved. 

last update 28 February 2026 

The renewed escalation in the Middle East, including US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has disrupted international aviation - forcing airspace closures and triggering flight cancellations and reroutes across the region and beyond. Iran’s retaliatory strikes and the resulting rise in regional military activity are also contributing to the heightened security environment, further impacting airline operations and flight planning across the Middle East. While Southern African airspace remains fully open and unaffected, travellers flying internationally can still experience significant impacts due to changes in global airline operations.

Here is what you need to know.  

What is happening in the Middle East?

Escalating tensions have led to temporary airspace closures and operational restrictions across parts of the Gulf and surrounding region.

Airlines and regulators have responded by:

• Suspending selected routes
• Cancelling flights to affected destinations
• Rerouting aircraft to avoid restricted airspace
• Issuing updated travel advisories

The Middle East sits at the crossroads of major global air corridors linking Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. When parts of that system are disrupted, airlines must adjust flight plans worldwide.

Why this matters for travellers in Southern Africa

Many long-haul routes between  Southern Africa, and South Africa in particular, Europe and Asia connect through major Gulf hubs such as:

• Dubai International Airport (DXB) in Dubai, UAE
• Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha, Qatar
• Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi, UAE

When disruptions occur in or around these hubs, even travellers departing from Johannesburg, Cape Town (South Africa), Windhoek (Namibia), Lusaka (Zambia) or Maputo (Mozambique) can be affected.

Importantly:

• Airports and airspace across Southern Africa are operating normally.
• The disruption is indirect and linked to international transit routes.

Possible Travel Impacts

If your itinerary includes a Middle Eastern connection, you may encounter:

Flight Cancellations or Schedule Changes
Some services through Gulf hubs have been paused or adjusted while airlines assess safety and routing options.

Longer Flight Times
Aircraft may take alternative paths to avoid restricted airspace, increasing journey times.

Tighter Connections
Network disruptions at major hubs can create reduced onward connectivity or rebooking delays.

Potential Cost Pressures
Longer routings increase fuel and insurance costs, which may gradually influence pricing on some routes.  

What travellers should do

If you have upcoming international travel:

• Check your flight status regularly. Schedules are being updated dynamically.
• Confirm your connection details. Especially if transiting through the Gulf region.
• Allow extra transfer time.
• Contact your airline early if rebooking is required.
• Review your travel insurance coverage.

Flexibility is key during periods of geopolitical instability affecting global air corridors.

 

The bottom line

Southern Africa’s skies remain fully open. However, the latest Middle East escalation - particularly involving Iran - is impacting global aviation flows that many Southern African travellers rely on for international connections.

Travel remains possible, but routing adjustments, longer flight times and occasional cancellations are part of the current operating environment.

Stay informed, monitor airline updates closely, and plan with a degree of flexibility if travelling via the Gulf region in the coming days.

 

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Durban Beach Water Quality Update (27 February 2026): 20 beaches open for swimming

The eThekwini Municipality has released its latest coastal water quality results (27 February 2026), providing essential guidance for travellers planning beach time in Durban.

The newest data confirms that 20 of Durban's 23 regularly monitored bathing beaches currently comply with national recreational water safety standards. This means swimming, surfing and general beach activities are permitted along most of the city’s coastline. However, three beaches remain temporarily closed as a precaution while water quality concerns are addressed.

For visitors, the message is clear: Durban's beaches are largely open — but checking the latest official updates before you swim remains critical.

What the latest Durban water quality results mean for travellers

With its warm Indian Ocean waters, expansive sandy shoreline and year-round subtropical climate, Durban remains one of South Africa’s premier coastal destinations. Water quality, however, is influenced by environmental factors such as rainfall, runoff and ocean currents.

The number of open or closed beaches can change quickly depending on testing outcomes. Travellers should therefore:

• Consult official municipal updates before heading out
• Prioritise beaches with active lifeguard services
• Exercise caution following heavy rainfall

Swimming and surfing are currently permitted at designated open beaches, subject to ongoing monitoring.

How coastal water quality is monitored in Durban

The eThekwini Municipality operates a continuous coastal monitoring programme aimed at protecting public health and ensuring transparency. The programme includes:

• Routine seawater sampling at official bathing beaches
• Accredited laboratory microbiological testing
• Public release of verified results

Testing focuses on compliance with national recreational water quality guidelines. While most beaches in Durban currently meet required thresholds, monitoring remains ongoing and dynamic.

Beaches currently open for swimming in Durban

The following 20 beaches are currently considered safe for recreational swimming (subject to continued testing):

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

Lifeguards are on duty daily from 06:00 to 18:30 at these beaches, making them the safest option for families and casual swimmers.

Beaches temporarily closed

The following beaches remain closed as a precaution due to water quality concerns:

1. Doonside Beach
2. Battery Beach
3. North Beach

Closures will remain in place until testing confirms full compliance with safety standards.

Prefer guaranteed swimming conditions? Consider municipal pools

For travellers seeking more predictable swimming conditions, Durban offers approximately 40 municipal public swimming pools. These facilities are regularly maintained, monitored and supervised by lifeguards - a particularly reliable alternative for families travelling with young children.

Safety advice for beach visitors

Coastal water conditions can change rapidly, especially after heavy rainfall. To reduce health risks:

• Swim only at lifeguarded beaches
• Obey official signage and municipal advisories
• Avoid entering the ocean for 24–48 hours after heavy rain

Traveller Takeaway

The latest results confirm that the majority of Durban's bathing beaches are open and compliant with national safety standards. However, the temporary closure of three beaches underscores the importance of consulting up-to-date municipal guidance before planning a beach outing.

Durban's coastline remains accessible and inviting — provided visitors stay informed and choose their swimming locations carefully.

 

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South Africa’s airports shine at the 2025 ASQ Customer Experience Awards

South Africa’s leading airports have earned global recognition in the 2025 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Customer Experience Awards, presented by Airports Council International (ACI) World.

The ASQ Awards are widely regarded as the aviation industry’s most credible benchmark for airport performance because they are based entirely on real-time passenger surveys conducted at airports worldwide. In 2025, nearly 700,000 travellers participated - making this the largest ASQ awards cycle to date.

For travellers flying to, from or within South Africa, the results confirm what many already experience: the country’s airports continue to deliver high service standards across multiple categories.

Overall recognition - Best Airports in Africa at departures

South African airports performed strongly in their respective passenger-size categories, earning recognition for overall customer satisfaction at departure.

Airports handling fewer than 2 million passengers per year

• Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN) in Bloemfontein
• Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth
• Upington Airport (UTN) in Upington

Airports handling 5 to 15 million passengers per year (Africa region)

• Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town

Cape Town International Airport’s win in the competitive 5–15 million passengers category positions it among Africa’s top-performing mid-sized hubs for overall departure satisfaction.

Category Awards: Where South Africa stood out

Beyond overall satisfaction, South African airports also claimed awards in specialised customer experience categories:

Best Airports in Africa: Most Dedicated Staff

• Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth

Passengers highlighted the professionalism, friendliness and proactive assistance provided by frontline airport staff.

Best Airports in Africa: Easiest Airport Journey

• Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town
• Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth 

Efficient passenger flow, clear wayfinding, streamlined security processes and intuitive terminal layouts contributed to a seamless travel experience.

Best Airports in Africa: Most Enjoyable Airport Experience

• Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town
• King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban

From retail offerings and dining to terminal ambience and comfort, these airports delivered a positive and engaging passenger environment.

Best Airports in Africa: Cleanest Airport

• Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town

Cleanliness remains one of the strongest predictors of passenger satisfaction - and Cape Town again set the benchmark in its category.

Why the ASQ awards matter

The ASQ programme is the only global airport benchmarking system that measures customer satisfaction through live, departure-gate surveys. Unlike awards based on nominations or expert panels, ASQ scores are derived directly from passengers’ immediate travel experiences.

For airlines, route planners and tourism stakeholders, strong ASQ performance signals:

• Operational efficiency
• Service reliability
• Passenger-friendly infrastructure
• Positive brand perception
• For travellers, it translates into:
• Shorter queues
• Smoother transfers
• Cleaner facilities
• Friendlier interactions
• A more relaxed overall journey

What this means for travel in South Africa

As international travel continues to grow and competition among regional hubs intensifies, South Africa’s airport network has demonstrated that it can deliver world-class passenger experiences across both major gateways and regional airports.

Cape Town International Airport’s multi-category success reinforces its status as one of Africa’s leading mid-sized airports, while smaller facilities such as Bram Fischer International Airport,  Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, and Upington Airport prove that excellent service is not limited to high-volume hubs.

For anyone planning travel to South Africa - whether for business, leisure or safari connections - these awards provide additional reassurance that the airport experience is designed around passenger satisfaction.

 

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Travelling through CPT? Here’s what you need to know after the 24 Feb airport fire

last updated 27 February 2026

ACSA released an official press statement last night. According to the release, all domestic and international check-in systems, along with Border Management Authority (BMA) and Customs services, are fully automated and functional.  International arrivals will continue to use an alternate "Meeters & Greeters" route on the ground floor of the International Inner Lane while a final safety assessment of the terminal is being completed. The baggage processing is currently being managed manually. ACSA's maintenance teams are working 24/7 to restore automated service to this area. Temporary accommodations are being arranged for airport partners whose facilities have been impacted by the incident.  

last updated 26 February 2026 

Following the fire at Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town on 24 February 2026, Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed that all check-in counters are now fully operational.

The fire, which broke out in a technical area near the airport’s main check-in concourse, caused temporary disruptions to several operational systems and delayed passenger processing. No injuries were reported, and emergency teams acted swiftly to contain the blaze, allowing a rapid recovery of essential airport functions.

While the Cape Town International Airport (CPT) has resumed normal services, passengers are advised to allow extra time for check-in and security procedures. For the latest flight updates, travellers should check directly with their airline or via the ACSA Mobile App. Visitors collecting international passengers are encouraged to follow on-site signage and official airport communications to ensure smooth access to the terminals.

 

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|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park update: Sendelingsdrift pontoon ferry closed!

update 16 April 2026

As of mid-April 2026, there is no confirmed reopening yet of the Sendelingsdrift pontoon ferry in the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park.  

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South African National Parks (SANParks) has temporarily closed the pontoon at the Sendelingsdrift pontoon at the Sendelingsdrift border post in the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park due to high water levels in the Orange River. Visitors planning to enter the park are advised to use the Alexander Bay gravel road as an alternative route to reach Sendelingsdrift. 

The Sendelingsdrift border post is a vital gateway to the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, a remote and rugged wilderness straddling the South Africa - Namibia border. Known for its dramatic desert landscapes, unique flora, and panoramic scenery, the park attracts adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

The pontoon ferry at Sendelingsdrift offers an adventurous and scenic way to cross the Orange River, but its operation is water-level dependent. Currently, extreme conditions have necessitated its closure.

Travellers are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra travel time. For those seeking adventure in one of Southern Africa’s most striking desert landscapes, the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park remains accessible via alternative routes.

 

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