In an unprecedented industry milestone, ILTM Africa 2025—the continent’s premier invitation-only luxury travel event—has announced it’s fully booked, months before the April gathering in Cape Town. This sell-out status isn’t just good news for event organisers; it signals Africa’s dramatic emergence as a luxury travel destination that can no longer be ignored by global investors and travel professionals.
Behind this surge is an astonishing 211% growth in luxury travel sales compared to 2019 levels, according to recent Virtuoso research. Africa isn’t just participating in this luxury travel renaissance—it’s leading it.
Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director – Travel, Tourism at RX Africa.
“We’ve witnessed unprecedented demand for exhibition space this year,” explains Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director at Africa Travel Week. The event’s distinctive approach focuses on creating meaningful connections through curated experiences like chauffeur-driven vintage motorbike arrivals, artful garden picnics, and exclusive Jeep safaris along Chapman’s Peak Drive.
Perhaps most telling is the seamless integration of conservation, art, and luxury at this year’s event. The “Art for Conservation” fundraising initiative—supporting endangered African wild dogs through the Endangered Wildlife Trust—exemplifies how Africa’s luxury sector is defining a new paradigm where opulence and ethical responsibility coexist.
Cape Town’s Executive Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis celebrates the city’s role as “the undisputed luxury travel capital of the continent,” while industry leaders view the early sell-out as confirmation of Africa’s growing influence in global high-end travel.
The question now facing industry professionals: As Africa redefines what luxury means in the 2025 travel landscape, can your business afford to miss this remarkable market evolution?
Fastjet Zimbabwe, the award-winning African airline, is excited to announce the launch of a new scheduled flight service connecting Harare, Zimbabwe, and Lusaka, Zambia. The route, commencing on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, will operate three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, enhancing connectivity between these two vibrant capital cities.
The service will be operated using Fastjet’s 50-seater Embraer ERJ145 aircraft, offering a seamless and comfortable travel experience with generous legroom and a convenient schedule tailored for both business and leisure travellers.
Enhancing Business and Leisure Travel Between Zimbabwe and Zambia
The new Harare-Lusaka route is a significant development for trade, investment, and tourism in both countries. As economic hubs in the Southern African region, Harare and Lusaka serve as key centers for commerce, finance, and industry. With improved air access, business professionals will benefit from more efficient travel options, facilitating stronger bilateral trade relations and economic growth.
Moreover, introducing an early morning departure – a first on this route – allows business travellers to maximise productivity by enabling same-day return trips. Fastjet’s schedule aligns with corporate needs, providing a hassle-free experience for executives and entrepreneurs who require flexible and time-sensitive travel options.
For the leisure sector, this route unlocks greater tourism potential, making it easier for travellers to explore Zimbabwe’s iconic destinations such as Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park, as well as Zambia’s renowned wildlife reserves and adventure experiences on the Zambezi River. The improved connectivity supports regional tourism growth and encourages cross-border exploration for holidaymakers.
Fastjet Leadership on the New Route
Nunurai Ndawana, Fastjet Zimbabwe spokesperson, emphasized the broader impact of the new connection: “Zimbabwe and Zambia share deep-rooted economic and social ties. By introducing this route, we reaffirm our commitment to facilitating regional mobility, driving economic collaboration, and making travel more accessible and efficient for our customers.”
Fastjet Zimbabwe Business CEO and Country Head, Donahue Cortes, highlighted the strategic importance of the flight schedule: “No other airline offers an early morning departure on this route, giving our passengers the advantage of a full business day in their city of arrival. This expansion complements our growing portfolio of business-friendly flight schedules, including early morning flights to Bulawayo and Johannesburg.”
Flight Schedule: Harare (HRE) – Lusaka (LUN)
Effective April 9, 2025
Flight
Route
Days
Departure
Arrival
FN8707
HRE – LUN
Mon, Wed, Fri
06:00 AM
06:55 AM
FN8708
LUN – HRE
Mon, Wed, Fri
07:25 AM
08:20 AM
Passengers booking this route will enjoy Fastjet’s signature service, including generous free baggage allowances and flexible booking options. Tickets for the Harare-Lusaka flights are available on www.fastjet.com.
ABOUT FASTJET
Fastjet Zimbabwe is a multi-award-winning African airline that began flight operations in 2015. Today, fastjet Zimbabwe connects three major cities in Zimbabwe by flying between Harare & Victoria Falls, as well as between Harare & Bulawayo. In addition, the airline offers international flights from Harare, Bulawayo & Victoria Falls to Johannesburg in South Africa and from Victoria Falls to Mbombela (Kruger) Nelspruit Mpumalanga in South Africa. Its awards include World Travel Awards in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 2020, 2021 and 2022, Skytrax World Airline Awards in 2017 and 2019, and in the top ten finalists for 2021, 2022 and 2023. Since commencing operations, fastjet has flown over 4 million passengers and has established itself as a reliable African airline brand, with a range of value-added products and services. In 2024 fastjet Zimbabwe successfully achieved the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) registration. This registration acknowledges fastjet’s conformance and adherence to the highest operational and safety standards in the aviation industry. As part of the airline’s commitment to offering choice, flexibility and value, customers benefit from generous free baggage allowances, flexible change options, multiple payment channels, airport lounge access on select routes, free inflight services and ancillary services such as car hire.
SmileStar, a global dental charity dedicated to providing free dental care to underprivileged communities, is in Zimbabwe having begun its free dental clinics at Chinotimba Clinic in Victoria Falls on 8 March. The team treated patients there until 13 March before moving to Hwange, where they are conducting clinics until 22 March 2025. The team of 14 voluntary dental professionals, who have self-funded their trip, were hosted by Victoria Falls Safari Lodge in Victoria Falls while Hwange Safari Lodge is hosting the team in Hwange.
SmileStar, which is supported by many volunteers from Dentex, Europe’s largest private dental group, undertakes three to four two-week missions each year to deliver essential dental treatment and education to underprivileged communities. In 2024, SmileStar teams provided dental care in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Jamaica, and Kenya, transforming the lives of thousands of people.
During their mission to Victoria Falls, the SmileStar team treated 550 patients. Dr Mitesh Badiani, Team Leader of the mission, emphasised the importance of their work, saying, “Access to dental care is often limited in these communities, and we are humbled to be able to provide much-needed treatment. Beyond immediate care, we are committed to educating patients on oral hygiene to ensure long-term benefits for their health.”
The team’s work extends beyond treatment, as they also carry out dental hygiene programmes and provide ongoing education on oral care for local communities. In addition, the team leaves behind equipment and supplies to ensure sustained improvements in oral health.
Mark Cockburn, who founded Dentex nine years ago and plays an active role in SmileStar’s initiatives, expressed his enthusiasm for this mission. “We are incredibly honoured to bring SmileStar’s work to Victoria Falls and Hwange. Our goal is not only to provide essential dental care to those in need, but also to equip these communities with the knowledge and resources to improve long-term oral health. We are deeply grateful for the warm hospitality extended to us by Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, which has made our mission here even more special.”
Speaking on the team’s experience at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Dr Badiani stated, “Our stay at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge was exceptional. The genuine warmth and attentiveness of the staff, combined with strong management presence, made a lasting impression on us, and our stay was truly unforgettable.”
During their time in Victoria Falls, the team had the opportunity to explore the destination, including a tour of the Falls, a helicopter flight over the Falls, and dining at some of the destination’s renowned dining establishments including The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show and Dusty Road.
Africa Albida Tourism Managing Director, Nigel Frost, welcomed the initiative, stating, “Hosting the SmileStar team at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge aligns perfectly with our commitment to community support and sustainable tourism. Their work will have a profound and lasting impact on the people of Victoria Falls and Hwange, and we are proud to have played our part in this noble effort.”
Photo: Some of the patients waiting for treatment at the SmileStar Clinic in Victoria Falls
“We also appreciate the invaluable contribution of CIMAS in supporting this mission, which has further strengthened the impact of this initiative”, added Frost.
In addition to hosting the SmileStar team, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge also sponsored accommodation for a two-man team from CIMAS, who are supporting the clinics and contributing to the success of this vital healthcare initiative.
SmileStar’s dedication to transforming dental healthcare for underprivileged communities continues to make a significant difference worldwide. Their visit to Zimbabwe is expected to leave a lasting legacy of improved oral health.
Africa Albida Tourism hospitality group operates the Victoria Falls Safari Collection, a portfolio of properties renowned for capturing the very essence of Africa in one of the region’s most iconic destinations – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
The collection incorporates the flagship Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, the premium 20-room Victoria Falls Safari Club, the spacious Victoria Falls Safari Suites, the family-friendly Lokuthula Lodges – Victoria Falls, the deluxe MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant, the “must-do” Boma – Dinner & Drum Show and the Victoria Falls Safari Spa, all located on the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, just 4km from the Victoria Falls.
The second A220-300 aircraft of TAAG Angola Airlines, designated D2-TAF, will serve domestic and regional destinations.
Luanda, March 14, 2025: As part of the 2024-2029 strategic plan and fleet expansion program, TAAG Angola Airlines has recently added its second A220-300 aircraft, which landed on Angolan soil at the newly inaugurated Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport.
Empowering the fleet with modern, state-of-the-art aircraft is closely aligned with the airline’s strategic pillars, specifically the company’s focus on “Operational Excellence”, “Commercial Superiority,” and “Connectivity.” Incorporating the A220-300 also signifies a substantial enhancement in the quality of services provided to passengers.
The A220-300 aircraft will enhance domestic and regional connections, providing passengers with exceptional comfort, convenience, innovative cabin features, and a memorable flying experience.
The aircraft is a clean sheet design incorporating advanced materials and state of the art technologies. The A220 Family’s cutting-edge aerodynamics, combined with Pratt & Whitney latest generation of geared turbofan engines, result in an aircraft that achieves a 25% reduction in fuel consumption per seat and CO2 emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft. Additionally, it boasts half the noise footprint compared to the previous generation of aircraft, making it a truly community-friendly jetliner.
Globally, the reinforcement of the TAAG fleet demonstrates the airline’s commitment to modernisation and growth. This initiative consolidates a more versatile fleet and enhances aircraft availability to meet the demands of passengers and customers
About TAAG Angola Airlines TAAG Angola Airlines is the leading airline in the country and is recognised worldwide for its strong high-yield market, having grown its current network to 13 domestic and 11 international destinations. Its fleet allows, in addition to passenger transport, air cargo services which have become essential for Angola ́s growth and development. TAAG is a company that prides itself on a strong track record of service and performance excellence.
For more information on TAAG Angola Airlines, visit: www.taag.com
Berlin, March 4, 2025 – ITB Berlin 2025, the world’s leading travel trade show, has opened with an unprecedented 5,800 exhibitors from 170+ countries at Messe Berlin from March 4-6. The event gathers global tourism professionals, industry leaders, and media for three days of networking, innovations, and discussions on the future of travel.
Albania: The Host Country Spotlight
For the first time, Albania is the official Host Country, marking its rapid emergence as a top European destination. Prime Minister Edi Rama emphasised Albania’s booming tourism sector, noting that 374,000 German tourists visited in 2023, a significant rise from previous years. Other notable speakers at the opening ceremony included:
Kai Wegner, Governing Mayor of Berlin
Dieter Janecek, Federal Coordinator for Maritime Industry and Tourism
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO
Zurab Pololikashvili, UN Tourism Secretary-General
Travel Industry Innovations and Trends
With a focus on AI-driven travel solutions, sustainable tourism, and smart hospitality technology, ITB Berlin 2025 showcases groundbreaking advancements. Deborah Rothe, ITB Berlin Director, highlighted these innovations, while Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin, emphasised ITB Berlin’s role in driving global business opportunities.
Despite economic challenges, global travel demand remains strong. Mitra Sorrells, Phocuswright SVP Content, noted that investment in travel startups is growing, particularly in AI and digital solutions. Norbert Fiebig, DRV President, echoed these views, stressing that Germans continue to prioritise travel for cultural enrichment and relaxation.
ITB Travel & Tourism Report 2025/2026 Released
A key event highlight is the release of the ITB Travel & Tourism Report 2025/2026, offering insights into global tourism trends, emerging markets, industry challenges, and strategies for sustainable growth.
Looking Ahead
With record-breaking participation, ITB Berlin 2025 cements its status as the top global travel trade show, shaping the industry’s future through digital transformation, sustainability, and investment in travel technology.
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, is more than just a commercial hub—it’s a destination where history, culture, and relaxation blend seamlessly. Whether you’re visiting for a conference, corporate event, or client meetings, taking a break to explore the city can enhance your business trip. From museums to adventure networking spots, here are five must-visit places in Bulawayo that will make your work trip more memorable.
1. Natural History Museum – Discover Zimbabwe’s Natural Wealth
For business travellers interested in Zimbabwe’s economic and geological history, the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe is a must-visit. Spread over three floors, the museum showcases an extensive collection of gemstones, minerals, and wildlife taxidermy, including a record-breaking elephant. If you’re looking to understand the country’s rich resources and biodiversity, this museum offers valuable insights.
Why Visit?
Gain insights into Zimbabwe’s natural resources and industries
Explore impressive taxidermy displays and rare mineral collections
A perfect spot for an intellectual break between meetings
Cost: $4 Don’t Forget: The museum features a live snake collection, including black mambas and cobras.
2. Bulawayo Railway Museum – A Journey Through Business & Colonial History
Bulawayo has long been a vital transportation and trade hub in Southern Africa. The Bulawayo Railway Museum takes you back in time, showcasing historic steam locomotives and carriages, including the personal train coach of Cecil Rhodes. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or simply interested in Zimbabwe’s industrial growth, this museum offers a fascinating look at how the country’s railway system shaped business and commerce.
Why Visit?
Discover the role of railways in Zimbabwe’s economic development
See vintage locomotives and learn about their historical significance
Engage with passionate museum curators who bring history to life
Cost: $2 Don’t Forget: Check out the 1889 Jack Tar train, which was the first to cross Victoria Falls Bridge.
3. National Art Gallery in Bulawayo – A Creative Break from Work
For business travellers seeking inspiration outside of the boardroom, the National Art Gallery in Bulawayo is a must-visit. Housed in a stunning Edwardian building, the gallery features contemporary Zimbabwean sculptures, paintings, and photography. It’s an excellent place to appreciate local artistry, discover unique souvenirs, or even engage in thought-provoking conversations with resident artists.
Why Visit?
Experience Zimbabwe’s vibrant art scene and support local talent
Find unique, handcrafted pieces ideal for corporate gifts
Relax in a serene, creative environment after a busy workday
Cost: Free to enter Don’t Forget: Visit the gallery shop for exclusive art pieces and the on-site café for a quiet moment.
4. The Bulawayo Club – The Ultimate Networking Spot
No business trip is complete without some high-level networking, and The Bulawayo Club provides the perfect setting. This historic gentleman’s club, founded in 1895, is now open to all professionals. With its elegant décor, exclusive dining areas, and a well-stocked bar, it’s an excellent venue for business lunches, casual meetings, or simply unwinding with fellow professionals.
Why Visit?
Ideal for business meetings in a refined setting
Great for networking with Zimbabwe’s corporate elite
Enjoy world-class dining in a historic atmosphere
Cost: Free to enter (meals and drinks available for purchase) Don’t Forget: Adhere to the dress code—smart casual attire is required.
5. Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage – A Unique Team-Building Experience
If you’re looking for a relaxing and meaningful way to wrap up your business trip, visit Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage. Located just 23 km from the city centre, this sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates orphaned or injured wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and rhinos. It’s a great place to unwind while contributing to a conservation effort.
Why Visit?
Enjoy a peaceful escape from the fast-paced business world
Support a conservation initiative by visiting or volunteering
A great spot for team-building activities outside the office
Cost: $2 Don’t Forget: If you have time, consider the volunteer program to make a lasting impact.
Final Thoughts
Bulawayo is more than just a business hub—it’s a city filled with culture, history, and networking opportunities. Whether you’re taking a break between meetings or looking for a unique way to entertain clients, these five locations will elevate your business trip.
Which of these places would you visit on your next trip to Bulawayo? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
The Cassia Restaurant at Ilala Lodge Hotel has officially reopened today, March 1, 2025, unveiling a bold new look designed to redefine the guest experience. With its elegant redesign, this renovation isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about elevating Ilala’s position as a premier dining destination in Victoria Falls’ competitive hospitality market.
What’s New? A Blend of Tradition and Contemporary Elegance
Every inch of Cassia Restaurant has been meticulously transformed. Rich wooden accents, botanical wallpaper, and a green herringbone tile backsplash create a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. A redesigned coffee and refreshment station ensures seamless service, while the revamped buffet area enhances both functionality and presentation, showcasing locally inspired and internationally curated cuisine.
One of the most striking updates is the main dining room, where Ilala Lodge’s signature thatched ceiling and decorative chandeliers beautifully blend African tradition with modern luxury. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views of lush gardens, immersing diners in the natural beauty of Victoria Falls.
For those who love outdoor dining, the terrace area has been upgraded with new seating and décor, offering an uninterrupted view of the mist rising from the falls—a signature experience that Cassia Restaurant is known for.
What This Means for Business Travellers and Hospitality Investors
This refurbishment isn’t just about enhancing guest comfort—it signals Ilala Lodge Hotel’s commitment to staying competitive in Africa’s luxury hospitality space. As demand for high-end, experience-driven travel grows, Ilala’s investment in a world-class dining environment reinforces its appeal to both leisure travellers and corporate guests looking for premium accommodation and dining.
Would this transformation make you choose Ilala Lodge Hotel for your next trip? Share your thoughts below!
In a strategic move to strengthen Zimbabwe’s tourism industry and elevate its global competitiveness, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), is conducting a Service Excellence, Standards, and Grading training workshop in Gweru for Midlands Province tourism operators.
This high-impact initiative is designed to ensure exceptional service delivery, creating world-class guest experiences that align with international tourism standards. By enhancing customer service skills, hospitality best practices, and grading benchmarks, Zimbabwe is positioning itself as a premium business and leisure travel destination.
Strategic Benefits for Business & Leisure Tourism
🔹 Preparing for Key Events: The Midlands Province is gearing up for the upcoming Independence celebrations in Nembudziya, ensuring service providers deliver top-tier hospitality. 🔹 Driving Business & MICE Tourism: A focus on professional service delivery enhances Zimbabwe’s appeal as a destination for business conferences, corporate retreats, and investor engagements. 🔹 Expanding Nationwide Impact: Similar workshops are scheduled for Mashonaland West, Kadoma, and Chegutu, further cementing national service excellence in tourism. 🔹 Boosting Hotel & Hospitality Standards: Accommodation providers will gain insights into grading criteria, ensuring consistency and quality in luxury stays, boutique lodges, and corporate hotels.
Why Service Excellence Matters
Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, emphasized that exceptional service is the backbone of a thriving tourism economy. “We are investing in world-class hospitality training because great service translates into repeat visitors, strong global reputation, and increased tourism revenues. This is how we unlock the full potential of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector.”
As Zimbabwe gears up for a surge in international visitors, these training workshops reinforce the nation’s commitment to hospitality excellence, destination competitiveness, and sustainable tourism growth.
💡 By elevating service standards, Zimbabwe is shaping itself into Africa’s next great travel and business hub. 🚀
Sports tourism is proving to be a powerful driver of Zimbabwe’s business and travel economy as the country welcomes the Canadian Cricket Team for an exciting tour from February 14 to 28, 2025. Hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, this visit highlights Zimbabwe’s growing position as a world-class sporting and business destination.
Beyond the cricket matches, this tour is a strategic economic booster—driving hotel stays, luxury experiences, and corporate engagements. The team’s itinerary includes:
✅ Exclusive Stays: The players and officials are booked at top-tier hotels and lodges, reflecting Zimbabwe’s premium hospitality standards. ✅ Corporate & Networking Events: Business leaders and government representatives will leverage this visit for high-level engagements, strengthening global partnerships. ✅ Luxury & Adventure Tourism: From private safaris in Hwange to sunset cruises on the Zambezi, the tour blends sports with high-value travel experiences. ✅ Cultural Immersion: The team will explore Zimbabwe’s UNESCO Heritage Sites and connect with local communities, further positioning the country as an experiential travel hotspot.
The Business of Sports Tourism
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, emphasized that sports tourism is now a key economic sector, generating revenue across travel, hospitality, and entertainment industries. “Each international tour strengthens our global presence, attracting premium travellers, investors, and sports organizers who see Zimbabwe as the ultimate destination for business and leisure,” she stated.
As Zimbabwe continues to host elite sporting events, the country cements its reputation as a hub for corporate travel, investment, and high-end tourism experiences. With sports as the catalyst, Zimbabwe is opening new avenues for business tourism, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), and hospitality innovation.
Harare, Zimbabwe – Business travellers and VIP passengers can now enjoy a seamless arrival experience at R.G. Mugabe International Airport thanks to the newly launched CBZ Bank Priority Fast Track route. This exclusive service, located in the airport’s new international arrivals terminal, redefines efficiency and luxury, catering to those who value time and comfort.
Designed for Business and First-Class passengers, CBZ Bank Private Banking clients, and CBZ Bank Visa Infinity Cardholders, the Priority and VIP Lanes offer a fast-tracked, hassle-free journey through immigration and customs. The newly designed VIP passage is not only sleek and modern but also ensures that travellers experience world-class service from the moment they land.
This innovation, backed by CBZ Bank, marks a significant step in enhancing Zimbabwe’s position as a premium business and tourism destination. By leveraging technology-driven solutions, the fast-track service prioritizes efficiency, making it easier for executives, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth travellers to navigate arrivals with ease.
As Zimbabwe continues to attract global investors and business leaders, world-class airport services like this reinforce the country’s commitment to premium travel experiences. Whether you’re arriving for a corporate event or an exclusive safari retreat, the CBZ Bank Priority Fast Track ensures you spend less time in queues and more time experiencing Zimbabwe.
