A Private Safari Haven in Zimbabwe Wild Expeditions is set to unveil Muddy Teak, an exclusive-use, seasonal camp in Hwange National Park, opening May 1. Designed for those seeking a private, immersive safari experience, the camp operates from May to November—the prime months for exceptional game viewing.
A Camp Blending Comfort & Wilderness ✔ Four tented suites (including a family tent) on raised timber decks ✔ Indoor & outdoor showers for a true safari feel ✔ Main area with a pool, firepit & day loungers overlooking a natural waterhole ✔ Located 1km from Camp Hwange, offering seclusion without isolation
Exceptional Wildlife & Conservation Commitment Nestled in Hwange’s central region, the camp provides unparalleled dry-season sightings of elephants, buffalo, lions, and an array of plains game. Leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs are frequent visitors, making this a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Wild Expeditions champions walking safaris and wildlife tracking, ensuring an authentic, eco-conscious safari while actively supporting conservation and local communities.
Opening May 1 – The Ultimate Private Safari Retreat Awaits!
A Fresh Look & Enhanced Experience Awaits The countdown is on! Ilala Lodge Hotel’s dining area refurbishment is entering its final two weeks, with a grand reopening set for March 1st. Guests can soon enjoy a revamped space designed for both style and functionality, promising a more refined and seamless dining experience.
What’s New? ✔️ Dedicated Coffee Station – A perfect spot to enjoy freshly brewed delights. ✔️ Enhanced Refreshment Area – Designed for ultimate guest convenience. ✔️ Redesigned Buffet Section – Aesthetic and functional improvements for a better flow.
Behind the Scenes: Kitchen Upgrades The final phase of kitchen enhancements is progressing on schedule: ✔️ New tiling – A fresh, polished look. ✔️ Updated extraction systems – Ensuring a superior dining environment. ✔️ New cooking equipment – Elevating the culinary experience.
Final Touches & Test Opening With the finishing touches being applied, Ilala Lodge is preparing for a test opening at the end of February. These enhancements mark a significant step in delivering an upgraded guest experience while maintaining the warm hospitality Ilala Lodge is known for.
The Wait is Almost Over! We look forward to welcoming your guests to explore the all-new dining experience soon. Thank you for your patience and support—we can’t wait to share these upgrades with you!
Fastjet has announced a new partnership with Chamabondo Primary School in Victoria Falls, reinforcing its commitment to education and environmental conservation.
As part of this initiative, the airline will sponsor annual school fees for two students, ensuring access to quality education. Additionally, Fastjet is donating four 200-litre recycling bins to encourage plastic waste collection, which will be processed by a local Victoria Falls recycling company.
This collaboration highlights Fastjet’s dedication to empowering future generations while actively contributing to environmental sustainability. The airline remains committed to supporting communities where it operates, fostering both social and ecological impact.
For the lowest fares with free baggage allowance, flexible booking options, and in-flight refreshments, visit www.fastjet.com.
African Sun Announces Strategic Asset Disposal Zimbabwe’s leading hospitality group, African Sun, has officially put Monomotapa Hotel in Harare on the market. This move aligns with the company’s broader strategy to unlock value, recapitalise, and strengthen its core portfolio.
A Major Shift in the Hospitality Landscape ✔ Part of African Sun’s asset disposal plan to reinvest in key properties ✔ Shareholders & investors notified in a cautionary statement ✔ Negotiations ongoing for the sale of multiple hospitality assets
This sale signals a new chapter for Monomotapa Hotel, an iconic property in Harare’s hospitality scene. The outcome of this move could reshape Zimbabwe’s hotel investment landscape, offering fresh opportunities for potential buyers.
Who will acquire this landmark? Stay tuned as the story unfolds!
TAAG Angola Airlines receives first of four 787 Dreamliner airplanes on order
787 Dreamliner to expand TAAG Angola Airlines’ network across multiple geographies
LUANDA, Angola, Jan. 30, 2025 – TAAG Angola Airlines takes delivery of first Boeing 787 Dreamliner, debuting the airline’s new delivery. The 787-9 and subsequent deliveries of the fuel-efficient widebody jet will advance the airline’s fleet modernization plans and long-haul capabilities, bringing more travelers and trade to Angola with one of the industry’s most advanced commercial airplane.
The airline’s first 787 Dreamliner, which is on lease from AerCap, arrived in Luanda just ahead of Angola’s Liberation Day on February 4, marking nearly 50 years since the delivery of TAAG Angola’s first airplane, a Boeing 737-200.
“The delivery of the 787-9 is a pivotal step in our strategy to modernize TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet,” said Nelson Rodrigues de Oliveira, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines. “This airplane brings the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands, replace our aging widebody fleet, and deliver a world-class experience to our passengers.”
TAAG Angola Airlines currently operates five 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes, three 777-200ERs, and seven Next-Generation 737s, connecting Angola to key destinations across Africa, Europe, Americas and Asia. The introduction of the 787 Dreamliner will enable the carrier to expand its long-haul network, with plans to launch new routes and explore connectivity opportunities across multiple geographies.
“The 787 Dreamliner will complement TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet of Boeing 737 and 777 jets, as we continue to support the airline in its mission to connect people and places across the globe,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, vice president of Boeing Commercial Sales for Africa. “Our 50-year relationship with TAAG Angola Airlines has been built on trust and shared goals, and we look forward to many more years of successful collaboration and innovation together.”
The 787 Dreamliner, which TAAG Angola Airlines ordered in 2023, is a core part of the operator’s modernization efforts. Recognized for its advanced technologies, fuel efficiency, and exceptional passenger experience, the 787 Dreamliner reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 25% compared to the airplanes it will replace.
Coinciding with the delivery of TAAG Angola Airlines’ first 787 Dreamliner, the airline is working with Boeing to purchase CO2 emissions reduction associated with blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through an accounting process called book-and-claim.Distributors will deliver the blended SAF made available through these purchased certificates to nearby airports for use by airlines and other carriers.
Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook projects Africa will need 1,170 airplanes over the next two decades. Boeing airplanes have formed the backbone of Africa’s commercial fleet for over 75 years. More than 60 airlines operate around 500 Boeing airplanes throughout Africa, which represents nearly 70% of the airplane market across the continent.
About TAAG TAAG Angola Airlines is the leading airline in the country and is recognized worldwide for its strong high-yield market, having grown its current network to 12 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.
About Boeing As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defense products, and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality, and integrity.
For more information on TAAG Angola Airlines, visit: www.taag.com
TAAG ANGOLA AIRLINES CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS AND PRESS OFFICE
International tourism has made a remarkable comeback, with the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer revealing that 2023 ended at 88% of pre-pandemic levels. An estimated 1.3 billion international arrivals marked a strong recovery, fuelled by pent-up demand, improved air connectivity, and the resurgence of Asian markets. With momentum building, full recovery is expected by the end of 2024.
Regional Performance: The Standout Markets
Global tourism recovery has been uneven, with certain regions surpassing others:
Middle East: The only region to exceed pre-pandemic levels, recording 22% growth above 2019 figures.
Europe: The world’s most visited region reached 94% of pre-pandemic arrivals, driven by intra-regional travel and visitors from the U.S.
Africa: Recovered 96% of 2019 visitor numbers, showing strong resilience.
Americas: Reached 90% of 2019 levels, with steady growth.
Asia-Pacific: Still lagging at 65%, with South Asia recovering 87% and North-East Asia at 55% due to phased market reopening.
Several destinations, including Southern Mediterranean Europe, the Caribbean, Central America, and North Africa, have already surpassed 2019 arrival numbers.
Economic Impact: Tourism’s Role in Global GDP
The economic impact of tourism recovery is profound:
Tourism receipts: Reached USD 1.4 trillion in 2023, recovering 93% of 2019 earnings.
Total export revenues: Estimated at USD 1.6 trillion, hitting 95% of pre-pandemic levels.
Tourism’s GDP contribution: Estimated at USD 3.3 trillion in 2023, equating to 3% of global GDP.
Strong outbound demand has propelled growth, with several large markets surpassing 2019 travel spending.
Key Industry Indicators Signal Strong Demand
International air capacity and passenger demand recovered about 90% of pre-pandemic levels.
Global hotel occupancy reached 65% in November 2023, surpassing 62% from the previous year.
Looking Ahead: Tourism in 2024
The outlook for 2024 remains highly optimistic, with international tourism expected to fully surpass pre-pandemic levels by at least 2%. Key trends influencing this growth include:
Asian market revival: China’s outbound and inbound travel set to accelerate due to visa facilitation and increased air connectivity.
Visa and travel facilitation: The GCC’s upcoming unified tourist visa and intra-African travel policies will boost regional tourism.
Major events: The 2024 Paris Olympics and Schengen expansion to Romania and Bulgaria will drive European tourism.
U.S. travellers’ influence: Strong demand from the U.S., backed by a robust dollar, will benefit global destinations.
Challenges on the Horizon
Despite strong recovery, certain risks remain:
Economic instability: Inflation, high interest rates, and fluctuating oil prices may impact travel costs.
Geopolitical tensions: Conflicts in the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine war continue to affect traveller confidence.
Labour shortages: The tourism sector faces staffing challenges, affecting service levels.
Shift in consumer behaviour: Travellers are prioritizing value for money, sustainability, and proximity in their travel decisions.
Conclusion
With resilience and adaptability, the global tourism industry is not only bouncing back but evolving. As travel patterns shift, businesses and destinations must embrace innovation, sustainability, and strategic planning to thrive in this new era of tourism growth.
Johannesburg – 20 January 2025 – South African Airways (SAA) has added two aircraft to its fleet in the last two weeks, successfully growing its fleet size to 20 aircraft.
“This is a remarkable achievement considering that just over three years ago, the airline emerged from business rescue with just six aircraft. Since 2021, the team at SAA has worked strategically and consistently to grow the fleet and route network sustainably. These additional aircraft will enable SAA to continue fulfilling our promise to add seat capacity in both the domestic and regional market and thereby contributing to the affordability of passenger air travel, ” says Professor John Lamola, interim CEO at SAA.
The two leased narrow-body Airbus A320s, branded in SAA-branded livery, have arrived in Johannesburg from Ireland-based AerCap, the world’s number one aircraft leasing company. SAA’s relationship with AerCap is one proof of the recovery of the airline’s credit status with major international aviation finance institutions.
The aviation industry is currently facing post-COVID-19 supply chain crisis that has delayed new aircraft deliveries and increased the cost and scarcity of second-hand aircraft.
Besides the A320s, SAA’s 20-strong fleet comprises wide-body A330s and long-range A343s, which are well-suited for the two intercontinental routes that were relaunched last year – from Johannesburg to São Paulo and Perth and Cape Town to São Paulo.
SAA is rolling out a plan of adding five aircraft to its fleet during this 2025 calendar year.
“SAA’s fleet growth comes as the airline enters a phase of consolidation, increasing the frequency of flights to service an existing route network, to ensure South African leisure and business travellers enjoy more direct access to major African cities. In addition, SAA Cargo facilitates trade links between economic hubs across the continent and beyond,” Lamola added.
Today, 20th January 2025, SAA launches a connection between Dar es Salaam and Johannesburg and is expanding flight frequency on its services to Harare (Zimbabwe) and Lusaka (Zambia) to 12 flights per week, up from 10 and seven flights a week, respectively.
Flights to Lagos (Nigeria) and Accra (Ghana) have been increased from three to four times a week, while SAA is now also flying to Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) five times a week and began flying to the DRC’s mining hub, Lubumbashi, in November 2024.
Calling all changemakers! Africa Travel Week (ATW) is urging responsible tourism businesses to enter the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards. The deadline for submissions is 19 March 2025.
“These annual awards celebrate exceptional efforts driving tourism as a force for good,” says Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director for RX Africa. “They’re our way of honouring initiatives that address key global challenges while enhancing the travel experience.”
Award entries will be judged by a panel of industry experts led by Dr Harold Goodwin, WTM Africa’s Responsible Tourism Advisor. The six confirmed categories for 2025 are summarised below:
All-Inclusive Tourism: Can it be Responsible?
Adapting to Climate Change
Increasing Local Sourcing (to Create Shared Value)
Peace & Understanding
Managing Waste: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Upcycle
Nature Positive Travel
Winners will be announced live at WTM Africa at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on 10 April 2025. Gold winners in each category will also have the opportunity to compete at the global Responsible Tourism Awards later in 2025.
“In previous years, Africa has scooped as many as five awards in the global accolades and last year we picked up another – this underscores our region’s innovative spirit, drive and commitment to responsible tourism,” De Jager adds.
How to Enter
Entering is free and easy. But hurry – entries close on Wednesday, 19 March 2025!
Step 2: Select your category & download the entry form
Step 3: Submit a compelling case study to [email protected] showing your measurable impact & innovative approach to responsible tourism.
“We believe tourism can change the world,” says De Jager. “If that’s a message you align with, don’t miss your chance to be recognised as a leader in responsible tourism and to put your company on the global map”, she concludes.
Zambia has expanded its visa-free entry to 167 countries, adding 53 new nations to the list. This bold move cements Zambia’s reputation as a progressive leader in Southern African tourism, making it easier than ever for international visitors and investors to access the country.
Economic Growth Through Open Borders Announced by Hon. Jack Jacob Mwiimbu, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, the visa waiver is a strategic effort to: ✔️ Increase tourist arrivals ✔️ Attract foreign investment ✔️ Boost trade & job creation
The initiative is part of Zambia’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and aligns with the African Union’s vision for greater mobility within the continent.
Security Meets Accessibility While easing entry, Zambia is also enhancing border security by: 🔹 Implementing a new Advanced Passenger Information System 🔹 Deploying 900+ additional immigration officers 🔹 Establishing new immigration control points
This ensures tourism growth and national security go hand in hand.
Industry Experts Applaud the Move “The 2022 visa waiver program already proved that the right policies can transform tourism accessibility,” said Jillian Blackbeard, CEO of Africa’s Eden. “This move will drive sustainable growth.”
What’s Next? With fewer travel restrictions and stronger economic incentives, Zambia is set to become a top destination for business and leisure travel in Africa. Will more nations follow suit?
Would this new visa policy encourage you to visit or invest in Zambia?
Zimbabwe, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has experienced a significant resurgence in tourism. In the first quarter of 2024, the country welcomed 409,979 foreign visitors, marking an impressive 83% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This surge contributed to a 22% rise in tourism revenue, reaching £876.7 million, with international arrivals totalling 1.6 million, up from 1 million in 2022.
A key factor in this growth is Zimbabwe’s strategic relaxation of visa requirements. Citizens from 65 countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Namibia, Botswana, and Eswatini, can now enter without a visa. Additionally, travellers from nations such as Singapore, Malaysia, and the Bahamas enjoy visa-free access, while those from Bangladesh, Nigeria, Ghana, and Bolivia can obtain visas on arrival. This initiative has significantly enhanced the country’s appeal as a tourist destination.
Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, remains a major draw for visitors. The falls offer a range of activities, from viewing the majestic cascades to engaging in adrenaline-pumping adventures like white-water rafting and bungee jumping. The surrounding Victoria Falls National Park provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, including species such as elephants, buffalo, and giraffes.
Beyond Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe boasts several national parks that offer unique safari experiences. Hwange National Park, the largest in the country, is renowned for its vast elephant herds and diverse wildlife, including lions, leopards, and African wild dogs. The park’s proximity to Victoria Falls makes it a convenient addition to travellers’ itineraries.
Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes along the Zambezi River and its abundant wildlife, particularly during the dry season when animals congregate around the river. The park offers walking safaris and canoeing, providing immersive experiences in the African wilderness.
In the southeastern part of the country lies Gonarezhou National Park, meaning “Place of Elephants.” As Zimbabwe’s second-largest national park, it forms part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, linking with South Africa’s Kruger National Park and Mozambique’s Limpopo National Park. This vast wilderness area is home to diverse fauna, including elephants, lions, and the endangered Cape wild dog.
