The moment I received an invitation to speak at an expo being held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, I felt elated to escape from the sweltering heat in Dubai and get back on the travel trail after an exceptionally long and painful COVID-19 break.

The event over, I headed straight out of Addis Ababa – a one hour drive from the city to the picturesque town of Bishoftu. Located approximately 50 kilometres from the city, this quaint town is known as Ethiopia’s resort town and known for its numerous lakes.

I chose to stay at the picturesque resort called Asham Africa located on the shores of the oval-shaped Bishoftu Lake known for its placid waters and natural surroundings.

No doubt, there are many other modern resorts in the area, but the authentic African feel that this resort offers was hardly comparable with what was on offer by its competitors. Perched high on the lakeshore hill, Asham Africa Resort offers breathtaking views of the the Bishoftu Lake from each of its 32 rooms and chalets. Winding walkways connect the resort’s main reception and dining areas with the chalets further down the hill. 

Nature Retreat

The entire property is covered with a myriad of flowers, plants, trees and shrubs – giving it that authentic African feel – something that we Dubai residents are so fond of.

The walk down from the reception to my chalet located down the hill slope was an experience in itself. The entire pathway to my lakeside chalet was decked with a wide range of colorful flowers and ornamental plants and trees. It almost felt like walking through a botanical garden as I enjoyed the melodious tweets and shrill calls of the many birds that call the resort their home.

The room was spacious, to say the least. It comes with a double bed, neatly mosquito netted and a complete sitting area with three-seater sofa set and central table. The bathroom was spacious too and even had a jacuzzi as well as hot running water.

However the highlight of the accommodation is undoubtedly the spacious balcony that offers unhindered views of the picturesque Lake Bishoftu that spreads out in front of the resort like a shiny, smooth carpet of water. As I stood there gazing across the lake, the cool wind in my hair and the sound of chirping birds greeting me, I was transported into another world – far from the madding crowds!

Rustic African Elegance

The overall design and architecture of the resort, both its public areas and private chalets, reflects an elegant mixture of rustic African elegance and modern luxury. The materials used to build and decorate the resort – bamboo, timber, stone, and natural materials – are all amply understated, with subtle natural textures and colors that give the property its quaint African look and feel.

As I walked around the resort I realized that the architectural elements are part of the local vernacular architecture of the Bishoftu area. The traditional African culture is further highlighted with hand-picked antiques which are displayed at the resort’s private art gallery, adding to the resort’s typical rustic African ambience.

Travel to Ethiopia

Indeed, for travellers from across the world, Asham Africa Resort offers a perfect getaway during the summer months. It’s nature retreat that offers all the comforts of a home located in unspoilt natural surroundings.

“We welcome visitors from all over the world,” said Sintayehu Alemayehu, Operations Manager of Asham Africa Resort. “Our spacious chalets are perfect for large family groups as well as other travellers from across the world. We offer halal food and a wholesome family environment that tourists will surely enjoy and feel comfortable with,” he said.

Comfortable is what I surely felt as I explored the resort during my short yet enjoyable stay at this unique resort. The dining terrace on the top deck of the property is offers magnificent views of the surrounding areas and serves some delectable meals including international cuisine, traditional Ethiopian food, pizzas and a wide selection of meat and fish dishes.

Activities Galore

The state-of-the-art gymnasium on the property is a perfect place for fitness freaks wanting to maintain their fitness regimen even when on holiday. For the more leisure inclined, there is a well-equipped spa and massage centre that offers a perfect option for those looking for relaxation and rest. Or you can just opt to spend a lazy afternoon beside in the swimming pool.

You can even take a boat ride across the lake or wander around the resort’s exquisite art gallery and browse through the impressive collection of paintings and artworks on display.

The staff are friendly and helpful. The overall cleanliness and hygiene is upto international standards.

One word of caution though – since the resort is built on a lakeside hill it will obviously not be a perfect choice for elderly people as well as those with mobility issues.

Yes, the isolated location is part of the attraction for most guests, yet it’s my duty to inform you that there aren’t any restaurants, shops or night life within walking distance (although it’s just a 15 minute ride to Bishoftu bazaar if you are in need to venture outside the resort into the public area).

While at Asham Africa Resort you should also visit nearby tourist attractions like Mount Yerer, Green Crater Lake and Lake Hora Kiloli. Bishoftu is also home to the Ethiopian Air Force and the Harar Meda Airport, as well as a station on the Addis Ababa–Djibouti Railway.

All in all, I had a wonderful time at the Asham Africa Resort and will surely be back for a longer stay at this secret gem tucked beside Lake Bishoftu.

Best Time to Visit Bishoftu

For travellers from the Middle East, the best time to visit Bishoftu is between May to August. These are months when desert-dwelling visitors from the Middle East will also enjoy the rainy season – for obvious reasons.

Amenities

• Swimming Pool
• Boat Ride
• Art Gallery
• Spa
• Gymnasium
• Massage

How To Get There

Bole International Airport is located 60 kilometres from the hotel and is served by many full-service as well as low cost carriers. It will take you approximately an hour to reach the hotel from the airport.

The resort offers shuttle pick up and drop off service from and to the Bole International Airport on request at a nominal cost.

IN PICTURES...

Centrally located in Addis Ababa’s central district, close to major landmarks, De Leopol Hotel is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in its class when it comes to providing world-class facilities at affordable prices. Recently refurbished, De Leopol Hotel offers a perfect combination of comfort and luxury in a typically urban setting. Artistically designed with plush, modern interiors, the hotel offers a wide choice of spacious rooms and suites as well as a plethora of dining options – making it one of Addis Ababa’s most popular hotels.

As soon as you enter the hotel lobby, you’re impressed by the sparkling interiors with a golden, white and black theme that is carried through the entire property. The spacious lobby on either side of the main reception area is artistically decorated and decked with creative artworks, paintings and a beautifully crafted staircase that leads upto the upper deck. The sheer magnificence and of the glitzy lobby area was enough to know that the hotel management had an eye for detail – a premonition that was proved correct as I went on further to explore the hotel during my two-night stay at the property.

The hotel has a total of 130 luxurious rooms and suites that offer world-class facilities by combining comfort with convenience. Rooms and suites are generously sized, aesthetically designed and have all the comforts one could dream of. The bathroom facilities are excellent, with a separate jacuzzi, a walk-in shower and luxurious toiletries to further add to the overall feeling of well-being when you stay at the hotel. All rooms come with standard amenities like a working desk, water kettle for making tea, a spacious closet, slippers, and more.

The hotel’s in-house facilities are one of the best on offer in the city, with a beautifully designed spa, a well-equipped gym for those who want to work out, a swimming pool, an outdoor bar, and a hair and beauty salon with a dedicated massage parlour – to name a few.

Amenities

• Swimming Pool
• Outdoor Restaurant / Bar
• Parking Space
• Spa
• All-Day Dining
• Massage Parlour
• Business Centre
• Fitness Centre / Gym
• Banquet Hall
• Saloon

Breakfast buffet at the dining hall located on the ground floor is a gracious and sumptuous affair. There is a good selection of bread, cereals and food and bits of local flavours. Coffee, as expected in Ethiopia, was fresh and delicious. Those with a sweet tooth may be tempted by the selection of cakes and pastries.

When it comes to dining options, besides the spacious dining hall, the hotel has the Lobby Bar, where you can enjoy alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks; the Duke Gazebo, an outdoor bar-cum-café; and a buzzing Coffee Shop that serves some of the most amazing coffee preparations you can have.

During my visit, I was upgraded to a beautiful ‘premier suite’, which has an outdoor balcony that was perfect for watching the outdoor activity in the hotel parking and swimming pool area. The suite featured a comfortable kingsize bed, a separate sitting room, and a spacious bathroom equipped with double vanity, jacuzzi and a separate rain shower. The use of polished wood finishes and latticed screens, as well as leather and brass, created a warm, elegant and refined atmosphere.

The swimming pool located across the hotel’s parking area is set in tropical settings with plenty of trees and plants that give the whole place a soothing and calm ambience with lots of shaded areas for you to unwind and relax in.

Ethiopian hospitality is on full display at Hotel De Leopol – the ever-helpful staff – all fluent in English – always went out of their way to help and assist. All staff member – from security guards to waiters to the concierge – were always smiling and co-operative.

How To Get There

Located just three kilometres from Bole International Airport, Hotel De Leopol offers shuttle pick up and drop off service from and to the Bole International Airport on request. Nearby landmarks include UNECA (1 km), the National Palace (2 Kms), the African Union headquarters (5 kms) and the Red Terror Martyrs Museum and Meskel Square (1 km).

Best time to visit

January to March, also known as the high season, is the best time to visit Addis Ababa. The weather is warm, sunny and the rainfall  is at its lowest. It is also the best time to explore the wildlife in Ethiopia like ibex, wolves, and giraffes.

However, for travellers from the Middle East, the months of May to October are best to get away from the simmering summer heat and enjoy the cool, rainy season in Addis Ababa.

Recommended Hotel in Addis Ababa

All in all, , if you’re looking for a centrally located, upmarket hotel in Addis Ababa that offers world-class facilities, friendly service, and a quiet atmosphere, you cannot go wrong with Hotel De Leopol. This property is surely recommended for visitors to Addis Ababa – not only because of its central location, excellent accommodation options, varied dining options but also because of its affordable room rates. From start to finish, I really enjoyed my stay at the property. Undoubtedly, I can recommend Hotel De Leopol to anyone visiting Addis Ababa.

 In Pictures...

Amidst optimism and hope in reviving the tourism sector, Botswana Tourism organised a press briefing to announce the Botswana Tourism Month at the Expo 2020 Dubai. Set to be on display until the 8^th  of February 2022, the one-of-a-kind showcase promises to highlight the Southern African country as a globally competitive force in tourism with a rich natural resource base and investment potential. The event will showcase Botswana’s diverse culture, its food, song, dance and the long-standing principles of sustainability.

Participating delegates included Botswana’s Minister of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism, Philda Kereng; her Permanent Secretary Dr Oduetse Oldman Koboto alongside Botswana Tourism Organisation’s Acting Chief Executive Officer Tshoganetso Carl-Ponoesele. Also present on the occasion were officials from Botswana’s government entities and Botswana’s finest tourist operators hoping to share the travel packages on offer and potential investment projects with investors and travellers seeking to learn more about the country’s opportunities first-hand.

Speaking at the engagement, the Minister of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism, Philda Kereng said: "Botswana is known for its exclusive experiences, dramatic wildlife encounters, picturesque landscapes and off-grid vacations. The country boasts two UNESCO World Heritage sites - Tsodilo Hills with the rock art filled spiritual sites, and the Okavango Delta which is the desert’s unexpected wetland wonder.’’

It is not by coincidence that Botswana hosts the world’s largest elephant population. The country’s high-value and low-volume tourism escapades are focused on minimising the negative environmental impacts. Botswana has also seen substantial growth in business and investment opportunities due to its stable political environment.

Furthermore, with the advent of COVID-19, the Government of Botswana together with tourism industry stakeholders has developed Tourism Industry Covid-19 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all tourist enterprises. Through the use of these SoPs, the tourism industry has committed to protect their health and that of travellers to ensure their readiness to host domestic and international tourists.

Botswana is a promising destination for both business and leisure, and today boasts some of the world’s most pristine safari experiences, hotels, entertainment facilities and malls. Throughout the month, Botswana Tourism has lined-up a variety of executive and cultural activities to showcase the country’s vast offerings.

The Botswana Tourism Conference held at the Address Hotel Dubai Mall, was a platform for dialogue between Botswana and its international trade partners and potential investors, especially those in the UAE and neighbouring GCC counties. The conference gathered key stakeholders from across the Middle East and focused on travel and tourism as well as investment opportunities in Botswana. The conference officially launched ‘Destination Botswana’ campaign attracting over seventy delegates amongst them being the Middle East investors and visitors. 

Botswana Tourism Sundowner networking at end of the tourism conference showcased the culture, food, song and dance of Botswana to experience the feel of the loved country and its welcoming people.

Ethiopia plans to attract more tourists from the Middle East to its ancient cultural heritage and historical monuments located in Harar, or the Holy City, known for its centuries old ancient Islamic heritage.

However, the city of Harar is underdeveloped and lacks basic tourist infrastructure. The major problem facing the local authorities is the lack of water supply. Consequently, the government has earmarked a substantial amount of $34 million fund to be invested to deal with this problem. hararThe regional government has also given a 10-year tax break to any potential investors who would establish the much needed tourist facilities – specially world-class hotel accommodation is an important aspect which will attract potential tourists.

Harar is one of the truly magical cities. It lies 250 miles from the country’s capital, Addis Abeba. Its nickname, ‘The Holy City’, comes mainly from the number of mosques and shrines which have been built here in the course of more than ten centuries. Since 2006, Harar belongs to the list of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

For centuries, this ancient city was an important commercial centre, many vital trade routes used to lead through Harar. It is deemed to be the fourth holiest city of Islam – right after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. There are 82 mosques here, three of which date back to the 10th century, and 102 shrines.

Tourism: Important Contribution to Ethiopian Economy

Tourism contributes approximately 5.5% to the Ethiopian GDP. It also generates nearly a million jobs and $2 billion in revenue. Ethiopia was also voted the world’s best destination by European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) a few years back.

A must-see site is the Medhane Alem Cathedral or the sixteenth century Jamia Mosque. Another major attraction of Harar is a mansion, which was once home to the famous French symbolist poet Arthur Rimbaud. The mansion has been turned into a museum.

The tourists will certainly enjoy the traditional feeding of hyenas; this ritual originated in the 1960s and took place only once a year. Nowadays, this strange ‘show’ takes place on daily basis. Visitors may also stride through the wonderfully charming streets of the old town or visit the locally famous market.

The first East African Regional tourism expo (EARTE) 2021 will be hosted in Tanzania in October 2021. EARTE is the first of its kind to be held in the region and will focus is promoting tourism attractions in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Southern Sudan.

Being held in the northern tourist circuit of Arusha from October 9 to October 16, the expo will be conducted on a rotational basis among the EAC member states, with the first three days devoted to the exhibition and four days to conducting familiarization trips and tours to major attraction sites Mainland and Zanzibar.

“The expo is expected to go a long way in reviving the EAC tourism following the unprecedented decline caused by Covid-19. It will bolster intra-regional tourism in addition to international tourism through the promotion of the tourism product offerings for the EAC Citizens,” said Christophe Bazivamo, Deputy Secretary-General in charge of productive and social sectors.

He added: “This will build upon previous efforts such as the decision by the council of ministers that partner states offer preferential rates for EAC citizens visiting public tourist attractions within the region, whereby they are charged rates that apply to the nationals.”

In July, this year, EAC ministers for wildlife and tourism approved the EAC marketing strategy for the 2021-2025 period.

A strategy aiming at the establishment of the tourism exhibition as a forum bringing state and non-state tourism actors to showcase their rich and diverse tourism attractions and investment opportunities in the region.

Promoting Tourism in East Africa

The choice of Arusha for the venue of the expo has been illuminated by the fact that the city is a tourism hub for Tanzania and it would be easily accessible by participants from all partner states.

The theme of the expo is “Promotion of Resilient Tourism for Inclusive Socio-economic Development.”, it is informed by the need to develop the tourism sector in a sustainable manner following the devastating impact on the sector by the pandemic.

Seminars

EARTE 2021 brings the world to you, and promotes the whole of the East African Region to the world, allowing you to explore a world full of opportunities, all under one Expo.

Every business that will be showcased in the forthcoming EARTE 2021 will be joining our unrivalled regional and worldwide network of quality tourism EXHIBITORS, INVESTORS and BUYERS who drive business opportunities from every corner of the world.

The EARTE 2021 programme includes five seminars addressing topics centered around tourism and wildlife managmenr in the EAC region. Seminars consist of a 45-minute presentation and time for questions and answers.

The travel and tourism sector, globally, was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic more than any other economic sector. Tanzania offered to hold the tourism expo in Arusha after Burundi stated that it was not ready to host the regional tourism expo for 2021.

According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) report, the crash in international tourism due to the coronavirus pandemic could cause a loss of more than $4 trillion to the global GDP for the years 2020 and 2021.

Now you can live and work amidst amazing beaches, gorgeous rainforests, the world’s third-largest coral reef and beautiful lagoons by applying for a Premium Longstay Visa introduced by Mauritius to attract longterm visitors to the island nation.

Mauritius has launched a new long-stay visa for those looking to relocate to the Covid-secure island for work, leisure or retirement.  The country’s new Premium Visa is valid for one year, with an option to renew, and is open to those who want to relocate to allow them to work remotely, have a long-term second home on the islands or to retire here.

Retire, Live Work in Mauritius

The new Premium Visa is expected to attract thousands of individuals and families who will invest in the country for the long term, particularly those whose jobs allow them to work remotely and those looking for their ideal retirement location.

The Premium Visa provides the opportunity for individuals and families to relocate to a country that delivers work-life balance through a developed and advanced infrastructure, making it an ideal location for those looking to maximise their business productivity and leisure time.

The Republic of Mauritius government’s new visa offer is in response to strong international demand to relocate to this Indian Ocean country. Thanks to Mauritius’ widely-praised handling of the global pandemic and implementation of one of the world’s most rigorous national arrival testing provisions, the country is now seen as a perfect destination for long-term relocation as it provides a Covid-secure environment in conjunction with economic, political and legal stability. The collective response by the Mauritius government, and the country as a whole, to Covid means that the country provides an opportunity for long-stay visitors to escape their domestic lockdown restrictions and relocate with the minimum of effort to live and work on Covid-secure islands.

Free vaccination

Visitors holding the Premium Visa as well as residents of Mauritius holding a Work Permit, Residence Permit or Occupational Permit are eligible to receive their vaccinations free of charge.

Mauritius is the only country in the world which offers long-term visitor visas free of charge and a free Covid vaccine to holders of these visas.  The expanded vaccination programme is part of the national campaign to continue keeping Mauritius Covid-secure and to allow the full reopening of international borders once herd immunity is reached. 

Mauritius is using the Oxford/AstraZeneca Covishield vaccine manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.  MTPA are encouraging all those eligible to accept this offer and is working across the tourism sector to promote take-up. 

Ranked first in Africa in the last World Bank’s Doing Business Report, the country provides unparalleled support to work remotely including a transparent financial ecosystem,  state-of-the-art telecommunications infrastructure and a reliable ICT connectivity with high capacity undersea fiberoptic network (SAFE and LION) linking Africa to Asia and Europe via Middle East.

International business and tourist destination

Mauritius is a well-known hub for banking, financial and legal services with infrastructure which has developed to support the needs of global business and a large international professional services community.  Mauritius already provides world-class connectivity, banking, office space and other business facilities meaning that Premium Visa holders can seamlessly transfer their business operations to the country.

Mauritius provides a fully operational Indian Ocean base in a time zone ideal for working remotely with Europe, Asia, Africa and Middle East and is a perfect base for remote workers and digital nomads.

Mauritius also remains open to tourists who are looking for a shorter term Covid-secure holiday destination. Mauritius is best known to international visitors who are looking for an authentic Indian Ocean paradise. Tourism is focused around beautiful beaches, coral reefs, stunning scenery and marine environment as well as leisure activities such as golf, hikes and trails, water sports and scuba diving. Medical tourism, conferences, weddings and honeymoons have all been at the heart of tourism in Mauritius for decades. The Covid-19 pandemic has meant that some of these groups of short-term visitors are understandably unable to meet Mauritius’ world-leading 14-day quarantine requirements and Mauritius looks forward to welcoming back these tourists when they are ready to travel again.

Mauritius has long been a favourite of retirees, primarily from South Africa, France, Germany, United Kingdom and other European countries, looking for a second home that provides world-class leisure facilities, homes and activities that only a larger island destination can provide. The Premium Visa provides this group of visitors the long-term security to relocate and maximise their retirement in a Covid-secure destination.  

Accommodation in Mauritius

Mauritius also offers a diverse selection of long stay rental accommodation options ranging from serviced apartments to beach-side homes. Residents are also permitted to purchase property including luxury villas, penthouses, apartments and duplexes under specific investment programmes.

An arrival concierge service helping new residents find homes, cars, banking services and telecoms will be in place and Premium Visa holders will also no longer need to leave the country at the end of their visa to renew their temporary visitor status, which will help keep the island more Covid-secure for the longer term.

Strict Covid-secure protocols keep Mauritius safe

In order to keep the country Covid-secure, Mauritius has implemented one of the world’s most rigorous heath monitoring regimes.  The condition of entry requirements mean that all visitors are required to follow health measures. All new arrivals to the island are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine period combined with a pre-departure PCR test, arrival test and follow up tests on 7 and 14 days. Returning Mauritians, diaspora, short and long-term visitors are all asked to follow the same procedures to help keep Mauritius Covid-secure. Some of Mauritius’ finest hotels are allocated as arrival facilities.  Health protocols are regularly reviewed in line with the country’s requirements and the status of the global pandemic.

Launch of the Premium Visa

The Premium Visa was launched at the direction of the Mauritian Prime Minister, Pravind Jugnauth and led by Minister of Finance, Renganaden Padayachy, who said: “Mauritius is open. Visitors are welcome to our country who are looking for a long term safe and secure second home. On arrival we ask all visitors to comply with our strict health requirements and in return we offer visitors a Covid-secure destination with world-class business and leisure infrastructure to help facilitate remote working and retirement plans.”
Central to the new Premium Visa service is the private sector as well as individual citizens.  Businesses are working closely with government to ensure a smooth transition from arrival health protocols to ensuring new residents have access to the facilities and services they require. An arrival concierge service helping new residents find homes, cars, banking services and telecoms will be in place and run by the business community under the Mauritius Now brand.

Individual citizens will benefit from increased job opportunities and economic activity. Citizens are also being encouraged to act as ‘Welcome Ambassadors’ showing the country’s new guests around their new home and showing the very best of Mauritius. New residents will be invited to events to meet each other and the communities in which they live.

The Chairman of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA), Nilen Vencadasmy stated: “Mauritius is welcoming long term visitors who are looking to live and work remotely in a Covid secure location. The Mauritius tourism sector has developed innovative packages to welcome visitors as well as facilitate the work of digital nomads. Our island is Covid-safe and with its modern infrastructure is an ideal spot for them to work remotely and to be part of our wider community”.

Visa eligibility and how to apply

The Premium Visa allows for visitors from countries listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Passport Regulations. The following categories of visitors are eligible:

• Repeat tourists who had planned to retire and migrate to Mauritius before the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Retirees seeking a Covid-safe haven.
• Investors and professionals who wish to come with their family and work remotely from Mauritius. They also have the possibility to offer this facility to their staff members.
• Visitors who have children studying in Mauritius.
• The visa application is open to all nationalities looking for a longer-term temporary residency solution whilst the world is dealing with the pandemic.  Mauritius’ new Premium Visa is valid for a period of one year and renewable. Applications are open now via the Economic Development Board (EDB) and from 15 November 2020 via a digital application portal.   

In order to qualify for the Premium Visa visitors must provide evidence of their long stay plans and must have adequate travel and health insurance for the initial period of stay. The visitor’s main place of business and source of income should be outside Mauritius. They will not be allowed to enter the Mauritius Labour Market. All other entry requirements for Mauritius will also apply.

The management of the programme is headed by the Economic Development Board and Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority.  The government authorities are working in partnership with the private sector of the country in order to deliver a full package of services for visitors.  MTPA and EDB are launching an international marketing campaign targeted at some of the nations hardest hit by Covid. Citizens of France, United Kingdom, Germany, Scandinavia, South Africa, India and Russia have all expressed an interest in relocating.

Prior to the introduction of the Premium Visa, foreign nationals were granted a tourist visa for a cumulative period of stay not exceeding 180 days in a calendar year. A tourist visa is normally granted for a short period of leisure travel. 

Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce its first resort and third hotel in Zambia, with the signing of Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya, Livingstone, Zambia. Due to open by the end of 2022, this new addition places the Group firmly on track to achieving its objective of reaching 150 hotels in operation and under development in Africa by 2025.

Nestled on the banks of one of Africa’s longest rivers, the Zambezi, in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, 5km south of the historic city of Livingstone, just 4km northwest of the Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world and an UNESCO world heritage site. Convenience is amplified with Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport located just 15 minutes away.

For an immersive experience of the destination, situated right next door, is Safari Par Excellence, offering unique on and off the river adventure activities, from Victoria Falls bridge activities, water rafting, canoeing and game drives to helicopter rides, river cruises and elephant encounters.

The hotel will be constructed and operated with the greatest respect to its close proximity of the natural wonders and aims to obtain the EDGE green building certification as well as sign the UNESCO Sustainable Tourism Pledge, becoming a best practice in the implementation of Radisson Hotel Group’s leading Responsible Business program.

The construction of the new hotel is currently underway, and the design fully integrates local materials and focuses on employing and upskilling local craftspeople. It will consist of a contemporary 174-room main hotel and 26 luxurious villas. Guests can indulge in their favourite cuisine at the all-day dining restaurant and sit back with their favourite drink at the coffee bar. To bask in the fresh African evening air in comfort, guests can gather around the outdoor boma and firepit. During their stay, guests can also enjoy the hotel’s expansive swimming pool, find serenity at the spa or maintain their health at the sports and fitness gym. Ideal for all occasions, the hotel’s meetings and events facilities will include a ballroom of over 500sqm, boardrooms as well as meeting rooms, perfect for leisure and business use.

Ramsay Rankoussi, Vice President Development, Africa & Turkey, Radisson Hotel Group, said: “We have been present in Zambia for many years and have long recognized the potential of the country. It was essential for us to complement our presence in Zambia with a resort offering in one of Africa’s most visited leisure tourism destinations – the Victoria Falls.

This marks our third hotel in the country, complementing our existing portfolio of one hotel in operation, Radisson Blu Hotel, Lusaka, and the under-development Park Inn by Radisson Lusaka, Longacres, due to open early next year. Through this unique resort, we look forward to demonstrating our strong Responsible Business heritage and sustainable programmes and initiatives which will further promote the destination and ensure the preservation of this unique reserve and location. We are truly proud to have partnered with NAPSA for the launch of the Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya, Livingstone as we further seek to reinforce our collaboration in promoting tourism across Zambia.”

Radisson Hotel Group operates to high standards of performance and advocates socially and environmentally sustainable business practices. More than ever, Radisson Hotel Group’s highest priorities remain the health and safety of its guests and employees. The Group partnered with SGS, the world’s leading inspection and certification company, to implement the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol, which ensures the highest hygiene standards and strengthens the Group’s existing rigorous sanitation guidelines. In the run-up to the opening of Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya, Livingstone, Zambia will implement the Radisson Hotel Group brand standards including the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol related to safety and security.

Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce its first resort and third hotel in Zambia, with the signing of Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya, Livingstone, Zambia. Due to open by the end of 2022, this new addition places the Group firmly on track to achieving its objective of reaching 150 hotels in operation and under development in Africa by 2025.

Nestled on the banks of one of Africa’s longest rivers, the Zambezi, in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, 5 kilometres south of the historic city of Livingstone, just 4 kilometres northwest of the Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world and an UNESCO world heritage site. Convenience is amplified with Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport located just 15 minutes away.

For an immersive experience of the destination, situated right next door, is Safari Par Excellence, offering unique on and off the river adventure activities, from Victoria Falls bridge activities, water rafting, canoeing and game drives to helicopter rides, river cruises and elephant encounters.

The hotel will be constructed and operated with the greatest respect to its close proximity of the natural wonders and aims to obtain the EDGE green building certification as well as sign the UNESCO Sustainable Tourism Pledge, becoming a best practice in the implementation of Radisson Hotel Group’s leading Responsible Business program.

The construction of the new hotel is currently underway, and the design fully integrates local materials and focuses on employing and upskilling local craftspeople. It will consist of a contemporary 174-room main hotel and 26 luxurious villas. Guests can indulge in their favourite cuisine at the all-day dining restaurant and sit back with their favourite drink at the coffee bar. To bask in the fresh African evening air in comfort, guests can gather around the outdoor boma and firepit.

During their stay, guests can also enjoy the hotel’s expansive swimming pool, find serenity at the spa or maintain their health at the sports and fitness gym. Ideal for all occasions, the hotel’s meetings and events facilities will include a ballroom of over 500sqm, boardrooms as well as meeting rooms, perfect for leisure and business use.

Ramsay Rankoussi, Vice President Development, Africa & Turkey, Radisson Hotel Group, said: “We have been present in Zambia for many years and have long recognized the potential of the country. It was essential for us to complement our presence in Zambia with a resort offering in one of Africa’s most visited leisure tourism destinations – the Victoria Falls. This marks our third hotel in the country, complementing our existing portfolio of one hotel in operation, Radisson Blu Hotel, Lusaka, and the under-development Park Inn by Radisson Lusaka, Longacres, due to open early next year. Through this unique resort, we look forward to demonstrating our strong Responsible Business heritage and sustainable programmes and initiatives which will further promote the destination and ensure the preservation of this unique reserve and location. We are truly proud to have partnered with NAPSA for the launch of the Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya, Livingstone as we further seek to reinforce our collaboration in promoting tourism across Zambia.”

Radisson in Zambia

Radisson Hotel Group operates to high standards of performance and advocates socially and environmentally sustainable business practices. More than ever, Radisson Hotel Group’s highest priorities remain the health and safety of its guests and employees. The Group partnered with SGS, the world’s leading inspection and certification company, to implement the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol, which ensures the highest hygiene standards and strengthens the Group’s existing rigorous sanitation guidelines. In the run-up to the opening of Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya, Livingstone, Zambia will implement the Radisson Hotel Group brand standards including the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol related to safety and security.

The Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) elected Civy Tumusiime as its new Chairperson at the 25th Annual General Meeting held at Hotel Africana in Kampala. The election was presided over by Stephen Masaba, Business Development Director of Uganda Wildlife Authority as returning officer; Bradford Ochieng, Deputy CEO of Uganda Tourism Board (UTB); Innocent Asiimwe, Quality Assurance Officer of UTB; and Ronnie Mulongo of the Private Sector Foundation.

It was down to youth verses seniors when the youthful Civy, who is Director at Acacia Safaris at Pakuba and Mpogo Lodges in Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo National Parks, respectively garnered a landslide of 162 votes followed by Swan Airs Eugine Nsubuga Wndt with 64, and 14 votes for Bonifence Byamukama of Lake Kitandara Tours and Travels.

Other members on the new board include another young face in Tony Mulinde, Vice Chair; Herbert Byaruhanga, General Secretary; Wilberforce Begumisa, Treasurer; and Marinka Sanc-George, Robert Mugabe, and Yvonne Hilgendorf completing the seven-member board for 2020 to 2022.
 
Congratulatory messages streamed in  from Doreen Katusiime, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA), who said: “On behalf of the technical team at MTWA, I congratulate Civy and the entire team of new leadership at AUTO. We look forward to working with you closely to build a vibrant association for the benefit of its members.”

The Chairman of the Uganda Tourism Board, Daudi Migereko, said: “Congratulations, Madam Civy and the entire executive [team], on being elected to provide leadership to the tour operators.  We wish you a successful term of office and look forward to working with you.”

Richard Kawere, CEO of the Uganda Tourist Association (UTA), said: “Congratulations, Civy and team. The industry has a lot of expectations from your leadership, and I am certain you will deliver with Almighty as the guide on your leadership path.”

Perhaps the most pertinent message summarizing the mood was from Andrew Kijooma of Prepaid Services Ltd. who said of Civy’s victory: “You represent a generation that is in tandem with your ideas to move the sector forward. A big handshake to our seniors that participated in the election. Please keep them close, as old brooms know all the corners.”

The composition of the new board includes “old brooms” Marinka Sanc-George, a founder member of the association in 1995, and veteran birder, Herbert Byaruhanga.

The election was preceded by the Annual Report presented by outgoing Chairman Everest Kayondo and AUTO CEO Gloria Tumwesigye both of whom opted to step down from reelection and reappointment respectively.

This was followed by the External Auditors Report for the years 2018/19 as well as the Treasurer’s presentation of the Budget 2020/21 for ratification.

Kayondo outlined the achievements of the Association including:

• Increasing membership from 272 to 320
• Outstanding tax liability was resolved saving the association UGX 80 Million (us$22,000) and Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) refunded US$41,000 in tax claims
• AUTO managed to renew the existing MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with UWA for discounted gorilla permits
• AUTO partly sponsored Vakantiebieus Travel Expo in the Netherlands from proceeds generated from discounted gorilla permits
• Procurement of AUTO premises in Muyenga, Kampala, at UaGaX1.2 billion (US$326,000)
• Hiring a retainer lawyer and internal  auditor resulting in output policy manuals including a procurement manual, accounting and finance manual, and a human resource manual
• Save Murchison Falls Campaign in light of the intending hydropower dam project at the Top of The Falls
• Destination market training
• Submission of tourism act amendments
• Negotiating with UWA to reschedule gorilla and chimpanzee permits that had been reserved prior to the COVID-19 pandemic
• Donation of relief to UWA rangers at the front line of protecting wildlife through trying times
• Participation in the revival of the East African Tourism Platform (EATP)
• Securing representation in the Private Sector Foundation, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and Uganda Tourism Boards
• Waiver of membership fees for 2020 in light of the pandemic

Association of Uganda Tour Operators

The Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) is Uganda’s leading tourism trade association, representing the interests of the country’s leading and experienced professional tour operators. Members offer a range of services, which can be broadly divided into the following categories Special interest safaris Air safaris Incentive travel group safaris Custom safaris for individual travellers Camping safaris (luxury & budget).

The Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) which is the voice of Uganda’s leading tour companies was founded in 1995 and remains a respected player in Africa’s tourism with over 300 registered businesses.

Uganda’s revived national carrier, Uganda Airlines, celebrated its first year of operations since it took to the skies after almost 20 years since it was liquidated by the government. According to the Chief Executive Officer of Uganda National Airline Company, Cornwell Muleya, over 75,000 passengers have been transported over the course of the year.

As the airport awaits reopening (following closure due to the COVID-19 global pandemic) , Cornwell Muleya announced that the company has also finalized the recruitment of staff to work in new larger aircraft for the longer routes. that Uganda Airlines plans to start flying.

Uganda Airlines was re-launched using six new jets, two of which are wide-body, long-range A330-800neo and the other four being CRJ900 aircraft. The government of Uganda made an equity investment of approximately US$70 million and loans totaling $330 million, borrowed from regional lenders such as the Trade and Development Bank, to complete the purchase.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Uganda Airlines shall continue with its plans to make its mark on the African continent and beyond.

Until its revival, Uganda had been without a national airline since a previous incarnation of Uganda Airlines collapsed in 2001. Meanwhile, privately owned Air Uganda ceased operations five years ago.

It is expected that when Kabaale International Airport is completed in 2021, a network of flights to local, regional and international destinations, will be developed around the new airport.

“Our plans are ongoing and on course, we committed at the beginning that in addition to developing the regional networks of which we have developed nine, we still have a few more to get to the eighteen or twenty that we require for Africa. We said we are going to extend the network to intercontinental destinations, we want to go to London, we want to go to Dubai, we want to go to Guangzhou with the A330s. As a start we also want to connect to West Africa and Southern Africa where that capacity is required.

“The company has also finalized the recruiting staff for two new Airibus A330 aircraft that are expected in the country by December so we have been busy bringing in the skills that will require pilots , engineers ,flight attendants and a lot more skills that are required for that aircraft so we can look forward to next year,” said Muleya.

This year embattled South African airways that had direct flights to OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg out of Entebbe International Airport closed shop in a restructuring of its regional routes creating an opportunity for the national carrier to fill the gap prior to the lock down in March.

Uganda Airport Closed

Meanwhile, Uganda airspace remains closed to international scheduled passenger flights as the Civil Aviation Authority puts in place Standard Operational Procedures (SOPS) in observance of COVID-19 requirements.

Initially founded under the Idi Amin’s regime, following the collapse of East African Airlines, Uganda Airlines was established in 1976 as the National Carrier. Airlines’ operations also included the lucrative ground and cargo handling until its liquidation in 2001.

Emirates announced the resumption of passenger services to Lusaka with two weekly flights to/from Dubai effective 4 September, which will boost the airline’s global network to 79 cities.

The restart of services to Lusaka will offer Emirates customers in Zambia the opportunity to travel to Dubai, as well as an array of onward connections to Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and the Americas through the airline’s Dubai hub. The addition of Lusaka also broadens Emirates’ reach into Africa with nine destinations served.

Flights to Lusaka will be operated with a Boeing 777-300ER. Starting from 4 September, 2020 Emirates will serve Lusaka on Fridays and Sundays. Emirates’ flight EK 713 will depart from Dubai at 0820hrs, arriving in Lusaka at 1330hrs. The return flight, EK 714 departs Lusaka at 1530hrs, arriving in Dubai at 0025hrs the next day. Customers can book flights on emirates.com or via travel agents.

Customers can stop over or travel to Dubai as the city has re-opened for international business and leisure visitors. Ensuring the safety of travellers, visitors, and the community, COVID-19 PCR tests are mandatory for all inbound and transit passengers arriving to Dubai (and the UAE), including UAE citizens, residents and tourists, irrespective of the country they are coming from.

Destination Dubai: From sun-soaked beaches and heritage activities to world class hospitality and leisure facilities, Dubai is one of the most popular global destinations. In 2019, the city welcomed 16.7 million visitors and hosted over hundreds of global meetings and exhibitions, as well as sports and entertainment events. Dubai was one of the world’s first cities to obtain Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) – which endorses Dubai’s comprehensive and effective measures to ensure guest health and safety.

Flexibility and assurance: Emirates’ booking policies offer customers flexibility and confidence to plan their travel. Customers who purchase an Emirates ticket by 30 September 2020 for travel on or before 30 November 2020, can enjoy generous rebooking terms and options, if they have to change their travel plans due to unexpected flight or travel restrictions relating to COVID-19, or when they book a Flex or Flex plus fare. More information here. 

Free, global cover for COVID-19 related costs: Customers can now travel with confidence, as Emirates has committed to cover COVID-19 related medical expenses, free of cost, should they be diagnosed with COVID-19 during their travel while they are away from home. This cover is immediately effective for customers flying on Emirates until 31 October 2020 (first flight to be completed on or before 31 October 2020), and is valid for 31 days from the moment they fly the first sector of their journey. This means Emirates customers can continue to benefit from the added assurance of this cover, even if they travel onwards to another city after arriving at their Emirates destination. For more details: www.emirates.com/COVID19assistance. 

Health and safety: Emirates has implemented a comprehensive set of measures at every step of the customer journey to ensure the safety of its customers and employees on the ground and in the air, including the distribution of complimentary hygiene kits containing masks, gloves, hand sanitiser and antibacterial wipes to all customers. For more information on these measures and the services available on each flight, visit: www.emirates.com/yoursafety.

Tourist entry requirements: For more information on entry requirements for international visitors to Dubai visit: www.emirates.com/flytoDubai.

Dubai residents can check the latest travel requirements at: www.emirates.com/returntoDubai.

Ethiopian Airlines Group successfully inaugurated a new passenger terminal at its hub Addis Ababa Bole International Airport with emphasis on Bio Security and Bio Safety measures.

The new terminal has check-in hall with sixty check-in counters, thirty self-check-in kiosks, ten self-bag drop/SBD/, sixteen immigration counters with more e-gate provisions, sixteen central security screening areas for departing passengers are the new faces of the airport. In addition, it has three contact gates for wide body aircraft along with ten remote contact gates with people mover – travellator, escalator, and panoramic lifts. It will house thirty-two arrival immigration counters with eight e-gate provisions at the mezzanine floor level.

The US$350 million new terminal expansion includes new duty-free shops, restaurants, escalators and many other accommodations to improve travelers’ comfort. The expansion includes 74,000 meters of space and is projected to increase the capacity of the airport to be able to handle up to 25 million travelers each year. Bole International Airport has now exceeded Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport as the largest capacity airport in Africa.

“I am very pleased to witness the realization of a brand-new terminal at our Hub," said Tewolde GebreMariam, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. "While Addis Ababa Bole International Airport has overtaken Dubai to become the largest gateway to Africa, the new terminal will play a key role in cementing that position. What makes the new terminal unique is that it’s the first terminal in the world to be completed after COVID-19. It was designed, not re-purposed, with Bio safety and Bio security in mind. I’m sure our esteemed customers will highly appreciate that.”

Aviation infrastructure expansion is one of the core pillars of Ethiopian’s Vision 2025. Ethiopian is continuously working on expanding airport facilities. The features of the new airport play a key role in protecting passengers’ and employees’ safety as airport experience becomes contactless.

Attracting Chinese Tourists to Africa

Ethiopia sees the terminal expansion project as crucial to meeting the needs of the large numbers of Chinese tourists it wants to attract. Ethiopia recorded $190 million in revenue from 50,626 Chinese tourists that visited the country in 2018, according to Ethiopia's Ministry of Culture and Tourism. China is the third largest source of tourists visiting Ethiopia, only after the United States and Britain.

Other African countries also hope to improve on the relatively low number of Chinese visitors. Kenya, the third-largest tourism-driven economy in sub-Saharan Africa, is an example. Tourism contributes $7.9 billion, or about 8.8 percent, to the country's GDP. According to Xinhua News Agency, at least 230,500 Chinese nationals visited Kenya in 2018. The number is a significant surge from 192,300 in 2017 and 131,900 in 2016, said the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. However, the country, which depends on Addis Ababa's airport dubbed "East Gate of Africa," hopes to attract many times more than this number of Chinese tourists each year. The revenues of its tourism sector directly and indirectly supported 1.1 million Kenyan people in 2018, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council.

Ethiopian Airlines has started facilitating a visa hub service to 35 African countries, helping Chinese and other foreign nationals to directly travel to Ethiopia and beyond without the need to transit through Beijing, where most African countries' embassies are located.

Coming face-to-face with a giant male Silverback gorilla in the jungles of Africa is an experience that will remian with you for the rest of your life. On our recent trip to Uganda, a group of specially trained park rangers in Uganda led our team through the thick vegetation in the mountains to see the gorillas in their natural habitat. If you have ever plan a trip to East Africa to be face-to-face with these amazing animals here are ome useful tips to get you started and help plan your expedition of Gorilla tracking.

There are approximately just 700 Mountain Gorillas remaining in the world – living primarily in the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda, Uganda and the Congo. Since the Democratic Republic of the Congo is not such a popular tourist destination due to recent political upheaval in the country so we will suggest seeing the gorillas in either Uganda or Rwanda. All of the Gorillas live in a relatively small region of the Virunga Mountains which straddles the borders of all three countries. The mountain range itself is a chain of volcanoes with eight major volcanoes with summits above 3,000 metres.

The Mountain Gorillas spend most of their time in the region known as the Hagenia Forest which is between 2800 and 2400 metres (9,200–11,200 ft) where they can find an abundance of Galium vines to eat. Occasionally they move lower to eat the fresh bamboo sprouts when they are in season or they head up further into the mountains to feast on the giant Senecio Trees. The good thing for trekkers coming to see the Gorillas is that the forests are relatively cool given the high elevation.

How to Plan for Gorilla Tracking?

Even during the dry season, you will find that it frequently rains in the highlands of the Virunga Mountains so prepare accordingly. It’s best to wear clothes that are lightweight as it’s fairly warm but not hot. Also, since you are walking through the forest long sleeves and pants are best to avoid scratches and bug bites. Make sure to bring sunblock, rain gear, your camera and water for drinking. Be prepared to be out hiking for at least half the day.

Gorilla Tracking or a Gorilla Experience?

Typically the Gorilla permits in Rwanda and Uganda are issued for one hour with the gorillas although it might take several additional hours with your park ranger to find and spot them. Uganda has a new permit called the “Gorilla Habituation Experience” which allows up to 4 hours with one of the Gorilla groups. This is a pretty good deal considering that in Rwanda you would pay more for just an hour. Maybe not everyone needs more than hour with the Gorillas but once you encounter them the time goes by pretty fast.

Rwanda or Uganda: Which is the best place to see the Gorillas?

Both Uganda and Rwanda are excellent places to see the Gorillas in their natural habitat. However, the permits in Rwanda cost $1500 and are much more expensive than the $600 you will pay in Uganda. Additionally, it’s usually easier to get the government permits in Uganda than in Rwanda. No doubt Rwanda has done a much better job of promoting and advertising Gorilla tracking and has therefore attracted more tourists to its shores. All in all, Gorilla tracking in both countries is good and neither will disappoint. to be fair, Rwanda does have some advantages for those travelers who have a limited time since you can fly into Kigali and visit the Gorillas the same day. On the other hand, if you go to Uganda it’s a 4-hour drive from Entebbe airport to the border – so you will want at least a few days to explore the Ugandan countryside.

How long does it take to see the Gorillas?

The different groups of Gorillas roam about the mountains and have quite a large range. When you have issued a permit it will be to see a specific gorilla group and your ranger will guide you to this group. Depending on its location you could find it in the first hour or it may take as long as 3 or 4 hours to find the gorillas. The park rangers are in communication with several gorilla spotters and also are good at tracking the groups through the forest.

What is the best time of year to see the Gorillas?

It’s possible to see the Gorillas year-round but most tourists prefer the short dry season from December to February and the long dry season from June to September. Keep in mind that permits should be arranged well in advance especially in the peak season, specially in Rwanda. If you plan a trip during the offseason in Uganda it’s usually possible to arrange a permit without much notice.

Are Gorillas in the wild dangerous?

Gorillas by nature are not aggressive unless threatened. All of the gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda are habituated to people before guests are allowed to see them in the wild. What normally happens is that several of the park rangers will virtually live with a group of gorillas for up to a year so that they become used to being with people. All of the gorillas that are visited in the wild are habituated to people in this sense and not as dangerous as a totally wild gorilla might be.

Gorilla tracking is a great experience and well worth the permit fees. The high permit fees ensure that Gorillas will be an important part of the economies of Rwanda and Uganda and stay protected for years to come.

Based on feedback from our editors, travel writers, journalists and travellers from the Middle East, the Holiday Guide magazine has compiled a list of top luxury hotels in Africa to help tourists from the Middle East choose the perfect destination for their next holiday.

 

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp

The award-winning Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp and private Bush Villa are located in the famous ‘seventh’ natural wonder of the world, the Maasai Mara in Kenya. Offering a bespoke safari experience, it’s owned and managed by the oldest established and continuing safari family in Africa.

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp has its own 7608-acre private conservancy and is situated one kilometre from the famous ‘seventh’ natural wonder of the world, the Maasai Mara in Kenya and the Tanzania Serengeti game reserve. Owned and managed by the oldest established and continuing safari family in Africa it extends an era of luxury and quality and returns to the original spirit and essence of ‘safari’.

The Cottar family provide genuinely stunning wildlife and wilderness experiences, engaging in the original spirit and essence of ‘safari’: an abundance of wildlife, a guarantee of privacy, and the highest standards of professional guiding, in a luxurious and authentic safari environment.

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp provides the romance of safari under cream canvas tents, the style of the bygone era of the twenties, while at the same time supplying the amenities required by today’s modern world travellers and professional guides whose qualifications are the highest in Africa. Offering an abundance of wildlife, a guarantee of privacy, and the highest standards of professional guiding in a luxurious and authentic camping environment.

Olare Mara Kempinski Masai Mara

Nestled at the heart of its own private conservancy, the Olare Mara Kempinski Masai Mara promises all the luxury whilst delivering a classic under-canvas safari experience.

Surrounded by rolling savannah, across which wanders a glorious pageant of wildlife, this exclusive tented camp blends the welcome, simplicity and vibrancy of Masai culture with the opulence of a five-star experience. Featuring twelve tents, a central lounge and dining area, a tented bar set deep within a forested glade and a shaded swimming pool, the Olare Mara Kempinski Masai Mara delivers the ultimate fusion of untamed wilderness and sophisticated elegance. Meanwhile, action includes campfire cocktails, sundowners on the plains, game drives, guided walks, balloon safaris, horse-riding and a colourful range of cultural interaction.

Constance Belle Mare Plage

Soft white sand, blue sky dotted with white clouds and turquoise lagoon which beckons long soaks…

Stylishly renovated Constance Belle Mare Plage offers comfortable accommodations in a lively and cosy atmosphere, choose from one of the 104 Prestige Rooms, 149 Junior Suites, 6 Deluxe Suites, 18 distinctive Villas or the Presidential Villa for a top-notch island holiday.

Whether it’s relaxing on the beach or at one of the trendy bars, working out at the gym, pampering at the spa or enjoying water sports, Constance Belle Mare Plage is for a True break!

Seven distinctive restaurants and six hip bars situated at prime locations await you.

And if you are staying with your kids, you will be thrilled to know that they will be having their share of adventures and fun too, at the Constance Kids Club.

LUX* Grand Gaube, Mauritius

LUX* Grand Gaube luxury hotel in located in Grand Gaube, Mauritius and overlooks the triple-bay beaches, lagoon and spectacular north islets. It exuberates a romantic atmosphere and its rooms all enjoy incredible views of the ocean. Other highlights include its proximity to the vibrant seaside village of Grand Baie, three swimming pools and access to a world-class golf course nearby.

You’ll find an abundance of places to relax from your generously proportioned room to several beaches and pools or a bean bag strewn lawn. There is also plenty to tempt you from your sunlounger – a seaplane tour, golf driving range, tennis academy, tailored spa treatments, sunset sommelier service, private cinema and unique dining options all make this resort stand out.

Ocean Village Club, Kenya

Set on Diani Beach in Ukunda, Kenya, along the Indian Ocean, this upscale, adults-only hotel with tropical foliage is 8 km from Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest and 47 km from Moi International Airport.

Breezy rooms come with mosquito nets, safes and shaded verandas. Upgraded rooms and 2-bedroom suites add lounge areas, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, ocean views and/or tea and coffeemaking facilities.

Amenities include a spa, an outdoor pool, a tennis court and a fitness centre, as well as a refined thatched-roof restaurant and a poolside bar. An airport shuttle, breakfast and Wi-Fi are available. Water sports and safaris can be arranged. Minimum-stay rules apply.

The new Grand Luxe Tropical rooms have been built around the natural amphitheater created by the indigenous forest by the Indian Ocean shoreline.

Breezes Beach Club, Zanzibar

Set in refined bungalows, this genteel resort on white-sand Bwejuu Beach along the Indian Ocean is 5 km from the town of Bwejuu.

Subdued colonial-style rooms feature terraces, sofas, mosquito nets and safes, plus minifridges and Wi-Fi access (fee). Suites add furnished balconies, ocean views and covered outdoor lounges.

There are 4 dining options, including a beachfront eatery and a private gazebo overlooking the ocean, as well as 3 bars and a cafe. Other amenities include an open-air lounge with a thatched roof and an outdoor pool surrounded by palm trees, plus a luxe spa, a gym, and a dive centre.

Famous for its attention to detail, intimate and private dining, its beautiful Zanzibari decor with stunning carving, glistening brass and rich fabrics creates an elegant and unique atmosphere. 

Breezes lies along a pristine and untouched beach on the South East coast of Zanzibar island, which is the most quiet and untouched part of the Island. For centuries the island of Zanzibar has evoked a mystical and magical dream.

LUX* Le Morne Hotel, Mauritius

LUX* Le Morne, a 5-star hotel in Mauritius located in the southwest of the island, is sheltered by the Le Morne Brabant peak, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Flanked by the rugged, majestic Le Morne mountain on one side and miles of sandy beaches on the other, LUX* Le Morne is set on one of Mauritius’ most attractive lagoon-facing spots. Circled by sheltered coves and sparkling aqua-blue waters, this unique part of Mauritius is known for its spectacular sunsets.

Cape Grace Hotel, South Africa

Situated on a private quay between Cape Town’s bustling V&A Waterfront and the tranquil yacht marina, there is no better position from where to soak in the natural beauty of Cape Town than staying a luxurious stay at the famous Cape Grace Hotel.

The elegant and warm atmosphere, evident in every fine detail, begins at the welcoming reception lounge and extends to the spacious harbour and mountain-facing rooms.

Stories of the Cape’s colourful past present themselves in the exquisite furniture, rare fabrics, intriguing artefacts and original antiques. Local paintings and sculptures lend a contemporary flair to the hotel’s décor and feel, while fresh displays of Proteas that hint at the wonder of its natural botanical kingdom enrich each room.

Enjoy a tailor-made experience that includes sumptuous tasting menus, pairings, luxurious spa treatments, and indulgent Afternoon Teas – all thoughtfully created to enhance your journey in the Cape area.

Oyster Box Hotel, South Africa

Standing majestically on Umhlanga’s beachfront just 15 minutes from the airport, overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic lighthouse, Oyster Box is South Africa’s most cherished hotel and a national treasure.

Discover timeless elegance and enjoy a multitude of dining options, including the famous curry feast and High Tea, and indulge in the hotel’s award-winning spa amid tropical gardens.

Constance Prince Maurice, Mauritius

Romantic hideaway, stunning architectural design, luxurious setting;  choose from one of the 64 Junior suites, 12 Family suites, 12 Villas or the lavish Princely Villa at Constance Prince Maurice.

Designed by architectural mastermind Jean Marc Eynaud and designer David Edwards, Constance Prince Maurice is where style, space and architectural designs create the perfect hotel lifestyle.

Peaceful by day, the hotel is amidst lush tropical greenery. Our infinity pool and natural reserves add to the décor by instilling a sense of tranquillity.

Picturesque at night, the structure of the hotel is enhanced by warm lights positioned to harmonise with the environment.

Nigerian startup Nwanndo has launched a groundbreaking web app offering users access to what is essentially an “Airbnb for Africa”.

Founded by Okereke Ikenna and Venetia Grant, Nwanndo connects people with places to stay and things to do around Africa, and allows individuals to monetise their extra space or travel expertise.

The startup’s goal is to open up a new type of tourism trade in Africa, removing the need for travel agents and helping locals make money while showcasing the best the continent has to offer.

“Nwanndo solves many problems in our society,” says Ikenna. “It allows travellers a less expensive option, and it allows local renters to mitigate the high costs of rent and to have more flexibility. Thirdly, it helps small investors that want to be more involved than just being a traditional landlord, which only gives very small returns.”

The startup is currently operating in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Tanzania, and is looking to expand to the rest of Africa and overseas as it enters into discussions with investors. The platform, which charges hosts a 10 per cent commission on any booking, did not launch at an opportune time, given the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns and travel bans, but has so far rented out two rooms.

Ikenna acknowledges that the timing was not great, but said there has never been a perfect time to start a business.

“COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the tourism industry due to the resulting travel restrictions. The tourism industry has been massively affected by the spread of coronavirus, as many countries have introduced travel restrictions in an attempt to contain its spread,” he said. 

“Therefore it is a great time for us to look inwards, to the development and exploring of our tourism industry. COVID-19 is a phase, but tourism and travel are in us as humans,” he said.

Somalisa Camp is a luxury tented safari camp that breathtaking views of the golden savannah plains of Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe – a conservation area that offers varied sights and experiences from dense teak and acacia forests to endless open savannah. Somalisa Camp enjoys pride of place as it was among the first-ever safari lodges to open in the Hwange National Park.  It was built by celebrity conservationist Beks Ndlovu and offers one of the most unique African experiences – tucked away under the dappled shade of an Acacia grove, along the edge of an ancient seasonal floodplain.

Somalisa Camp started as a basic tented camp but soon this unique historical property grew into a full-fledged luxury tented accommodation offering guests a choice of seven tastefully furnished sailcloth tents that are set on a private concession in the heart of Hwange National Park.

Indeed, the Somalisa Camp is where you will find nature and luxury seamlessly entwined to offer you that sense of well-being and comfort while you enjoy the sights and sounds of a typical African adventure. The luxury tents at Somalisa Camp are replete with all modern amenities such as a fan, a battery charging station, wood-burning fireplace and private viewing deck. The bathroom is worthy of special mention – an indoor and outdoor bathrooms feature a copper slipper-style bathtub and endless views across the vast plains beyond.  (See video on our YouTube channel)

ELEPHANT ENCOUNTERS

At the edge of the expansive deck in the main camp area of the Somalisa Camp sits a refreshing and inviting pool which is frequented by elephant families that are frequently seen observing the human species from a safe distance. The experience of being surronded by a herd of elephants while you take a refershing dip in the pool is a real highlight of staying at this luxurious tented accommodation. These close encounters with wild elephants will surely become a memory that you will cherish for the rest of your life. 

GAME DRIVES

The management of Somalisa Camp also organises special game drives to the nearby Hwange National Park led by experienced tourist guides. While on a game drive, you’ll see magnificent wildlife that are indigenous to the area and discover the hidden spots best for game viewing. With many years of experience guides at Somalisa Camp are known for being some of the best in the business.

Luxury Tents

With only seven tented luxury suites in total, the Somalisa Camp offers limited accommodation for the most discerning of travellers. The super luxurious tents exude the romance and beauty of a bygone age while offering every modern comfort and convenience. As soon as you enter the tented accommodation, you can feel the classic African ambience, which is further complimented by authentic African artifacts to give you that otherwordly feeling of comfort and well being.

This boutique tented camp is managed by African Bush Camps, one of Southern Africa’s most exclusive, ultra-luxurious hotel brands which owns and manages luxury lodges and hotels in Zambia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. With a strong thrust on expansion, African Bush Camps is involved in multiple property development projects in Southern Africa and is among Condé Nast Traveler's "21 Hotels We're Dreaming of Returning To!".

Somalisa Camp features in my top 10 list of the best luxury tented accommodations in Zimbabwe, the most historical and beautiful tented camps in Zimbabwe, and one of the best places to stay while in Hwange National Park.

The Positives

The three words that best describe the tents at Somalisa Camp are comfortable,cozy and colorful. The rich tones and textures of Africa are evident in the decoration and amenities on offer inside the tents. Each tent is set up on a tiled foundation which keeps the floors clean and tidy, and the bathroom fixtures solid and stable. Hot water and electricity reminded me that we were not quite off the grid, while the sounds of howling and hooting were never far off.

The Somalisa Camp staff are efficient, polite and helpful. The joyful exuberence of the staff at Somalisa Camp is indeed infectious and welcoming smiles that surrounf you while you’re at the camp make you feel relaxed and welcomed.

Beyond the luxury tents, these is small outdoor porch with a lantern, table and chairs, a common lounge stocked with interesting books and magazines, and a fire pit for evenings outdoors. Even with the impressively fast Wi-Fi on the premises, Somalisa Camp is an accommodation where both foreigners and locals come to unplug. No wonder Somalisa Camp is a perfect place to recharge and refuel while enjoying both serenity and style.

Luxury Tents

All tents are very spacious. Without compromising the integrity of the dwellings, all tented suites enjoy the comforts of air conditioning. Fine art pieces decorate the walls and all furniture is freestanding, including daybeds, sofas, dining suites and floor and desk lamps. All the tents come with semi-private courtyards with informal outdoor dining and lounging areas.

The breakfast choices are nothing short of amazing, with a good balance with pastries, cereals, fruit and yoghurt, African dishes, egg stations, and al la carte items.

The main deck of the Camp is a like a communal area where guests can mingle with each other, enjoy a dip in the two pools on offer, savour mouth-watering barbeque at the bonfire area during the night or simply enjoy the breathtaking views of the lush green surroundings from the comfort of the wooden floored deck. 

The best thing about the Somalisa Camp is the warm, welcoming and helpful staff. Service is impeccable and top-notch, as you would expect from a resort managed by one of Southern Africa’s most exclusive hotel brands. Both management and staff excel in providing the best service possible, and try their very best to please and ensure you have a great stay. It is very evident that management spent time and effort recruiting and training high quality, courteous and helpful staff.

• King-sized bed
• Air-conditioning
• Bar / lounge
• Special diet menus
• Mosquito net
• Airport transportation
• Outdoor fireplace
• Laundry service
• Private check-in / check-out
• Private deck
• Fireplace in room
• Rain shower
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Tea and Coffee Maker

Advantages

The stunningly beautiful décor is classic colonial style, brimming with old world, timeless elegance, and mixed with Africa antique ornaments such as authentic wall pairing and antique lamps and fans. 

Dinner was a sumptuous affair, with a constantly changing menu and a wide variety of beautiful settings in which to savour the contemporary cuisine prepared by the local chef and his dedicated team. Whether you feel like having a light salad by the pool, or dine in the privacy of your room or opt for a decadent six-course dinner on central courtyard lawns, the culinary team at Tamarind Hill will ensure that you are carefully looked after.

Somalisa Camp

The Somalisa Camp is one of Hwange’s grandest and most famous boutique tented camps, and it doesn’t get better than this. The exquisite décor, incredible food and the service make this place a memorable experience. The resort has no real cons, but you need to know the following when going in:

The lodge has only seven tents, so you are advised to book early to avoid disappointment, specially during the peak seasons.

Keeping with its objective of causing minimum impact on the environment, the Somalisa Camp is powered by solar energy and also has a minimal-plastic use policy. Besides being eco-friendly, the lodge also provides a assistance to the surrounding communities: many of the staff members at the Somalisa Camp come from the neighbouring villages; part of the profits from every stay at the lodge goes towards the locals & conservation; and environmental education programs are established to promote understanding among the local population of the need to conserve natural resources and use them sustainably and preserve them for future generations.

How to get there

Somalisa Camp is located in Hwange National park and the journey from the closest airstrip (Manga) takes approximately 30 minutes along the Expressway. The nearest airport is Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA).

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit really depends on your personal preferences – nature has something to offer throughout the year. The Hwange National Park enjoys summer rains and dramatic thunder storms – temperatures soar into the 40s in the summer months. The vegetation is lush and verdant attracting incredible bird life. The winter months are usually drier and cooler.

Somalisa Camp combines comfort and luxury with modern amenities and contemporary opulence to create a living space that offers guests the unique experience of being part of a typcally African timeline. The attention to detail, the authentic wild charm and the sheer opulence of this property is reason enough for you to stay at this luxurious tented camp located on outskirts of the popular and scenic Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. 

Highly recommended.

Tanzania government is inviting international investors to open new hotels in the new capital city Dodoma in a bid to attract more international visitors and investors to the new capital. Although a popular tourist destination, Dodoma has limited high-class accommodation facilities.

Due to the fact that the new capital city of Tanzania is lacking hotels with prestigious standards to accommodate diplomats, international business executives, and high-ranking officials touring the city for business, political and diplomatic gatherings, the government is now offering added incentives for international investors to develop the city’s hotel and hospitality industry.

Despite an increase in the number of tourists visiting the city, Dodoma has only three hotels that too in Three Star category. These are Fantasy Village (22 rooms), Nashera Hotel (52 rooms), and Dodoma Hotel (91 rooms).

Tanzania’s Deputy Minister for Natural Resources, Constantine Kanyasu, has expressed his desire to see the opening of new Five-Star hotels in Dodoma by attracting foreign direct investments in the hotel sector of Dodoma.

Hotels in Tanzania

Dodoma city has only 428 rooms in its 24 hotels offering standard accommodation of a Three Star Category.

Kanyasu said that the government had allocated areas for construction of hotels and other tourism facilities, aiming to raise the status of the new capital city of Tanzania as an attractive tourist destination in Tanzania.

Tanzania government had relocated its entire administrative political and government services to Dodoma with all ministries and key departments.

Dar es Salaam, now Tanzania’s commercial city is the leading tourism city with 242 hotels of international standards, ranging from three to Five-Star category. There are 177 hotels rated One to Three Star Class, 31 Four Star Class, and 19 Five Star Class, all established in Dar es Salaam with about 24,000 rooms.

Tanzania is now targeting Conference and Meeting tourism (MICE) market to attract more visitors.

Currently, under implementation, Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) has targeted to attract conferences and business visitors to hold international conferences in Tanzania, aiming to attract participants who would book hotels, mostly in Dar es Salaam, Arusha and other cities including the new capital, Dodoma.

The Ministry of Tourism is working jointly with Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) to attract conferences and events to take place in Tanzania where participants would book hotels then attract more investments in the hotel industry to increase the number of bedrooms and conference facilities.

The Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) and the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre in Dar es salaam are the two leading conference centers in Tanzania with capacities to hold several meetings at the same time.

AICC has 10 meeting rooms with a seating capacity from 10 in the break-out rooms to 1,350 delegates in the main auditorium. The average total occupancy for all the meeting rooms when in use is about 2,500 delegates.

The Centre hosts an average of 100 meetings each year with a total average number of 11,000 conference delegates per year, mostly local meetings organized by the Tanzania government.

Regionally, Rwanda and South Africa have been rated the leading African nations in conference tourism with Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) blocs.

Dodoma Tourism Sector

Situated in the heart of Tanzania, Dodoma is the official capital of Tanzania. It has a population of over 400,000 people making it the fourth largest city in Tanzania and it is home to the country’s parliament.

The city stands on the Great North Road that connects Cape Town in South Africa to Cairo in Egypt, famous for tourists driving from the southern point of Africa to the northern point of the continent.

Closer to Tanzania’s leading northern Tanzania tourist circuit and the Kenyan tourist capital Nairobi, Dodoma has been identified a sleeping tourist investment area.

Dodoma has a rich agricultural society and a budding wine industry, with small-scale farming being most dominant in the city. The sun-bathed landscape is impressive with a Safari feel to it. It has an abundance of sunshine all year round making worth a holiday breathtaking.

Lion Rock, an outcrop perching in the city outskirts, creating a beautiful natural attraction that brings memories of the famous cartoon, the Lion King. The rock gives an elevated view of Dodoma and is quite a breathtaking attraction. It is a favorite destination for families and friends.

Radisson Hotel Group plans to add six new hotels to its African portfolio, bringing the total to almost 100 hotels across 32 African markets. Building on the recent announcement of its reinforced African development team structure, the announcement of the six new hotels further demonstrates the Group’s commitment to the African continent's hospitality industry. Building on the recent announcement of its reinforced African development team structure, the announcement of the six new hotels further demonstrates the Group’s commitment to the continent.  

“We believe in the vast potential of Africa. The addition of the six hotels, following the announcement of Radisson Hotel Saint Denis earlier this year places us firmly on track to reach over 150 hotels in operation and under development across the continent within the next five years,” says Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer, Radisson Hotel Group. “The new hotel announcements include our debut in new markets, the introduction of additional brands and the strengthening of our presence in cities we’ve identified for scaled growth. We thank our hotel partners for their invaluable trust in Radisson Hotel Group and its people”

The six new hotel deals include:

Radisson Collection Hotel Bamako, Mali

Scheduled to open within the next six months following a re-branding, the hotel introduces Radisson Hotel Group’s premium lifestyle brand to Africa, as the first Radisson Collection hotel to open in the continent.

The operational hotel is currently rated number one on TripAdvisor for its prime location in the heart of Bamako and proximity to the city’s diplomatic district and great accessibility. The 200-room affordable luxury hotel will offer exceptional dining experiences across its five food and beverage outlets, from an all-day dining restaurant and a specialty restaurant to a café, a bar and an executive lounge. The hotel also offers an expansive 1,200sqm meeting & events area consisting of a ballroom and seven conference rooms. For the ultimate contemporary living, guests can stay fit in the hotel’s fully equipped gym or unwind in a serene setting within the spa or alongside the pool.

With the introduction of Radisson Collection in the city, the existing Radisson Blu Hotel, Bamako is expected to commence a full renovation program towards year end.

Radisson Blu Hotel Abuja City Centre, Nigeria

The Radisson Blu Hotel Abuja City Centre, scheduled to open in 2024, is the Group’s first hotel in the city, complementing the existing nine hotels in operation and under development in Nigeria.

Located in the heart of the central business district of Nigeria’s Federal Capital, the 258-room hotel will boast five different food and beverage outlets from a specialty restaurant and all-day-dining restaurant to a Lobby Bar & Café, a picturesque pool terrace and a premium business class lounge. The leisure facilities will include a 555sqm wellness spa, a gym and a swimming pool to maintain guest’s wellness.

Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre Johannesburg, O.R. Tambo 

Scheduled to open before year end, the hotel will introduce the Group’s upscale Radisson brand to Johannesburg. Located on a private estate in Bredell, Kempton Park, the hotel has easy access to major highways joining Johannesburg and Pretoria and is approximately 10 minutes’ drive away from O.R Tambo International Airport, Africa’s biggest and busiest airport, facilitating over 21 million passengers in 2018.

The newly built hotel will offer an array of dining options, including four restaurants, three bars an entertainment deck and an executive lounge.

The hotels 289 modern and timelessly designed rooms comprise of 248 which are newly built and 41 which have been converted from an existing hotel. In addition, it has a large MICE facility, which includes a significant conference centre with a 1,260-seater auditorium and five conference rooms. The leisure facilities will include a gym, spa & wellness centre as well as three outdoor pools.

Radisson Hotel Addis Ababa

Radisson Hotel Group’s fifth hotel in Ethiopia, scheduled to open in 2021, is located just 4km from Ethiopia’s newly expanded Addis Ababa Bole International Airport terminal, now the biggest airport aviation hub in Africa, expected to accommodate 22 million passengers a year.

The 114-room hotel will boast a wide variety of food and drink outlets, the hotel will offer guests a truly local experience in a traditional Ethiopian specialty restaurant and bar and appease international taste buds in a bespoke all-day-dining restaurant which leads out into a pool bar. In addition, the hotel will also have a third bespoke panoramic bar.

Radisson Hotel & Apartments Accra, Ghana

The hotel, scheduled to open in 2023, is a full renovation of an existing 121 room hotel and construction of an additional tower which will offer 54 hotel apartments, creating a mixed-use development. The hotel is located on Tema Highway, Ghana’s largest port located to the East of Accra. Within a 3km radius of the hotel is the Kotoka International Airport, Accra Mall and the Airport City complex, a mixed-use development with several Grade AAA office towers and retail outlets.

From an all-day dining restaurant, lobby bar and rooftop restaurant, bar and pool terrace, every culinary preference will be catered for. The versatile meeting and events facilities are made up of 12 different venues with an area of 1,173sqm. The hotel will also include a gym, spa and swimming pool. 

Park Inn by Radisson, Durban Intl. Airport, Dube, South Africa

The new-build hotel introduces the upper midscale Park Inn by Radisson brand to Durban and strengthens Radisson Hotel Group’s current portfolio of 15 hotels (3,007 rooms) in operation and under development in the country. It will also complement the national business circuit with a Park Inn by Radisson in each of the three major cities of South Africa (Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg).

Claiming its foremost milestone, it is the first hotel within Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone, which forms the heart of the first purpose-planned aerotropolis in Africa, around King Shaka International Airport. The 168-room hotel scheduled to open in 2022, will have a lobby bar, rooftop all-day dining restaurant and rooftop pool terrace with eight different meeting & event venues.

About Radisson Hotel Group:

Radisson Hotel Group is one of the world's largest hotel groups with seven distinctive hotel brands, and more than 1,400 hotels in operation and under development in 120 countries. Its signature service philosophy is Every Moment Matters.

Radisson Hotel Group portfolio includes Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.

Radisson Rewards is our global rewards program that delivers unique and personalized ways to create memorable moments that matter to our guests. Radisson Rewards offers exceptional loyalty benefits for our guests, meeting planners, travel agents and business partners.

One of Durban’s most beloved hotels, the Oyster Box, has been awarded the top spot in the ‘Top Resort Hotels in Africa’ category at this year’s Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards.

Standing majestically on Umhlanga’s beachfront just 15 minutes from the airport, overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic lighthouse, Oyster Box is South Africa’s most cherished hotel and a national treasure.

The awards, voted for by readers of Travel + Leisure, judge hotels on a variety of characteristics including their rooms and facilities, location, service, food and value.

With all the charm of a bygone era, Durban’s 86-room Oyster Box is the epitome of modern elegance and comfort. An ultra-luxurious hotel, Oyster Box overlooks the Indian Ocean and the iconic uMhlanga lighthouse.

Whether you’re looking for a unique experience, gourmet feast, spa indulgence or family stay, The Oyster Box has something to suit all tastes and occasions.

Renowned for exceptional cuisine and the hottest spots in town for sundowners, the hotel’s facilities also include an award-winning spa, two swimming pools and a 24-seater movie theatre.

Jonathan Raggett, managing director of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, which the Oyster Box is part of, said they were honoured to have been recognised in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards.

“Our teams work tirelessly to deliver unsurpassed guest experiences every day and these accolades are testament to their hard work and dedication, and to the vision of our President & Founder, Mrs Tollman, whose lifelong pursuit of excellence and passion for hospitality is the life blood of Red Carnation Hotels,” he said.

Many African countries rely on toursim earnings to run their economies. And the hard hit dealt to their tourism industry due to the coronavirus pandemic has had a deeply negative impact of several African economies.

• Provide relief packages to affected tourism businesses including small business within the tourism value chain.
• Provide a soft landing for the tourism industry as they re-open their enterprises to the market.
• Save and secure jobs from being lost in the tourism value chain.
• Re-establish contact with the local, regional and international tourism market.
• Reassure confidence in the marketplace and encourage visitors to travel to and within Zimbabwe thereby boosting tourist arrivals and tourism revenue.
• Rollout campaigns informing the marketplace that Zimbabwe’s tourism business is back. 

Zimbabwe Plans Tourism Recovery

• Financial and political support for recovery measures targeting the tourism sector in the most affected countries
• Recovery measures and incentives to be planned and implemented in coordination with international development and donor organizations  
• Tourism support to be included in the wider recovery plans and actions of affected economies. 

As in the past, UNWTO will provide guidance and support for recovery measures of its members, the private and public tourism sector, including organizers of tourism events and fairs.

• To reassure the world source markets of their safety in various destinations.
• To reassure the world source markets that tourism destinations   will welcome them back.

Botswana is renowned as the best destination in Africa’s for a wildlife safari. Although a landlocked nation, Botswana has been attracting tourists from all across the world in recent years.

The abundant wildlife and tourists attractions on offer in Botswana has made the country one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the Southern Africa region.

Botswana is the land of the Big Five –  African Elephant, Rhinoceros, Lion, Leopard and the Cape Buffalo. Besides the abundant wildlife, 70 percent of Botswana’s territory is covered by the famous Kalahari Desert. Sandwiched between South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, the country has become a popular tourist destination – both regionally and internationally.

Best Wildlife Safari in Africa

In 2019, Botswana won the coveted title for the ‘Best Country for Safaris in Africa” for the second year running. The ranking, carried out by Safaribookings,com, considered and analyzed more than 4,000 reviews of safaris across Africa before deciding on a winner.

The famous Okavango Delta is undoubtedly one of Botswana;s main tourist attractions. A vast inland river delta located in the in northern half of Botswana, the Okavango Delta is known for its sprawling grassy plains with an abundance of wildlife. The Moremi Game Reserve occupies the east and central areas of the region where dugout canoes are used to navigate past hippos, elephants and crocodiles. An overland safari in the the region brings you face-to-face with a variety of wildlife including lions, leopards, giraffes and rhinos.

But, the Kalahari Desert, which is spread over 900,000 square kilometres, is also a major attraction for tourists. The Kalahari is home to desert wildlife such as meerkat, bat-eared foxes, cape fox and brown hyenas. All three African big cats can be found here – cheetah, leopard and the famous black-maned Kalahari lions.

The country has the largest population of elephants in the world, having more than 130,000 of them. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), there are now just 415,000 African elephants left in the world.

In Botswana, tourism is a key contributor to job creation, with the sector employing more than 90,000 people. In the northern areas, tourism provides 32% of jobs. It’s also a fundamental contributor to skills transfer and the development of new competencies. Few industries in the world cover the range of skills that are required in tourism.

Tourism also brings in massive resources to the country, with more than US$2 billion being poured into the Botswana’s economy every year. For every guest that comes into the country, staff are hired, and food and beverages are purchased from local suppliers, adding to their own revenue.

Tourism lies at the centre of Botswana’s future development, also creating opportunities for small- and medium-sized enterprises that can help to drive economic growth. Importantly, in addition to economic activity and direct employment for locals, tourism creates a sense of pride in communities, encouraging the preservation of natural resources, historic locations, and traditional cultural activities. It is vital that we, as a country, keep our focus on bolstering the long-term sustainability and profitability of our tourism market.

The 5th Annual Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2020 was held in Kampala kicking off three days of business-to-business and business-to-customer engagements among key Ugandan and regional tourism players with selected tourism wholesalers from Africa and other overseas tourism markets.

POATE was hosted by Speke Resort in Munyonyo on the shores of Lake Victoria and attracted over 57 international hosted buyers and 140 domestic and regional tourism operators, as well as international and domestic media.

The expo ran under the theme, “Promoting Intra-Africa Travel” in a bid to raise awareness about the untapped potential presented by emerging African travel markets.

The event was officially opened by Rt. Hon. Gen (Rtd.) Moses Ali, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Leader of Government Business in Parliament, on behalf of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

In a speech read for him by Rt. Hon. Moses Ali, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni thanked the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) for organizing the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo, saying that it would go a long way in “expanding business opportunities in the tourism sector in Uganda and the entire East African region.”

President Museveni told delegates to the expo that Uganda had significantly invested in creating “peace and stability, good road networks, enough electricity supply, better telecommunications networks and internet” and these investments would enable Uganda’s tourism sector to be competitive.

“Without investment in this critical infrastructure, tourism cannot flourish,” he said, adding, “The government has restored Uganda Airlines to attract tourists to Uganda, because [with] the many planned direct routes to Uganda, tourists and business people alike will have faster and more affordable travel to Uganda, making us a competitive destination.”

President Museveni also commended UTB for the intra-African outlook saying that since the Ugandan government had “achieved commendable progress in addressing some of the strategic bottlenecks” which hindered Uganda’s prosperity, it was time to focus on intra-African business.
 
“Africa has a big market of 1.2 billion people which we must exploit to our advantage by increasing intra-trade and intra-travel among us,” he said. He named endless opportunities – a rich attractions portfolio, value for money, and high return on investment.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Lilly Ajarova, the Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Tourism Board, told the delegates of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo that Uganda was full of abundant tourism opportunities characterized by the richest tourism attractions portfolio and best value for money for investors and tourists alike, and, therefore, healthy returns on investment.

“We have the richest and most diverse range of human, natural, cultural, religious, and historical attractions complemented by a warm tropical climate, warm people, great accommodations, and great food,” she said.

Ajarova told the over 200 tourism business leaders from over 20 countries and four continents that because Uganda has the “highest concentration of attractions over a smaller geographical area” where “tourists get to see more for less, and there is something for everyone,” as a destination, “Uganda offers the best value for money.”
 
She also said that the healthy growth in visitor arrivals coupled with a vast array of tourism assets presented big returns on tourism investment and that the recent government investments in transport infrastructure had made the country more accessible both from the outside and inland.

“It is now easier to get into Uganda by air from virtually anywhere around the world [with] 32,735 flights in and out of Uganda in financial year 2019. With Uganda Airlines, there will be faster and more convenient direct routes especially from Africa. Today, it is also easier to get around by air, road, and water,” she said.

Explaining the theme of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo and the special focus on Africa, Ajarova said that Africa’s economic prospects were on the rise and that the continent was emerging  as one of the fastest-growing tourism markets after Asia and the Pacific with outbound traffic reaching 42 million in 2018.

“The theme mirrors our strategy to rebalance and segment our tourism portfolio into 4 key segments, namely: existing overseas markets, emerging overseas markets, regional/African market, and the domestic Ugandan market,” she said.

Addressing the hosted buyers on why they should prioritize selling Destination Uganda, Ajarova said: “Do not settle for a bouquet of attractions when Uganda can give you and your clients a garden of attractions and endless opportunities for your businesses!”

Col. (Rtd.) Tom Butime, the new Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, also invited the delegates to explore the immense potential presented by Destination Uganda. “Numbers don’t lie,” he said. He told the tourism operators, “We do offer probably the best value for money per dollar spent, and there is something for everyone regardless of age, gender, budget, and preferences.”

Butime said that on top of healthy visitor numbers and the richest attractions portfolio on the continent, Uganda offered one of most abundant investment incentive regimes in the tourism sector.

Hon. Kiwanda Godfrey Ssuubi, the Minister of State for Tourism and Antiquities; Rev. Fr. Simon Lokodo, the Minister for Ethics & Integrity; and Uganda Tourism Board members, as well as several members of parliament, ambassadors, and private sector players attended the launch ceremony.

Speaking on behalf of the private sector Pearl Hoareau Kakooza, the President of the Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) thanked UTB’s new management for organizing POATE 2020 and called upon government to invest more in industry capacity building, new product development, capital investments, and facilitating access to affordable financing.

“Interest rates ranging from 18-25% from commercial banks are prohibitive for direct investment in the private sector. UTA members would wish to have access to affordable financing for this sector,” she said, adding that access to more affordable financing for the sector “would translate into a broader tax base and by extension, more tax revenue.”

UTA is an umbrella organization that brings together all tourism trade associations in Uganda that represent 7,000 tourism professionals, comprised of tour operators, travel agents, accommodation facilities, tour guides, community-based organizations, and arts and crafts groups.

Alain St. Ange, the President of the African Tourism Board, lauded Uganda for creating peace and stability and also challenged the African continent to rise up and tell its own positive story.

“Uganda has something that few countries in Africa can talk about – stability, safety,” he said, emphasizing that such positive stories as this need to be told about Africa. “Africa must work together to rewrite its own narrative. It cannot continue to let the world ride on the back of Africa, writing what they want, and often, looking at all the mishaps, all the mistakes, and for everything else that is not good about Africa. Our successes are not written about. This is something that Africa must do for Africa,” he said.

Kenya’s tourism is bouncing back after years of the slowdown in the country’s incoming tourist arrivals.

• The United States remained Kenya’s leading market, growing by nine percent with 245,437 arrivals.
• Kenya’s tourism earnings grew by 3.9 percent to $1.6 billion.
• Total of 2,048,834 foreign visitors visited Kenya in 2019 compared to 2,025,206 international arrivals in 2018.

Domestic Tourism

As you must have noticed, most tourism advertisements are targeted at foreigners, yet several African countries are experiencing a strong increase in domestic tourism – specially countries like Rwanda, Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania, Ivory Coast and Rwanda.

With over 1.1 billion Africans  expected to be middle class by 2050. African governments are getting serious about promoting domestic tourism. Reducing local flight taxes and promoting new new tourist destinations among local and regional tourists can yield rich dividends for Africa’s tourism earnings.

In the East Africa region, Uganda and Tanzania continue to be major source markets for Kenya’s tourism sector. According to recent figures, Kenya received 245,437 tourists from America in 2019, the highest from one country, while Uganda and Tanzania were second and third with 223,010 and 193,740 respectively.

Arrivals into Kenya from neighbouring Uganda are expected to increase further this year following the introduction of Uganda Airline’s direct flight from Entebbe to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi and Moi International Airport (MIA) in Mombasa. Mombasa doubles as a business and holiday destination for Uganda and the new air link will boost both business and tourism between Uganda and Kenya.

On the other hand, Qatar Airways also started direct flights from Doha to Mombasa in December 2018. Ethiopian Airlines also increased the number of flights to Mombasa from one to two daily in 2019 boosting arrivals through MIA.

In 2018, Travel & Tourism grew 5.6% to contribute KSHS 790 billion and 1.1 million jobs to the Kenyan economy. This rate of growth is faster than the global average of 3.9% and the Sub-Saharan Africa average of 3.3%. This makes Kenya the third largest tourism economy in Sub-Saharan Africa after South Africa and Nigeria both of which grew substantially less than Kenya the last couple of years.

Surprisingly, Africa’s tourism industry is now the second fastest growing in the world.

In Ethiopia, for example, relaxing visa restrictions while improving flight connectivity has seen Addis transformed into a regional transport  hub, even overtaking Dubai as the world’s gateway to Africa. This has resulted in Ethiopia becoming Africa’s fastest growing travel country, growing by 48.6% in 2018, according to recent reports.

A report compiled by Jumia states that:

• Africa’s travel and tourism remains one of the key growth drivers of the continent’s economy, contributing 8.5% (or $194.2bn) of the GDP in 2018; from 8.1% and 7.8% in 2017 and 2016 respectively.
• This growth record placed Africa as the second-fastest growing tourism region in the world, with a growth rate of 5.6% in 2018 after Asia Pacific and against a 3.9% global average growth rate.
• In 2018, the African continent received 67 million international tourist arrivals (+7% increase), as compared to 63 million in 2017 and 58 million in 2016. Africa received only 5% share of international arrivals in 2017.
• Morocco and South Africa were the top tourism destinations, with approximately 11 and 10 million arrivals per annum respectively.
• Ethiopia’s visa relaxation policies combined with improved connectivity as a regional transport hub placed the country as Africa’s fastest growing travel country, growing by 48.6% in 2018 to be worth $7.4bn.
• The travel and tourism sector directly and indirectly provided employment for about 24.3 million people in 2018, accounting for approximately (6.7%) of total employment.
• Leisure remains an important component of Africa’s tourism industry, taking up a majority 71% of the tourist expenditure in 2018.
• Moreover, more governments among them Kenya Rwanda, and South Africa are seen to be driving initiatives towards diversifying business tourism products through MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions). However, business expenditure remained at a staggering 29% in 2018 from 30% in 2017.
• In 2019, there was less hotel pipeline activity with 75,155 rooms in 401 hotels; as compared to 2018 which had a pipeline activity of 76,322 rooms in 418 hotels. Sub Saharan Africa recorded the highest pipeline with 45,861 rooms in 276 hotels, while North Africa had 29,294 rooms in 125 hotels.
• The decline in the total Hotel Chain Development Pipelines in Africa has been largely attributed to chains deleting deals that were unlikely to happen and “cleaning” their pipeline from the previous year.
•  In terms of room revenue, it is expected that in the next five years, Nigeria will be the fastest-growing market with a projected 12% compound annual increase. It will be followed by Tanzania and Kenya, with a projection of 8.2% and 7.4% compound annual increases respectively.
• While Africa’s passenger traffic increased from 88.5 million in 2017 to 92 million in 2018 (+5.5%), it’s world share was only 2.1% (down from 2.2% in 2017). This was attributed to high competition from other regions such as the Asia Pacific. Africa’s share is however predicted to grow by 4.9% annually over the next 20 years.

Investment Opportunities

Due to its stable business environment and steady economic growth, Kenya’s hospitality industry is definitely set for greater heights. Major goals have been achieved: the improvement of infrastructure, as well as the simplification of permit acquisition for foreigners keen on investing in the hospitality sector.

Africa is a tourist destination that never fails to amaze, boasting of moderate tropical weather conditions, friendly, hospitable people, and a plethora of interesting places to visit. However, there are some countries in Africa that are off the tourist trail and are like hidden jewels that are waiting to be discovered by those who are willing to stray off the tourist trail.

We have compiled a list of just those countries that are not so popular when it comes to attracting large number of tourists, but are, nevertheless, endowed with immense natural beauty.

São Tomé and Príncipe

The island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe, located off the western equatorial coast of Central Africa, is the second smallest African country after the Seychelles, and the smallest Portuguese-speaking country with a population of just over 190,000 people.

In 2019, the nation welcomed less than 75,000 visitors, which is relatively low compared to the number of visitors other island nation countries received, including Seychelles and Mauritius. Factors contributing to the low number of visitors include the country’s fragile and volatile economy, which is still heavily reliant on international financing, absence of roads and communication infrastructure, and underdevelopment of many travel and tourism-related facilities.

Many tourists that visit the island nation, mostly Portuguese tourists, enjoy unspoiled landscapes and a warm, tropical climate. Interesting things to do include a visit to Obo National Park, which has over 700 species of flora and fauna, as well as white and black sandy beaches, a visit to various plantation houses that showcase the island’s colonial history, as well as various beaches that are far from being crowded and busy.

Burundi

Burundi is one of the smallest countries in Africa, located in the African Great Lakes region of East Africa. Just over 100,000 tourists visited the landlocked nation in 2019. A major reason for the decline in tourist arrival into Burundi is the political unrest that has plagued the country, including protests that broke out in 2015 after the ruling party announced President Pierre Nkurunziza would seek a third term in office and a failed coup that attempted to depose him. This led to as many as 100,000 people fleeing the country, causing a humanitarian emergency.

The country’s tourism potential is high as it is rich in culture and history and has great attractions, including the famous Lake Tanganyika, which is one of the deepest lakes in the world, and national parks like the Kibira National Park and Rusizi Natural Reserve, which are home to lush tropical forests and wildlife and flora such as chimpanzees, baboons, and tall palm trees of the Hyphaene bengalensis var ventricosa species.  

Comoros

Comoros, located at the northern end of the Mozambique Channel between Northeastern Mozambique and Northwestern Madagascar, is the third-smallest African nation by area and has a small population of over 700,000 people.

The country received approximately 35,000 visitors in 2019. The Comoros has potential for a thriving tourism industry like neighbouring islands such as the Seychelles because of its beautiful beaches and warm tropical climate. However, political instability stands in the way of this. The country has experienced 20 coups since gaining independence from France in 1975. If the country were to gain political stability, it would face stiff competition from more established tourism industries of neighbours such as Seychelles and Reunion Island.

A main tourist attraction of the island nation is the large Karthala Volcano located on the southern half of Grande Comore. The volcano is still active, and volcanic activity on the island have left black rocks along the coast line, which create a beautiful contrast with the crystal white sand and blue water of the ocean.

Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone only welcomed approximately 30,000 visitors in 2019. The country’s 11-year civil war, which started in 1991, left the country in ruins, with over 50,000 deaths and many displaced throughout the region by the time it ended in 2002. Another factor that affected tourism in the country was the Ebola virus epidemic, which spread throughout the country in 2014 and killed over 3,000 people in the first 18 months. 

The country’s tourism sector has great potential due to its rich biodiversity. The 400-kilometre Atlantic Coastline is rich in marine life and boasts white sands and warm ocean waters, and there are lush rain forests that boast a myriad of wildlife, even though these are under threat from large scales of deforestation.

Niger

Niger, located in the Sahel Region of Western Africa, is a country that is rich in history and culture, once being home to the great ancient Mali and Songhai Empires, and being home to the nomadic Wodaabe Tribe. Niger is a developing country, which is not only less known for tourism and travel, but also ranks low on the United Nations’ Human Development Index. The country only received around 150,000 visitors in 2019.

Developmental challenges that the landlocked country faces include drought and desertification due to the Sahara desert being located there, inefficient agriculture, high poverty levels, and overpopulation due to high fertility rates.

Interesting tourist features of the country include the Termit & Tin Toumma National Nature and Cultural Reserve, which is one of Africa’s largest reserves, protecting several endangered animals including the dama gazelle and desert cheetah, as well as protecting the nomadic culture of several tribes while boasting a scenic desert landscape. It is also home to the Guérewol Festival of the Wodaabe, where young men dress up in elaborate ornamentation to sing and dance to attract the attention of marriageable young women

A visit to Africa isn’t complete without witnessing the wide variety of flora, fauna and wildlife the continent has to offer. Not only do the continent’s popular botanical gardens offer conservation efforts for flora and wildlife, they are educational and recreational, making them a must-see on your travel list and attract tourists from all across the world. Here are some noteworthy botanical gardens that are major tourist attractions in Africa:

Here are botanical gardens across the continent that you should visit.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Cape Town, South Africa

The garden is one of ten National Botanical Gardens covering five of South Africa's six different biomes and administered by the South African National Biodiversity Institute. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is located in Kirstenbosch on the eastern slopes of Cape Town’s Table Mountain and is one of the great botanic gardens of the world, spread over 528 hectares (1,300 acres). Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden was built in 1913 to promote, conserve and display the rich and diverse flora of southern Africa region and has since become a major tourist attraction in South Africa. The garden famous for growing South Africa’s national flower, the Protea, as well as many other flora including the Fynbos, Erica and Restios. As an added bonus, there are more than 125 species of birds make this garden their home, including the Sugarbird, the Sunbird and the African Dusky Flycatcher, as well as a variety of insects (including the beautiful Table Mountain Beauty butterfly) and amphibians (including the Cape River Frog and the Chirping Frog). Visitors can go on the Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway of the garden or on a cycling route through the garden. A trip to Cape Town is not complete without a visit to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

Seychelles National Botanical Gardens

Mont Fleuri, Seychelles

The Seychelles National Botanical Gardens  is a popular tourist attraction in Pamplemousses, near Port Louis, Mauritius, and the oldest botanical garden in the Southern Hemisphere. It is populated with more than 650 varieties of plants and is home to a wide variety of flora and wildlife, including the Coco Der Mer, which has the biggest nuts in the plant kingdom, the Koko Maron which grows on the forest floor and is used by locals to make ropes and brooms and a number of spice and fruit trees. The signature feature of the gardens is an orchid house which holds a collection of brightly coloured orchids including Seychelles’ own native orchids. Visitors can reach the gardens either by foot (a 30 minute walk) or by car from downtown Victoria. One of the main attractions of the botanical garden is the 85 different varieties of palm trees brought from different corners of the world. Other indigenous species of plants are also exhibited here.

Jardin Majorelle

Marrakech, Morocco

Jardin Majorelle is one of the most visited sites in Morocco, located in Marrakech and a major tourist attraction. The garden was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in 1886 and purchased by French designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Berge in 1980. The garden displays more than 30 species of the cactus family as Majorelle was especially interested in the plant when he initially designed the garden. Bird lovers also love to visit the garden as it is home to a variety of bird species including the blackbird, sparrow and turtledove. The garden also displays bamboo imported from Southeast Asia, and features the Yves Saint Laurent monument which was erected in the designer’s memory after he passed away in 2008. A signature feature of the garden is the Berber Museum, which was opened in December 2011 to document the rich history of the Berber tribe. Visitors can learn more about Berber culture through a collection of photography, films, audio and music tapes. The garden covers an area of over  two-and-half acres.

Mauritius National Botanical Garden

Pamplemousse, Mauritius

Formally known as the Sir Seewoosagur Botanic Garden, the Mauritius National Botanical Garden, located in in the district of Pamplemousse, is one of the island’s most visited tourist attractions. The garden was initially the French governor’s private garden almost 300 years ago, but has since opened as the island’s national botanical garden. It is home to over 600 species of plants including the baobab, Palmier Bouteille and giant water lilies. It’s also home to talipot palm trees, which are native to Sri Lanka and the Malabar coast of India, the Jackfruit tree and the Indian almond tree, also known as the Bengal almond.

Aswan Botanical Garden

Aswan, Egypt

The Aswan Botanical Garden, also known as Kitchener’s Island or El Nabatat Island, is Egypt’s world class botanical garden that is located on an island in the Nile River at Aswan. The island was previously owned by Lord Kitchener in the 1800s as it was given to him as a gift when he served as Consul-General in Egypt. The garden is not only a great leisure spot for families, but also serves as an important centre of botanical research in Egypt. There are many types of rare and exotic plant life to view at the garden, including the Royal Palm tree and the Sabal Palm tree, as well as plenty of bird life. The garden is reached either by public ferries that run between Aswan, Elephantine Island, and Kitchener’s Island or by hiring a felucca.

Entebbe Botanical Gardens

Entebbe, Uganda

The Entebbe Botanical Gardens are located on the shores of Lake Victoria in the Ugandan town of Entebbe, just outside of the capital Kampala. There is a huge variety of plantations and trees on the island. Some of which were naturally found on the island, before it was converted into a botanical island, and others have been brought in. There is a number of rare palm trees such as the Royal Palm tree, the Sabal Palm tree, and the Phonic Pam tree. The gardens are also popular for the wide variety of bird species that are found there, including eagle owls, sunbirds and black weavers. On and around the shores of the lake, a variety of wildlife can be spotted, including the African Open-billed Stork, yellow billed duck and grey headed gull. The gardens house a small patch of rainforest which is home to thick forest underbrush, bamboo and medicinal plants and magnificently tall trees.

Aburi Botanic Garden

Accra, Ghana

The Aburi Botanic Garden, located just outside the capital city Accra, is one of Ghana’s most beautiful tourist attractions which overlooks the Accra coastal plain. The garden plays an important role in encouraging cocoa production in the southern region of Ghana by supplying seedlings and information about scientific farming methods. The garden has many species of flora for conservation purposes, including mimosa pudica, the Ficus tree and medicinal plants. There is also an abundance of bird and butterfly life that make the garden an ideal setting for picnics, nature lovers and wedding pictures. The garden has had many roles over the years, including plant introduction, teaching methods of modern agriculture and played an important role in cocoa production in South Ghana.

Sarius Palmetum Botanical Garden

Abuja, Nigeria

Sarius Palmetum Botanical Garden, located in Maitama, Abuja in Nigeria, is home to over 1000 different species of plants, including about 450 species of palms. The garden houses Nigeria’s popular palms including oil and coconut palm as well as Bismarckia, golden and royal palm. The garden houses several of the nation’s endangered plants including the pepper fruit, succulent sea grapes, or coccoloba uvifera and pitanga cherry or eugenia uniflora. The garden was started by one of Nigeria’s first ladies Ajoke Muhammed out of her love for plants and a need to conserve Nigeria’s indigenous flora. Abuja is known for its numerous amusement and relaxation spots, yet this botanical garden appears to offer a unique experience. A scene for a Nollywood movie has already been shot on its terrain and an event called ‘Tamerri Festival’ which writers, poets, artists and filmmakers are expected to attend will take place there soon. 

Jardim Tunduru

Maputo, Mozambique

Jardim Tunduru, located in the heart of Mozambique’s capital Maputo, is a beautiful botanical garden that allows visitors a break from the bustling city. It was reopened in 2015 after undergoing rehabilitation to fix its greenhouse, fencing and public benches as well as improve its sanitation and irrigation systems. The garden has a rich collection of trees, shrubs and flowers, including the Jacaranda tree, magnolia and a range of Palmae plants.  The garden is home to several wildlife including birds, butterflies and a colony of bats that rest in the treetops. The gardens were designed in 1885 by Thomas Honney – who in his career also designed gardens for the King of Greece and the Sultan of Turkey – and are exquisitely laid out, if at times a little overgrown. A fantastic place to go on a picnic, or just to escape the midday heat, the Tunduru Gardens also feature a tennis court and a statue of Mozambique’s first president Samora Machel.

Nairobi Botanic Garden

Nairobi, Kenya

The Nairobi Botanic Garden, located at the Nairobi Museum ground in Kenya, is a beautiful garden that is ideal for a picnic or a quick getaway from the bustle of the city. The garden fulfills the functions of education, research, conservation and recreation, and is home to about 600 indigenous and 100 exotic plant species creatively laid out in thematic garden displays including the herb garden, which has the country’s indigenous medicinal plants, the succulents garden, which has a significant amount of succulent species found in Kenya and the quarry garden, which features a variety of papyrus plants, water lilies and other water plants. The garden is also open for hire for events such as parties, photo sessions and leisure activities. The garden is laid out in thematic displays. The themes integrate Kenya’s natural, historical and cultural heritage with plants and habitat displays.

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, in association with the North Eastern States is organising the “International Tourism Mart” (ITM) in Imphal, Manipur from 23 November to 25 November, 2019. The event will be held in Hotel Imphal, and will be inaugurated on 23th November 2019 by His Excellency, Shri N. Biren Singh Chief Minister of Manipur in the presence of Shri Prahlad Singh Patel Minister of State (IC) for Tourism & Culture, Union Secretary Shri Yogendra Tripathi and other dignitaries from Central Ministries and North Eastern States.

This is the 8th International Tourism Mart and an annual event organised in the North Eastern region with the objective of highlighting the tourism potential of the region in the domestic and international markets. It brings together the tourism business fraternity and entrepreneurs from the eight North Eastern States. The event has been planned and scheduled to facilitate interaction between buyers, sellers, media, Government agencies and other stakeholders. The North East Region of India comprising the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim, is endowed with diverse tourist attractions and products. The varied topography of the region, its flora and fauna, the ethnic communities with their rich heritage of ancient traditions and lifestyles, its festivals, arts and crafts, make it a holiday destination waiting to be explored.

The 8th International Tourism Mart, will put the spotlight on “Sustainable Tourism an engine for Economic Growth and Employment”. Besides deliberations on promotion of tourism in the North East Region in general, the Mart will also give a platform for promoting cultural ties, providing enhanced connectivity to the States of North Eastern Region with other countries in our neighbourhood.  

Buyer and Media delegates from around the world and from different regions of the country are participating in the Mart and will engage in one-to-one meetings with sellers from the North East Region. This will enable the tourism product suppliers from the region to reach out to international and domestic buyers, with the objective of promoting tourism to the region, a total of 36 foreign Buyer delegates from over 19 countries namely Australia, Canada, Cambodia, Czech, Dubai, Italy, Japan, Oman, Korea, Myanmar, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, USA, UK, Vietnam.

Besides the foreign delegates, 49 domestic stakeholders in Tourism sector from other parts of the country and 109 sellers from the North Eastern States are participating in the Mart. Representatives of State Tourism Departments of these North East States will also be present to showcase their tourism destinations and to interact with the delegates.

International and Domestic Buyers will be engaging in business-to-business meetings with sellers from the North Eastern Region. In addition to these the three-day event also includes presentations by state governments on their tourism potential, cultural evenings, sightseeing visits to local attractions in and around Imphal.

An exhibition by State Tourism Departments from the North Eastern States including display of beautiful handicrafts and handlooms is also being organised to show case the tourism products of respective participating States. The State Govt. of Madhya Pradesh has also been invited to participate and give a presentation as it is a paired state with Manipur under the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” initiative.

Overwhelming response has been received for taking post-mart familiarisation tours to the North Eastern states by foreign buyer delegates. This will create awareness about the rich and varied tourism products of the North Eastern region and to give them a first-hand experience of the destination.
The International Tourism Marts are organised in the North Eastern States on rotation basis. Manipur is hosting this mart for the second time. The earlier editions of this mart have been held in Guwahati, Tawang, Shillong, Gangtok, Agartala. 

Africa is fast emerging as a hot tourist destination for travellers from across the world as air connectivity and new road networks improve accessibility to the continent's remote natural tourist spots and attract visitors from all across the globe. Clearly, improved air and ground connectivity has resulted in an increase in the number of travellers visiting the African continent for leisure and tourism.

A record 67 million tourists visited Africa in 2018, up from 58 million in 2016, the African continent is ranked as the second fastest growing region for tourists. According to a recent report by World Tourism Organisation, the number of tourist arrivals in Africa will more than double to 134 million by 2030.

As the number of airlines flying into Africa continues to grow, Africa is sure to attract a growing number of both leisure and business visitors in the coming years.  As a result, new hotels are coming up in all parts of Africa in anticipation to accommodate these visitors.

Not surprising then that many multinational hotel chains are beginning to recognise the huge potential and investment opportunities opening up in Africa, specially in the tourism and hotel sectors. The Radisson Hotel Group, for example, has signed 11 new hotel deals in Africa during the first nine months of 2019, increasing its African real estate to almost 100 properties. According to industry experts, the Radisson Hotel Group is expected to reach more than 130 hotels and 23,000 rooms in Africa by 2022.

Investment Opportunities in Africa

Looking at the immense opportunities opening up in Africa's hotel sector, a new trend is emerging where multinational hotel chains are buying and rebranding existing hotels or acquiring smaller hotel groups in Africa. Marriott International, for example, acquired Protea Hotels in 2014 to expand their network in the African continent.

However, the growth and expansion of the hotel industry in Africa is not balanced across the continent – developed, fast-growing and stable cities in Africa are outperforming less prominent locations. Consider this: almost 30% of hotel chains in Africa are in South Africa, predominantly in Cape Town and Johannesburg, with over half of African capital cities having fewer than five chain hotels each.

Even Airbnb is reporting increased numbers in Africa. The popular accommodation online marketplace has over 130,000 listings in Africa and more that 3.5 million people have used the platform to book accommodation in Africa over the past five years.

• The majority of foreign visitors to Africa were holiday-makers with 71% of tourist spending across the continent spent on leisure activities.
• Africa’s tourism industry grew at a rate of 5.6% in 2018, second only to Asia Pacific. This compares to a global growth rate of  3.9% annually.
• Travel and tourism emerged as an important contributor to the African economy in 2018, accounting to 8.1% of GDP and contributing $194.2 billion to the continent’s economy.
• Around 67 million tourists flocked to Africa in 2018, a record 7% increase from 63 million arrivals in 2017 and 58 million in 2016.
• More relaxed visa rules in Ethiopia coupled with improved transport infrastructure gave the country's tourist industry a staggering 48.6% boost in 2018, raking in a total of $7.4 billion.
• The top African tourist spots were Morocco and South Africa, with around 10 and 11 million arrivals per year.

Visa Rules

Many African governments have also relaxed their visa formalities in order to attract more tourists. Initiatives such as the creation of the East Africa Visa programme which allows visitors to apply for a single visa online before visiting Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya are making these places evermore attractive to tourists.

Zimbabwe, for instance, has also simplified its visa rules to facilitate its tourism sector. "We have simplified the visa processing mechanism and offer visa on arrival for most nationalities," says Givemore Chidzidzi, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Acting Chief Executive during an interview with Holiday Guide magazine. "China has emerged as an important source market for Zimbabwe and we are keen to attract more tourists from China in the coming years," he said.

With more 142 million travellers, China is the world’s biggest outbound market and is growing faster than most traditional source markets. The market is characterised by high spenders and Zimbabwe is pulling out all the stops to attract a larger share of this market. in 2018, China was moved from category C to category B (visa at port of entry) of the current visa regulations in a bid to ease travel from China to Zimbabwe.

"The 35% growth in Chinese tourist arrivals to Zimbabwe is a reflection of the market's potential," said Givemore Chidzidzi.

Attracting Investments

African governments are also wooing international entrepreneurs to invest in their country's booming tourism and hotel sectors. In The Gambia, the government is offering investors free land if developers build hotels in designed areas, and gives investors a 10-year tax holiday if  they invest above a $250,000 threshold.

With impressive double digit growth, inbound traffic from Nigeria to Dubai grew by 28 percent year-on-year, cementing its position as the emirate’s 17th largest source market.

Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) has reported a steady increase in the number of visitors from Nigeria, Africa’s largest source market for inbound traffic to Dubai, welcoming 113,000 overnight visitors in the first seven months of 2019.

Dubai’s diverse business, entertainment and leisure attractions have been attracting a growing number of Nigerians. Ongoing promotions by Emirates Airline, Dubai Tourism and other government bodies hav also played a significant role in promoting Dubai's status as a popular destination amongst Nigerian visitors.

Nigeria: Dubai's Partner in West Africa

Building on ongoing efforts to provide a platform to broadcast Dubai’s multifaceted comprehensive offerings to African tourists, Dubai Tourism, led by the CEO, Issam Kazim, showcased its support at the Akwaaba African Travel Market for the fourth consecutive year with a strong delegation of 21 Dubai-based partners, which included a team from Expo 2020 Dubai.

West Africa’s most prestigious travel trade event brought together industry stakeholders from across the public and private sector to provide a platform to share key market insights, further cementing the emirate’s relationships with operators and offering the opportunity to promote Dubai’s ever-evolving destination offering to a highly targeted audience. 

Winning the ‘Best Stand’ award for the fourth year in a row, the Dubai Tourism stand, which was the largest at the show, welcomed visitors and set an Akwaaba record with over 700 delegates attending its industry panel session.

Nollywood Celebrities Promote Dubai

To the delight of the crowd, six of the nine Nollywood celebrities from the “Dubai Faceoff” campaign made a surprise appearance on stage to voice their experience and admiration for the city. During the session, Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM) was joined by Fahad Obaid Mohamed Al Taffag, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Nigeria to provide market insights and an update on visitor figures. Other highlights included Dubai’s diverse destination offerings and an overview of in-market campaigns.

Further fostering growth across the African continent, Dubai Tourism continues to leverage its multi-layered marketing strategy, delivering specialised communications programming that recognises the power of social media in influencing travellers’ decision-making processes. This approach saw the launch of the ‘Dubai Face Off’ campaign, where Dubai Tourism successfully collaborated with trade partners WONTRA and Tour Brokers International to provide an exclusive travel package that let fans travel with Nollywood celebrities.

As part of the campaign, nine well-known Nigerian celebrities gave fans the rare opportunity to accompany them to Dubai, with the package offering flight tickets, entry visa, airport transfers, four nights stay at a 4 or 5 star accommodation, a desert safari experience, city tour, tickets to IMG World’s of Adventure, world class dining experiences, as well as designated time with the celebrities.

The event also encompassed several strategic meetings with trade and media partners, including TBI, a key trade partner and one of the largest in Nigeria; Megaletrics, one of the largest owners of radio stations in Nigeria, as well as Dubai’s other key trade partners GHI Assets, NANTA, Seki, and Wakanow.com.

As Dubai Tourism continues to represent itself as a model case study for tourism to the African travel market, it maintains its focus on increasing overall marketing activities including training workshops, trade activities (sales activations, fam trips) and campaigns as well as expanding upon the number of Dubai-based partners that participate in roadshows and events in the Nigerian market.

“The immense hospitality and genuine welcome we received during our time in Nigeria paved the way for a hugely successful Akwaaba Travel Market 2019," said Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). "Our continued presence at industry events such as these is testament to our globally diversified market strategy to engage with key strategic partners, cementing our positive relationship with the African travel trade ecosystem.”

As the department continues to build on and cement its strong relationship with the Nigerian market, Dubai Tourism has plans to launch a second targeted winter marketing celebrity campaign with out-of-home advertising, radio, and social media activations to further engage Nigerian tourists and position Dubai as the destination of choice.

Dubai Targets Visitors from Nigeria

With strategic support from stakeholders across the city, the celebrity figures and their fans participated in a series of challenges that incorporated social media engagement, asking fans to vote on their favourite winners throughout their stay. The campaign surpassed projected results with over 200 fans travelling to Dubai for the exclusive campaign, while the celebrities received just under 31 million engagements on social media to boost the department’s ‘always-on’ social media strategy – which, to date, has exceeded the entire year’s forecasted engagement targets by almost 300 percent.

Issam Kazim, CEO, DCTCM, commented on the campaign: “As Dubai continues to become a prime destination of choice for Nigerian travelers, we are committed to extending the potential of one of our fastest growing source markets by offering custom-made integrated marketing campaigns and trade activations that showcase the city’s world-class propositions and exceptional experiences on offer. The ‘Dubai Face Off’ campaign is a prime example of our endeavors to harness the power of user generated content and organic circulation in targeting segments eager for customized and diversified experiences.”

For a developing region like West Africa, luxury does come at a cost; while it may be a tad bit expensive, it is fair to conclude that every ounce of money spent is worth it. The current niche is sophistication, and every development or hotel management is consciously following along the path to be relevant and popular. No matter your sense of taste or preference, there’s always something unique in store for you.

Africa boasts of a diverse, rich contemporary culture and heritage, fused with an unadulterated sense of hospitality; as a result, West Africa provides some of the most unique and luxurious hotel accommodations.

This article primarily focuses on, in no particular order, Ten Luxurious Hotels in West Africa

Tang Palace, Ghana

The Tang Palace Hotel is conveniently located six km from the Independence Square in Accra. The hotel has a year-round outdoor pool and terrace, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant, or a drink at the bar. Tang Palace also includes features such as free WIFI accessibility and free private parking. All rooms come with a flat-screen TV, along with a variety of satellite channels. Certain units include a seating area where you can relax, and other units feature views of the pool or the beautiful city. In addition, rooms come with a private bathroom that is fitted with a hot tub – extras include slippers and free toiletries. Guests will find free shuttle services and hairdressers at the property as well. Seeing as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park is seven km away from Tang Palace and the Accra Sports Stadium is six km away, the hotel also offers chauffeur services.  The four-star property is in a quiet location very close to the airport, and despite its large size, it has a nice hideaway feel to it. Comprised of freshly cut orchids, impressive chandeliers, and an impeccably dressed and attentive staff, the Tang Palace Hotel focuses on details that make your stay more memorable. Prices range from US$430 for a double and US$590 for a suite.

Royal Gold Coast Hotel (Kempinski), Ghana

From the Kempinski group that has a global reputation of doing things in style, the Royal Gold Coast Hotel is no exception. This hotel marks the brand’s West African debut, and with a complex that spreads over 35 hectares and is comprised of numerous buildings including commercial and residential towers, the property is a dazzling addition. The hotel itself has 269 rooms, all at least 50 sqm in size, including a pair of seriously snazzy presidential suites. Guests can also enjoy an extensive spa experience with a collection of 10 treatment rooms, a hammam, a yoga studio, and a fully kitted-out beauty salon. Other hotel features include an organic food bar, cocktail bar, tennis court, and a flashy outdoor pool. There are also seven extra meeting rooms with the latest audio-visual equipment, in addition to a number of outside meeting areas and a conference center measuring about 1,750 sq. m.  The Royal Gold Coast Hotel is home to a restaurant as well: the Papillon Restaurant is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that showcases flavors traveling the Mediterranean region from Spain to the Coast of Southern Rome in a casual, contemporary atmosphere.  The daylight-flooded restaurant got its name from the butterfly shaped roof, and it is located on the 3rd floor, adjacent to the pool and cedar terrace. Rated as one of the best values in Ghana, prices start at US$375.

Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, Ghana

Backed by palm-studded grounds and a sweeping azure pool, Accra’s newest luxury sanctuary is certainly living up to its hype. Dubbed as the most expensive hotel in the capital, smart waiters of the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel are seen supplying fresh snacks and icy drinks to holidaymakers stretched out on loungers around the pool. The onsite state-of-the-art shopping center is filled with high-end goods from bold fashions at Nonterah, to Afrocentric homeware at Joe’s Perspective. In addition, the Sankofa restaurant pleases customers with a wide array of continental and local flavors, and the cocktail lounge expertly whips up any favored swill. Basking in its glory from the busiest part of Accra, Mövenpick sits across from the luxurious ends of the capital. With about 260 rooms, prices start from US$375 a day.

Hotel Hilton, Cameroon

Situated in the centre of the business district of downtown Yaounde, this Hilton is also just 500 m from the National Craft Market. It features an outdoor swimming pool, as well as a fitness club with a hot tub and sauna; Wi-Fi access is also available.

The spacious, air-conditioned rooms and suites have a private balcony. In addition, each room at Hilton Yaounde is soundproofed, including a seating area with a flat-screen TV.

Breakfast is served every morning in Le Safoutier – it also offers international buffets for lunch and dinner. Guests have a choice of 5 restaurants and bars at the hotel including Le Panoramique, which features city views from the 11th floor.

Hilton Yaounde provides a range of leisure facilities, including 2 tennis courts and a squash court; a children’s playground and a business centre are also located on the site.

A free airport shuttle service to the hotel takes 30 minutes for transfers from Yaounde Nsimalen International Airport, and the Palais de Congrés conference center is 5 km away.

Noom Hotel, Guinea

Being totally avant-garde, caring, connected, and always ideally located in the heart of busy cities, Noom hotels are designed with the business traveler in mind. This four-star, family-friendly hotel has a spectacular selection of restaurants and facilities that provide ample entertainment for holidaymakers of all ages. Situated in Conakry, Noom Hotel Conakry offers its guests air-conditioned accommodations and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. Other services include free WiFi, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar.

Additionally, Noom Hotel Conakry offers a sun terrace, dry cleaning facilities, free private parking, and a business center – as well as a 24-hour front desk.

The units in the Noom Hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV and a desk, and each private bathroom is fitted with a shower and free toiletries.

Guests of the facility can enjoy a buffet breakfast as well; there is an on-site restaurant that specializes in European and local cuisine.

Le Wafou, Cote D’ivioire

Le Wafou is one of the oldest, yet splendid luxury hotels that the Ivory Coast can claim. With its expansive waters and a wet bar where guests can shake up icy cocktails, the pool is the star of this beachside retreat. A separate children’s pool is also present. Manicured Ivorian residents flock here to cool down and socialize amid the 30 acres (12 hectares) of landscaped gardens on the weekends. Hotel guests find Le Wafou to be an attractive complex of chalets, with a striking beachside location that makes for an accomplished stay. The rooms are clean, air conditioned, spacious, and include comfy beds. Overlooking the beach, the thatched setting of the Ghanaian Village restaurant is also a high point, as well as a great place to sample Ivorian dishes.

Eko Hotel And Suites, Nigeria

Victoria Island is a great choice for travelers interested in nightlife, food, and beaches. Eko’s pristine rooms and luxury suites offer an outdoor pool, barbecue, and children’s playground. Set in Lagos, Eko Hotel has a terrace and spa center, and guests can enjoy a meal at the included restaurant. Free WIFI is available, and free private parking is also available on site.

Guests can enjoy a cup of tea while looking out at the sea or the pool. Also, every room is fitted with a flat-screen TV and private bathroom; for your comfort, you will find slippers, free toiletries, and a hair dryer.

More services offered by Eko Hotel and Suites include a free shuttle service, a 24-hour front desk, hairdressers, tennis courts, and shops on the property.

Car hire is also available, considering the nearest airport is Murtala Muhammed International Airport – located 20 km from Eko Hotels Limited.

The Royal Senchi Hotel, Ghana

Discovering the Eastern part of Ghana has always been fun. The four-star luxury hotel located on the west bank of the Volta river offers a spa, pool, conference center, and airport pickups. With 84 luxurious guest rooms, the suites are tastefully decorated with all the mod cons, including 32-inch televisions and large bathrooms. The included Senchi Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, or dinner on an a la carte menu. If you prefer the outdoors, you can enjoy your sundowner on the River Restaurant terrace and order meals from the teppanyaki or charcoal grilled meats, salads, fruit, or ice cream. The Royal Senchi Hotel prices a standard room at $240, and suites are priced at $560 dollars.

Sheraton Lagos Hotel, Nigeria

Sheraton Hotel is sited close to the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, in the heart of Ikeja. The hotel includes guests houses and suites; each room provides you with a TV, air conditioning, and a seating area. More features such as refrigerators, electric kettles, and coffee machines can also be found in these suites and guest houses. The private bathrooms in the rooms also include a shower, along with a hairdryer and free toiletries.

At the Sheraton Lagos Hotel you will find a tennis court and a fitness center as well. Other facilities offered at the property include meeting facilities, a shared lounge, shops (on site), and free parking.

Ibis Lome, Togo

Located in Lomé, the Ibis Lomé hotel offers free Wi-Fi access, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a terrace. Rooms here provide guests with a flat-screen TV, satellite channels, air conditioning, and a desk. Private bathrooms for the rooms also feature baths or showers.
At Ibis Lome Centre you will find free airport shuttle service and a 24-hour front desk; additionally, the property offers free parking.

Africa is home to some of the largest, deepest, and all-round awe-inspiring lakes in the world. Most of the major lakes on the African continent are part of what is known as Africa’s “Great Lakes”. These are a series of lakes that lie along the East African Rift Valley and connect with both the Nile and Congo rivers.

Here is a list, in order of depth, of Africa’s deepest lakes that are home to several unique aquatic species and offer unrivaled holiday experiences for travellers to Africa.

1. Lake Tanganyika

Lake Tanganyika is not only the longest lake in the world (673 kilometres), but it’s also the second-deepest (1,470 metres) after Russia’s Lake Baikal. It’s also one of the oldest, dating back to 13 million years. The lake straddles the borders of Tanzania, Burundi, Congo DR, and Zambia.

Considered one of the most biologically unique habitats in the world, Tanganyika is home to an exceptional diversity of fish, supporting more than 250 species of cichlids – 98% of which aren’t found anywhere else in the world. There are also about 75 non-cichlid fish species in the lake. The fish from Tanganyika is exported throughout East Africa and beyond. The lake’s warm blue waters make it an excellent destination for diving and snorkeling. Bird watching is also superb at Tanganyika.

Over 250 species of cichlid fish live in the lake and 98% of these are endemic, meaning it has the highest number of endemic cichlid of any lake in Africa. The cichlid genera has multiple variations and Lake Tanganyika offers snorkelers and scuba divers an extremely diverse diving experience. Colorful, gleaming fish can be seen all over the Lake and charters to explore these areas are available from many of the lodges and camps dotted along the water’s edge.

To fully explore the area there are plenty of options. From kayaking along its shores and islands, to quad biking in the hills around your lodge and even boarding a reinstated WW1 German auxiliary warship (MV Liemba) to travel from port to port. Every day presents a new opportunity to see more of this beautiful area. Then end each day sipping on a cocktail whilst watching the sun dip below the horizon over the lake.

2. Lake Malawi, also known as Lake Nyasa or Niassa

Located between Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania, Lake Malawi is the southernmost lake in the East African Rift system and is the third-largest in Africa. A part of the Malawian section of the lake was turned into a national park, while the Mozambican portion was declared a reserve in 2011.

Lake Malawi is home to 800 to 1,000 species of fish – the largest fish population of any lake in the world. There are numerous fishing villages around this vast body of water, where many people benefit economically from the lake.

Legend has it that when the explorer David Livingstone arrived on the shores of Lake Malawi, he observed thousands of lanterns on fishing boats shimmering across the vast expanse of water, and called it "The Lake of Stars". Today you might not find quite as many fishing craft on the enormous, freshwater lake, but you will find hundreds of colourful cichlids flitting beneath the gin-clear water, crescents of golden-sand beaches and a smattering of idyllic lodges cocooned on the shoreline. Snorkelling, diving, boating and kayaking are all on offer to pass your days, or you can simply sit back and gaze at the sun-dappled lake in all its calm, serene and peaceful glory.

Every year, the lake attracts hordes of local and international tourists who visit the charming palm-fringed beaches on the shores of the lake. Just like all the best places, Lake Malawi can be a little taxing to reach. Roads are bumpy, the journey by car is long, and flights can be expensive. But if you’re booking a safari package that includes Zambia or Zim, costs can be reduced, so don’t let the access to this paradise of a lake put you off.

3. Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu lies in Central Africa on the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, covering a surface area of over 2700 square kilometres. This fresh lake is believed to be one to five million years old, and has a depth of 485 metres. What’s fascinating is that the great lake contains high amounts of methane and carbon dioxide in the depth of its waters.

Running for almost 100kms along the Congolese border, Kivu takes its place among the 20 deepest and 20 most voluminous freshwater bodies in the world. With no hippos or crocodiles and crystal clear, clean water, it is also one of the safest lakes in Africa. Rubavu (also known as Gisenyi) is a waterfront town located on the shores of Lake Kivu and at only an hour away from Volcanoes National Park, Rubavu is a great place to unwind after Gorilla Trekking adventures. Here you can sit on the beach, watch fishing boats plying the water, find interesting villages to explore, as well as see amazing birdlife set amongst true peace and tranquillity.

It is also one of the world’s only 3 known exploding lakes; it’s not going to happen today though, so no need to worry. Further economic importance derives from the lake’s estimated 65 billion m3 of dissolved methane gas which is extracted to run boilers at the Bralirwa brewery in Gisenyi.

Sitting on its shores, the resort towns of Cyangugu, Kibuye and Gisenyi are ideal rest and recreation transit points between the primate tracking destinations of Nyungwe Forest and the Volcanoes National Park.

It’s also home to 31 species of fish, including Nile Tilapias, Lake Rukwa Minnows and various types of catfish. Fish that serve as a popular source of food for locals is the Tanganyika sardine. The lake empties into the Ruzizi River, which flows southwards into Lake Tanganyika.

Ethiopian Airlines is planning to further upgrade its fleet by buying new aircraft from Airbus.

Ethiopian Airline is reportedly at the final stages of striking a $1.6 billion deal with European aerospace giant Airbus for the purchase of 20 of its narrow-body A220 jets. This is not the first time Africa’s largest air carrier is looking at purchasing the 100-seat Airbus A220s for its fleet. The airline was considering European jets last year, however, it eventually had decided to go with larger Boeing 737 family aircraft.

According to reports, Ethiopian Airlines is facing problems operating large Boeing 737 MAX on long haul flights, as it had to stop off at a second destination on flights from Addis Ababa to cities including Windhoek and Gaborone for refueling. Operating Airbus A220s will allow direct flights with no additional stops.

Ever since Boeing’s best-selling 737 MAX jets have been grounded after two deadly crashes earlier this year, Airbus’ profits have been growing exponentially, while Boeing posted its largest-ever quarterly loss in July, calculating the total cost of the 737 MAX crisis at over $8 billion.

Ethiopian Airlines suffered the loss of one of its Max jets in a deadly crash in March 2019, the second fatal incident involving the plane model after Indonesia’s Lion Air jet plunged into the Java sea, leading to a global grounding of the aircraft. The dual disasters rocked the aviation industry and developing into one of the worst crises for Boeing in its 103-year history.

The agreement is set to be completed by the end of the year. Should the deal go through, it would be the airline’s first order since the crash of its Boeing 737 MAX in March.

Earlier this year, Ethiopian Airlines took delivery of the milestone Dash 8-400 aircraft. The aircraft is the 25th Dash 8-400 aircraft delivered to Ethiopian Airlines.

Ethiopian operates the youngest and most technologically advanced Fleet in Africa. The airline flies 11 million passengers annually to over 117 destinations and is fact emerging as Africa’s leading aviation company.

The Serena Group has a way of doing things differently. And their hotels are no different – each styled to perfection with that unique touch of class that Serena has come to be known for over the years.

The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa was no different. From the moment you drive into the hotel and are escorted to your room, one gets to the sense of being part of something special. The entire place carries an ambience similar to that of a royal palace where each aspect of the building and operations has been carefully thought through.

The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa is styled to replicate a pastel-shaded Italian hillside village and stands out among hotels in Uganda. Situated amid terraced rose gardens above its own boating marina, which has been sculpted from the sparkling waters of Lake Victoria. A gently rounded bay, studded with acacia trees, the marina is encircled by the immaculate greens of the resort’s own PGA-affiliated championship golf course. Spanned by rustic bridges and enhanced by gentle bays where a wide array of water birds gathers, the course is the ultimate fusion of natural beauty and professional challenge.

Rising on gentle slopes above the marina with long views across the lush greens to Lake Victoria beyond, the hotel itself has been styled to echo an Italian palace with its campanile, glittering mosaics, rustically arched pool terrace and shaded colonnades. Set within the grounds, amid water cascades and fountains, is a Roman coliseum, which offers the ultimate wedding or event arena. And, widely spaced amongst the shaded pathways of the gardens, clusters of pastel-painted villas house the rooms, all of which enjoy panoramic views across the Marina to the hazy expanses of Africa’s second largest lake.

Getting There

On the shores of Lake Victoria in the Kigo District (equidistant between Kampala and Entebbe), Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa is a twenty-minute drive (30 km) from Entebbe International Airport and twenty minute’s drive to the centre of Kampala (15 km). The resort is also shortly to be linked to the Entebbe-Kampala express highway that links Kampala and Jinja by means of a 4-lane toll highway. The resort features its own helipad offering link services to the flagship 5-star Serena Kampala Hotel.

Facilities

• The 9-hole (soon to be 18-hole) Lake Victoria Serena Championship Golf Course, Club House and Golfing
• Boutique
• The Lake Victoria Serena Marina
• The Club House
• The Citadel, all-day brasserie
• The Kigo, cocktail bar
• The Lake View Pool Terrace bar and café
• The South-East Asia Fusion Restaurant
• The Coliseum events arena
• A wide selection of indoor and outdoor event spaces
• The Maisha Mind Body and Spirit Spa
• Dedicated conference and social events floor
• Wide selection of rooms and suites: all with AC, satellite TV, Wi-Fi and voice-mail
• VIP entrance, helipad, dedicated car park, full security
• Wide range of incentives options
• Business Centre, travel desk, taxi and limousine service
• Wedding planning service
• Gift shop, news-stand and travel requisites kiosk.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES:

• Championship Golf Course
• Boating marina
• Lake cruises, sundowners and birding tours
• Tennis courts
• Volleyball courts

The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & SpaOur stay at The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa was indeed a highlight of our visit to Uganda as it was undoubtedly the best hotel we stayed in during our 20-day visit to Uganda. The scenic beauty of the area combined with the excellent views of the expansive golf course from our private balcony and the sumptuous food on offer, made for a relaxing and comfortable at the last leg of our journey.

More than just a hotel and spa, The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort offers an experience that is unique. The service levels are excellent, the property is well maintained and to top it all, the many activities available for guests make this property more than worthy of all the awards that the resort has won thus far.

Highly recommended.

The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa
Address: Kigo Rd, Uganda
Phone: +256 31 3221000

The Hwange Safari Lodge features in our top 10 lists of Zimbabwe’s best luxury lodges.

Have you ever stayed at Hwange Safari Lodge? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

Holiday Guide Review includes:

• The Good Parts
• The Not-So-Good Parts
• Our Opinion
• Dining
• Facilities
• Activities
• How to get there
• Ratings
• Photos

THE GOOD PARTS OF THE HOTEL REVIEW

Hwange Safari Lodge sits right in the periphery of the Hwange National Park, offering magnificent views of the surrounding African landscape and the savannah of the surrounding jungles. Hwange Safari Lodge offers the best of both worlds, as it a tranquil retreat surrounded by wilderness and open spaces, yet provides all the amenities of the modern world. The lodge is a a two-hour drive (185 kilometres) from the international airport at Victoria Falls. The property is conveniently located just off the main Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway making it easy for you to reach there.

A beautifully designed welcome area is located at the center of the expansive resort grounds. Inside, the light-filled, high-ceilinged pavilion houses a reception area, large lounge area and the signature restaurant Dingani. Outside the lobby building is an expansive ground which also has a small swimming pool that offers lovely panoramic views of the savannah and the watering hole. Here, guests can socialize around fire pits under a magical starlit sky, while traditional music is played at selected nights.

Surrounded by the wilderness of the adjoining Sikumi Forest Reserve, the lodge grounds overlook a floodlit waterhole where you can sight some wildlife at any time of the day or night.

Offering sweeping views though the room’s windows, the lodge’s beautiful interiors are framed by subtle references to local architecture, seen in the simple lines of the natural timber furniture and the presence of locally-inspired touches, such as handmade paintings and local artefacts. Old solid wood is repurposed into table and bench tops, while handcrafted rust-colored bricks are used for many structures.

During my visit, I stayed in one of the standard rooms, which are all housed along long corridors on either side of the main reception area. Designed in soft tones and simple lines, the open-plan suite featured a sitting area beside the double bed, and a bathroom equipped with a shower. The wooden windows provided awe-inspiring views of the all encompassing African savannah.

Guests can choose to dine in the lawns in the open air or at Dingani, the lodge’s main restaurant. The latter is located adjacent to the lobby and serves a limited list of cuisines. The lodge’s chefs prepare delicious and healthy cuisine, always made with organic ingredients. There is always a choice between Western, International and locally inspired dishes. The superb à la carte breakfast is also served at Dingani.

Zimbabwe Holiday Guide

The lodge is operated by the renowned African Sun Group, one of my favourite hotel brands in Southern Africa. African Sun resorts & hotels are always located in some of the world’s most unique and beautiful places. Whether it be an African Sun resort on a remote area around Lake Kariba or an African Sun resort in an exciting urban setting, the touch-points are always decidedly the same.

I have previous reviewed the African Sun hotel in Victoria Falls – the Kingdom Hotel.

As you may expect from the African Sun brand, the Hwange lodge provides impeccable, world-class service. Similar to other African Sun resorts, all guest queries are handled to maximum satisfaction to ensure that your experience is memorable.

Hwange Safari Lodge dramatic location makes for a spectacular introduction to the nearby Hwange National park as most wildlife safaris and adventures begin here. Hwange Safari Lodge is one of best lodges in this remote area of Zimbabwe, and I highly recommend to combine a stay here with a stay at some of the other African Sun lodges to immerse yourself in Zimbabwe’s wildlife, heritage and hospitality. As you journey through the vertiginous scenery of rural Zimbabwe, you will find meaningful and uplifting experiences at every turn. Each lodge and hotel has a unique character and all embrace the African Sun guiding principles, which include top-level services, sumptuous food, comfortable rooms and a typically African ambience.

THE NOT-SO-GOOD PARTS

Hwange Safari Lodge is a luxurious retreat, offering fabulous views, a serene ambiance, spacious accommodations, world-class service, delicious food and extensive adventure opportunities. There’s little to say against the resort, except for the following:

The lodge is quiet old – it was built in 1973 and is due for a much needed upgrade.

During my visit, the landscaping was not finished, and as a result, the resort grounds looked sandy, barren and a bit unattractive. That said, I learned that the vegetation has matured since my stay (due to the past monsoon season), so the resort grounds should be lush and green on any future visit.
I was later informed that the Hwange Safari Lodge is being completely refurbished and should be sporting an upgraded look by next year.

OUR OPINION

• Good location overlooking busy waterhole
• Onsite game viewing activities, plus tour to painted dog conservancy
• Located just outside the Hwange National Park boundary on its own private concession
• Easy access on good tar road – 185km from Victoria Falls
• Comfortable hotel rooms and suites
• Affordable price range with a variety of options from B&B to fully inclusive
• Suitable for all types of travellers – from single to large groups
• Ideal for self-drive tourists
• Hotel experience – rather than an intimate safari experience

FACILITIES AND SERVICES

• Parking and car wash
• Dry cleaning and laundry service
• Baby sitting service
• Credit card facilities
• Wheelchair access
• Expert guides and staff
• Safety deposit boxes
• Tennis courts
• Table tennis and indoor games
• Swimming pool and deck
• Raised viewing platform to watch nearby game

ACTIVITIES:

• Game drives (early morning, afternoon and night drives); 
• Walking safari; 
• Village visits (cultural and pottery village); 
• Trips to Painted Dog Conservancy

Fully Inclusive Rates Include:

• Accommodation
• Breakfast, lunch, dinner and soft drinks
• 1 activity per day

DINING

• Poolside restaurant serving light snacks and buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, and barbeque
• Dingani Restaurant serving a la carte meals
• Bush dinners available on request
• Outside Water Hole bar opens seasonally or on request

HOW TO GET THERE

Hwange Safari Lodge is a two-hour drive from Victoria Falls Airport. If you decide to drive, it will take a 9-hour long drive from Harare. You can also fly to Hwange Park airstrip and arrange transfer to Hwange Safari Lodge

A sanctuary located on the periphery of the Mighty Victoria Fall, the expansive Kingdom Hotel is an architectural masterpiece and a haven for those looking for peace, comfort and tranquility. The property is dotted with mature palm, fruit and eucalyptus trees, which shade the turqoise-blue artificial lake around which the hotel complex is built. Beyond the palatial Suites, open-air restaurants and manicured gardens, guests will discover mystical jungles of the Victoria Falls National Park, where elephants and other wild animals still roam free.

The Kingdom Hotel features in our top 10 lists of Zimbabwe’s best luxury hotels.

Have you ever stayed at The Kingdom Hotel? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

Holiday Guide Review inlcudes:

• The Good Parts
• The Not-So-Good Parts
• Our Opinion
• Dining
• Facilities
• Advantages
• How to get there
• Ratings
• Photos

THE GOOD PARTS

Our stay at the Kingdom Hotel during our recent visit to Zimbabwe was indeed a memorable experience. This unique hotel is located adjacent to the Victoria Falls National Park and surrounded by the wild jungle on one side and the bustling city on the other. The property is set in a tranquil oasis of lush greenery that is not only in stark contrast to the arid plains and craggy hills which surround it, but also to the hustle and bustle of Zimbabwe’s main cities. The Kingdom Hotel is a nine-hour drive from Harare or you can take the a one-hour flight from Harare airport to reach here. As you approach the resort, it feels like you are travelling back in time as you pass through the sleepy bylanes of this quaint part of the city, devoid of any traffic jams or crowded traffic intersections.

Built in 1999, the unique architecture of Kingdom Hotel is inspired by the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. A great deal of attention has been paid to the smaller details such as the cast iron ‘seed-pod’ bar and the hand-sculpted statues on the front lawns – all adding to that ‘magical kingdom’ ambience. The main lobby area is decorated with authentic African artworks and paintings made by local artists. The brightly themed African décor creates a typical African ambience that is both mystical and charming at the same time.

The hotel has been carved out of local sandstone and marble – with grand domes, scalloped arches, gushing waterfalls and royal gardens taking you back in time to Zimbabwe’s golden age. Towering palm and eucalyptus trees are spread all across the resort complex, adding to the sense that this property has been here for many years although it is not such an old property (Kingdom Hotel opened in 1999).

The hotel features the layout of a walled palace, shaded by a plethora of trees and bushes. Entrance is via an expansive and impressive porch area that looks more like a palace rampart. From here you walk down a corridor to the elegant lobby pavilion, where guests are gracefully welcomed by the resort staff with a refreshing drink, cold towel, and helpful service attendants.

One of most impressive features at the Kingdom Hotel are the waterfalls that greet you as soon as you enter the hotel. Located along the corridor leading to the hotel’s main reception area, the unique waterfalls are an audio visual treat for visitors and are supposed to be miniature replicas of the famous Victoria Falls.

As you walk down the staircase from the lobby pavilion to the main restaurant you will be mesmerised by the open spaces and the authentic African décor. On one side of the main restaurant is a chic open-air bar, and on the other side, is the inviting pool area

The hotel has a total of 294 rooms which are situated in separate two and three storey units, built around the large man-made lake that lies at the heart of the resort. The rooms are large and spacious – decorated to match the overall authentic African theme that is carried through the entire landscape. All the rooms have balconies and some of them overlook the lake, while the others overlook the property’s lush-green gardens.

The room I stayed in was in the new wing that lies across the lake from the main resort complex – its called the Kings Club. This newly refurbished wing has long corridors that are flanked by rooms on either side and the entire wing is sandwiched between the lake on the front side and a lush green garden in the rear. More often than not, you will wake up to the sounds of chirping birds that visit the lake and the gardens on their daily morning routine outings.

DINING OPTIONS

The Kingdom Hotel serves delicious food, with a choice of signature African dishes and Western cuisine, all of which can be tailored to suit individual tastes. Freshly picked ingredients from the the local farms are used to prepare the dishes. There’s one main restaurant, open for buffet and à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner situated just below the lobby deck. This dining area features a grand setting, with soaring ceilings and colonnades, overlooking the tree-shaded pool and the well-manicured lawns. Opposite the restaurant is a bar, a convivial and relaxing space where light snacks and drinks are served throughout the day.

The Kingdom Hotel is a self-contained world of elegant luxury, representing everything that its mother brand, the African Sun tries to achieve: tranquility, exclusivity, and a sense of well being. The African Sun is Southern Africa’s most exclusive hotel brand and the company manages a fabulous collection of intimate properties across the region. The brand is known for the understated elegance of its resorts, exquisite attention to detail, minimalist design, heartfelt service, and otherworldly locations.

Among African Sun fans is a group of passionate repeat customers who call themselves ‘African Sun addicts’ (me too) and whose travel plans in the Southern Africa region are determined by locations of African Sun properties. It’s also a fallacy that African Sun addicts are always extremely rich people: I, for instance, would prefer to spend my money on three nights at an African Sun resort instead of two weeks at any run-of-the-mill mediocre hotel – as you pay, not just for accommodation at an African Sun property, but for a unique and life-long memory that you will cherish for the rest of your days. To be blunt, some of the African Sun resorts make Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton resorts look like mediocre Best Western motels.

The staff at Kingdom Hotel provides impeccable service. From the concierge to the receptionists who welcome you upon arrival to the room service staff and waiters – everyone at the resort seems to be genuinely hospitable and care about making your Zimbabwean holiday a unique and enjoyable experience. While at the resort, it feels like you are a king – nothing is too much to ask for. To give you a few examples: rooms are refreshed several times per day – but you’ll rarely see someone from housekeeping, you’ll never be asked for your room number or name (African Sun knows its guests personally), and duty managers are always present at the resort and mostly there to welcome you and say goodbye.

While a stay at Kingdom Hotel cannot be classified as ‘budget’, but it won’t cost you a fortune too. If ‘value for money’ is your mantra, then the Kingdom Hotel provides you with an authentic African experience and may be just the right place for you.

A stay at Kingdom Hotel can be easily combined with a stay at its sister property, Hwange Safari Lodge (which I reviewed here). Both properties offer a totally different and complimentary experience on a Zimbabwe itinerary. While Kingdom Hotel offers a refined and luxurious resort experience in a lush manicured oasis in urban settings, Hwange Safari Lodge, on the other hand, is more of an upmarket lodge located in typical African rural settings from where you can explore the wilderness and the wildlife in the nearby Hwange National Park.

THE NOT-SO GOOD PARTS

• The Kingdom Hotel is one of the large hotels, and it can get busy especially during the tourist season and long holidays. 
• For travellers from the Middle East like myself, the absence of water jet in the toilets is an inconvenience. So remember to carry you bidet spray attachment.

OUR OPINION

Kingdom Hotel is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from the famous Victoria Falls. The hotel is a perfect place stay while out on a family holiday or travelling in large groups. With an uncanny resemblance to the Sun City in South Africa, the Kingdom Hotel offers an authentic African experience in typical African settings. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay there and would certainly recommend it to others.

SUMMARY

• One of our recommended hotels, it is good value for money
• Rooms built around a large man-made lake
• Design and architecture inspired by the ancient city of Great Zimbabwe
• The hotel has elevators and ramps for the physically challenged guests
• One of the closest hotels to the Victoria Falls entrance – a five-minute walk

ACCOMMODATION AT KINGDOM HOTEL

• 112 rooms have king-sized beds
• 294 rooms in total
• 102 have queen beds
• 34 rooms have a king bed and a bunk bed
• 40 of the rooms have twin beds and a bunk bed
• Paraplegic rooms are available

All Rooms have:

• Air conditioning
• Telephone
• Heaters
• Digital Satellite TV
• En-suite bathroom
• Hair dryer
• Digital safe
• Tea/coffee making facilities
• Safety deposit box
• Shaver socket

ADVANTAGES

• Accommodation suitable for groups and individuals
• The closest hotel to the rainforest entrance
• Close to town centre and most activities, although operators do pick up from the hotel
• Various facilities on site
• Great rates
• Casino at Kingdom Hotel Victoria Falls
• Kingdom Hotel Casino

DINING OPTIONS AT THE KINGDOM HOTEL

The Great Enclosure – This entertainment complex is popular with both tourist and locals. It hosts two bars, a food court and of course the Makasa Casino.
White Water – Is the main hotel restaurant which seats 240 people. This restaurant and its terrace overlook the Pool Island and the panorama of surrounding rooms. It is open for a buffet breakfast and dinner.
Big Chief Steak & Grill – is situated in The Great Enclosure and is a relaxed and informal family steakhouse serving a selection of grilled steaks and seafood, pizza and burgers. Children are made welcome with lots of fun activities to keep them occupied.
Quartermains – is a sophisticated Edwardian themed bar
Wild Thing – is an action bar with live entertainment and a big TV screen – very popular with the young at heart and the locals.

FACILITIES

• Secure Parking
• Casino
• Entertainment complex with restaurants, bars and casino
• Reception and Guest Relations services
• Swimming pools
• Child mind services on request
• 24-hour room service
• Laundry service
• Curio shop
• Conference facilities
• Children

• Children are welcome at the Kingdom Hotel
• Children 2 years and under stay for free if in the same room as their parents
• Children under 12 years stay for free in a Family room (max 2 children)

HOW TO GET TO KINGDOM HOTEL VICTORIA FALLS

• Self-drive to Victoria Falls and turn right after the Total Garage. The hotel will be on your left.
• Fly in to Victoria Falls Airport (21 kms) or Livingstone Airport (19 kms + 1 border crossing), then transfer to Kingdom Hotel.

Photos

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Malawi is an offbeat tourist destination that has some of the best scenic splendours in Africa. Nyika is the largest national park in Malawi, that has a pictursque plateau on the shores of Lake Malawi. One side of this magnificent plateau forms the wall of the Great Rift Valley. The great domes of underlying hills have gentle slopes teeming with wildlife – making Nyika perfect for wildlife safaris, trekking and mountain biking. While in malawi, you must visit Mulanje Massif mountain standing at around 3,000 metres.

The dominating mountain is distinguished by giant basins of rock and narrow gullies cut by fast-flowing streams. Expect to encounter monkeys, hares, voles and a carpet of wildflowers as you meander through the valleys. Lake Malawi is one of the largest lakes in the world. The lake has more tropical fish than any lake in the world and the freshwater diving is great. The biodiversity has been recognized by UNESCO, which has made Lake Malawi National Park, the world's first freshwater park, a World Heritage Site.

Enjoy a pictorial journey compiled by our team to highlight this hidden gem in Malawi.

If you're planning a holiday in South Africa? Plan a visit to South Africa's favourite holiday resort and if you’re not sure what to do or where to start, we’ve got you covered with our Sun City holiday guide. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends or your better half, we’ve compiled a list of things to do at Sun City to give your holiday a kick-start in the right direction.

Home to the Valley of Waves and sprawled along the border of the Pilanesberg National Park, Sun City Resort enjoys the fine distinction of being the only surf-and-safari destination within a two-hour drive of landlocked Johannesburg. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stay with your partner, a fun weekend getaway with friends or a North West holiday with the whole family, Sun City Resort has it all.

Complete Holiday Package

Make it a beach day on the palm-fringed shore of the Roaring Lagoon or discover the ruins of a mythical civilisation at the Maze of the Lost City. Embark on a Big Five safari into the heart of the African bush, or above it, in a hot-air balloon when you stay at Sun City in the Pilanesberg. Improve your golf handicap at two world-class golf courses, or measure your swing against that of Ernie Els at the South African Hall of Fame located at Sun Central. Find your groove on the dance floor at Encore, or find your fun at Sun Central where two levels of action-packed, family entertainment venues give you even more great things to do at Sun City.

Choose from four internationally recognised hotels at Sun City. Indulge in the lavish opulence of The Palace of the Lost City or the cool sophistication of the five-star Cascades. Book your stay at the always-on Soho to enjoy access to Sun City’s thrilling nightlife, or treat the kids to an adventure holiday at the family-friendly Cabanas. 

Sun City Resort is famous for hosting some of the most iconic events in South Africa, including the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge and the Miss South Africa beauty pageant. A massive selection of conference venues across Sun City Resort provides you with expertly organised meetings, conferences and exhibitions. You’ll find the right venue for any event, whether you have six or 6,000 attendees.

Accommodation At Sun City

No other resort in South Africa has as wide a variety of accommodation options as Sun City. If you’re looking for unsurpassed 5-star luxury, something to suit the whole family, or your own comfortable unit away from the crowds – its got everything you need. Each hotel has its own unique style, character and attractions.

Sun City Casino

Experience the legendary glitz and glamour of the Sun City Casino. Opened in 1979, Sun City Casino has evolved with the times and the latest technology and popular games combine in a spectacle of round-the-clock thrills for both experienced and first-time gamers. Recently refurbished, the Sun City Casino features hundreds of exciting slot machines and over 40 popular table games. And if you’re a Sun MVG cardholders, you enjoy even more benefits, including exclusive access to the Salon Privé and VIP gaming.

Cash desk facilities and ATMs are available at the Sun City Casino and the Bureau de Change accepts all major currencies. However, a passport is required for any foreign exchange transactions.

If you are looking for a fishing holiday in Africa, the Silver Fish Lodge in Mozambique is just the place for you. Silver Fish Lodge is situated 450 km north of Maputo. Built in 1998, the lodge is situated remotely on an Estuary, on the beach, with an always open mouth to the bay and thereafter the open ocean. Even though it is remote, it is close to Inhambane airport, which is serviced daily with flights from Maputo and Johannesburg.

The Silver Fish Lodge is primarily a fishing lodge that caters for individuals and groups up to twelve, who usually choose a fishing package that suits their needs. There are 5 night, 7 night, and longer packages where all accommodation, food and fishing is included. This then takes out the complex budgeting associated with planning a trip like this. You pay for your flight, and the lodge takes care of the rest.

The Lodge offers Fly Fishing in and around the Mangroves, Inshore bay fishing, Kayak Fishing, Offshore Ocean fishing, Deep Sea Fishing and Spear fishing safaris. You can choose from one of the three boats depending on the size of your group. Everything is included in the packages, like tackle, bait, boat packs, refreshments and fuel.

At the Silver Fish Lodge you can catch most Pelagic species, including Black and Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Narrow Barred Mackerel (Cuta), GT’s, Trevally’s (also known as kingfish) Yellow Fin Tuna, other Tuna species, Sharks, Prodigal Son, Wahoo, Queen Mackerel, Queen fish, Job fish and Barracuda. 

The summer months into winter are the best months for fishing. From spring day, which is the 1st September, until mid-July are the preferred months to go. As the lodge is situated in the tropics, it’s always difficult to choose the exact week, but by speaking to the lodge owner, Etienne, he will guide you with what’s happening at any time. Usually for December and April, it is necessary to book well in advance as these are our busiest times and the lodge is always fully booked months in advance.

Accommodation

The Lodge is within 50 meters from the water’s edge. Rooms are serviced daily. The gourmet kitchen serves mostly fresh seafood, with fish, prawns, calamari and crayfish. Also on offer are some local dishes like crab cakes (or Casquenha). Packages include three meals a day and a boat pack for those going offshore.

Alternatively, you can opt for the stay without the package rates. Typically bird watchers, and people who don’t necessary have to fish all the time fit this category. Rates per room and food service is available from the menu. The lodge is 17 kilometres from Maxixe, which is a city of 70,000 people and growing.

The Lodge offers accommodation for 16 people:

2 Double Chalets:
Each with two double beds/ or four single beds, full bathroom and lounge, with undercover patio.

4 Single Chalets:
Each with a single double bed/ or two single beds per room, with en-suite bathroom, hot water shower, toilet and basin, also with undercover patio.

Buildings:
Buildings are constructed with brick, thatch roofing, tiled flooring, ablution facilities, adequate exterior lighting and covered patio areas.

Interiors:
Interiors are equipped with lighting, plug points, comfortable seating and sleeping (fresh linen and mosquito nets) and ceiling fans.
In addition, it has a restaurant, equipped kitchen, laundry, Bar and Dining room with deck, Games room (equipped with pool table, table tennis table, dart board, reading room, and offer a variety of board and card games).

All units face the estuary with sea views and beach access is approx. 50 metres

The Bar, Dinning Area and Braai

After a long days fishing enjoy a cold one next to the Indian Ocean with the sun dropping below the horizon, while dinner is prepaired.

The gourmet kitchen serves mostly fresh seafood, with fish, prawns, calamari and crayfish. We also offer some local dishes like crab cakes (or Casquenha).

You can also do excellent braais (barbeques), where guests can socialise around the fire reflecting on the days activities.

Dinner is served in the dining area next to the bar, 20 meters from the sea.

Fishing Guides

Silver Fish Lodge has some of the best fishing guides in the big game fishing arena.

Etienne - Owner, Operator and Guide

Etienne has been fishing for 25 + years. He has competed competitively, and this is his passion. He has fished all over the world, including Florida East coast (us), Guatemala, Panama, Mauritius, Comores, Seychelles, Kenya, Gulf coast in the US, South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique. He has also fished the Zambezi River for Tiger Fish.

Been fishing Mozambique since 1994, shortly after the war stopped. Obtained his Skippers (Captains) license in 1986. His favourite catch is to put one of his guests on their personal best.

Pedro - Fishing Guide

Pedro is a Mozambican who lives close by. His father is a fisherman, his brother is a fisherman, and he has been fishing all his life. A qualified Mozambican Manineiro (skipper) and has worked guiding clients since the old club 15 days here at Linga Linga, 15 years ago. He likes bait fishing.

Umkumbe Lodge offers travellers a perfect holiday in the wilderness of Kruger National Park, South Africa. At Umkumbe Safari Lodge guests enjoy a personal, rustic and real South African safari experience. The lodge consists of ten chalets/rooms with most overlooking the Sand River. Guests regularly see elephants, hippos, buffalo and antelope grazing in the river bed. Additional facilities include a swimming pool, lounge, bar and dining area and the traditional boma, where guests will be served delicious and hearty South African meals.

The reserve is home to the ‘Big Five’ (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo), as well as cheetah, wild dog and hundreds of other species of animals, birds and plants indigenous to the area. The phrase “Big Five” was coined by hunters of yesteryear – before the advent of the photographic safari – and refers to the animals considered the most dangerous to hunt. 

Umkumbe Safari Lodge is located in the Sabi Sand Wildtuin, considered by many to be the premier wildlife reserve in South Africa. Located on the banks of the seasonal Sand River, Umkumbe Safari Lodge is perfectly situated in one of the best Big Five game viewing destinations in Africa.

The lodge is easily accessible via either a self drive from Johannesburg, or by flying into the closest airports which are Skukuza and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Nelspruit. The self drive takes 6 hours from Johannesburg on good, safe roads. The flight takes approximately 1 hour. Road transfers from KMIA to Umkumbe can be arranged and take approximately 2 hours. A road transfer from Skukuza to Umkumbe takes approximately 1-1.5 hours and please bear in mind the Kruger National Park fees due when landing in Skukuza.

FEATURES AND FACILITIES

Umkumbe has 10 rooms and can sleep up to 20 guests. Four of the rooms are Superior Suites and suitable for families with children as they have extra sleeper couches. There are also rooms with inter-leading doors. The rooms all have small verandahs with table and chairs enabling. There is a indoor lounge with couches on which to relax, as well as a snooker table. An outdoor sitting area has views of the Sand River and a help yourself tea & coffee station. There are two dining areas, one being the boma and the other an outdoor area under thatch. The bar is fully stocked and guests are encouraged to help themselves via an honesty bar service. 

The lodge does have wifi, however it is a paid for service and is available between 07:00 - 16:00. The wifi service can be intermittent due to the location of the lodge. 

There is a large deck area with tables and chairs and also a wonderful pool with a view with sun loungers. Further away are more tables and chairs under a shade, and with beautiful views of the riverbed. For the fitness minded, there is a gym.

DAILY SCHEDULE

A typical day on safari at Umkumbe Safari Lodge:

Expert rangers will ensure that your safari experience is truly memorable. Each day begins with an early morning safari game drive. In the late afternoon guests head out on another game drive and return after dark, offering guests exhilarating night game drives as well! Optional bush walks are offered every day after breakfast/brunch.

• 05h30 Wake-up call
• 06h00 Coffee and a light breakfast
• 06h30 Depart on morning game drive
• 09h00 to 10h00 Return to lodge
• 10h30 Breakfast/Brunch
• 11h00 Optional bushwalk
• 14h00 Tea and a light lunch
• 16h00 Depart on afternoon game drive and night drive
• 19h00 to 20h00 Return to camp and drinks at the bar

Day Trip guests are also accepted at Umkumbe Safari Lodge. The Day Trip guests do not join the Lodge guests, however they do enjoy a meal afterwards in the Boma.

WHEN TO GO

Umkumbe is located in an area of South Africa that is beautiful all year round. The winter months (May to September) are coldest in June and July with bottom temperatures of 5°C at night; however average daytime temperatures are around 24°C.

Winter is the best time for game viewing because it is dry and the bush is bare, making animals easier to spot. Waterholes and rivers become dry and the wildlife is attracted to the remaining water sources. This is a great time of year for superb sunsets, great game photographs, and staying cool!

Summer occurs between October and March, peaking from December to February when temperatures soar into the high 30s (°C). This is the rainy season, which turns the earth a lush green. There is plenty of food and water so the animals are around, but the thicker bush might make them more difficult to spot. Summer migrant birds flock to the Kruger, and the hot weather makes it feel like a holiday!

Photos

Ethiopian Airlines has launched a passenger flight to Bengaluru, India on 27 October 2019.

The capital of the Indian state of Karnataka, Bengaluru is dubbed ‘Silicon Valley of India’ and serves as the center of technology and innovation.

Commenting on the launch of the service, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, Mr. Tewolde GebreMariam, remarked, “Ethiopian Airlines is a significant player in connecting India and Africa and beyond. The new four weekly flights will connect the important ICT hub city of Bengaluru to the ever-expanding Ethiopian network in addition to our twice daily flights each to the commercial city of Mumbai and the Capital New Delhi. The flights will also complement our existing dedicated freighter flights to/from Bengaluru.

The addition of Bengaluru to our Indian network will give wider menu of choices to the fastgrowing air travelers between India and Africa and beyond. The increasing flight frequencies and number of gateways in India will facilitate trade, investment and tourism to/from the Indian subcontinent. The schedule is carefully designed to connect passengers efficiently through our global hub in Addis Ababa with short connections and will provide the fastest and the shortest connections between Bengaluru in southern India and more than 60 destinations in Africa and South America.”

Currently, Ethiopian operates passenger flights to Mumbai and New Delhi as well as cargo service to Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi.

Situated next to Lake Victoria on one side and Lake Albert on the other, the landlocked country of Uganda is not only one of the most tourist-friendly country in East Africa but also one of Africa’s most picturesque destinations. Uganda boasts some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes, crystal clear lakes, high mountains, tropical rainforests, open savannas, primates, birds and much more. Winston Churchill described Uganda as the “Pearl of Africa” comparing his visit to Uganda as a fairy tale. Indeed, you really need to see the country for yourself to fully understand why Winston Churchill described it such.

This mystical fertile land is also home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, who live in the high-altitude cloud forests of the famous Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the Mgahinga Gorilla Park. A densely-populated country with most of it population living in rural areas, Uganda has shown great resilience in recovering from the unfortunate events of the Idi Amin days. Today, Uganda is a stable, well-run and peaceful country that ranks among Africa’s safest destinations.

Uganda is home to the highest concentration of birds in Africa boasting over 1,040 species of birds. In Uganda you will find migratory birds from north Africa and Europe. The Queen Elizabeth National Park is the country’s leading bird-watching destination and home to over 600 species of birds. All national parks offer birding opportunities while you also see the world’s biggest bird in Kidepo Valley National Park.

Uganda is very rich in wildlife ranging from the tree-climbing lions to crocidiles in the River Nile. Other animals in Uganda are; lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, bush bucks, water bucks, reed bucks, hyenas, hippos, bush bucks and many more. In Uganda, you can be sure of seeing the Big five of Africa. The abundant wildlife can be found in the 12 game reserves and 10 national parks with over 1500 mammal species.

Get the most out of your trip to Uganda with our holiday guide. Find out more about:

• How to get there
• Best time to visit
• Travel requirements
• Getting around
• Suggestions, highlights, & travel tips
• Suggested itineraries
• Recommended luxury hotels (+ reviews)

HOW TO GET THERE

Most travelers arrive in Uganda via Entebbe International Airport, the main gateway for all destinations in the country. More and more airlines now offer direct flights to Kigali, including KLM, Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, flydubai and Emirates.

It’s also possible to arrive in Uganda overland as part of a multi-country itinerary. Uganda is bordered by South Sudan to the north, Tanzania, Burundi and Rwanda to the south, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west. Visiting Congo and Burundi is off limits these days (due to unpredictable security situation and the potential for violent civil unrest), but the land border crossings with Rwanda and Tanzania are open and many tourists combine these countries with Uganda in one single holiday.

Before you buy a plane ticket, consider reading our tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket.

BEST TIME TO VISIT UGANDA

In the heart of Africa, just south of the equator, Uganda’s relatively high altitude provides it with a remarkably pleasant tropical highland climate, albeit also with plenty of rain. Although it’s regarded as a year-round holiday destination, there are quite some some differences in the weather patterns throughout the year.

The best time to visit Uganda is during the short dry season from mid-December to February or over the long dry season months of June to September. These periods offer perfect hiking conditions (for gorilla trekking) and the lowest malaria risk. The dry season does not necessarily means sunny season as there is often a light cloud cover, which helps to moderate the temperatures.

Uganda’s long rainy season lasts from about March to May, when the rain is heavy and persistent. This is the worst period of the year to visit the country as walking trails are extremely muddy. October to mid-December is defined as Uganda’s short rainy season, and during this time you may encounter occasional light showers, mainly in the afternoon. Uganda’s rainy season has one advantage: it’s the best season for spotting chimpanzees as they are easier to locate (in the dry season, when food is harder to find, the chimpanzees often withdraw far into the jungle’s interior).

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR UGANDA

Requirements for entry into Uganda differ from country to country, and are subject to change. Prior to departure, always check with your government and your nearest Ugandan embassy or consulate what documents you need for travel to Uganda.

You need a valid passport. The passport must be valid for six months after entry into the country. You need one blank page on your passport for entry stamps.

You need a visa to enter Uganda. 30-day tourist visas are available on arrival for US$30. You can pay in cash (sterling, US dollars or Ugandan shillings) or by Visa/Mastercard. Payment by credit card may not be available at all land border crossings. 
Make sure you read our 10 tips to plan a worry-free trip.

GETTING AROUND UGANDA

It’s pretty easy and straightforward to get around in the small country of Uganda, with most places of interest located within a few hours drive from the capital Kampala. Uganda has one of the best road systems in East Africa, with a well maintained network of paved two-lane roads. However you will find gravel roads in the more remote areas or within the national parks.

When you book a trip to Uganda, you’re most likely to do so via a tour operator that will arrange a driver who doubles as an informal guide. Most tourists in Uganda explore the country’s 10 National Parks with a driver in a four-wheel drive vehicle. For our own travels, we used Uganda Safaris and Gorilla Tours and were extremely happy with their service (we highly recommend them).

If you have money to burn, private flight and helicopter transfers are also available from Entebbe Airport (and can be arranged via your tour operator or lodge).

SUGGESTIONS, HIGHLIGHTS & TRAVEL TIPS

There are many reasons why Uganda should be on your bucket list:

• Track mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park
• Observe chimpanzees in the wild at Ngamba Island
• Visit the Murchisson Falls
• Visit the Source of the River Nile
• Unwind at Lake Bunyonyi
• Take a tour of a tea or coffee plantations
• Go on safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Visit the tree-climbing lion is Ishasha
• Stay at Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES FOR A VISIT TO UGANDA

Uganda is a small country and it’s easy to explore all of its highlight within a short time frame. I suggest the following one week itinerary in Uganda:

Day 1 & 2: Arrival & exploration of Kampala (including tour of the Entebbe Botanic Gardens).
Recommended Hotels: Kampala Serena Hotel, Sheraton Kampala Hotel or Protea Hotel by Marriott.

Day 3 & 4: 3 hour drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, and exploration of the park (home to the Big Five) by game drives and boat.
Recommended Lodge: Mweya Safari Lodge by Marasa Africa

Day 5 & 6: Take the six-hour drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, with gorilla tracking the next day
Recommended hotels: Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge, Trackers Safari Lodge, or Silverback Lodge

Day 7 & 8: 4 hour drive to Lake Bunyonyi, with a boat ride on the lake the next day.

If you have more time, I highly recommend to spend some additional nights to unwind in Lake Bunyonyi and trek around the lake.

RECOMMENDED LUXURY HOTELS

We recommend to visit our list of the most fabulous hotels in Uganda if you are eager to know how we rank Uganda’s top hotels, based on our own experience.

• Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa
• Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
• Speke Resort Munyonyo
• Urban by CityBlue, Kampala
• Speke Resort Munyonyo
• Enjojo Lodge, Bwindi

Here is what you can expect on a holiday in Zimbabwe. A visual destination report compiled by Dubai-based Holiday Guide magazine for those planning a holiday in Zimbabwe. 

Our editorial team travelled to Zimbabwe to attend the Sanganai/ Hlanganani World Tourism Expo in Bulawayo and took the opportunity to explore the various tourist attractions in Zimbabwe. We also talked to officials and major players in the tourism and hospitality industry to know about Zimbabwe’s booming tourism industry. A report by Nomad Naved…

Zimbabwe Holiday Guide

Travelling through Zimbabwe, epicentre of Southern Africa’s wildlife and tourism activities, is one of the best journeys one can make in a lifetime, specially for desert-dwelling travellers from the Middle East. It’s a country that offers breathtaking natural splendour, exciting wildlife safaris, mystical ancient towns and a plethora of UNESCO world heritage sites. Witness the largest herds of elephants as they lazily hobble across the African savannah and herd around a watering hole for a communal gathering.

However, Zimbabwe has more to offer than just a Big Five safari experience. Africa’s largest waterfall, the Lozi: Mosi-oa-Tunya (smoke that thunders), also known as the Victoria Falls, is a major tourist attraction that attracts visitors to this landlocked country from all across the world. With a span of about 1.7 kilometres (over a mile long) and a drop of 108 metres, the Victoria Falls is indeed a sight to behold.

Most visitors to Zimbabwe end their unforgettable safari and African adventure with a serene and relaxing cruise on the calm waters of the famous Lake Kariba that takes you to far-off, isolated and uninhabited islands situated on the lake. Zimbabwe also harbours some of the world’s finest and most luxurious hotels & lodges, matching the country’s breathtaking scenery.

Get the most out of your holiday in Zimbabwe with our travel guide. Find out more about:

• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Travel requirements
• Getting around
• Activities
• Recommended hotels
• Photos
• Editor’s Note

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in the southern part of Africa and enjoys a pleasant climate year round . While there’s little fluctuation in monthly temperatures, the seasons do differ in the amount of precipitation received, which will affect your holiday, whether you are looking for a exciting fun-filled trip to Victoria Falls, a cruise holiday on Lake kariba, or a safari in the national parks.

The best time to visit Zimbabwe is during the long, dry season, from June to October, when most days are sunny and substantial rainfall is fairly unusual. It is also the best time to get away from simmering heat in the Middle East countries during those months.

Another popular time to visit Zimbabwe is during the short dry season from January to February when dry weather prevails although humidity is picking up.

During November and December there’s another rainy season, the so-called ‘short rains’, but these are much lighter, less frequent and less reliable than the long rains.

THINGS TO DO IN VICTORIA FALLS

Visit the park to see the Falls from the Zimbabwe side. The park entrance fee is about US$ 30 – remember take some waterproof clothing!

Walk across the frontier into Zambia to see the Zambian part of the Falls. Between the Zimbabwean and Zambian frontier posts you cross the famous steel bridge carrying the road and railway across the Zambezi between the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the river.

Take afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel, the poshest hotel in town. The hotel is right next to the railway station.

For those interested, there are a whole range of adventure activities available such as white water rafting down the Zambezi, or for the complete adventure junkies, bungee jumping off the Zambezi bridge.

Go on an afternoon river cruise on the Zambezi. Many operators offer similar trips, which includes plentiful drinks and snacks. You will most likely see hippos, elephants and crocodiles.

BULAWAYO: TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Bulawayo is a pleasant town, well spread out with wide open streets and relatively little traffic. There is an excellent railway museum, which features Cecil Rhodes’ private railway coach. You should not miss a day trip to the Matobo National Park, some 25 miles South of Bulawayo, where Cecil Rhodes is buried. Day tours generally visit the Whovi Game Reserve in the morning (famous for its rhinos), then the haunting hills of the main park in the afternoon.

HOW TO GET THERE

Zimbabwe receives numerous international and domestic daily flights via its three main airports:

Robert Gabriel Mugabe Airport (HRE) is the international airport of Harare, the largest city in Zimbabwe and its capital. It is located about 11 kilometres (7 miles) from the city centre. The airport has flights to destinations in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. It is named after Robert Mugabe, the nation’s second president.

Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) is the main airport in the Victoria Falls region. It is about 18 kilometres (11 miles) south-west of the town, also known as the Victoria Falls. In April 2013, Exim Bank of China had provided a $150 million loan to build the airport’s new runway, taxiways and a new terminal to increase the airport’s capacity from 500,000 to 1.7million passengers annually.

Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ) is the international airport in Bulawayo that serves the cities of Arusha and Moshi and is located 25 kilometres outside the city. Originally known as Bulawayo Airport, it was renamed in honour of the late Dr Joshua Nkomo, the leader and founder of the Zimbabwe African People’s Union in 2001

If you want to travel the entire country, it’s best to either arrive in Harare and depart from Victoria Falls, or the other way around. Some airliners offer multi-city tickets at often the same price for a round-trip ticket. KLM, Emirates, and Ethiopian Airlines currently have the best connections to the country from the Middle East.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

You need an international passport with at least six months validity to enter Zimbabwe.
Most nationalities get a visa on arrival to enter Zimbabwe. Or you could get one from your nearest Zimbabwe embassy or consulate before you travel.

GETTING AROUND

Self-driving in Zimbabwe is not as problematic as some people think. The main cities are connected via good asphalt highways – you can also get around by making use of one of the several modes of transportation that are available.

When you book a safari, the operator or lodge will always arrange a driver who doubles as an informal guide. Most tourists will explore the National Parks with a driver in a four-wheel drive vehicle.

Domestic flights are the quickest and most comfortable option if you want to visit several parts of the country during your journey. There are several domestic airlines that link the most popular safari destinations and provide services to the coast. Some of the more upmarket safari lodges have their own airstrips and use small planes operated by private air charter companies to ferry their guests in, which is a good alternative to long drives on dusty roads. These are some of Zimbabwe’s domestic airlines that offer online bookings:

• Executive Air
• Fastjet Zimbabwe
• HAC
• Guthrie Aviation

ACCOMMODATION

Zimbabwe offers several accommodation options. It boasts of a wide spectrum of lodges to hotels, safari camps and luxury accommodation for those that really want to spoil themselves. Many lodges and hotels provide scenic views, exciting activities, ideal locations and untouched wilderness. There are new properties popping up all the time and the older more traditional properties have all seen a recent makeover, and continue to win prestigious awards.

For a luxurious option in Hwange National Park we recommend staying at Hwange Safari Lodge! If you’re headed to Lake Kariba then Caribbea Bay Resort is well worth considering.

RECOMMENDED HOTELS & LODGES IN ZIMBABWE

Consider visiting our top rated hotels, based on our first-hand own experience:

• Cresta Oasis (Harare)
• The Kingdom Hotel (Victoria Falls)
• Holiday Inn (Bulawayo)
• Caribbea Bay Resort (Lake Kariba)

EDITOR’S NOTE

Emerging from a period of economic and political turmoil, Zimbabwe is certainly one of the most underrated countries in Africa and offers a plethora of gems ready to be explored.

Ghana has an exciting mix of culture, eco-tourism, heritage, beaches and adventure tourism – not to mention its people who are well-acclaimed as warm and friendly. Indeed, Ghana has all the ingredients of an enticing destination. We bring you a report on Ghana’s tourist attractions...

Ghana is fast becoming an ideal visitor’s destination for eco-tourists and those wishing to witness first hand community-based eco-tourism projects. Attractions such as the Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary which is home to troops of the sacred Mona and the Black and White Colobus monkeys. Another important eco-tourism site in Ghana is the marine turtle nesting beaches located on the shorelines of Accra, Ningo, the Gomoa-Effutu stretch and Ada Foah to the East and Axim and the people of Amansure in Beyin to the West of the country.

Ghana is rich in bird diversity and has over 700 identified bird species; attracting large numbers of ornithologists and hundreds of birdwatchers every year. The coastal and inland wetlands, the national parks particularly Kakum, Ankasa, and Mole amongst others are popular places to watch birds.

Ghana has a wealth of things to see and do. For the seasoned traveller not content with just visiting the numerous tourist sites in the country, there are a number of memorable experiences to be undertaken that are guaranteed to leave an indelible mark and be the topic of conversation long after you have left.
The coastal communities of the Western, Central, Greater Accra and Volta Regions are well known for their fishing activities and provide an opportunity for visitors to join in on a day’s fishing experience.  A day’s fishing experience with local fishermen includes pushing out and rowing the long hand built canoes, casting out nets, rowing canoes back to shore and joining a large number of people to manually pull the nets back to shore with lots of singing and cheering. It is an exciting experience that occurs on a daily basis, except on Tuesdays, in some areas, when fishing is prohibited.

There are a number of operators offering fishing trips in both fresh and salt water. Fishing for tuna, barracudas, sail fin, love fish, mackerel, tilapia and red snapper amongst others, can be found along the coast from Ada in Greater Accra to Takoradi and Miemia Bay in the Western Region. Operators also run trips for watching migrating whales and dolphins, during the months of August through to January. December is normally the peak.

The Ghana Sailing Club located at Ada in the Eastern Region offers facilities for boat berthing, boat rentals and hire at reasonable rates, the Club also organizes regular activities and boat races along the Volta River for enjoyable days out. Vessels at the Club include Hobbie Cats 16, Prindles, Monohulls and Lasers.
The Volta Region is renowned for its abundance in natural beauty and breathtaking scenery. From mountain biking, waterfalls, cave explorations to long hikes, trained local guides will help you explore this region’s unique landscape and help you spot the wildlife inhabitants of this region. Popular areas include; Gemi and Afadjato Mountains; which attract climbers of all levels, Willi Waterfall and Kalakpa Game Production Reserve.

The dry savannah of the Northern Regions with its sparse populace and predominately rural nature is perfect for the adventurer who really wants to get off the beaten track. Visitors can enjoy hiking or mountain biking from village to village and also experience village life by taking the opportunity to spend a few weeks with villagers learning how to cook, weave and hunt.

The Western Region is also known as the surfing capital of Ghana, during low tides the wave are gentle but steady and however long, during the high tide that promises numerous great rides for advanced riders. Busua Beach is the popular location for surfers of all levels from across the country. Ankrobra Beach Resort, which also gives first lessons has recently started a tutoring programme for local youngsters with the intention of raising the profile of the sport with relatively low participation costs.

The Kwahu Mountain Range in the Eastern Region is known for its annual Easter Paragliding event when a host of internationally renowned gliders show off their skills, compete and give locals and visitors an opportunity to try out the sport. Also in the Eastern Region is a unique opportunity to take to the skies in single engine ultralights provided by WAASPS. This flying centre operating from Kpong Airfield, offers the opportunity for those on shorter stays to top up their flying hours or take a trial flight and for the longer stay visitor to train for a Private Ultralight Pilots license

FORTS AND CASTLES

Discover more about Ghana unfortunate history by visiting these two castles, recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. A visit to any one of Ghana’s forts or castles will leave you with a better understanding of the history surrounding the arrival of Europeans in Africa and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
 
Rock Climbing
Ghana’s diverse geology has created numerous vertical cliff lines that provide both a challenge for the experienced climber and fun outings for the less experienced.
 
Deep Sea Fishing
Experience deep sea fishing of the coast of Ghana. The Atlantic Ocean of the coast of Ghana offer fantastic opportunities for big game fishing of blue marlin, big eye and yellow tuna, barracudas, marko shark amongst others.

Ghana’s famous canopy walkway
Visit Ghana’s famous canopy walkway and spot some local wildlife, birds and butterflies. The rainforest walkway is composed of 350 metres of suspended bridge and seven tree platforms that reach the height of 30m above the forest floor. From the treetops, visitors experience a unique and spectacular view of the rainforest ecosystem and have the opportunity to see flora and fauna, which could never be viewed from the ground. Hundreds of species of butterflies and birds can be seen from the Walkway early in the morning and there is also the chance to catch a glimpse of the Spot-nose, Campbell and Colobus monkeys.

Wildlife Encounters
Mole National Park is Ghana’s largest national park and can be located in the Northern Region of the country and covers an area of 5,000sq km. Its savannah vegetation supports about 730 species of flowering plants and over 90 species including elephants, buffaloes, lions, hyenas, antelopes, crocodiles and over 300 species of birds.

Beautiful Beaches and Resorts
Spend time discovering the beautiful beaches and resorts along Ghana’s coast. In the Western Region, the expansive Busua Beach and the Ankobra Beach with their strong wind systems and high waves are the popular two surfing points in Ghana. These resorts are well equipped with a range of water sporting equipment for jets skiing, surfing, kayaking, wind surfing, etc. They are also ideal locations for beach volleyball, soccer, and other beach sports and activities. However, the newly established Kedas Lodge Watersport Centre located in the Miemia Bay is where one heads to for an all round water experience.

Traditional Festivals
Immerse yourself in tradition at one of Ghana’s colourful festivals. The Official Ghana Tourist guide contains a detailed chapter of dates, descriptions and history for all of Ghana’s main festivals which includes the : Akwasidae in the Ashanti Region, the Masquerading Festival and the Edina Bakatue Festivals in the Central Region and the Hogbetsotso of the vibrant Volta Region.

Crocodiles of Paga
Get up close and personal with crocodiles in the Upper East Region.

Wli Waterfall
Use the Official Guide to plan a visit to this incredible waterfall whilst hiking through the spectacular landscape.
Located in the Volta Region and consisting of two parts, the lower and upper fall this impressive waterfall culminates into a plunge pool at the base ideal for swimming. The hike to and from the waterfall provide many opportunities to see the local wildlife.

BEACH TIME

The pristine coconut lined beaches that line Ghana’s 540km coastline are well noted for their cool serenity, beautiful sunsets and breath taking views over the Atlantic Ocean. The majority of Ghana’s beaches and resorts can be found in the coastal belts of Greater Accra, Central and Western Regions. The rest of the beaches along the coastline are interspaced by a number of small well preserved traditional fishing communities, who are now going into joint partnerships with some operators to establish a number resorts.

The flat sandy beaches are ideal for day picnics, barbeques, swimming, sun bathing, cocktail beach parties and many other activities.
Ghana also boasts of a number of private beaches and resorts where the general atmosphere is both serene and romantic. The majority of these upmarket resorts are excellent places to truly escape, and take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and the pressures of work hence, they are well patronised by both Ghanaians, expatriates and visitors.

Mention can be made of the plush White Sands Beach Resort located at Gomoa Fetteh and the Anomabo Beach Resort in the Central Region. In the Western Region, the expansive Busua Beach and the Ankobra Beach with their strong wind systems and high waves are the popular two surfing points in Ghana. These resorts are well equipped with a range of water sporting equipment for jets skiing, surfing, kayaking, wind surfing, etc. They are also ideal locations for beach volleyball, soccer, and other beach sports and activities. However, the newly established Kedas Lodge Watersport Centre located in the Miemia Bay is where one heads to for an all round water experience.

A number of eco-tourism beach front hotels have also recently sprung up in the Western Region, such as Fanta’s Folly Beach Resort with its turtle conservation project and the Escape3Points Ecolodge at Cape 3 Points, that encourage visitors to enjoy secluded beaches with minimal impact on the local environment.
In a nut shell, Ghana’s beaches offer all that you can ask for and an experience can range from a scenic retreat, beachside parties and picnics to resorts which have a wealth of water sports and activities.

ARTS GALORE

Ghana is renowned for producing the best in authentic African arts and crafts, these range from wood carvings brass works, sculptures, jewellery and a range of textiles.

Craftsmen painstakingly fashion exquisite artistic masterpieces from wood, bamboo, leather, cement and textiles. These indigenous and skilled craftsmen in the country can be found in virtually every village, town and city. Arts and crafts are an integral part of everyday life in Africa; and in Ghana it can be identified with all tribes and regions. Appreciation of arts and crafts is necessitated by cultures and traditions rather than aesthetic possessions and serves meaningful purposes in the communities.

This pivotal role can be seen by the use of Adinkra Symbols. Their visual and communicative symbols portray the philosophical thinking and way of life of Ghanaians. These are used as templates and motifs for textiles, wood carvings, ceramics and ornaments.

Indeed, Ghana still lives up to its reputation as a country with vast reserves of precious minerals (gold, diamond, silver, bronze, being the prime ones) providing an abundance of resources for artists to produce exquisitely designed hand-made contemporary and traditional jewellery of all kinds.

FESTIVALS GALORE 

Ghana has many exciting traditional festivals; these are occasions of great cultural pomp and pageantry on the indigenous calendars of the many ethnic groups. Festivals are very important occasions in Ghana; during this time many people travel to their ancestral home for the celebrations and to mark the occasion.

Festivals are celebrated to mark both the beginning and the end of the traditional year and to celebrate great events of the past and purify the traditional state. These occasions and celebrations can be the marking of a successful harvest, the initiation of adolescent girls into womanhood and the showcasing of new Kente and other traditional textile designs.

 Each region, tribe or ethnic group celebrates their festivals in different ways and these are based upon their customs, cultures and traditions. As such, even though they may at first glance look similar by the outward celebration, they are indeed very different.

 Festivals are also a time of great family reunions and feasting, revered ancestors and gods are invoked to participate. For the chiefs, festivals are the time for public renewal of allegiances to the paramount stool and the state, while plans for development projects in the community are also discussed.

Most of the activities span a week and during this time, sacred and antiquated state regalia as well as important works of art are put on public display.
The colourful grand durbar of chiefs is the climax of most festive celebrations and is usually preceded by a royal procession through the principal streets of the area, as the chiefs are carried in palanquins and sheltered by large, ornately decorated ceremonial umbrellas.

Some festival activities are of deep religious content and are held in private with fasting by chiefs and royal functionaries. Following this is the public celebrations often mistaken for the ceremony itself.

Festivals are one of the few occasions where you can experience true indigenous Ghanaian culture and tradition at its very best.

Traveling to Ghana 

Several airlines  operate daily scheduled flights from America, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and the Middle East to Ghana, these include;  British Airways, South African Airways, Virgin Atlantic, KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines), Emirates, Delta, Middle Eastern, Royal Air Maroc, Lufthansa and Brussels Airlines.

Visas, Customs & Immigration
Every visitor to Ghana requires a visa or entry permit except ECOWAS citizens and nationals from Kenya and Zimbabwe. All visitors are given up to sixty days on a visitor’s permit on arrival. Ghanaian High Commissions abroad will facilitate the issuing of individual as well as group visas. You can find Ghanaian High Commissions all over the world, countries include, USA, UK, China, Japan, France and Germany. Furthermore, visas can be obtained upon arrival at the Kotoka International Airport at a fee, set at around $100.
 
Health Requirements
You are advised to consult a health care provider at least 4-6 weeks prior to your visit in order to acquire the necessary vaccinations and anti-malaria treatment. The only immunization you are required to have is for Yellow Fever all the others are optional and at your discretion.   It is advisable that you bring along prescription medicines with you. Basic medicines can be found at licensed chemists throughout the country.

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Namibia’s pavilion at the Arabian Travel Market generated a lot of interest and attention. Holiday Guide magazine brings you a comprehensive report on why Namibia is fast emerging as a popular tourist destination among travellers from the Middle East as well as all across the world.

The tourism sector is one of the fastest growing sectors of Namibia’s economy and over the next ten years, travel and tourism in Namibia is forecast to achieve an annual growth of 7.9% in terms of GDP and create new 36,000 jobs. The share of travel and tourism is expected to rise to 23% of Namibia’s GDP and to 22% of total employment by 2020.

Even though Namibia does not have a warm coastline to attract sun-loving beach-goers and most safari enthusiasts are more commonly drawn to Kenya or South Africa, even so, Namibia has been growing in popularity as a tourist destination among seasoned travellers from the Middle East region.

Most visitors are attracted by Namibia’s dramatic scenery and landscapes – such as the spectacular Fish River Canyon – and by the large areas of unspoiled wilderness.

In 2018, Namibia received approximately 1.4 million visitors. Generally, tourists come for self-drive holidays or tours in small groups. This allows visitors to enjoy the isolated nature of many attractions. A number of small camps, lodges and guest farms provide accommodation.

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