News from our Members
Sent to all our members on a daily basis, below is a full collection of news stories from across the membership.
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31 January 2014
WTO to honour Livingstone, Victoria Falls
Zambia Tourism BoardTHE World Tourism Organisation (WTO) has announced that it will honour Livingstone and Victoria Falls towns in Zambia and Zimbabwe, respectively, for successfully co-hosting the 20th session of the general assembly. WTO Secretary General Taleb Rifai announced in Madrid, Spain on 24 January, that Zambia and Zimbabwe will be honoured by the UNWTO. “After successfully co-hosting the most successful well organised and well attended UNWTO 20th session general assembly, the UNWTO is to honour …
Read More31 January 2014
News from Victoria Falls
Africa Albida TourismVictoria Falls Safari Lodge turns 20 at the end of 2014! Success does not only come in the form of awards and accolades of course. Our business is about people and relationships. It is significant that we have a number of staff who have already received 20 Year Service awards, as will a few more come our 20th Anniversary Birthday Celebrations in December of this year. In similar vein, Africa Albida Tourism could not have reached this point, without the robust and dependable relationships we en…
Read More30 January 2014
New Managing Director at Go2Africa
Go2africa.comGo2Africa is proud to announce that Gary Lotter, formerly of &Beyond and Springbok Atlas, will be joining the team as Managing Director from 3 February 2014. The current MD, Joanne Dickson, will be taking on the role of new business development while Gary will be responsible for the day-to-day functioning of Go2Africa as well as establishing and implementing its annual strategic plans. Gary has sound background in the African travel industry, having started as a guide after obtaining his B…
Read More30 January 2014
An amazing story of survival and rescue
Governors' CampAn amazing story unfurled in the Masai Mara this month, when a small lion cub was separated from its mother, survived nine days alone and then was successfully re-united with its mother and the rest of the pride. The incident began when two lionesses, called Lippy and Sila from the Marsh Pride of lions went hunting. Lippy and Sila brought down a hippo and together with Lippy’s three, three and a half month old cubs began to feed on the kill. Shortly afterwards a group of lionesses f…
Read More30 January 2014
Kasbah Africa - A New Kasbah Lodge in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains
Specialist MoroccoThe Specialist Moroccan Retreats group is delighted to announce the addition of Kasbah Africa to its collection of authentic and sustainable small hotels for discerning travellers. Perched on a mountainside above the banks of the Azzaden River Valley in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains (at the entry to Toubkal National Park, Ouirgane area), Kasbah Africa can be reached in little over an hour from Marrakech. Website: www.kasbahafrica.com Photos: View gallery on Flickr Facebook:…
Read More30 January 2014
Kibran Tours introduce a new luxury tour of Ethiopia by private plane.
Kibran ToursThis new 10 day tour by private plane visits the Gheralta mountains, Lake Tana, the ancient city of Axum, the rock hewn churches of Lalibela and the medieval castles of Gondar before flying to the southern region of the Omo Valley and the Bale mountains. As well as travelling by private plane, all ground transfers are in comfortable private vehicles, we stay in the best accommodation and all tours are guided to give you a great insight into the history of Ethiopia. The full itinera…
Read More30 January 2014
Redevelopment of Camp Davidson
We’re pleased to announce the sister camp to Horizon Horseback’s flagship lodge has recently been developed with a stunning pool and decking area, the perfect way to relax after a hot dusty ride. The recently built Camp Davidson offers a totally authentic experience with superb horses and a real taste of the Waterberg in days gone by. This is the perfect holiday for those riders wishing to experience the pleasure of riding with African wildlife in the absence of dangerous game. Eac…
Read More30 January 2014
New Loisaba Bush Camp to open
Dear friends, partners and fans of Loisaba Wilderness, The Phoenix has risen from the ashes! After the recent bush fire we are delighted to bring you the new Loisaba Bush Camp... Set in a private wilderness of 60,000 acres, right below the escarpment, the camp overlooks a waterhole which is frequently visited by Loisaba's abundant wildlife. The camp features 11 Traditional Safari Tents (Doubles & Twins), 2 Family Tents (1 triple & 1 quadruple) as well as 1 Honeymoon Tent. All…
Read More29 January 2014
Global march for lions
Africa GeographicSouth African wildlife activists have initiated a Global March for Lions that will be held in various cities throughout the world to highlight the plight of lions caught up in the canned hunting industry. Find out more information about the march in your city here - Global March for Lions
Read More29 January 2014
Asilia Africa appoints Dave van Smeerdijk as Director of Marketing and Sales
It is with great pleasure that Asilia Africa announces the addition of Dave van Smeerdijk to our team as Director of Marketing and Sales. Dave brings with him 25 years of safari industry experience, of which 21 years was with Wilderness Safaris. He has in-depth experience in all aspects of the industry, having worked across the business in everything from guiding, operations, to Director of Group Sales and Marketing. Dave says ‘’I am excited to contribute to this dynamic, growing c…
Read More29 January 2014
Emirates and Proflight Zambia Sign Global Ticketing Agreement
Emirates and Proflight Zambia have signed an interline agreement that will make it easier for international passengers to reach domestic destinations throughout Zambia. Popular Zambian attractions such as the Victoria Falls – one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World – can now be accessed with a single ticket purchase and smooth connections from any of Emirates destinations worldwide. Safari-goers for example will be able to book straight through to Mfuwe for the world renowned…
Read More29 January 2014
The SAFARI Company is now a member of Ecotourism Kenya
The Safari Company27th January, 2014: It is with great pleasure that we announce The SAFARI Company is now officially a member of Ecotourism Kenya. Through our ‘Travel Green’ initiative, it is important for us to preserve our land, encourage our traditions, respect our people and protect our environment. It is important for us to keep Africa as it is. According to The International Ecotourism Society, ecotourism is “Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improve…
Read More29 January 2014
Great Plains Conservation and andBeyond join forces in major rhino initiative
Great Plains ConservationGREAT PLAINS CONSERVATION AND &BEYOND JOIN FORCES TO TRANSLOCATE UP TO 100 RHINO 28 January 2014 With rhino poaching at an all-time high in South Africa, two of Africa’s leading conservation companies, Great Plains Conservation and &Beyond, have joined forces to safely translocate up to 100 rhino from South Africa to the safe haven of Botswana. “There is a battle for Africa’s wildlife raging as we speak. Rhinos are being poached at a rate of one every nine hour…
Read More29 January 2014
Zambia's new Protea Hotel Lusaka Tower to open in April
Protea Hospitality GroupJanuary 2013: Protea Hotels launches its fourth chic property in the Zambian capital Lusaka in April 2014 when the doors of the new Protea Hotel Lusaka Tower open. The nine-storey, 137 room Protea Hotel Lusaka Tower is situated in the Arcades Shopping and Entertainment lifestyle hub opposite the Mulungushi Conference Centre. Facilities in the elegant new property include four suites, 30 twin deluxe rooms, 103 king deluxe rooms, a swimming pool and a ninth floor restaurant and bar with expansiv…
Read More28 January 2014
Serena Hotels’ Website now available in Chinese!
Serena HotelsSerena Hotels’ website is now available in Chinese! Following Serena Hotels’ emphatic venture in the Chinese market in the last one year, the Company has invested in having the Serena website translated into Mandarin – the official language in China. This move is mainly geared towards ensuring that our current and prospective clients in the China market and across the globe have access to Serena’s variety of products in Africa and Asia and ease of access t…
Read More28 January 2014
The SAFARI Company is now a member of Ecotourism Kenya.
The Safari CompanyIt is with great pleasure that we announce The SAFARI Company is now officially a member of Ecotourism Kenya. Through our ‘Travel Green’ initiative, it is important for us to preserve our land, encourage our traditions, respect our people and protect our environment. It is important for us to keep Africa as it is. According to The International Ecotourism Society, ecotourism is “Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-bein…
Read More27 January 2014
Peace for the elephants
In Tanzania and especially for Selous, Valentines days has a special meaning this year as it is dedicated to the slaughtering of its elephants by international syndicates. In the last census only 13,000 elephants are left in Selous, making it to the lowest figure ever since 1975, where 150’000 elephants were counted. As the elephants (like the bees) are important for the flora, creating food to other species and are making tracks into the bush, so other animals can move, the eradication …
Read More27 January 2014
Images of the extensive refurbishment and upgrade to Sanctuary Olonana
Sanctuary RetreatsLate last year Sanctuary Olonana, our award winning tented camp situated on a private stretch of the Mara River received an extensive upgrade to the public areas of the lodge as well as a soft refurbishment to the tented rooms and pool area. We wanted the local Masai ladies to play an active part in the refurbishment and so they offered to “mud” the interior walls in all of the main areas, curio shop and offices. This is the same technique used in their own houses and involves mixi…
Read More27 January 2014
Looking back on PURE 2013's cherished moments.
This Is BeyondThere is a withdrawal syndrome sweeping the globe; but not, as you would expect, in the absence of the holiday season (Happy New Year, by the way). It may be January, but self-proclaimed PUREists all over the globe are still mourning the end of another PURE Life Experiences. The 5th Edition in November last year was quite possibly the best yet – as Sean Clark of Orient Express aptly noted, “the only competitor PURE has is its own previous year’s performance”. So for th…
Read More24 January 2014
30th Lake Malawi Sailing Marathon
Ulendo SafarisThis year the Lake Malawi Sailing Marathon will celebrate its 30thanniversary, and as flocks of adrenaline-junkies arrive at the lake to take part, it’s set to be one of the best year’s yet. This year’s marathon will take place from June 28th until July 5th. This epic test of speed, endurance, and sheer determination first took place in 1984, born by a group of sailors in the form of a casual sail northward up the Lake. Deck chairs lashed to the hulls, this tranquil route run…
Read More23 January 2014
How the engagement ring proves that we shouldn’t trade rhino horn
Africa GeographicIs your engagement ring to you what rhino horn is to the Chinese? We investigate some marketing myths in light of the proposal to legalise the trade in rhino horn. Read more here - How the engagement ring proves that we shouldn't trade rhino horn
Read More23 January 2014
5 Reasons to visit Malawi
Robin Pope SafarisCelebrating its 50th year of Independence, 2014 seems to be ‘the year’ for Malawi the Warm Heart of Africa. Having recently been named by Lonely Planet as one of the top 10 places to go in 2014, the recognition continues to grow. CNN has released a ‘5 reasons to visit Malawi’ list: 1. The locals are friendly 2. It's not crowded 3. Lake Malawi is spectacular 4. Rehabilitated game parks and natural reserves 5. Easygoing vibe Read full article…
Read More23 January 2014
Village & Life bids farewell to SAF3 crew
The Bay Hotel in Camps Bay has on Tuesday, 21 January 2014 hosted an informal screening of the new international television series, SAF3, as a final farewell to the cast and crew who made Cape Town their home during the filming of the series. Industry professionals and personnel of Village & Life who attended the screening were entertained by the showcasing of a special compilation video featuring scenes of prominent Cape Town destinations and popular tourist landmarks which can be seen th…
Read More23 January 2014
Marriott Signs Definitive Agreements To Acquire Protea Hospitality Holdings
Protea Hospitality GroupBETHESDA, Md., USA AND CAPE TOWN, January 22, 2014 –Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) and South Africa’s Protea Hospitality Holdings announced today that they have signed definitive agreements for the purchase by Marriott of Protea’s three brands and management company. Under terms of the agreements Marriott will pay approximately 2.02 billion rand, or approximately US $186 million at current exchange rates, subject to normal closing adjustments. The purchase p…
Read More23 January 2014
South African Airways receives 4-Star Skytrax ranking for 12th year
South African Airways (SAA), the leading airline on the African continent, has been awarded the 4-Star Airline ranking for 2014 by Skytrax, the independent, global airline rating organisation, for the 12th year in a row. SAA also remains the only carrier on the African continent to achieve this high level 4-Star Airline rating. Providing Excellent Customer Service is one of five strategic objectives of SAA’s Long-Term Turnaround Strategy, named Gaining Altitude. Skytrax is the leading…
Read More21 January 2014
Proflight Zambia Welcomes Competition
Proflight Zambia has welcomed news of a planned new air service from Dar-es-Salaam to Lusaka by Tanzania-based airline Fastjet. While the two airlines will both fly the same route, Proflight services a different market, offering a fully inclusive, high-quality service to business travellers on its three-times-a-week service, as well as a boutique leisure service through to Zanzibar. The new service from Tanzania domestic operator Fastjet will bring additional traffic in and out of Zambia, help…
Read More20 January 2014
Incwala A Huge Success
December saw thousands descend on Swaziland to become part of the Incwala ceremony, one of the country’s most sacred events. For the Swazi people it is an important religious ritual, a fertility ceremony designed to both prepare for the coming year and serve as a symbolic renewal of the monarchy. Over the years, the Incwala has done more than just unite the Swazi nation; it has brought communities together, with common goals; to see a country that has held onto its system…
Read More20 January 2014
Movements at Pulse Africa
Pulse AfricaStaff announcement: As the Pulse Africa team bid Bronwen Pearson a fond farewell and wish her all the best in her new ventures, we also look forward to welcoming Sandi Elkington and Shelly Tuck to the team. Sandi, who brings years of experience in the travel industry with her, will be working in our East Africa department based in Johannesburg while Shelly will be based in Cape Town.
Read More20 January 2014
Steppes Travel "Before they Pass" - An evening with acclaimed photographer Jimmy Nelson
Date: 4 February 2014 | 7pm (doors open 6.45pm) Location: Royal Geographical Society, London SW7 2AR http://steppestravel.brownpapertickets.com Acclaimed photographer Jimmy Nelson discusses the fragility and beauty of shrinking communities around the world; his inspiration for his new book "Before They Pass Away". As passionate as ever to document the last of the unspoilt tribes, Nelson celebrates the very essence of their being; be it their traditional dresses, jewellery, wea…
Read More17 January 2014
Mara Bushtops Spa takes "Wild luxury" to new heights
Bushtops CampsMara Bushtops has broken new ground, literally and metaphorically, by installing the foundations for a new Spa complex. Swiss-born architect Andrin Schweizer has designed the installation of an Amani African Spa, adapting the multiple award-winning formula to the magic of its new Mara Bushtops setting. From 15 June 2014, Mara Bushtops guests will be able to enjoy rejuvenating massages, hydrotherapy and a range of holistic skin and body treatments including Amani’s unique signature Jewe…
Read More16 January 2014
Scientists call for critically endangered listing for West Africa’s lions
Africa GeographicThe living dead, scientists call them: populations of animals so small their extinction is all but inevitable. At the top of the list may be lions in West Africa, according to a paper published in the scientific journal PLOS ONE. Read more here - Scientists call for critically endangered listing for West Africa's lions
Read More16 January 2014
New Grading System for Swaziland’s Accommodation
Swaziland has well and truly affirmed its commitment to ensuring tourism growth and success by introducing a brand new grading system. The introduction was unveiled last month by the newly-appointed Minister of Tourism Jabulani Mabuza, who at the same time also unveiled a committee of seven who will lead the new initiative. “This exercise was the beginning of government’s efforts to ensure that visitors receive the highest standards of quality service within the tourism accommodati…
Read More16 January 2014
Guide training courses in Tanzania - April and May 2014
Wayo AfricaWayo Africa will be conducting guide-training courses in April and May 2014. This year courses will focus on interpretive guiding and creative guiding skills. On the theory side we will focus on the life of insects, medical and medicinal plants and everything there is to know about birds and their behavior more than just identification. All courses will be 12-days long and fully catered inside Lake Manyara National Park. Two FGASA level 3 and SKS instructors will be leading the training.…
Read More15 January 2014
Zambezi Safari and Travel Co. launches in New York to serve North American Adventurers
Owners John and Trish Berry announce the North American launch of Zambezi Safari and Travel Company. The New York based company serves North American clients and offers a wide range of African safari options, using Zambezi’s extensive network of experienced travel professionals. Custom itineraries are tailored to suit client timeframes, wishes and needs. “We are excited to share our fascination with wildlife and our passion for the continent of Africa and its people with travelers …
Read More15 January 2014
Three Cities Riverside Hotel & Spa closes 28 Rooms as the Grand Dame Undergoes Phase 2 of multi-million Rand refurb
Following the July – August 2013 major renovations at Durban’s Three Cities Riverside Hotel & Spa, the Durban landmark Hotel will continue on the refurbishment of the remaining Hotel rooms this January. In 2013 the public areas and front entrance were completed and two mock up rooms were presented to the board for approval. The look and feel of these new rooms will now flow through the balance of the hotel with phase 2 which starts on January 13, 2014. This will include rooms 5…
Read More15 January 2014
Protea Hotels Dives into the Zanzibar Market
Protea Hospitality GroupJanuary 2014: The Protea Hospitality Group has entered the beautiful tropical spice island paradise of Zanzibar, bringing the exclusive Mbweni Ruins Hotel into the Protea Hotels portfolio. Protea Hotel Mbweni Ruins is situated on the breathtaking tropical coastline of Zanzibar, only 7km from Stone Town and 5km from the airport, which makes it an easily accessible destination. Protea Hospitality Group CEO Arthur Gillis says Zanzibar is one of Africa’s most popular leisure travel destinati…
Read More14 January 2014
Langata Link's New Portfolio of Holiday Homes
We are delighted to inform you that Property Link Africa Ltd. and Langata Link Holiday Homes Ltd., two members of the Langata Link Group of Companies, are merging together as of January 2014. Due to this merge, and Property Link Africa's recent partnership with Aylesford International (and in keeping with their high-end brand image), Langata Link Holiday Homes now wants to offer its clients a more superior level of quality and efficiency of services. Key to this is our abil…
Read More13 January 2014
Saruni’s new European Sales and Marketing Office
Orbital CommunicationsSimon Beck, owner of Orbital Communications, is delighted to announce they will be representing Saruni in Europe and their much loved and respected collection of lodges. It’s very exciting times ahead for Saruni who own and operate three unique lodges in Kenya, Saruni Samburu, Saruni Mara and Saruni Wild. In addition, Saruni Ocean, an exciting new beach property located south of Diani at Msambweni opens at the end of 2014. Saruni has built up a reputation as one of the most respected saf…
Read More10 January 2014
New Developments at Tortilis Camp
TORTILIS CAMP The C&P Portfolio's Tortilis Camp, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, has been a hive of activity. A second new swimming pool - complete with its own private lounge area, sunbeds, poolside changing rooms and bar - was openend on 20 December 2013 for the exclusive use of those staying in the Family Tent and Private House. The Private House, ideal for families, has also been redeveloped, now featuring larger windows that take in the enviable views of the mighty Mount Ki…
Read More08 January 2014
Kwihala Camp, Ruaha joins the Asilia Family
We are delighted to announce that as of today, Kwihala Camp in Ruaha National Park is part of the Asilia portfolio. We are accepting bookings for Kwihala Camp now – you can contact your usual booking contacts with any requests. The camp will be operating “as is”, under current management until the end of the season on March 15, 2014. The camp will receive a facelift in the off-season (more details to follow), and will open under Asilia management on June 1, 2014.The service o…
Read More08 January 2014
AirKenya Express take delivery of a second DASH 7 aircraft
AirKenya ExpressAirKenya Express started the New year with a double celebration. On 2nd January 2014, its 7th brand new Cessna Grand Caravan arrived from the Cessna Factory, in Wichita, Kansas, USA. The new Caravan is the second of the EX series with airline. Two days later, on Saturday 4th January 2014 there was champagne popping as the deHavilland DASH 7 arrived to boost the airlines seating capacity. The Dash 7 is the most robust STOL (short landing and take off) aircraft able t…
Read More08 January 2014
Desert & Delta launch new packages.
Desert & Delta SafarisDesert & Delta are delighted to launch their new BODDS (Best Of Desert & Delta) packages with effect from 1st January. Every BODDS Package booked will incur a direct donation and support to one of the programs supported by Desert & Delta Safaris. The BODDS packages start with a simple 3 night and range to a 10 night all inclusive package. All BODDS packages are inclusive of accommodation on a fully inclusive basis, all charter flights on scheduled basis, airport departure ta…
Read More07 January 2014
London - Donald’s back!
Zambia Tourism BoardThe tourism industry in UK will be delighted to learn that Donald Pelekamoyo, well known to Atta members in UK and Africa, has returned to the High Commission in London as First Secretary - Tourism. Atta looks forward to working closely with the Zambian team in London in 2014 Contact details Email: info@zambiatourism.org.zm 2 Palace Gate,Kensington,W8 5NG Tel: +44 207 589 6655 Fax: +44 207 581 1353
Read More07 January 2014
Anti-elephant poaching story goes viral in China
Africa GeographicA newspaper story about the impact of the ivory trade has gone viral in China, raising awareness among millions of Chinese, reports the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). The story, published on November 15 2013 in Southern Weekly, has been shared widely across Chinese web sites and social media, according to the conservation group. ”The total views of the original Southern Weekly Tweets and Retweets on Weibo (China’s Twitter/Facebook hybrid) exceeded 10 million. Most of the…
Read More07 January 2014
Flights between Serengeti and Masai Mara
Auric Air ServicesAuric Air wishes everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR 2014 and is very pleased to announce its new flight: Serengeti – Masai Mara – Serengeti We have partnered with Mombasa Air Kenya to do the Kenyan part of this flight. The routing would be Serengeti – Musoma (customs and immigration clearance on the Tanzanian side) – Eldoret (customs and immigration clearance on the Kenyan side, refueling) - Masai Mara – Eldoret – Musoma – Serengeti Your clients can reach from …
Read More06 January 2014
5 santas in Africa!
Africa GeographicMerry Christmas! Here in Africa we do it a little differently… Our Santas tend to come in all shapes, sizes and forms! Click on the link to see 5 very merry Santas we found around Africa! 5 santas in Africa
Read More06 January 2014
Prince Harry back for seconds at Camps Bay Retreat
Camps Bay Retreat for a second time hosted Prince Harry and the teams from Walking With The Wounded on Thursday, 19 December 2013 for one of its famous braais set on the lush green lawns of Earl’s Dyke Manor. The teams who had just returned from a charity trek in Antarctica stayed at The Bay Hotel on their first layover en route to the South Pole in November when they were treated to their first braai evening at one of Cape Town’s most loved braai venues. Back for seconds, the Prin…
Read More06 January 2014
Return to Zimbabwe Awareness Campaign
Africa Albida TourismWhat is the Return to Zimbabwe Awareness Campaign about? The Return to Zimbabwe Awareness Campaign was initiated by a group of like-minded tourism professionals and operators who utterly believe in the destination and Zimbabwe’s tourism products, and wish to see current and potential source markets genuinely understanding how much we have to offer as a world-class destination. The campaign was born during a conversation at World Travel Market, with colleagues from Zimbabwe. The key focus…
Read More06 January 2014
Wildebeest Migration
Serengeti Balloon Safaris25th December 2013 Serengeti Balloon Safaris conducted their first balloon safari of this season in Serengeti South this morning. The Great Migration is well and truly here. Some 90% of the flight today was over the vast herds of wildebeest and zebra. Apart from the countless migrating wildebeest and zebra, other sightings from the balloon today were lions, cheetah, hyena, buffalo and Grant’s gazelles. Serengeti Balloon Safaris operate in Serengeti South from December 25th 20…
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