A high court in Kenya has blocked the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) from enforcing increased park entry fees after approving an urgent interdict from the country’s private-sector tourism body, the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF). KTF Chairperson Fred Odek told Tourism Update that the federation sought legal intervention to temporarily halt the increase, which was due to take effect from 01 October 2025.

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Magical Kenya Travel Expo Focus On African Integration & Investment

The 15th edition of the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) took place in Nairobi, with calls for greater regional cooperation and cross-border investment to unlock Africa’s full tourism potential. Kenya’s Deputy President, Prof Kithure Kindiki, reported a 15% rise in international arrivals to 2.4 million in 2024, contributing KSh 452 billion in revenue and supporting 1.7 million tourism-related jobs. He outlined ambitious targets to grow international arrivals to 5.5 million by 2027, driven by infrastructure upgrades, visa reforms, and the introduction of new tourism products

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Essence of Africa’s second edition began 07 October 2025 at Diamonds Malindi in Malindi, Kenya. The show ran until 09 October 2025. The private sector-led initiative was designed to connect international buyers with African tourism suppliers through targeted, pre-scheduled meetings to initiate partnerships and drive measurable business results. “Our goal is simple. By the time buyers board their flights home, they should have African tourism products loaded, contracted and ready to sell for the 2026 to 2027 seasons,” said Chris Mears, Co-Founder of Essence of Africa.

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We eagerly await the opportunity to share the magic of East Africa with you during the WTM London, at stand number S15-300  from 4th – 6th November, 2025. Let us connect, collaborate, and craft exceptional itineraries that resonate with the spirit of the continent. To secure a meeting with us and explore partnership opportunities, please send an email to christine.macharia@senseofafrica.co.ke 

Saudi low-cost carrier flynas launched direct flights between Riyadh and Nairobi from 02 October 2025, enhancing connectivity between Kenya and Saudi Arabia. Operating three times weekly, the route will use A320neo aircraft, with outbound flights departing Riyadh on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Tuesdays, and return services from Nairobi on Fridays, Sundays, and Wednesdays.

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RwandAir is delighted to announce the launch of its new Zanzibar and Mombasa route, beginning 01 December 2025, just ahead of the winter holidays. The new service will connect Kigali, Rwanda, with two of East Africa’s most sought-after coastal getaways, offering travelers access to stunning beaches, vibrant marine life and world-class leisure experiences. Flights will operate four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays using a Boeing B737. This route marks RwandAir’s return to Mombasa, where it last operated in 2019, while also adding Zanzibar as a brand-new destination

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Safarilink Revised Flight Schedule: Zanzibar & Mombasa (November 2025 – December 2026) 

Safarilink has revised its flight schedule for the Mombasa and Zanzibar routes. This new schedule, effective 01 November 2025 – 31 December 2026, incorporates adjustments to the departure and arrival times for both morning and afternoon services. This schedule, which is attached, details adjustments to the AM and PM departure and arrival times. The company extends its sincere appreciation for the continuous support and commitment of all parties involved, projecting continued growth in 2025 and the years ahead.

Etihad Airways will restart seasonal flights between Abu Dhabi and Zanzibar from 14 June to 6 September 2026, operating four times per week. The route relaunch is part of the carrier’s broader network expansion, with Zanzibar becoming the airline’s 30th new destination announced in 2025.

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Pemba Airport Zanzibar Expansion Project Underway

The modernisation and expansion of Zanzibar’s Pemba Airport is officially underway. The project will include upgrading the terminal, runway and main access road. Zanzibar recently handed over the construction site to Spain-based contractor Propav Infrastructure. The new airport will feature a modern passenger terminal, a 2.4km runway and facilities accommodating long-haul aircraft used on international routes.

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Tanzania is rolling out a strategic plan to develop Dodoma and surrounding areas into a tourism hub for the country’s central zone. The government, in collaboration with the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS), Tanzania Tourism Board (TTB), and private stakeholders, is working to strengthen infrastructure and tourism services around key sites such as the Mkungunero and Swaga Swaga reserves, and the UNESCO-listed Kondoa Irangi rock paintings.

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Kenya Introduces New Framework To Streamline Air Access

Kenya’s Ministry of Roads and Transport has unveiled a new regulatory framework to manage foreign airline market access more systematically and transparently. The initiative, announced on 27 September 2025, aims to safeguard national interests around safety, security, and economic growth while aligning with international aviation standards. A newly formed Technical Evaluation Committee, led by the State Department of Aviation, will now oversee all new market access applications from foreign carriers.

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Kenya: Seringet Mara Camp Relaunches After Redesign

Nigel Archer’s Seringet Mara Camp in the Maasai Mara Reserve has recently undergone a successful redesign and refurbishment. This traditional-style permanent camp, which offers an intimate safari experience with just 9 tents, has been thoughtfully updated to remain true to its wild, natural surroundings in the heart of the Maasai Mara. The spectacular changes include refreshed accommodations featuring 2 spacious Family Suites and 7 light filled, natural double/twin tents. The camp also now ensures an enhanced safari experience with expert guiding and the use of top-tier photographic vehicles, which come equipped with adjustable arms and beanbags. The redesigned Seringet Mara Camp is now ready to offer a newly refined, authentic, and unforgettable safari experience.

Nairobi Tented Camp has successfully relocated to a new, accessible site in Karen, directly opposite The Hub shopping centre and is no longer situated within Nairobi National Park. A key benefit of this relocation is that park fees no longer apply to stays at Nairobi Tented Camp. The new setting in Karen continues to offer the camp’s unique tented accommodation experience while providing convenient access to local amenities.

Soroi Samburu Lodge, Kenya Closed For Upgrades Till 19 June 2026

Soroi Samburu Lodge is currently undergoing the second phase of its construction and expansion, which will add 20 new rooms. The lodge is temporarily closed for upgrades until 19 June 2026. However, the lodge will remain open to accommodate existing reservations on the following dates, with no construction taking place during these periods:
•    13 – 15 November 2025
•    19 December 2025 – 04 January 2026
•    10 – 11 January 2026
•    01 – 03 June 2026

The Soroi Collection is excited to announce the expansion of its presence in Kenya with two brand new luxury properties opening in 2026, promising guests exceptional coastal and safari experiences.

Soroi Amboseli, Amboseli National Park
The safari adventure continues with the opening of Soroi Amboseli on 15 June 2026. This luxurious camp, consisting of 16 tents, is located right inside Amboseli National Park. Designed with quiet elegance, Soroi Amboseli offers a perfect balance where wildlife and comfort meet, providing guests with spectacular, uninterrupted views toward the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro.

Soroi Blue, Diani
Opening on 13 February 2026, Soroi Blue is a new, intimate boutique hotel situated along one of Kenya’s most beautiful beaches in Diani. Featuring just 10 elegant rooms, the hotel is designed to blend refined coastal style with the signature warmth of the Soroi Collection. Guests will enjoy ocean views, sophisticated spaces, and the relaxed charm characteristic of the Diani coastline.

Tanzania: Out Of Africa Legend & Laba Grumeti Art Lodge Now Open

Out of Africa Legend and Laba Grumeti Art Lodge, both part of the Laba Explorer brand, are now officially open and ready to welcome discerning travelers seeking exceptional wilderness experiences.

Out of Africa Legend
Out of Africa Legend is situated in the Central Serengeti, in a quiet corner of the wildlife rich Seronera region, putting guests in an excellent position for year-round game viewing, including the Big Five. The camp is located approximately 40 to 60 minutes from the Seronera Airstrip and channels the golden age of African exploration, recreating a “modern 1920’s feel” with a focus on an authentic, classic safari experience. It features a total of 14 luxurious fixed tents, including 12 standard suites and 2 family units.

Laba Grumeti Art Lodge
The newly opened Laba Grumeti Art Lodge is perched on a secluded hilltop in the Grumeti region, near Nyasirori, in the Serengeti’s western corridor ecosystem. It is approximately 30–45 minutes from the Grumeti Kirawira Airstrip. It features a total of 12 luxury tented suites, including 11 standard suites and 1 Two bedroom family unit. It is ideally situated to witness the iconic annual Great Migration as the vast herds traverse the Grumeti River Valley. The lodge’s high degree of exclusivity makes it perfect for guests seeking a boutique, culturally rich, and secluded luxury experience.

Tanzania: Laba Ngorongoro, Former Rhino Lodge, Set To Open 06 April 2026

Laba Ngorongoro, situated at the site of the former Rhino Lodge, is set to open its doors on 06 April 2026. This new lodge is poised to become one of the premier luxury options in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering an exceptional location that is one of the closest to the park entrance. It will feature a total of 20 spacious suites. Each suite is designed for luxury and comfort, including a small living room, a bathtub, a private terrace and underfloor heating.

Mid-December 2025 marks the arrival of Kusini Serengeti, Nomad Tanzania’s newest bush camp, nestled among granite kopjes in the remote southwest of the Serengeti. This is not just a new camp, it’s a return to the kind of safari that first defined Nomad: light-footed, small-scale, and deeply rooted in wilderness. Set on the site of the former A&K camp, Kusini Serengeti is being re imagined with just six canvas tents, each rising quietly among whistling thorns and acacia. The camp’s mess area – funky, comfortable, and unmistakably Nomad – sits alongside a live-on kopje with sweeping views across woodlands and plains. It’s a place where wildlife meanders past your veranda and the rhythm of the bush sets the pace.

WildPlaces Africa has announced the opening of Kulu Ora, its newest lodge and seventh addition to the WildPlaces portfolio, in early 2026. The launch coincides with Uganda Airlines’ new direct international flights from London Gatwick to Entebbe, making access to Uganda’s Murchison Falls National Park more convenient.
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The Mora Zanzibar has announced a schedule for planned preventive maintenance on its pool facilities, a necessary process to ensure the highest standards of safety and comfort for all future guests. The work will involve regrouting the interior of the pools and replacing select damaged tiles; importantly, no heavy machinery or excavation work will be utilized. The first closure affects the Spa pool, which will undergo maintenance for two weeks, starting 23 November 2025, and reopening on 08 December 2025. Minimal noise is expected during this time, and the Spa itself will remain fully open as usual.

The more extensive maintenance period will affect the Main pools, scheduled to close on 01 April 2026, for 8 weeks, with reopening planned for 01 June 2026. During this time, which may involve minimal to moderate noise, all main pools will be closed. However, guests will still have access to the Kids pool (Outliners Club) and the Garden pool. The Spa pool will also be available, but only for guests utilizing the Spa facilities.

The Mora Zanzibar sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause while the team works to improve the safety standards of the facilities. To support guests with existing reservations during these affected periods, the resort is offering full flexibility. Specifically, no cancellation fees will be applied if guests choose to modify or cancel their bookings due to the maintenance schedule.

20% Early Bird Discount At The Mora Zanzibar & TUI Blue Bahari

A special 20% Early Bird Offer is currently available for stays at both The Mora Zanzibar and TUI Blue Bahari. This exclusive promotion grants guests a 20% discount off the Sell to Operator Rate, provided that reservations are made by 15th October 2025 and are for travel dates up to 20th December 2025.

Terms and Conditions:
•    Bookings must be secured a minimum of 30 days in advance of the arrival date.
•    The discount is applicable exclusively to new bookings.
•    The 20% saving also extends to charges for extra pax (additional persons) and any applicable room upgrade supplements.
•    This promotion is subject to availability and is not valid on stop-sales closed dates.

Zanzibar: Sunshine Bay Hotel Transitions To Adults Only From January 2026

Beginning in January 2026, Sunshine Bay Hotel will transition to an Adults-Only concept, exclusively welcoming only guests aged 18 and over. This strategic change reflects the property’s vision to curate a quieter, more refined retreat where adult guests can fully relax and enjoy elevated experiences. However, the hotel group ensures that families remain welcome at its two sister properties, Sunshine Azure and Sunshine Marine. 

Zanzibar: Sandies Nungwi Beach Grand Opening 10 January 2026

The new Sandies Nungwi Beach resort is poised to become Zanzibar’s premier luxury destination, with its grand opening scheduled for 10 January 2026. Situated on the renowned white sands of Nungwi Beach on the northern tip of Tanzania, the hotel promises a serene beach escape featuring comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations, many of which boast breathtaking sea views and private balconies. 

Melia Hotels International is delighted to introduce a range of new offers across its three Tanzanian properties, covering both standard stays through the end of 2025 and an exclusive festive period.

Standard Offers Booking & Travel window (Now until 21/12/2025)
Ngorongoro lodge 20% discount on all suites
Meliá serengeti lodge 25% discount on all room categories
Meliá Zanzibar
·20% discount on all room categories
·25% discount on all villas or stay 7 nights pay 5 nights

10% Festive Offer Booking window: (Now until 31/10/2025) Travel window: (22/12/2025 – 05/01/2026)
Meliá serengeti lodge, Ngorongoro lodge, Meliá Zanzibar 10% discount on all room categories.
Blocked Off Date: 31/12/2025

Elewana Collection Special Offers

Elewana is pleased to present a range of special offers designed to enhance your safari experience:

15% Off All New Bookings At Serengeti Explorer Until 19 December 2025
Elewana is pleased to offer 15% Off all new bookings at Serengeti Explorer. This discount is valid for both the tailored Game Package and Full Board experiences for travel booked until 19 December 2025. This offer is exclusively available for new bookings, stands independently and cannot be combined with any other special offers. Terms and conditions apply.

Last Minute 10% Discount Offer Until 31 October 2025
Guests can enjoy an exclusive additional 10% discount when they book and travel within 8 weeks, with the added benefit that children under 12 years stay FREE! This offer is available for booking and travel until 31 October 2025. It is exclusively for new bookings and is subject to availability at all Elewana Collection properties excluding Arusha Coffee Lodge. Terms and conditions apply.

Per Person Sharing Rate Offer Until 31 May 2026
A special per person sharing rate for solo travelers in Mid and Green season is currently available for new bookings only, valid for travel until 31 May 2026. This offer is valid across all Elewana properties (excluding Arusha Coffee Lodge), is applicable to a maximum of 3 single rooms per booking and is combinable with the ‘Returning Guest’ offer. Terms and conditions apply.

Stay 4 Nights Pay 3 Nights (1 November 2025 – 31 May 2026)
Guests who book 4 nights at a selection of properties will only pay for 3 nights for travel between 1 November 2025 – 31 May 2026. This offer is available until 31 December 2025 in the following properties:
Kenya: Elsa’s Kopje Meru, Loisaba Star Beds, Loisaba Tented Camp, Sand River Masai Mara, Elephant Pepper Camp
Tanzania: Kilindi Zanzibar, Serengeti Migration Camp, Serengeti Pioneer Camp, Tarangire Treetops, The Manor at Ngorongoro, Serengeti Explorer
Blackout periods: Festive Season (20 December 2025 – 05 January 2026)

Terms and Conditions: Exclusively available for new bookings only and is subject to availability. This offer can be redeemed at a single property or across multiple properties, as long as at least one of the listed options is part of the itinerary. Combinable with the ‘Returning Guest’ offer only. Terms and conditions apply.

Returning Guests 5% Discount + 20% Off All Spa Treatments
Elewana rewards its returning guests with a 5% discount on accommodation rates on top of any other special offer, along with 20% off all Spa Treatments. The 5% discount applies to accommodation rates only and, importantly, is combinable with any other special offer. Please note that spa services are not available in Masai Mara. Terms and conditions apply.

Please note that East African resident rates are not applicable to any of these promotions:

Kenya: Voyager Beach Resident Rates Offer, Extra 10% Commission

Voyager Beach Resort is boosting their resident rates with a limited-time special offer 10% commission on all new bookings, applicable across every room type and package offered by the resort. To make family travel even easier, one child under six years old stays free when sharing a room with their parents or guardian. This offer is valid only for new bookings made for stays up to 31 October 2025.

Kenya: Msambweni Beach House 4 Nights For The Price Of 3 Through 15 December 2025

Msambweni Beach House & Private Villas is currently extending a Pay for 3 nights and Stay for 4 nights promotional offer, effectively granting one extra night of luxury at no additional charge. This attractive special is valid for all stays booked up until 15 December 2025. This promotion is applicable once per single stay, and it cannot be combined with any other existing offers or special packages available at the property. Terms and Conditions Apply.

A Kenya Safari To Beach Offer At El Karama Lodge & Manda Bay

El Karama Lodge, Manda Bay, and Tropic Air have collaborated to create the ultimate, value-packed Kenya Safari-to-Beach journey. This exclusive offer pairs the bush experience at El Karama Lodge, known for its intimate feel and unique camping under the stars with the luxurious coastal getaway at Manda Bay, celebrated for its vast water sports and deep-sea fishing.

El Karama Lodge: Guests Book 5 Nights and Pay for 4, plus receive a complimentary Fly Camping experience.

Manda Bay: Guests Book 6 Nights and Pay for 5, which includes two hours of complimentary motor-boating activities.

The two locations can also be connected by Tropic Air charter flights, with guests receiving a 20% discount on their net flight rates.