Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025: Buyer Registration Opens – Don’t Miss Out!
South African Tourism has officially opened buyer registration for Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2025, inviting hosted and non-hosted buyers to apply from March 3 onwards. This announcement marks the next phase of preparations for one of Africa’s leading travel trade shows, set to take place from May 12-15 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
Sense of Africa will be at Indaba are are happy to take meetings. To book a meeting with us please email: christine.macharia@senseofafrica.co.ke.
Tanzania To Host UN Tourism Forum On Gastronomy
Tanzania will host the second United Nations Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa in Arusha from 23-25 April 2025. The event will bring together over 300 delegates from across Africa and beyond to explore the role of food tourism in driving economic growth and preserving cultural heritage. The forum, to be officially opened by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, aims to strengthen the local culinary industry, which is closely tied to Tanzania’s agricultural sector.
Tanzania Confirms Two Mpox Cases
Following the confirmation of first Mpox cases in Tanzania, the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has implemented enhanced public health measures to prevent its spread issued through an advisory from the Ministry of health.
Key measures include: Health Screening at Points of Entry – Temperature checks and physical observation for all travelers. Infection Prevention & Control – Mandatory hand hygiene, physical distancing, and symptom reporting. Health Monitoring & Reporting – Travelers will receive health information and a toll-free number (199) for self-monitoring. Case Contact Follow-Up – Anyone in contact with a case must self-monitor and report symptoms. Transport Operator Compliance – Adherence to exit screening, hygiene protocols, and immediate reporting of suspected cases.
The guidelines also emphasize public awareness about the disease, which will be provided at border points. Moreover, operators, owners, and drivers of vehicles have been instructed to comply with all health regulations. The advisory is effective immediately and will be reviewed as needed. Tanzania is not the first country to report Mpox cases. In the CDC ongoing report, Countries reporting travel-associated cases of mpox include Belgium, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Oman, Pakistan, South Sudan, Sweden, Thailand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Zimbabwe.
New International Convention Centre Opens In Addis Ababa
Ethiopia’s largest conference facility, the Addis International Convention Centre (AICC), has officially opened – a significant step in the country’s efforts to be a leading destination for global conferences, exhibitions and business tourism. Spanning 40 hectares, the AICC is designed to host large-scale events. The facility includes two major halls accommodating 3 000 to 4 000 attendees each alongside eight smaller meeting halls with total capacity for 10 000 people.
Turkish Airlines To Increase Flight Capacity To Tanzania From June 2025
Turkish Airlines will increase its flight routes to key destinations in Tanzania starting this summer. The Istanbul-Kilimanjaro-Zanzibar-Istanbul route will increase from 4 to 5 weekly flights from March 30, 2025, and further expand to daily service from June 13, 2025. Similarly, the Istanbul-Zanzibar-Kilimanjaro-Istanbul triangle routing (replacing the nonstop Istanbul-Zanzibar service) will operate 5 times weekly from March 30, 2025, increasing to daily service from June 9, 2025. Overall, Kilimanjaro will see its weekly frequencies double from 7 to 14 by June 2025, significantly enhancing connectivity for travellers to Tanzania.
Qatar Ups Flights To Durban And East Africa
The airline has also announced frequency increases to several African cities. Dar es Salaam-Kilimanjaro has seen an increase from three to seven weekly flights, while Entebbe now has 11 weekly flights, up from seven.
Ethiopian Airlines To Increase Manchester Flights To Daily Frequency
Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa and one of the fastest-growing airline brands in the world, is proud to announce an increase of its flights from Manchester to Addis Ababa, to daily frequency effective July 3, 2025. The flights, which will operate via a brief stopover in either Geneva or Marseille, are to be operated on the A350-Airbus.
Precision Air Expands Serengeti Access With Daily Flights To Seronera
Exciting news for safari lovers and travel professionals! Precision Air is enhancing access to the Serengeti with the launch of daily flights from Zanzibar to Seronera, effective 15th June 2025 – 14 October 2025. This expansion provides seamless connectivity between Tanzania’s beach paradise and its most iconic wildlife destination, making it easier for travelers to experience the best of both worlds—the white sands of Zanzibar and the breathtaking wildlife of the Serengeti.
Precision Air Launches New Iringa Route – Unlocking Access to Ruaha National Park
Precision Air is thrilled to announce the launch of its new route to Iringa, enhancing access to southern Tanzania’s premier safari destination – Ruaha National Park. Effective March 3rd, 2025, Precision Air now operates three weekly flights between Dar es Salaam and Iringa, with convenient connections to Dodoma, making travel more seamless and affordable for tourists, travel agents, tour operators and any one who wants to access the destination.
Resumption Of Operations At Olkiombo Airstrip
We are pleased to inform you that Olkiombo Airstrip is now serviceable, and operations into and out of the airstrip have resumed as normal.
Luxury Mara Camp Reopens With Wellness And Experiential Offerings
Ishara, a luxury safari camp in the Maasai Mara, closed after last year’s flooding, has reopened following an extensive renovation and various activity and experiential enhancements. The upgrade includes expanded spa and wellness facilities, new culinary offerings, upgraded accommodation and a revitalised Canon Brand Experience Centre for photography enthusiasts. Key additions include an expanded Aya Spa, a yoga and meditation deck, the Nordic Spa and a new interactive kitchen within the Shamba of Goodness aeroponic farm. Culinary upgrades also feature a newly added wine cellar and an al fresco fireplace and lounge for evening social gatherings.
Fundu Lagoon Seasonal Closure & Updates
Fundu Lagoon will be closed from 4 April 2025 to 1 July 2025, so make sure to secure your clients’ stays before or after this period. Levies have also been updated and now sit at $5.00 per night.
Getting to Pemba Island, Zanzibar: Travellers can reach Pemba by air or water. For those who prefer a scenic route, ferries operate between mainland Tanzania and Pemba, taking around five hours and arriving in Chake Chake Town. For a quicker and more seamless journey, flights from Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) and Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam (DAR) take just 30 minutes to reach the breathtaking Pemba Island, Zanzibar.
Best Time to Visit Pemba: Pemba Island is a paradise all year round, but the best time to visit is July to April, during the dry season. With mild temperatures, clear blue skies, and calm waters, this is when the island truly shines. Whether your clients are looking for sun-drenched relaxation or world-class diving, these months offer the perfect conditions.
New Flight Routes – Easier Access to Zanzibar & Beyond: Reaching Fundu Lagoon has never been easier! FlySafair now offers direct flights between Johannesburg and Zanzibar, with a weekly service running from April to October.
Laba Mama Simba – Opening In June 1, 2025
On June 1st, Laba Laba will unveil a new property in Arusha, a luxury lodge situated just 35 minutes from Kilimanjaro Airport. Nestled in the heart of a sprawling 700-hectare estate, Laba Mama Simba promises more than just an elegant stopover before a safari.
Total Capacity: 9 accommodations of 4 different categories. 6 Garden cottages: 70sqm. Bedroom – Living room with fire place – Bathroom (bathtub, shower) Terrace (dining area, sunbeds). 1 Master Suite (in the main building): 75sqm, Bedroom – Living room with fire place – Bathroom (bathtub, shower) Small terrace with view of Mount Meru. 1 Garden Room (in the main building): 23 sqm, Bathroom with shower. 1 Pool Room (in the main building): 23 sqm; Bathroom with shower.
Room Configuration: Garden Cottages can be configured as double or twin. Other categories are exclusively double.
Bawe Island Joins Serandipians Network
Since it’s opening in July 2024, Bawe Island has strived to offer an unmatched eco-luxury experience, blending African influences with modern sophistication. As Zanzibar’s only “one island, one resort” destination, it offers private villas, personalized butler service, and a strong commitment to sustainability, featuring Zanzibar’s largest solar park and marine conservation efforts. It’s inclusion in Serandipians further affirms it’s status as a premier destination for discerning travelers seeking bespoke luxury.
Marriott Opening Another Two Safari Camps In Kenya
Marriott will open two new tented safari camps in Kenya: the Ritz-Carlton Maasai Mara Safari Camp and JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp. The properties will be developed in partnership with Lazizi Group of Companies. Expected to open in August 2025, the Ritz-Carlton Maasai Mara will be located near the Tanzanian border. With views of the Sand River, it is a prime location for witnessing the Great Migration. Scheduled to open in early 2026, the JW Marriott Mount Kenya Rhino Reserve Safari Camp will offer a tranquil retreat within the Solio Game Reserve.
Our Zanzibar Group Goes Matemwe
With adding Jafferji Beach Retreat in Matemwe, Our Zanzibar Group is now offering a beach hotel on the North East Coast. While Matemwe has kept its quiet charm and tranquility, offering the perfect base to relax on a quiet beach after safari, Jafferji Beach Retreat presents 14 rooms with three different categories: Standard Garden, Seaview and Superior Seaview. The retreat offers 14 spacious, elegantly designed hideaways infused with Arab, Indian, and African charm.
Elewana Opens First Lodge Under New Brand
Serengeti Explorer, a new safari lodge in the western corridor of Serengeti National Park, has opened its doors. Positioned in a prime location for wildlife viewing, the lodge offers uninterrupted views and front-row access to the Great Migration. Guests are accommodated in 68 Savannah rooms and six Savannah suites. The lodge also features: An on-site hide allowing guests to observe wildlife from a concealed vantage point. An infinity pool overlooking the plains. The Riva Wellness Centre offering massage, yoga and spa treatments. Multiple dining venues including the main Acacia restaurant, Kisimani pool bar and restaurant and an outdoor boma as well as the Divai wine cellar and chef’s table offering a curated dining experience.
Tribute Portfolio Enters Tanzania’s Northern Circuit
Tribute Portfolio, part of Marriott Bonvoy, has opened its first safari lodge with the launch of Turaco Ngorongoro Valley in Karatu, Tanzania. The property features 34 executive and three presidential suites. The design draws inspiration from the traditional Maasai boma with circular structures and pitched roofs and a blend of natural materials like wood and stone with vibrant Maasai-inspired accents.
Diamonds Malindi Room Name Changes
Diamonds Malindi has changed the names of the rooms as follows: Diamonds Deluxe Suite with Private Pool (formerly: Deluxe Suite with Private Pool). Diamonds Junior Suite with Private Pool (formerly Junior Suites at Diamonds Dream of Africa, now with the addition of a private pool). Diamonds Junior Suite (formerly Junior Suites at Diamonds Dream of Africa). Pool Garden Deluxe Room (formerly Deluxe). Pool Garden Suite (formerly: Suite). Masai Superior Room / Superior Rooms (formerly: Superior). Masai Junior Suite (same name). Masai Deluxe Family Room (formerly Family Deluxe Room). Masai Deluxe Room with Private Pool (formerly a Superior Room located on the ground floor, now featuring an outdoor private swimming pool; on the formerly: Deluxe Swim Up).
Royal Zanzibar – Temporary Closure Season – April & May 2025
Royal Zanzibar Resort will close temporarily from April 1st to May 1st, 2025 for essential enhancements works of the resort.
Karafuu – New Room Category + Exclusive Offer
Karafuu Hotel has recently introduced a brand-new room category: the Deluxe Garden View. A total of 18 new rooms have been added, offering guests the perfect blend of luxury and affordability. These rooms provide a unique opportunity for travelers to experience the elegance of Karafuu. Both the rooms and bathrooms are crafted with premium materials, ensuring an elevated stay. Additionally, starting from November 2025, all existing Garden Rooms will be upgraded to match Deluxe Garden View standard, further enhancing the overall guest experience.
Offer: 30% off – Minimum 3 nights. Booking Windows: 16th March 2025 – 15th April 2025. Stay Window: 16th March 2025 – 31 May 2025.
Additional Perks: Single supplement free.
Terms and conditions for the above offer: Applicable only on New Bookings. Not applicable on existing previously confirmed bookings. This offer cannot be combined with any other promotions or the early booking discount. Cancellation and payment policy as per the contract. Offer is subject to stop sales. Requires a minimum stay of 3 nights, with a maximum of 7 double rooms or 14 guests. Supplement excluded. Promo code: 30OFFL (It’s mandatory to specify the code inside the booking voucher).
The Mora Zanzibar : 2025 Spring Renewal and Early Bird Offer
Spring Renewal: Discount: 25%. Booking Window: 1st March to 30th March 2025. Travel Period: 15th March to 30th June 2025
Early Bird Offer: Discount: 20% – 30 days advance purchase. Booking Window: 1st March to 15th October 2025. Travel Period: 1st July to 20th December 2025.
Terms And Conditions: This promotion is not combinable with any other promotion or discount. Applicable only on New Bookings. Not applicable on existing previously confirmed bookings.
Terms and conditions for the above offer: Applicable only on New Bookings. Not applicable on existing previously confirmed bookings. This offer cannot be combined with any other promotions or the early booking discount. Cancellation and payment policy as per the contract. Offer is subject to stop sales. Requires a minimum stay of 3 nights, with a maximum of 7 double rooms or 14 guests. Supplement excluded. Promo code: 30OFFL (It’s mandatory to specify the code inside the booking voucher).
The Majlis : Exciting New Offers for Your Clients – 3 for the Price of 2 and Bed & Breakfast Packages
Stay 3 Nights Pay 2. Validity: 1st March – 31st July 2025. Terms & Conditions: Cannot be combined with other discounts, promotions or special rates. Subject to room availability at the time of booking. Valid for new bookings only. Limited offer.
Sultan Sands Island Resort & Spa – Zanzibar – Special Early Booking Offer
Booking window: 26/2/25-31/3/25. 15% discount, cumulative with existing special offers for stays 1/3/25-30/6/25. 10% discount, cumulative with existing special offers for stays 1/7/25-31/10/25.
Terms & Conditions: New bookings only. Discount on adult base rates only. Not valid for group bookings.
Elewana Pay 3/Stay 4 Offer Extended
The Pay 3/Stay 4 offer has been extended and is now valid for travel until May 31, 2025. Book a four-night stay at any of the following Elewana properties and enjoy a complimentary night.
Tanzania: Kilindi Zanzibar; Serengeti Migration Camp; Serengeti Pioneer Camp; Tarangire Treetops; The Manor at Ngorongoro
Kenya: Elsa’s Kopje Meru; Loisaba Star Beds; Sand River Mara; Elephant Pepper Camp
The offer can be applied at a single property or combined across multiple participating properties. Please note that the offer is not valid during Easter weekend (April 19th-21st, 2025). Available for non-resident bookings only, this offer applies to new bookings and cannot be combined with other special offers. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.
El Karama Lodge, Laikipia: Special Offers For Low Season
Pay for 4 Stay for 5. For new bookings made between March 8th and April 28th. 1 night fly camping, 1 bush breakfast and 1 bush dinner included for all stays of 3 nights or more.
Sanctuary Retreats : Special Offer Extended!
Stay 3 pay 2 offer has been extended to 30th June 2025 . Valid to new bookings made from 7th March 2025 onwards. The offer is valid to the following camps: Sanctuary Swala -Tarangire National Park; Sanctuary Kichakani -Serengeti National Park-Lamai area & Sanctuary Tambarare -Olpejeta Conservancy while all the other camps/lodges the same ends 31st May and continues from 1st Oct to 20th Dec 2025.
Kilima Camp Specials – 2025
Get 50% off on the 3rd night on Full Board and Game Package. Valid for bookings from now until 30th June and 1st November to 19th December, 2025.
4th night free: Applicable on both Full Board or Game Package. 4th night free from now until 30th June and 1st November to 19th December.
Pay 4 nights / Stay 5 nights: Applicable on both Full board or Game Package. Valid from 1st July to 30th October and 20th December to 4th January 2026.
The special offers are valid for new bookings confirmed by the 30 June.