Revised Entrance Fees For Activities Within Marine Conservation Areas in Zanzibar
The Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries of Zanzibar, through the Department of Marine Conservation, has announced revised entrance fees for activities within marine conservation areas on Unguja and Pemba Islands, increasing from $3 per person to $10 per person. Due to this increment, commencing from 01st September 2025, there will be a supplement of US$7.00 per person for all new bookings received from 06th August 2025 onward, for activities such as:
• Dolphin tour
• Prison Island tour
• Prison Island tour and Sandbank tour (both private and shared)
• Sunset dhow cruise (both private and shared)
• Mnemba Atoll snorkeling (both private and shared)
• Safari Blue tour (both private and shared)
Diani Airport Upgrade: Game Changer For Kenya’s Coastal Tourism
Diani Airport is undergoing a major upgrade, which stakeholders believe will unlock tourism growth on the Kenyan coast. Formerly known as Ukunda Airstrip, the facility is being transformed into a regional airport with potential to handle larger aircraft, attract new routes and open up the region to a broader range of travellers. Now 90% complete, the project includes a new taxiway, upgraded drainage, a larger apron for improved aircraft handling and a runway extension that accommodates larger planes, like the Bombardier Q400, enabling more frequencies by airlines such as Jambojet and Safarilink.
Kenya Hands Over Management Of Amboseli
Kenya’s Cabinet has approved the transfer of Amboseli National Park from central government management to the local authority, Kajiado County Government. The transfer follows a 2023 directive from Kenyan President William Ruto in response to ongoing petitions from the Maasai community for the return of the park to the local authority. Following the approval, Kajiado County will take over day-to-day operations while the Kenya Wildlife Service will retain responsibility for the national conservation oversight role.
Rwanda To Celebrate 40 New Baby Gorillas
Rwanda will celebrate the 20th edition of its flagship gorilla naming ceremony – Kwita Izina – with the naming of 40 baby mountain gorillas born in 2024 and 2025. The ceremony will take place at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park on September 5. It will be followed by the launch of a crowdfunding platform for ongoing conservation of the park and its endangered mountain gorillas. Countrywide fam trips for international media and tour operators will take place on either side of the event. Since its launch in 2005, Kwita Izina has named 397 baby mountain gorillas. The gorillas are officially handed their names by local and global icons and conservationists from around the world.
Zanzibar Sees Record Tourism In July 2025, As Italian Arrivals Surge
Zanzibar recorded its highest-ever monthly international arrivals in July 2025, welcoming 98,370 visitors – a 44.3% year-on-year increase and a 45.7% rise from June. According to official tourism data released on 7 August, European markets continue to dominate, with Italy topping the list by contributing 10,403 visitors, a 291% increase from the previous month. France followed as the second-largest market at 7.7%, while Japan accounted for just 0.2%.
International Hotel Group Signs Tanzania Property Agreement
Swiss-Belhotel International has signed an agreement with Astra Capital Limited to open the Swiss-Belboutique Masaki Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. The 72-room property is under construction in Masaki on the Msasani Peninsula and is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2027. Facilities will include two restaurants, a bar, spa, swimming pool, conference rooms and retail spaces for lease.
Tanzania: Lemala Osonjoi Lodge, Ngorongoro Unveils New Images
Lemala Osonjoi Lodge is delighted to announce the release of its most recent images. These photographs capture the beauty, spirit, and sense of place that make Osonjoi so special; from its breathtaking design to the warmth of the people who bring it to life. These images are now available to inspire guests and share the unique experience of Lemala Osonjoi Lodge.
Tanzania: Karibu Camps Launches New Online Media Library
Karibu Camps are delighted to unveil an exciting development – an exclusive online media library; designed with you, our trusted partners, in mind. This comprehensive platform provides instant access to a handpicked selection of high-resolution images, professional videos, property fact sheets, brochures and more. All intended to support your marketing, sales and client presentation efforts.
Zanzibar: Melia Zanzibar New Villas Now Ready!
Melia Hotel Zanzibar is delighted to announce the availability of brand-new Ocean Villas, which are now ready to welcome clients. These exclusive additions include the Level 1-Bedroom Ocean Villa and the Level Grand 3-Bedroom Ocean Villa, both of which are now available. The Level Grand 2-Bedroom Ocean Villa will be coming soon.
Kenya: Elewana Collection’s Elsa’s Kopje, Meru Renovation Complete
Elsa’s Kopje has just completed a major refurbishment with upgrades to the rooms, communal areas and the pool. The spa has also been enhanced with an expanded space and there is a new sundowner spot, allowing guests panoramic views of the expansive surrounding plains whilst they enjoy their drink of choice. There is a delicious new culinary offering that plays to Kenya’s diverse food traditions serving up a feast of local produce specially curated by the lodge’s skilled Kenyan chef.