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South Africa continues to inspire travelers with new reasons to explore, connect, and rediscover joy. In this month’s newsletter, you’ll find exciting trade show updates, a pair of new attractions that spark wonder, and a new direct air route offering convenient access to a beloved safari destination. With Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July, we’re reminded that travel can be both joyful and meaningful — and South Africa continues to offer both in abundance.

South Africa Sets the Stage for 2026: Key Trade Show Dates Announced
 

Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, together with the South African Tourism Board, has officially announced the 2026 dates for country’s flagship tourism trade shows.

Meetings Africa will take place from 23-25 February 2026, while Africa’s Travel Indaba will be held from 11-14 May 2026.

These events remain powerful platforms for global buyers to connect with African business events and leisure travel products, driving tourism growth across the continent.

South African Tourism is undertaking a competitive bidding process to appoint host cities for the next five-year cycle, creating opportunities for the events to evolve, innovate, and deliver maximum impact for all stakeholders.

New Dinosaur Centre Set to Elevate Free State Tourism
 

South Africa recently unveiled a new cultural and scientific attraction, the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, located in Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State.

This centre blends cutting-edge paleontology with rich BaSotho mythology, set against the dramatic natural landscape globally significant for its fossil record, including one of the world’s oldest known dinosaur embryos.

With interactive exhibits, live cultural performances, and the graduation of newly trained local guides, the launch celebrates the power of tourism to educate, empower, and inspire.

Funded through the EU and supported by the Department of Tourism, SANParks, and DFFE, the centre is a key part of South Africa’s mission to grow inclusive tourism, empower rural communities, and position the Free State as a destination for family travel, heritage tourism, and adventure seekers alike.

Shamwari Launches Direct Air Shuttle Starting December 2025


From mid-December 2025, Shamwari Private Game Reserve will launch the Shamwari Air Shuttle, offering direct flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to the reserve.

Operated by National Airways Corporation, the service includes private lounge access and saves guests up to 5 hours in travel time. Flights will operate on Beechcraft 1900D aircraft (16 seats), with a 28kg luggage allowance per person.

Reservations are now open. Email: reservations@shamwari.com for more information.
 

New South African Astronomical Observatory Visitor Centre Opens in Cape Town


South Africa has launched the new South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Visitor Centre in Cape Town’s historic Observatory district. The centre features interactive exhibits, historical telescopes, and multilingual storytelling, including indigenous celestial narratives in isiXhosa and Khoekhoegowab.

Expected to attract over 18,000 visitors annually, it marks a key milestone in South Africa’s National Astro-Tourism Strategy. Supported by the Department of Tourism and other partners, the centre offers a unique blend of science, culture, and education, opening the night skies for travelers to explore and learn.
 

Mandela Day 2025: It’s Still in Our Hands
 

The Nelson Mandela Foundation has launched its 2025 Mandela Day campaign under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.” Celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela Day is a global call to action encouraging individuals and organizations to honor Madiba’s legacy through service, justice, and community impact.

Travel advisors can encourage clients to engage meaningfully — whether through local acts of service, cultural education, or supporting responsible tourism aligned with Mandela’s values.

Explore ways to participate or support at www.mandeladay.com and www.fundnation.org/nelsonmandela