7 December, delivering passengers to Perth in under 10 hours.

Qantas yesterday launched a new direct service between Johannesburg and Perth, operating three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The new route reduces travel time to just 9 hours and 55 minutes – providing the quickest way for South Africans to reach Western Australia and beyond. 

The route, operated by a Qantas A330 aircraft, also offers convenient onward connections to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and other destinations across Qantas’ extensive domestic network. Passengers travelling to New Zealand will also benefit from the airline’s new Perth-Auckland service, meaning South Africans can now reach family and friends in New Zealand with just one stop in Perth. 

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ latest census shows there are almost 45,000 people living in Western Australia who were born in South Africa – ranking South Africa as the fourth most common country of birth for Western Australians (after England, New Zealand and India). The significant South African diaspora, combined with strong business and trade ties between the two regions, reinforces the demand for direct connectivity. 

Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace says the new route is about strengthening ties between the two countries: 

“Today marks an important milestone as our inaugural direct service from Johannesburg to Perth takes to the skies, strengthening connectivity between South Africa and Western Australia.

“We’ve seen a really positive response since announcing the route in May, with the inaugural flight almost full and strong forward bookings.

“The new flights also make it easier for South Africans to visit Western Australia, reconnect with family and friends, or continue on to destinations across Australia through seamless connections to our domestic network.

“And with the launch of our new Perth – Auckland service, customers travelling from Johannesburg now have more options to reach New Zealand with just one stop.”

• Cam Wallace, CEO Qantas International 

“With these flights from Johannesburg and Auckland bringing an estimated 80,000 additional seats to our State each year, our aviation industry continues to supercharge Western Australia’s visitor economy, supporting local jobs and local businesses as part of our government’s economic diversification strategy,” says Western Australia Tourism Minister, The Hon. Reece Whitby MLA.

According to South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, the launch of the new route demonstrates what is possible when government and industry work together, guided by a shared strategy:

“The Johannesburg–Perth direct service deepens our connectivity with the Oceania region and will play an important role in growing inbound business events traffic.

“As we prepare for Meetings Africa 2026 in February and Africa’s Travel Indaba in May, this route creates an easier, faster and more attractive pathway for delegates, exhibitors and buyers from across Australia and New Zealand.

“For leisure travellers, this flight opens South Africa’s full range of offerings, from bush to beach, from culture to cuisine, and from adventure to relaxation, across all nine of our diverse provinces.”

• Patricia de Lille, South Africa’s Minister of Tourism 

The new route complements Qantas’ existing Johannesburg-Sydney route, with both seeing strong demand from South Africans ahead of the upcoming peak holiday season. 

Key Information 

• Fares are available on Qantas.com. 
• The route will be operated by a Qantas A330 aircraft, featuring 27 Business Class suites in a 1-2-1 configuration. Each suite offers direct aisle access and converts into a lie-flat bed. The aircraft has 224 Economy seats. 
• With the launch of the new route, Qantas now has up to 292,000 seats between Australia and South Africa each year: 
• Up to 212,430 seats per year between Johannesburg and Sydney. 
• Up to 79,650 seats per year between Johannesburg and Perth
• With the newly launched Perth-Auckland route, customers travelling from Johannesburg can now reach New Zealand with just one stop. 
• Qantas has also announced a codeshare agreement with Airlink – meaning Australian travellers have easier access to 15 countries and 45 destinations across Africa (including Madagascar and St Helena Island.) 

For images and inspiration, visit the Qantas Johannesburg-Perth Media Site

Visit the official Qantas website here

The new route will operate three times weekly between 1 May and 31 October 2026 as follows:

Days: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays

• Lusaka – Maun (via Livingstone): 09:10-12:00
• Livingstone – Maun (Direct): 11:05-12:00
• Maun – Lusaka (via Livingstone): 12:35-15:25
• Maun – Livingstone (Direct): 12:35-13:30

Proflight Zambia will operate the route using its dependable Jetstream 41 aircraft, offering 29 seats and a proven record of reliability.

Passengers travelling between Lusaka and Maun will clear immigration at Livingstone Airport, streamlining the cross-border process for a stress-free travel experience.

Designed to integrate with onward connections in Zambia, the route allows for easy access to safari favourites like South Luangwa (Mfuwe) and Lower Zambezi (Jeki and Royal), making multi-destination safaris across Botswana and Zambia easier and faster than ever before – around 4–5 hours by air, end-to-end.

Previously, such journeys involved expensive private charters, long drives, or detours through Johannesburg. With this new flight path, South African travellers now have a more direct and cost-effective option.

“This new route reflects Proflight Zambia’s commitment to strengthening regional tourism and connectivity. By linking Zambia and Botswana’s premier tourism destinations, we are opening doors for travellers and contributing towards the sustainability of local economies,” said Proflight Zambia Director of Flight Operations Captain Josias Walubita.

Proflight Zambia continues to position itself as a strategic partner in regional development, offering safe, reliable, and efficient air services while supporting the growth of Southern Africa’s trade and tourism sectors.

“Through this expansion, we are not just connecting destinations; we are connecting people, parks and wildlife sanctuaries, experiences, and economic opportunities,” Captain Walubita concluded.

Emeritus Professor Harold Goodwin, chair of the judging panel and founder of the International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT), said responsible tourism is about making better places for people to live in and visit.

“All of the Global Responsible Tourism Award winners have explained what they took responsibility for, what they did and with what impact. We hope they will inspire other organisations to follow in their footsteps,” said Goodwin.

This recognition caps a breakthrough year in which T&V has so far channelled more than R1,000,000 in cash payments directly to local community partners – guides, hosts, cooks, artists and other entrepreneurs – through paid bookings and donations from guests, T&V and our partners.

“This award belongs to the people who make the experiences – our guides, hosts, cooks, musicians and storytellers,” said René Momberg, Head of Growth, Experiences & Partnerships at T&V. “The Global Silver recognises a consistent, collective effort by our community entrepreneurs, the Greater Stellenbosch Trust and other strategic partners that powers the work we do.”

“Our model for T&V is simple: co‑create with communities, keep the economics fair, and sell to the right buyers,” added Leana Kotze, Head of Strategy & Implementation at Greater Stellenbosch Trust (GST), T&V’s sole shareholder and long‑term backer. “With the right ecosystem support, responsible tourism amplifies every rand invested into community earnings. In 2025 we’ve seen this backing translate into at least five times that value in real local earnings.”

“Township and Village proves that responsible tourism isn’t a ‘nice-to-have’; it’s a powerful economic engine that creates dignity, ownership and sustainable livelihood,” said Annemie Liebenberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch. “As Stellenbosch’s tourism offering expands, T&V gives us the blueprint for ensuring that growth serves everyone, from the storytellers of Kayamandi to the artisans of Ida’s Valley. The T&V enterprise creates pathways to prosperity that honour our communities’ heritage while providing unique, enriching visitor experiences. That’s community tourism leadership at its finest!”

Powered by people and partners

None of this is possible without our community partners across Kayamandi, Ida’s Valley, Kylemore, Pniël and Jamestown – the entrepreneurs who open their communities and homes, share their stories and co‑own the experiences.

We also acknowledge our current and historic strategic partners whose patronage makes inclusive tourism work: the Greater Stellenbosch Trust, Cause Development Agency, Visit Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands District Municipality, Stellenbosch Municipality, Department of Economic Development and Tourism in the Western Cape (DEDAT) and Old Mutual Foundation.

The story of this year (highlights)

• Quality demand, real earnings: Large group bookings from Edwin Doran Sports Tours and Fairfield Tours, plus spectacular craft‑shop sales put consistent money into local hands.
• Experiences made with – not for – communities: Constant renewal and refinement of offers across home dining, heritage walks, music and craft in all communities we work in.
• People before product: A new guide cohort trained and mentored with regional partners – building careers, not just shifts.
• Doing it right: Completion of the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism-sponsored Sustainable Tourism Enterprise Programme (STEP) and adoption of a robust policy suite.

About Township & Village

Township & Village is a community‑based tourism initiative in Stellenbosch that co‑creates and delivers experiences led by local residents – from heritage walks and storytelling evenings to home dining, music and craft. The model prioritises dignity, ownership and fair economics for community partners and aligns with international responsible tourism standards.

Media enquiries & bookings
Website: townshipandvillage.co.za
Email: reservations@townshipandvillage.co.za
Insta and FB: @townshipandvillage

Notes to editors

• Awards: Responsible Tourism Awards 2025 – Global Silver (Peace, Understanding & Inclusivity; sponsored by Sabre); WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2025 – Gold (same category).
• 2025 milestone: R1,000,000+ paid in cash directly to community partners (Jan–Oct 2025).
• Media assets: High‑res images and interviews on request.

ENDS

Over 250 delegates – including airline executives, aviation regulators, government policymakers, and travel industry stakeholders from across Southern Africa – are expected to attend the 55th AASA AGA, which will be held at the CIELA Resort just outside Lusaka.

Under the 2025 theme, “Believe, Stop, Improve”, the Assembly will tackle some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing aviation in the region – from enhancing route connectivity and streamlining regulation to driving digital innovation, sustainability, and skills development across the sector.

“This is an exciting and pivotal moment for regional aviation and for Zambia,” said Captain Josias Walubita, Director of Flight Operations at Proflight Zambia. “As we deepen Zambia’s contribution to Southern African connectivity, we are proud to co-host AASA 2025 and look forward to welcoming our South African and regional colleagues to Lusaka.”

For South African carriers, regulators, and business leaders, the event provides a valuable platform to engage with regional peers on shared structural challenges, such as operational costs, transparent fares, and airspace accessibility, while exploring collaboration opportunities to strengthen inter-SADC air travel.

The AASA Gala Dinner on 18 October will serve as the social highlight of the conference, with over 250 guests expected to enjoy an evening of Zambian hospitality, culinary flair, and culture – all while networking with fellow regional aviation heavyweights, CEOs, regulators, and innovators.

Proflight Zambia is no stranger to South African travellers and business partners. The airline currently operates direct regional flights connecting Lusaka, Livingstone, and Mfuwe with Johannesburg and Cape Town, with a new route to Windhoek launching soon. These routes play a vital role in supporting regional trade, tourism, and family travel across the two countries.

South African travellers are increasingly discovering Zambia’s exceptional safari experiences in destinations like South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi – areas well served by Proflight’s expanding network. The carrier recently added jet services to northern Zambia’s Kasama, improving domestic links for both leisure and business travellers.

In response to evolving traveller expectations – such as flexible ticketing, mobile access, and cashless convenience – Proflight Zambia is investing in enhanced digital systems, including multiple digital payment options and a planned transition to a fully cashless operation by November 2025.

“As regional airlines, we share more than airspace – our futures are tied to growing intra-African travel, trade, and tourism,” said Capt. Walubita. “AASA 2025 will be a critical forum to advance conversations on making Southern African skies more open, efficient, and competitive – for the benefit of all people in the region.”

The AASA AGA is recognised as the largest and most influential event for the aviation and air transport sector in Southern Africa, bringing under one roof the decision-makers shaping regional skies.

With its co-hosting role, Proflight Zambia is reinforcing its commitment to improving connectivity across the continent and working collaboratively with partners, including those in South Africa, to unlock tourism and business growth through aviation.

The resort, located on the west coast of Mahé Island, has undergone a comprehensive transformation, elevating its facilities and services to meet the evolving expectations of global travellers. With 192 fully refurbished guest rooms and suites, including new Lagoon Access Rooms, AVANI+ Barbarons now offers an expanded lagoon-style pool and a diverse range of dining options that celebrate local and international cuisines.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr. Sylvestre Radegonde, was present at the reopening ceremony and commended the resort’s efforts in contributing to the local economy and community. He highlighted the importance of such investments in strengthening Seychelles‘ position as a premier tourist destination.

“The reopening of AVANI+ Barbarons Resort is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of our tourism sector,”said Minister Radegonde. “It reflects our collective efforts to provide exceptional experiences for visitors while ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared with our communities.”

The official opening of AVANI+ Seychelles Barbarons marks not only a new chapter for the property, but reflects the continuing transformation of Seychelles’ tourism landscape.

With three new restaurants, AVANI+ Barbarons Resort promises a refreshed culinary journey featuring dining experiences that blend international flavours with locally inspired dishes, thoughtfully crafted to satisfy every palate. Other amenities include the AvaniSpa, three versatile meeting spaces, and an oceanfront location, making it an ideal venue for destination weddings, incentive travel, and executive retreats.

Principal Secretary for Tourism, Mrs. Sherin Francis, who also attended the event, welcomed the transformation as a timely development that aligns with the department’s broader vision for a more refined and diversified tourism offering.

“The timing of the resort’s opening is perfect. As Seychelles experiences rising demand, this new property enhances our ability to host guests seeking authentic, high-quality experiences. It also reflects investors’ confidence in the destination’s resilience and long-term potential. This development underscores the importance of long-term partnerships and the trust established brands have in Seychelles. Such investments elevate our product standards and improve our global competitiveness as a leading Indian Ocean destination,”said PS Francis.

AVANI+ Barbarons, part of the global hospitality group Minor Hotels, becomes the group’s second property on Mahé. Its reopening and rebranding mark an exciting addition to Seychelles‘ collection of quality hotels, making it the 26th large-scale property on the islands. This milestone highlights the country’s strong appeal as a premier travel destination and demonstrates Minor Hotels’ ongoing confidence in its vibrant tourism industry.

About Tourism Seychelles

Tourism Seychelles is the official destination marketing organisation for the Seychelles Islands. Committed to showcasing the islands’ unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, and luxurious experiences, Tourism Seychelles plays a pivotal role in promoting Seychelles as a premier travel destination worldwide.

“With the Japanese yen currently weaker than it’s been in decades, the country offers incredible value for money if you’re smart about it,” says Antoinette Turner, General Manager at Flight Centre South Africa. “We’re seeing more families take the leap because flights and experiences are far more accessible than most people think.”

This shift is evident as the Japan National Tourism Organization reports a record-breaking 36.9 million international visitors in 2024. A 47.1% increase on 2023.

“From cherry blossoms in bloom to historic temples and futuristic cities, the country offers a captivating blend of old and new,” Turner adds. “Now is the time to go and discover a world that’s vastly different from what we know here in South Africa.”

So, how do you stretch your rands while exploring Tokyo’s neon lights and Kyoto’s ancient alleys? Here are some savvy hacks from Flight Centre to help you explore Japan without the hefty price tag.

Visit during the shoulder season

The most cost-effective times to visit Japan are during the shoulder seasons, occurring twice a year from early April to mid-June, and again from mid-September to early December.

“Cherry blossom season, which runs from late March to early May, is a peak tourism period,” Turner explains. “However, travelling just before or after this can help you save significantly on accommodation and flights. Plus, you can still enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices if you time it just right.”

For those looking to avoid the crowds entirely and who don’t mind warmer, humid conditions, Turner recommends travelling during the rainy season. This begins around June and lasts until mid-July. Wintertime in Japan (December and early March) brings snowfall to Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps – great for skiing and snowboarding, if you have slightly more wiggle room in your budget.

Turner further notes that anime enthusiasts flock to Tokyo in early December for Tokyo Comic Con. Meanwhile, the Golden Week holiday period (April 29 to May 5) is one to avoid unless you book well in advance, as domestic travel surges during this time.

Stay in business hotels

When visiting Japan, consider staying in business hotels to keep cost low. These hotels are clean, well-priced, and conveniently located, providing an excellent alternative to luxury hotels. A good example is APA Hotels, a chain of hotels which tick the box in terms of both position and pricing. Think functional, minimalist stays with exactly what you need (like super-fast Wi-Fi) without any (expensive) bells and whistles. The rooms are small, but the hotels are centrally located, like APA Hotel Chiba Ekimae which is just minutes from Chiba station and the Chiba Urban Monorail.

For a more authentic and affordable experience, Turner recommends family-run minshukus (bed and breakfasts) while exploring smaller towns and cities. “These accommodations provide an authentic experience at a fraction of the cost of larger hotels.”

Embrace konbini life

Visiting local supermarkets around the world can be a really enjoyable experience. It offers a glimpse into local culture, food preferences, and daily life in a new destination. If you’re travelling on a budget, it can also help stretch your rands!

Japanese convenience stores, known as konbini, prove a true hidden gem when it comes to quick, affordable meals. They even earned high praise from the late Anthony Bourdain!

“Kids love the simple and tasty meals available at konbinis,” says Turner. “Think sushi, bento boxes, onigiri, and even piping hot ramen, all for under ¥500 (about R65).”

Of course, street food also gives you an authentic (and affordable) taste of life in Japan, and you’ll be able to sample everything from ramen and takoyaki to taiyaki, okonomiyaki, yakitori, tonkatsu, croquettes, gyoza, and udon. Depending on where you are, Japan’s markets and street vendors are a tempting invitation to sample the freshest fish, veg and local produce – an absolute feast for the senses!

Travel smart with a JR Pass

For those venturing beyond Tokyo, the Japan Rail Pass is a game-changer. “The pass offers unlimited access to Japan’s famous Shinkansen bullet trains and most local lines,” Turner explains. Another perk? Children under six years old can ride for free on most trains, making this option even more affordable and family-friendly.

Planning ahead can maximise both convenience and savings. She suggests downloading JR Rail timetables and purchasing a Japan Rail Pass before your trip to save time and money.

Overall, Japan’s public transportation is efficient, and prepaid IC cards like Suica or PASMO make city travel effortless. “A travel expert can help you get your hands on these, which can even be used for purchases at convenience stores,” Turner adds.

Travel beyond Tokyo

Overall, destinations like Kanazawa, Takayama, and Fukuoka are rich in history and culture, but with fewer crowds and better value.

“These hidden gems offer an intimate slice of Japanese life minus those steep Tokyo prices,” Turner explains. “Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is home to iconic landmarks like Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari Taisha (the Golden Pavilion), both of which offer free or minimal admission.”

Why Japan is a must in 2025

Japan’s prominence on the 2025 travel trend lists comes as no surprise. It’s a country that offers something for everyone. And with the current cost advantages for South Africans, now is the perfect time to start planning your adventure.

“For South Africans, the weak yen presents a prime opportunity to explore a destination that’s vastly different to those traditional fly-and-flop go-tos,” Turner adds. “There’s never been a better time for South Africans to seize this opportunity. It’s more accessible than ever before,” she concludes.

Proflight Zambia is taking responsible tourism to new heights with the introduction of Kasama Coffee – now available onboard select flights and soon to be rolled out to all Proflight Zambia flights This 100% Zambian-grown coffee, cultivated at Kansato Farms in Kasama, is more than just a new inflight beverage – it’s an example of how aviation can support local producers, drive economic upliftment, and offer travellers a meaningful connection to the places they visit. 

A Model for Responsible Tourism in Southern Africa’s Aviation Industry  

As Southern Africa’s aviation industry evolves, partnerships like this prove that airlines can do more than transport passengers – they can support local businesses, preserve cultural identity, and make travel more purposeful.  

“More than ever, travellers want to know that their journey has a positive impact,” says Josias Walubita, Director of Flight Operations at Proflight Zambia.  

“As Zambia’s leading airline, we are committed to uplifting local businesses and showcasing the best of Zambia to the world. Kasama Coffee isn’t just any coffee – it’s a story of sustainability, community impact and Zambian innovation. By serving it onboard, we’re connecting passengers to something truly meaningful.”  

ProFlight Zambia also plays a pivotal role in promoting travel to Zambia’s Northern Province – with Kasama and the Northern Waterfall Circuit now more accessible to international travellers via Proflight’s Johannesburg and Cape Town routes, which connect through Lusaka. This partnership strengthens regional tourism connections while ensuring that economic benefits flow directly into Zambian communities.   

Kasama Coffee: A Brand Built on Community & Ethical Farming 

Founded in Zambia’s Northern Province, Kasama Coffee is rooted in sustainable farming and job creation. 

At Kansato Farms, the founder of Kasama Coffee, Luke Powell, has chosen an approach that prioritises people over machines, ensuring that local communities directly benefit from the thriving coffee industry.  

“We don’t use tractors or mechanical machinery where we can avoid it – we make jobs to put food on plates,” says Luke. “From land preparation- digging the trenches and holes for planting to slashing weeds, turning compost piles and fertilising, it’s all done by hand, creating employment for over 50 people full-time and hundreds more during harvest season.”  

This focus on manual farming techniques and sustainability allows Kasama Coffee to cultivate high-quality beans while providing economic stability to families in one of Zambia’s most remote regions.  

Even the coffee’s packaging is part of this community-first philosophy. Kasama Coffee’s cloth coffee bags are sewn locally by a community member who was supporting orphaned children. Today, this initiative has grown into small businesses, sustaining livelihoods for many locals in the area. 

“When we started growing coffee, it wasn’t just about selling a product – it was about creating jobs, protecting the environment, and ensuring our success benefited the people around us,” explains Luke.

Kasama Coffee uses an innovative approach to sustainability, including:

• Organic, regenerative farming techniques like inoculating seeds with beneficial fungi strains found in Ethiopian highlands and using specially formulated composts that help restore soil health and greatly reduce the need for artificial fertilisers.
• Kansato Farms incorporates Dr Carey Reams RBTI Brix method to monitor and maximise tree health,thus eliminating the need for chemicals to control diseases.
• Integrating indigenous trees into the coffee fields allows birds like ground hornbills to take up residence, preserving biodiversity.
• Artisanal roasting is done locally, reducing the carbon footprint of exporting raw beans for processing elsewhere. 
• Packaging is locally sourced and handmade, reducing plastic and supporting community employment.  

The Role of Airlines in Driving Responsible Tourism  

This collaboration between Proflight Zambia and Kasama Coffee is more than just an inflight service enhancement  – it’s a blueprint for how aviation can unlock lasting benefits for local economies. In an era when sustainability and authentic local experiences shape traveller choices, Proflight Zambia is leading the way in demonstrating how airlines can align with homegrown businesses to create economic opportunities while reducing reliance on imported goods.  

“This is the future of aviation and tourism,” says Josias. “It’s important that local products are given the chance to thrive. Having a truly Zambian coffee on a truly Zambian airline is a big step in that direction.”  

The success of this initiative serves as a model for other airlines in Southern Africa looking to integrate local, sustainable products into their supply chains. By investing in regional businesses, airlines can reduce their carbon footprints and ensure economic benefits remain within their countries.  

A Taste of Zambia in the Skies  

For travellers onboard Proflight Zambia, Kasama Coffee represents more than just a hot cup of filter coffee – it’s a connection to Zambia’s land, people, and culture.  

“When people drink our coffee on board, I want them to feel connected to Zambia – to know that their purchase supports farmers, workers, and communities in one of the most remote parts of Africa,” says Luke.

With this initiative, Proflight Zambia is proving that aviation can be a force for positive change – connecting travellers to destinations and the communities and industries that define them.  

Josias adds: “Kasama Coffee is just the beginning of how we plan to continue integrating locally made products into our inflight experience. We’re proud to lead the way in responsible tourism and sustainable aviation.”  

Lusaka, Zambia – Proflight Zambia has announced a significant enhancement to its domestic schedule, increasing the frequency of its Livingstone–Lusaka route from once daily to twice daily, effective 1 April 2025, as safari season starts up. 

LIVINGSTONE–LUSAKA FREQUENCY INCREASE

The Safari Schedule features:

• An early afternoon service departing Livingstone at 12:20, with an arrival in Lusaka at approximately 13:30. Flights from Lusaka to Livingstone will run at 10:35 for arrival at 11:45.

• An early evening service departing Livingstone at 18:20, arriving in Lusaka around 19:30. Flights from Lusaka to Livingstone will run at 16:35 to arrive at 17:45.

This enhancement is particularly significant as it facilitates seamless connectivity for travellers arriving in Livingstone from Cape Town via direct services and those connecting through Johannesburg. 

The improved frequency reduces transit time and aligns with the peak flow at Victoria Falls, ensuring passengers have maximum time to experience the natural wonder and its associated adventure activities – including white-water rafting, helicopter tours, and wildlife excursions in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

SAFARI SEASON FLIGHT SCHEDULE

Alongside the Livingstone–Lusaka enhancement, Proflight Zambia’s comprehensive safari season timetable, is designed to support travel into Zambia’s key attractions:

Lusaka–Mfuwe 

• Flights on Fridays from 06:55 to arrive at 08:05; Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays, departing at 10:35 to arrive at 13:30; and Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, departing at 18:20 to arrive at 17:45. 

Livingstone – Mfuwe 

• Flights on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays (via Lusaka) and returning on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. 

Mfuwe is the gateway to South Luangwa, renowned as the birthplace of the walking safari. This schedule is tailored to enable optimal use of daylight for game drives and walking safaris, offering travellers exceptional opportunities to encounter leopards, elephants, and endemic species such as Thornicroft’s giraffe.

ADDITIONAL CONNECTIVITY TO TOURISM DESTINATIONS

Proflight Zambia’s Lusaka services also connect travellers with other enticing destinations:

• Mansa: Offering access to Lake Bangweulu—one of Africa’s largest wetlands—Mansa is ideal for birdwatching, fishing, and boat tours. The diverse wildlife makes it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

• Kasama: Kasama provides visitors with memorable experiences at sites such as Chishimba Falls and the Mwela Rock paintings. It is also the gateway to  Lake Tanganyika, the second deepest lake in the world and known for its fishing and snorkelling.

Meeting Traveller Needs with Agility and Reliability

Josias Walubita, Director of Flight Operations at Proflight Zambia, commented: 

“As a proudly Zambian airline that closely monitors seasonal travel trends, we consistently assess our route performance and adapt to meet passenger demand. Increasing the Livingstone–Lusaka frequency gives our customers more flexibility and less transit time. This, along with our detailed safari season timetable, ensures that travellers—from those arriving on our new Cape Town–Livingstone service launched in December 2024 to our long-standing routes—can reach Zambia’s iconic attractions more efficiently.”

“With Victoria Falls at its most dramatic in April and our national parks offering some of the world’s best safari lodges, now is the ideal time for South African travellers to experience Zambia’s unique blend of natural beauty and adventure,” he added.

Passengers are encouraged to secure bookings early via www.flyzambia.com or through their preferred travel agent as demand surges during this peak period.

Originally built in 1840 and last renovated in 1999, the Victoria Market is a historic site that beautifully blends traditional and modern Seychellois life. The temporary venue will offer modern amenities, including air conditioning, improved drainage, and enhanced pest control measures to maintain cleanliness and safety. To ensure the market continues to serve the community during the renovation period, operations will temporarily relocate to the former STC Supermarket in Victoria.

The Agriculture Department is currently working to prepare the new location, conducting a structural evaluation and setting up vendor spaces to ensure a smooth transition. While the former STC Supermarket will not undergo major structural changes, necessary adjustments will be made to improve air circulation and address fire safety concerns. These measures aim to minimise disruption and maintain the market’s high standards of hygiene and operational efficiency.

Despite the change in location, the vibrant atmosphere and welcoming spirit of the vendors will remain unchanged. Shoppers can expect the same level of personal interaction and quality of produce they have always enjoyed. The dedication and personality of the vendors, along with the market’s commitment to excellence, will continue to shine through, ensuring a familiar and welcoming experience.

– The South African Roadshow includes meetings, training sessions, a hosted dinner, a ship visit on Norwegian Dawn, and an introduction to NCL Connect – the company’s new marketing platform for the travel community.

Johannesburg – 16 January, 2024 – Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, will introduce NCL Connect, a new co-branded marketing solution specifically designed for the travel partner community, on a South African Roadshow this week.

Kevin Bubolz, Vice President & Managing Director Continental Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Nirosha Sidat, NCL Country Manager South Africa, will host sessions with key partners – including a tour of Norwegian Dawn in Cape Town – to share the latest updates from NCL.

“Not only is South Africa fast-establishing itself as a world-class destination for cruise ships, but the South African market is increasingly interested in cruising, with the demand for cruise holidays and expedition cruises soaring,” says Sidat. “Our new More at Sea package meets this demand, enhancing the cruise experience with unlimited beverage packages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi packages and incredible shore excursions. When it comes to both our guests and partners, we’re committed to being the easiest cruise line to engage with, and as part of our longstanding ‘Partners First’ philosophy, we’re thrilled not only to be meeting our trade partners in person – but that we’re able to offer them an exciting new platform to grow their cruising business!”

NCL Connect is a tightly integrated marketing solution where travel partners can instantaneously co-brand digital content – pre-designed by NCL’s in-house marketing team – that offers their clients an immersive look into cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line. It offers travel agents and advisors the opportunity to leverage a co-branded website complete with NCL sailings for clients to explore while driving leads directly back to the travel advisor.

The new platform complements NCL’s robust Marketing Headquarters with 800+ ready-to-use or customisable assets such as videos, flyers and more. NCL Connect offers an extra level of marketing support available to travel advisors that provides instant, personalised co-branded content in just one click. The content is then easily shared via all social media, email, and other marketing media channels, with additional digital experiences introduced on an ongoing basis throughout the year.

“Our goal in terms of trade marketing in 2025 is clear: make it personal, make it impactful, and most importantly, make it easy for travel advisors,” says Sidat. “We’re bringing the full weight of our in-house marketing expertise to the table but packaged in a way which makes it easy for travel advisors to take full advantage. Promoting, selling and booking an NCL cruise has never been simpler. I know advisors are going to love it.”

NCL Connect, which is powered by technology from Approach Guides, will be introduced in Cape Town from 15-17 January and in Johannesburg from 20-21 January 2025. 

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About Norwegian Cruise Line

As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 58 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionised the industry by offering guests the opportunity to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, the company offers guests to ‘Experience More at Sea’ by providing them with more to see, more to do, more to enjoy, and more value on their vacation. To further deliver guests with more value, NCL’s ‘More At Sea’ package provides added benefits and inclusions such as unlimited open bar; specialty dining credits; high-speed Wi-Fi; shore excursions credits; as well as free airfare and third and fourth guests sail free on select sailings. Its fleet of 19 contemporary ships sail to 450 of the world’s most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize. Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveler staterooms, club balcony suites, and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company’s ship-within-a-ship concept.

For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, contact a travel professional, call 021 200 6586 or visit www.ncl.com. For the latest news and exclusive content, visit the NCL Newsroom and follow Norwegian Cruise Line on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok and YouTube @NorwegianCruiseLine; and Twitter @CruiseNorwegian. 

Norwegian Cruise Line is a wholly owned subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. To learn more, visit www.nclhltd.com.   

NCL Media Contact

PublicRelations@ncl.com

Locally Issued By:

Celine Patterson | Big Ambitions | celine@bigambitions.co.za