Lesotho has increased toll gate tees at all ports of entry!

Lesotho has increased toll gate fees at all ports of entry on 01 April 2025. The Lesotho Road Fund Secretariat has introduced these adjustments to enhance road maintenance and infrastructure development across the country. The new fees will apply to both local and foreign-registered vehicles across four vehicle classes.

New Toll Fees for Lesotho Border Crossings (2025) 

• Class 1: Motorcycles & Light Vehicles
• Local Vehicles: M70.00 (previously M65.00)
• Foreign Vehicles: M100.00 (previously M90.00)
• Class 2: Medium Heavy Vehicles (vehicles with a heavy axle)
• Local Vehicles: M120.00 (previously M110.00)
• Foreign Vehicles: M165.00 (previously M150.00)
• Class 3: Large Heavy Vehicles (vehicles with three axles)
• Local Vehicles: M175.00 (previously M160.00)
• Foreign Vehicles: M300.00 (previously M270.00)
• Class 4: Extra-Large Heavy Vehicles (vehicles with four or more axles)
• Local Vehicles: M420.00 (previously M390.00)
• Foreign Vehicles: M650.00 (previously M580.00

Etosha National Park in May!

May marks the start of the dry season in Namibia's Etosha National Park, making it one of the best times for an unforgettable safari experience. With mild temperatures, excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, and breathtaking landscapes, May is a fantastic month to visit this Namibian gem. Here’s what you can expect when traveling to Etosha National Park in May.

Weather & Landscape:

As the transition from the rainy to the dry season takes place, the weather in Etosha National Park becomes increasingly favorable for visitors. Daytime temperatures hover around 25-28°C (77-82°F), while nights and early mornings can be cool, sometimes dropping to 10°C (50°F). Minimal rainfall means clear skies and dust-free air, creating excellent conditions for photography.
The lush greenery of the wet season starts to fade, revealing Etosha National Park's signature golden-brown savanna and iconic salt pan. This change in landscape enhances wildlife visibility, as animals are less concealed by dense vegetation. Additionally, as natural water sources dry up, animals begin gathering at permanent waterholes, making it easier to spot them.

Wildlife & Animal Sightings:

Etosha National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Big Four (elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos), giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and various antelope species. With the drier conditions setting in, animals are more active near water sources, offering superb game-viewing opportunities.
Predators, such as lions and leopards, become more visible as they stake out waterholes to hunt prey. Large elephant herds can also be spotted traveling to their preferred drinking spots. Birdwatchers will still find plenty of resident species, although migratory birds start to leave at this time.

Best Places for Wildlife Viewing:

• In May, some of the top waterholes for wildlife in Etosha National Park spotting include:
• Okaukuejo Waterhole – Famous for its black rhino sightings at night.
• Halali Waterhole – A great place to see leopards and elephants.
• Namutoni Waterhole – Offers diverse sightings, from antelopes to big cats.

Travel Tips:

• May marks the beginning of the peak season, so it’s wise to book accommodations well in advance.
• Head out early in the morning or late afternoon when wildlife is most active.
• The temperatures can vary throughout the day, so bring lightweight clothing for the daytime and warmer layers for the evenings.
• Choosing accommodations near popular waterholes increases the chance of spotting wildlife from your lodge.
• With clear skies and active wildlife, May is an ideal time for photography.
• While the malaria risk is lower in May, using insect repellent is still advisable.

Why Visit Etosha in May?

May is a prime time to visit Etosha National Park, as it combines comfortable weather, thinning vegetation, and incredible wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor, May offers an unforgettable experience in Namibia's most famous national park.

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Swakopmund: Mole beach and surrounds set for major upgrade!

Exciting changes are coming to Mole beach and surrounds in Swakopmund, as the Swakopmund Municipality launches the Mole Cubicles Upgrade Project, a N$4.8 million development aimed at enhancing the area for visitors and local entrepreneurs.
The project includes the construction of enclosed storage cubicles designed for SMEs showcasing arts and crafts, providing a vibrant space for local talent. A stunning wooden lighthouse tower will also be built, featuring four toilets, a security services room, and a sea rescue room - boosting both convenience and safety.
To improve swimming and boating regulations, the new lighthouse will be equipped with boom facilities to monitor the launching area effectively. This upgrade ensures a better-organized, safer experience for all beachgoers.
The Swakopmund Municipality officially handed over the construction site on 26 March 2025, with project completion expected by October 2025. Once finished, the revamped Mole beach will not only enhance Swakopmund's coastal charm but also provide valuable opportunities for local businesses while ensuring a safer, more enjoyable environment for visitors.

Malawi: Malawi Airlines expands domestic services with additional flights between Lilongwe and Blantyre!

Malawi Airlines, the national carrier of Malawi, has expanded its domestic flight schedule with additional services between Kamuzu International Airport (LLW) in Lilongwe and Chileka International Airport (BLZ) in Blantyre. Effective today, 03 April 2025, the airline now operates two extra weekly flights on Mondays and Thursdays, enhancing connectivity between Malawi's two largest cities.
The new flights depart Lilongwe at 11:00, arriving in Blantyre at 11:40. The return service leaves Blantyre at 12:10, landing in Lilongwe at 12:50. This expansion aims to provide greater convenience for travellers and boost domestic air travel within Malawi.

Stay tuned for more updates on Malawi Airlines and the latest travel news in the region!

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Botswana-South Africa border post update: Bray Border Post reopened!

The Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) has officially announced the reopening of the Bray Border Post on 01 April 2025. The crossing, which connects Botswana and South Africa, was temporarily closed due to flooding of the Molopo River. Travellers can once again use this convenient entry point for cross-border movement between the two countries.

The Bray Border Post is a small but essential crossing between South Africa's North West province and southern Botswana  It is located near Bray, South Africa, with the nearest Botswana towns being    Werda (55 km away) and Khakhea (95 km away).

The standard operating hours for the Bray Border Post are from 07:00 to 16:00 daily. Facilities at the border post are limited. Travellers should ensure they carry all necessary documentation, including a valid passport and vehicle papers. Fuel is available on both sides of the border. However, it's advisable to confirm availability in advance, especially on the Botswana side, as the next fuel stations are located in Sekoma (185 km away), Phepeng (110 km), or Tsabong (195 km).

For hassle-free travel, plan ahead and check for any updates on border conditions before your journey. Stay tuned for more travel news and updates!

OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg: Temporary closure of MSP 2 Level 2 Pre-Booked Parking!

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has announced the temporary closure of MSP 2 Level 2 pre-booked parking at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg due to the installation of advanced bay detectors. During this period, passengers and airport users are advised to park at Parkade 2 North upper levels. To facilitate construction, entry booms will remain closed, while one exit lane will remain open for vehicles already parked in the facility.
The installation of bay detectors commenced on 01 April 2025 and is scheduled for completion by 07 April 2025.
ACSA’s car park attendants will be available to assist passengers and direct them to alternative parking options.

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Cape Town: SANParks expands elite SEAM team to strengthen protection in Table Mountain National Park!

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has expanded its elite Sea, Aerial, and Mountain (SEAM) ranger force with 24 new graduates, more than doubling the current team. This increase significantly enhances the unit’s capacity to safeguard visitors and protect the natural environment within Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town, South Africa.

The SEAM team plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of visitors and maintaining the environmental integrity of Table Mountain National Park. Candidates underwent rigorous physical and mental assessments before receiving para-military training. This specialized training prepares them for high-risk operations aimed at tackling various security and environmental threats facing the park.

The SEAM unit comprises expertly trained special operators, a multi-purpose canine unit specializing in apprehension, detection, and man-tracking, as well as aerial and vessel support teams. These resources enable the unit to effectively combat criminal activities such as poaching, illegal plant harvesting, and theft.

Since its establishment in December 2021, the SEAM team has successfully conducted:

• 116 arrests of suspects involved in environmental and security-related crimes.
• 88 helicopter deployments for surveillance and response operations.
• 1,003 foot patrols across Table Mountain National Park.
• 400 K9 deployments to support detection and apprehension efforts.

The newly graduated rangers will integrate seamlessly into the multi-disciplinary SEAM team, enhancing its ability to conduct intelligence-driven operations. These operations target criminal networks engaged in illegal activities within Table Mountain National Park's land and marine environments.

By leveraging strategic information, the SEAM team proactively disrupts threats, ensuring a safer environment for both visitors and wildlife. Their efforts include targeted special operations against robbery suspects, poachers, and illegal plant harvesters.

This initiative is made possible through vital partnerships with key stakeholders, including the SANParks Honorary Rangers, the Table Mountain Fund and the Foundation for a Sustainable Future.

SANParks remains committed to fostering these collaborations to ensure sustainable conservation efforts and the long-term protection of South Africa's natural heritage for generations to come.
With the expansion of the SEAM team, Table Mountain National Park is now better equipped than ever to address security challenges while preserving its rich biodiversity. Visitors can enjoy the park with increased peace of mind, knowing that a highly trained and specialized force is actively safeguarding both the environment and their safety.