CAPE AGULHAS LIGHTHOUSE REOPENS AFTER REPAIRS   

The Cape Agulhas Lighthouse, one of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks, has reopened to visitors from 29 August. The lighthouse is managed by Agulhas National Park and has been closed for a month to carry out important repairs.

Restoration work was overseen by the Transnet National Ports Authority, with the aim of keeping the historic structure safe and well-preserved for future generations.

Visitors can now once again enjoy the stunning views and rich history offered by this famous site at the southernmost tip of Africa.

CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE UNDER RESTORATION   

The Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town is receiving a well-earned restoration. As South Africa’s oldest surviving colonial building, built between 1666 and 1679, the Castle holds a special place in the country’s history.

Recent work includes fresh paint, tidier gardens, and upgrades to public areas and facilities. The Castle Control Board, led by CEO Calvyn Gilfellen, is overseeing the project with care and respect for the building’s heritage.

Although restoring a 369-year-old monument comes with its own set of challenges, the team remains committed to preserving this important landmark for future generations to enjoy.

TOURISM TO SOUTH AFRICA GROWS STRONGLY IN JULY

South Africa welcomed a big rise in overseas visitors this July, with arrivals jumping by 20.1% compared to the same month last year. This growth came from all major source regions, showing a strong global interest in the country.

Europe, South Africa’s biggest overseas market, saw a 15.4% increase, with 87,654 visitors making up nearly half of all overseas arrivals. The UK stood out with a 31.9% rise, showing a fast recovery in travel from Britain.

Other regions also showed strong growth:

  • North America: up 14.5%
  • Australasia: up 45.6%
  • Central and South America: up 29%
  • Asia: up 16.5%, with India and China growing by 3.5% and 2.8% respectively
  • Middle East: up 57.4%, led by a 70.3% increase from Saudi Arabia

From January to July this year, South Africa recorded just under 1.3 million overseas arrivals – a 6.6% increase from the same period last year. 

SAA EXPANDS NETWORK WITH BOTSWANA ROUTE  

SAA will launch a twice-daily service between Johannesburg and Gaborone, starting November 4.

The morning service departs Johannesburg at 06h35 and arrives in Gaborone at 07h35. The return flight departs Gaborone at 08h25 and arrives in Johannesburg at 09h25.

The afternoon flight departs Johannesburg at 16h40 and arrives in Gaborone at 17h40. The return flight departs Gaborone at 18h30 and arrives in Johannesburg at 19h30.

SILVERBACK LODGE REOPENS IN BWINDI  

Marasa Africa has reopened Silverback Lodge in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest after a full redesign by HesseKleinloog Studio. The updated lodge features glass-lined guest rooms, a forest-view dining deck, and interiors that blend modern style with Ugandan heritage.

Local materials such as eucalyptus timber, woven crafts, and polished concrete were used throughout. Over 90% of the construction team came from nearby communities, with local artisans and suppliers playing a key role.

 Our Offices will be closed on these below days:

24 September 2025 – (Heritage Day)

16 December 2025 – (Day Of reconciliation)

25 December 2025 – (Christmas Day)