ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORISATION FOR SOUTH AFRICA   

South Africa is launching an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, allowing travellers from visa-required countries to enter using only biometrics, no forms, stamps, or queues. The system uses facial recognition and machine learning for fast, secure approvals.

A phased rollout begins with G20 countries (China, India, Indonesia, Mexico), eventually expanding globally. The initiative aims to simplify visas, enhance security, and boost tourism by enabling faster bookings in key markets. 

JOBURG AND DURBAN WIN TRADE SHOWS   

Johannesburg and Durban have been confirmed as host cities for South Africa’s leading trade shows, Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba, for the next five years.

Meetings Africa 2026 will take place from 23–25 February at the Sandton Convention Centre, while Africa’s Travel Indaba runs from 11–14 May at Durban’s Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre. Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille noted the events’ importance for economic growth, job creation, and positioning Africa as a globally competitive destination.

BROOKDALE ESTATE OPENS NEW LODGE IN 2026

Brookdale Estate in Paarl will expand its hospitality offering with the launch of The Lodge at Brookdale Estate in March 2026. Designed as a private retreat for families and friends, the lodge accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 en-suite bedrooms, with panoramic views of the vineyards, Paarl Rock, and Drakenstein Mountains.

Blending elegance and privacy, the lodge features spacious living areas, a contemporary kitchen, entertainment spaces, and expansive terraces for seamless indoor-outdoor living.

FIRST HOODED VULTURE NEST IN KZN  

KwaZulu-Natal has recorded its first active hooded vulture nest during the 2025 Zululand Vulture Project aerial survey, marking the southernmost breeding site ever documented for this critically endangered species. With only 50–100 breeding pairs in South Africa, the find provides vital data for conservation planning.

The survey, conducted by Wildlife ACT in collaboration with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and The Bateleurs, also noted slight increases in lappet-faced and African white-backed vulture populations, though no white-headed vulture nests were found. Brent Coverdale of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife highlighted the significance: “The confirmation of a hooded vulture nest offers hope and renewed urgency for protecting these birds and the ecosystems they support.”

MORE FAMILY COLLECTION IS NOW MORE COLLECTION  

  • After 9 months of research with the travel trade, MORE Family Collection has rebranded as MORE Collection. The word “family” sometimes caused confusion, with some thinking the brand was only for family holidays.

    The new name makes it clear the group welcomes all travellers to its lodges, boutique hotels, and private homes in South Africa. CEO Robert More said: “Family will always be part of us, but this change lets us share our brand with more clarity and spirit.”

These seasonal uplift flights will operate until 11 February 2026.

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)