It’s a new year and a new chance to fall in love with all that Africa has to offer.

Traveling to this astounding continent shouldn’t feel like another cookie-cutter mould safari trip. That’s why from the eerie desert ghost town of Namibia to seeking out hidden gems in Kenya, and updated Covid-19 travel advice, these articles will inspire you to start planning a dream safari trip like no other.

Let’s get started…

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From Africa with Love:

Why You Need to Visit Kolmanskop Ghost Town in Namibia

Source: Lifestyle Traveler

Looking for something a little different in the African bush? This article teaches you exactly why you need to add Kolmanskop Ghost Town to your African safari bucket list. Located in the Southwest Namibian desert, this otherworldly ghost town was abandoned in the 20th century.

Since then, it’s been slowly sinking into the beautiful dunes, as it continues to be engulfed by sand year on year. Venturing here is like entering a time capsule. Many of the building’s interiors have stayed the same since abandonment, and provide a mysterious air for all who approach.

Mozambique Records Largest Sighting of Dugongs Since the 1990s

Source: Getaway

Bazaruto Archipelago National Park in Mozambique recently documented the largest herd of dugongs seen along the East African Coast since the 1990’s. This magnificent species of sea cow is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN red list and numbers continue to dwain.

Which is why this sighting is so remarkable, it shows promising signs for potential population growth in the future.

How would you like to spot one of these majestic creatures?

The Best Shopping Experiences in Nairobi, Kenya

Source: Condé Nast Traveler

When you think of Kenya, what springs to mind? My guess is, your first thoughts jump to an array of national parks and the vast Masai Mara brimming with wildlife and the “Big 5”. But, there’s another side to Kenya that the average tourist doesn’t often get to explore – The eclipsing shopping experiences, the beautiful city of Nairobi has to offer.

From eye-popping art to hidden market finds, Conde Nast Travelers local Nairobi writer, Wendy Watta encapsulates the most unique shopping experiences you can find, should you take a detour after your safari.

“Kenya’s can-do energy converges in the capital. Here, traditional craft is getting a fun twist and waste materials are being repurposed into one-of-a-kind pieces.”

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The Top ‘In Case You Missed it’ Articles:

Kenya Tourism Board records 40% Growth in Tourism Numbers

Source: ATTA

Ever fancied a trip to Kenya? I may be biased, having been born and raised in this beautiful country but it truly is a gem not to be missed. And, it seems many others agree as the Kenyan Tourism Board records a 40.8% growth in tourism numbers to sum up 2021 travel to the region. The US market also recorded a confident uptake in travel to Uganda (9%) and Tanzania (8.9%).

Feel like you’re missing out? Check out these once-in-a-lifetime Kenyan experiences to tickle your inner travel bug.

U.S. Travel Praises U.S. Lifting of Travel Ban on Southern African Nations

Source: Inside Travel Report

If you’re feeling hesitant or confused about travel restrictions across Africa, there is good news on the horizon. The US, along with many other countries recently lifted the ban on Southern African Nations.

But, what does this mean for entry requirements? A great tool to use to check your individual travel situation is SkyScanner’s Covid-19 Travel Updates and Restrictions map which is updated daily. Just input your destination and departure country, and the page delivers you all the information you need for travel.

Have more specific questions? Feel free to get in touch, I want you to feel 100% assured and safe before planning your trip.

Zimbabwe Game Park to Receive $15million From New Wildlife Fund

Source: Finance24

One of Zimbabwe’s biggest wildlife reserves is set to receive a substantial amount of funding to the tune of $1m annually for 15 years. This much-needed boost from the Legacy-Landscape Fund (LLF) will help sustain the game park’s operations in fighting against poachers. 

“Protected and wild areas remain the mainstay of biodiversity conservation and our best tool at mitigating climate change across the globe,” said Hugo Van der Westhuizen, director of Gonarezhou Conservation Trust.