Author: Chukwu Godlove
Township tourism is experiencing a vibrant revival in South Africa. Michael Denne / Wikimedia Commons Once viewed through the lens of history and hardship, many townships are now redefining themselves as cultural hubs, entrepreneurial spaces, and must-visit destinations for travellers seeking authentic experiences. This new wave of township tourism highlights art, food, music, and community life, while encouraging more mindful, respectful travel. Why township tourism is thriving South African townships have always been central to the country’s history, but they’re also spaces of innovation, resilience, and creativity. From colourful street art and buzzing food markets to jazz clubs and local…
South Africa’s oldest churches are anchors in time. Dietmar Rabich/Wikimedia Commons They carry the stories of settlers, missionaries and local communities who built them with a mix of faith and determination. These sacred buildings are among the earliest examples of colonial architecture. Yet, they also reflect the cultural exchanges that shaped the nation’s past. For visitors, they offer a chance to experience history by stepping into spaces where generations have gathered for centuries. St George’s Church and Cathedral, Cape Town St George’s Anglican Cathedral is one of Cape Town’s most recognisable landmarks. The first St George’s Church was consecrated in…
When most people picture Africa’s wild landscapes, they immediately think of savannah plains, desert dunes, or thick jungle. Yet deep into the folds of the continent lie vast expanses of fresh (and sometimes salty) water — lakes so immense they are often called “inland seas.” These waters are not only ecological marvels but also gateways to culture, adventure, and the pulse of human life along their shores. Here are four of the lakes that stand out: Lake Malawi, Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Turkana. Lake Malawi Lake Malawi/Craig Manners/Unsplash Straddling Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania, Lake Malawi is a shimmering…
Food has always been about more than nourishment. It is a way to connect and to celebrate the simple joy of being together. engin akyurt/Unsplash A growing number of restaurants are embracing this spirit through communal dining where guests gather around shared tables, often with strangers, to enjoy a meal that feels more like a gathering than a booking. For foodies who crave connection as much as flavour, these are experiences that linger long after the plates have been cleared. The Pot Luck Club | Cape Town Perched high above the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, The Pot Luck Club…
Cycling is as much a way of exercise as it is a way of exploring the country’s landscapes at a slower pace. Juanita Swart/Unsplash Giba Gorge Just outside Durban, Giba Gorge MTB Park has built a reputation as one of the most rider-friendly destinations in KZN. With over 40 kilometres of graded trails, a BMX track, and family-friendly facilities, it’s a great option for weekend trips or day visits. The nearby Valley of 1000 Hills also offers dramatic riding through rural landscapes, with accommodation ranging from eco-lodges to B&Bs that cater to cyclists. Breakaway Trails For a quieter retreat, the…
Backpacking across Africa promises adventure unlike anywhere else in the world. Aditya Saxena / Unsplash From the red dunes of Namibia to the bustling souks of Morocco, from wildlife safaris in Kenya to the tropical beaches of Mozambique, the continent offers a rich mix of landscapes, cultures, and experiences. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro or immersing yourself in the vibrant music scene of West Africa, backpacking here is both rewarding and transformative. Why backpack Africa? Unlike traditional tours, backpacking gives travellers the flexibility to move at their own pace, connect deeply with local communities, and explore…
When it comes to South African safaris, places like Kruger and Addo often steal the spotlight. Yet, scattered across the country are smaller national parks that pack a powerful punch. These parks may be modest in size, but they shine in biodiversity, history, and unforgettable scenery. Whether you’re seeking wildflowers, shipwrecks, or endangered antelope, Bontebok, Agulhas, Namaqua, and Mountain Zebra National Parks prove that great things come in small packages. Bontebok National Park Bontebok National Park/Landia Davies/Wikimedia Commons At just 28 km², Bontebok National Park near Swellendam is South Africa’s smallest. It was created with a singular mission, which was…
There’s something timeless about floating silently above the earth, carried only by the wind. In Southern Africa, hot air ballooning isn’t just about the ride — it’s about witnessing landscapes and wildlife from an entirely new perspective. From desert dunes painted in red and gold to sweeping savannah plains teeming with life, every region offers its own version of magic. Here’s where to rise with the dawn and drift across some of the continent’s most iconic backdrops. Magaliesberg, South Africa Bill Harrop’s Balloon Safari in Magaliesburg/Axel Bührmann from Here, South Africa/Wikimedia Commons Just over an hour from Johannesburg and Pretoria,…
On the Next Morning, Switch show on Next Radio 106.1FM, Hon. Mugarra, the State Minister for Tourism, shared inspiring insights about his personal journey into conservation and tourism, as well as Uganda’s unmatched beauty and hospitality. Growing up in Ntoroko, a protected area surrounded by a tourist reserve, Hon. Mugarra explained that he naturally developed a deep appreciation for conservation. “That environment sparked my lasting interest in the field,” he said. His background continues to drive his commitment to protecting Uganda’s natural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism. But beyond landscapes and wildlife, he emphasised that Uganda’s greatest treasure is its…
Addis Ababa — The contribution of research is essential to expand knowledge and support evidence based decision-making in the tourism sector, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa said. The 5th National Conference on tourism research and studies, which brought together scholars, policymakers, and hotel and tourism industry leaders, was held in Addis Ababa today. The conference illustrated how tourism can serve as a catalyst for economic enhancement and social equity in urban environments, highlighting ways to promote sustainable tourism, ensure the cultural heritages of the country are preserved, and foster economic growth and environmental stewardship. Opening the conference, the Minister pointed out…