Author: Chukwu Godlove

South Africa’s coastline is one of the most treacherous in the world. The coast stretches over 3,000 kilometres and is built of powerful currents, hidden reefs and unpredictable storms. Over centuries, these waters have claimed hundreds of ships, leaving behind stories of tragedy and survival. Many such stories are commemorated through monuments that stand as reminders of maritime history. Arniston Memorial The wreck of the Arniston in 1815 remains one of South Africa’s most tragic maritime disasters. The ship ran aground in heavy seas, claiming 378 lives. The tragedy was so impactful that the small fishing village of Waenhuiskrans was…

South Africa’s landscapes are diverse and breathtaking, from misty mountains and lush forests to dramatic coastlines. You don’t need days to experience this natural beauty. Here are five scenic hiking trails across South Africa that you can complete in under three hours, perfect for quick escapes, stunning views, and Instagram-worthy photos. 1. Rainbow Gorge, Drakensberg (KwaZulu-Natal) Cathedral Peak, Drakensberg/Chris Bloom from Durban, South Africa/Wikimedia Commons Duration: 2–3 hoursNestled in the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, the Rainbow Gorge trail winds through serene forested valleys to the picturesque Rainbow Waterfall. When the sun hits the mist just right, you might even spot a…

Hear about travel to Cairo, Egypt, as the Amateur Traveler talks to Neil Laird, TV producer and the author of the Prime Time Travelers Series, about his favorite city. Why should you go to Cairo? Neil says, “I’ve traveled to some 70 countries and I’ve been an international documentary  TV producer for 30 years. But anytime people ask me what is my happy place, what is the place that set me all off on this journey, it is Egypt. I’ve been enamored and fascinated by the ancient Egyptians and by the culture there for 30, 35 years, and Cairo is…

In a city known for its bold art, buzzing street life, and unmatched creative energy, Johannesburg has also become South Africa’s thrifting capital. Sweder Breet / Unsplash Across its many neighbourhoods, Joburg’s thrift culture is thriving, offering locals and travellers alike the chance to uncover rare finds, designer bargains, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Thrifting here is more than just shopping; it’s an experience in sustainability, self-expression, and storytelling. Whether you’re after designer treasures, budget-friendly basics, or the perfect retro jacket, these thrift stores should be on your Joburg shopping map. The Conrad Collective, Randburg A curated gem in Blairgowrie, Conrad Collective…

The group said the payment adds an additional financial burden on Nigerian pilgrims. A civil society organisation, Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), has asked the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to abolish the two per cent service charge it imposed on payments made by intending Hajj pilgrims, saying the fee contributes significantly to the rising cost of pilgrimage for Nigerians. In a statement by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Mohammed, on Sunday, IHR described the $90 (₦144,000 based on the ₦1,600 exchange rate benchmark for the upcoming Hajj) charged by the bank as “an unnecessary burden” on pilgrims. The group noted that…

Across Africa, a quiet revolution is transforming how people explore the continent. Eco-resorts developed in partnership with local communities are providing stays that benefit both guests and locals, blending environmentally friendly design with meaningful cultural exchange. Wildlife at Meru National Park (image used for illustrative purposes)/Nina R/Wikimedia Commons These resorts are not just places to visit; they serve as shared spaces where conservation, culture, and community come together. Nqabara Eco River Lodge, Eastern Cape Set where the Nqabara and Nqabarana rivers meet before flowing into the Indian Ocean, Nqabara Eco River Lodge is one of South Africa’s most authentic community-run…

The Department of Transport has confirmed the approval and issuing of a Foreign Operator’s Permit (FOP) to the Abakan Air for transporting general cargo, civilian helicopter, and acrobatic airplanes. The operator applied for the FOP on 09 September 2025. The department subsequently issued the permit on 23 September 2025. “It is important to highlight that the South African government has not blacklisted the operator, concerned. Furthermore, the department has no knowledge or record of any information from any other government indicating that this operator has been blacklisted,” the department said on Monday. The application required the operator to submit information…

Tucked between rugged mountains, forested valleys, and the untamed Wild Coast, South Africa’s Eastern Cape is a dream destination for those who crave the simplicity of sleeping under the stars. Lindsay Doyle / Unsplash Whether you’re drawn to off-grid bush camps, family-friendly glamping sites, or quiet seaside hideaways, the province offers camping retreats that let you disconnect, recharge, and rediscover the rhythm of nature. Here are some of the best camping and glamping spots in the Eastern Cape. AfriCamps Addo, Hayterdale Trails If you want the comfort of glamping without losing touch with nature, AfriCamps Addo is an ideal choice.…

Morogoro — MIKUMI National Park in Morogoro Region is experiencing a significant increase in both domestic and international tourist arrivals, following the success of the acclaimed documentaries, ‘Tanzania: The Royal Tour’ and ‘The Amazing Tanzania.’ These films have become powerful tools in showcasing Tanzania’s tourism potential to the world. Speaking during a recent visit by a team of researchers from a consortium of five universities – Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), Aga Khan University (AKU), Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) and Simon Fraser University (SFU) of Canada, Mikumi’s Chief Park…

When night falls over Africa, some of its most enchanting wildlife reveal a hidden side. Shayna “Bepple” Take/Unsplash From flickering fireflies to shimmering plankton and glowing desert scorpions, these creatures light up the night through a phenomenon known as bioluminescence. If you’ve ever wondered what causes these natural illuminations and where in Africa can you witness them, here is a guide to nature’s glowing wonders. Glowing scorpions Under ultraviolet light, some scorpions reveal an uncanny turquoise glow. This comes from chemicals in their exoskeleton that absorb UV light and reemit it. Scientists are still investigating why, but theories include attracting…