Welcome to the 49th edition of TravelComments.com’s Weekly Travel Update

 

(Posted 13th July 2026)

 

 

This week’s digest focuses on major developments across Southern Africa’s travel and tourism sector, including South Africa’s latest seasonal weather outlook, Mozambique’s ongoing post-flood tourism recovery, a major new partnership between Etihad Airways and fastjet Zimbabwe, planned upgrades to Mpumalanga’s nature reserves, and our latest guide to visiting Kruger National Park in August.

You’ll also find updates on Durban’s beaches, renovations at Addo Elephant National Park’s Nyathi Rest Camp, the Tsitsikamma Suspension Bridge, and our newest seasonal travel guide to Victoria Falls in August.

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As always, our aim is to keep you informed about the latest travel developments, park news, airline updates and seasonal travel advice to help you plan your next Southern African adventure with confidence.

Thank you for reading and for supporting TravelComments.com. We hope you enjoy this week’s collection of travel news and inspiration.

06 July 2026

South Africa Weather Outlook: What travellers can expect from July to November 2026

If you’re planning a trip to South Africa over the coming months, it may be worth keeping an eye on the latest seasonal weather outlook. READ MORE

Durban beach update: All monitored bathing beaches are open and safe

Planning a trip to Durban? There’s good news for beach lovers.

The latest water quality results released by the eThekwini Municipality confirm that all regularly monitored bathing beaches across Durban currently meet South Africa’s national recreational water quality standards, making them safe for swimming, surfing and other beach activities. READ MORE

Addo Elephant National Park’s Nyathi Rest Camp to close for renovations

Travellers planning a visit to Addo Elephant National Park later this year should note that Nyathi Rest Camp will temporarily close for renovations from September 2026. According to South African National Parks (SANParks), the refurbishment programme is expected to take approximately six months, during which no accommodation bookings will be accepted. READ MORE

Mozambique Travel Update July 2026: Post-flood recovery and tourism conditions

Mozambique continues its gradual recovery following the severe flooding that affected large parts of the country during the 2025/26 rainy and cyclone season. While the peak disaster phase has passed, the situation on the ground remains uneven: some tourism regions are fully operational again, while others are still dealing with infrastructure repairs, seasonal access disruptions, and lingering vulnerabilities in low-lying coastal and riverine areas. READ MORE

08 July 2026

Kruger National Park in August: Weather, wildlife & travel tips

August is one of the very best months to experience Kruger National Park. As winter gradually gives way to spring, the bush remains dry, wildlife becomes increasingly concentrated around permanent water sources, and game viewing reaches its peak. Pleasant daytime temperatures, minimal rainfall, and excellent visibility make August a favourite month for photographers, self-drive travellers, and first-time safari visitors alike. READ MORE

Major Upgrades Planned for Mpumalanga’s Nature Reserves: What travellers can expect

If you’re planning to explore Mpumalanga’s spectacular landscapes over the next year, you’ll notice a number of improvements taking shape across some of the province’s best-known nature reserves and tourist attractions. READ MORE

Etihad Airways and fastjet Zimbabwe announce interline, codeshare and frequent flyer partnership

Travelling to Zimbabwe is set to become even easier after Etihad Airways and fastjet Zimbabwe signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a new interline partnership, codeshare agreement and frequent flyer partnership. READ MORE

09 July 2026

Garden Route travel update: Tsitsikamma Suspension Bridge remains open to visitors

Travellers heading to the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park can still enjoy one of the area’s most iconic experiences. The famous Suspension Bridge at Storms River Mouth remains open to visitors while refurbishment work continues. READ MORE

Victoria Falls in August: Weather, water levels, wildlife & travel tips

August is one of the most rewarding months to visit Victoria Falls, the spectacular natural wonder on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. During this time of year, the Zambezi River has moved well beyond its peak flood levels, revealing a different side of the falls: clearer views, dramatic rocky gorges, excellent wildlife viewing and some of the most exciting adventure activities on the river. READ MORE

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