A Valor executive argues that empowering GMs to act as local entrepreneurs, rather than following rigid brand standards, is the key competitive differentiator for international hotel brands operating in Africa.
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India's largest hospitality company, today announced the opening of Taj Bush Lodge, Greater Kruger South Africa.
Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced the signing of Umfolozi River Hotel, KwaZulu Natal, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, in partnership with Umfolozi Hotel and Spa (Pty) Ltd. Expected to open in 2028, the hotel marks the brand's second Tapestry Collection signing in South Africa within the last year, demonstrating Hilton's continued growth across key leisure destinations in the country. The signing took place during Africa's Travel Indaba in Durban with representatives from Hilton, Umfolozi Hotel and Spa (Pty) Ltd, and Valor Hospitality Partners.
Valor Hospitality signs two South African properties: a 102-room Tapestry Collection by Hilton in KwaZulu-Natal (2028) and a lifestyle aparthotel in Cape Town (2027), expanding its 100+ hotel African portfolio.
Cheetah Plains, South Africa’s premier eco-luxury safari lodge nestled within the celebrated Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, is thrilled to announce the appointment of NJ van der Merwe as its new Managing Director, supported by his wife Mettie in the expanded role of General Manager. This leadership decision marks an exciting new chapter for the brand as it continues to elevate its world-class safari offerings and reinforce its commitment to sustainable tourism, personalised hospitality and luxurious, exclusive-use experiences.
How restaurants are turning their wine lists into a powerful storytelling tool for regenerative farming and sustainable viticulture.
The community-partnered collection unites six lodges along 20 kilometers of Sand River, with new flagship Khensani River Lodge opening December 2026.
Virgin Limited Edition, the award-winning collection of unique retreats part of the hospitality brand Virgin Hotels Collection, is delighted to announce the re-imagining of its iconic private game reserve, Ulusaba, one of the original properties that launched the portfolio 25 years ago. Both lodges at the reserve in South Africa’s world-famous Sabi Sand will be re-designed from the ground up to create a truly extraordinary 20-bedroom retreat featuring spacious all-suite accommodations with private plunge pools and enhanced wellness facilities.
An intimate and romantic lodge set on the edge of a rare sand forest in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal Province, andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge is set for a thoughtful refurbishment that will preserve its quiet magic while elevating its elegance and sense of place. Tucked between rare sand forest and a sweeping grassy meadow in the diverse Phinda Private Game Reserve, the lodge's six Suites are being reimagined to offer even greater comfort and exclusivity. Phinda Vlei Lodge will welcome children aged 12 and older only, creating a calm, quiet, and romantic experience that still remains open to families with older children. Each space is being meticulously considered to slow the rhythm of a stay, draw attention to the surrounding wilderness and weave stillness into the experience itself.
Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg has appointed Brenda Magome as Spa Manager, reinforcing its commitment to world-class wellness leadership at one of South Africa's most iconic luxury hotels.
Marriott International, Inc. and V&A Waterfront Holdings today announced a signed agreement to open The Cape Town EDITION within the V&A Waterfront in 2026. This milestone agreement is anticipated to mark the debut of EDITION Hotels in Africa, bringing its signature taste-making design, innovation, and consistent, excellent service to Cape Town.
Inspired by the raw beauty, vibrant culture, and laid-back spirit of Cape Town, Morea House, Autograph Collection, has opened its doors in Camps Bay. The new 90-room hotel joins Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott Bonvoy's diverse and dynamic portfolio of independent hotels championing individuality.
Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg today celebrates the official opening of its Destination Lobby and Lobby Lounge, a light-filled, architecturally striking space that completes the hotel's most ambitious transformation to date. The debut represents the final chapter of an extensive building project initiated in 2023, bringing enhanced facilities, new business opportunities, and renewed energy to one of Johannesburg's most distinguished addresses.
South Africa's G20 Presidency secured commitments from leaders representing 70% of global tourism to advance digital innovation, air connectivity, and sustainable tourism financing.
Nearly seven in ten South African travellers (69%) plan to take the same or more holidays in 2026 compared to 2025, including 49% who intend to travel more frequently, according to Marriott Bonvoy’s Ticket to Travel research. Younger generations are leading demand, with 66% of Gen Z planning on taking more holidays next year and embracing AI planning tools, luxury add-ons, and passion-driven trips.
Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced the debut of its lifestyle brand Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Sub-Saharan Africa, following the signing of agreement for a new property - The Sterling Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton in South Africa. This addition reinforces Hilton's continued growth across Africa, with plans to open more than 100 hotels on the continent in the coming years.
Club Med, the pioneer of premium all-inclusive holidays, is set to make its debut in South Africa with the launch of Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari, located on the breathtaking Dolphin Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Scheduled to open in July 2026, with sales commencing in October 2025, this project is the country's first high-end all-inclusive resort, combining the best of beachside relaxation and exclusive Big Five safari adventure.
Renowned South African fashion designer and LVMH Prize winner Thebe Magugu is partnering with Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town, to launch the THEBE MAGUGU SUITE and MAGUGU HOUSE CAPE TOWN this December. The partnership - which marks Thebe Magugu's debut into luxury hospitality and Belmond's first Designer Residence concept - brings Thebe's distinctive Afro-modernist vision to one of Cape Town's most iconic hotels. It also underscores Mount Nelson's commitment to championing contemporary African culture while providing a space for the continent's next generation of creative visionaries.
The Tourism Investment Forum, hosted by the Government of South Africa, brought together global tourism leaders to explore investment opportunities in South Africa and across the African continent. Highlighting South Africa's vibrant tourism sector, which welcomed nearly 9 million international visitors and 47 million domestic trips last year, contributing over 12% to national GDP, the Forum underscored the country's role as a gateway for regional tourism development.
Jumeirah, a global leader in luxury hospitality and a member of Dubai Holding, has announced the appointment of Xander Labuschagne as General Manager of Hospitality for Jumeirah Thanda Safari in South Africa.