Category: News

Every gorilla born is a reason to celebrate! And Rwanda takes this seriously with its Kwita Izina festival. Rwanda’s annual gorilla naming ceremony has become a symbol of the country’s landmark efforts to bring its mountain gorilla population back from the brink of extinction.

Since 2005, this event has been on the calendar to officially name new mountain gorillas in the country’s reserves. This has become a global celebration of nature and further highlights the importance of these incredible animals.

If you’re thinking about enjoying a gorilla trekking safari, there couldn’t be a more auspicious time to plan your trip than during Kwita Izina, the gorilla naming ceremony! Here are five interesting things you should know about this celebration:

1. A Tradition Rooted in Culture

Kwita Izina is inspired by an ancient Rwandan tradition where families name their children in the presence of loved ones. This modern adaptation honours baby gorillas born in the past year, making it both a cultural and conservation milestone.

2. Supporting Conservation Efforts and Communities

The cost of gorilla permits to see these creatures in their natural habitat, currently at $1,500 per person, is a strategic measure aimed at limiting visitor numbers while generating vital revenue. Funds raised are channelled into conservation initiatives and local community development, ensuring that the economic benefits of gorilla tourism are widely shared.

3. A Ceremony with Global Recognition

Kwita Izina has grown into an internationally celebrated event. Conservationists, park rangers, researchers, and high-profile guests gather each year to take part in naming the new baby gorillas, highlighting the importance of protecting Rwanda’s endangered mountain gorillas. Over the past 19 years, 397 gorillas have been named during this ceremony.

4. Conservation Success Story

Thanks to Rwanda’s committed conservation efforts, including strict protection measures and sustainable tourism practices, the mountain gorilla population has grown from around 620 in 1989 to over 1,000 today. This makes them the only great ape species currently experiencing a population increase.

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5. An Ideal Time for a Gorilla Trek

The gorilla naming ceremony is held annually between September and October at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park. The event brings together conservation champions and offers travellers a unique glimpse into Rwanda’s successful blend of culture, eco-tourism, and wildlife preservation. This is a fantastic time for your gorilla trekking safari.

As Africa emerges in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it’s redefining the concept of “social currency” in ways that go beyond mainstream tech advancements. For many travelers, digital detox means stepping away from screens and reconnecting with nature – a trend that Africa supports in unique ways.

But it doesn’t mean Africa is being left behind. In fact, the continent is carving out a niche as a leader in conservation technology, using wearables, AI, and tracking tech to safeguard endangered wildlife.

The Innovation of Staying Offline

In today’s world, connectivity is seen as a necessity, but for travellers seeking respite from digital demands, Africa offers a tech-free paradise with some of the world’s most secluded safari lodges and off-grid experiences. For instance, Kwandwe Game Reserve in South Africa provides a pristine, phone-signal-free experience, letting visitors immerse themselves fully in the wilderness. Yet, out of the public eye, Kwandwe is at the forefront of using digital wearables for conservation.

Conservation Tech: Rhinos on the Radar

A groundbreaking project at Kwandwe leverages wearable technology to track rhinos, helping rangers protect these endangered animals. By fitting rhinos with GPS-enabled sensors on their feet, the reserve monitors their movements in real-time.

This use of tech isn’t for tourists but for the safety of rhinos in regions notorious for poaching. With data analysed by AI, any suspicious patterns or risks alert rangers, enabling rapid responses to protect the rhino population.

Africa’s Social Currency: Ready for Wearables?

While the global race for wearables is heavily consumer-driven, Africa is pioneering their use for conservation – a social currency in its own right. Travellers supporting these efforts invest in a movement that uses wearable tech to counteract human impact on wildlife.

Though African regions often face infrastructure challenges in terms of widespread mobile connectivity, they are succeeding where it matters most: conserving biodiversity.

A Revolution of Another Kind

Africa’s role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution may look different, but the continent’s adoption of smart technology in conservation proves that it’s more than ready for the future. For visitors, Africa offers an unparalleled digital detox, letting travellers experience the luxury of “offline” while supporting tech-driven conservation efforts.

Embracing both high-tech and low-tech, Africa stands as a testament to the powerful blend of tradition and innovation.

As global interest in astro-tourism rises, Africa is positioning itself as a prime destination for travellers eager to explore the cosmos.

This burgeoning trend taps into the innate human fascination with the night sky, offering unique experiences ranging from stargazing to astrophotography in some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the continent.

Nearly 10.4% of global GDP and 7% of Africa’s GDP is driven by the tourism sector, according to the 2019 report by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). Focusing investment on dark sky preservation and integrating astro-tourism into the mainstream tourism industry will be a creative effort to boost GDP as a new economic diversification.

With the International Astronomical Union predicting significant growth in astro-tourism by 2025, Africa’s pristine environments provide ideal settings for celestial observation, drawing in a new market of travellers eager to combine adventure with astronomical wonders.

The Potential Value of Astro-Tourism

Astro-tourism not only capitalises on the increasing interest in space exploration and astronomy, but also represents a sustainable tourism model. With a focus on rural and remote areas, astro-tourism can stimulate local economies by promoting conservation and creating jobs. It fosters educational opportunities about the universe and our place while encouraging travellers to appreciate the natural world.

A report by the International Dark-Sky Association highlights that light pollution, prevalent in urban areas, limits the visibility of stars and celestial events. Africa, with its expansive unpolluted skies, presents a stark contrast, making it an attractive destination for astro-tourists seeking an authentic experience.

As more travellers prioritise sustainable and unique experiences, Africa’s astro-tourism potential is poised to increase significantly in 2025.

Top Astro-Tourism Destinations in Africa

Namibia

Reasons to Visit: Namibia boasts some of the darkest skies in the world, especially in the Namib Desert. The NamibRand Nature Reserve is a certified International Dark Sky Reserve, providing optimal conditions for stargazing. Visitors can enjoy views of the Milky Way, Southern Cross, and various constellations. The surreal landscapes, including the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, enhance the experience, allowing travellers to combine both stunning vistas and celestial exploration.

Source: International Dark-Sky Association

Tanzania

Reasons to Visit: The Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater offer incredible opportunities for astro-tourism. The clear skies above these wildlife-rich areas allow for spectacular views of celestial events, including meteor showers and lunar eclipses. Visitors can partake in guided stargazing safaris that combine wildlife observation with cosmic exploration.

Source: Tanzania Tourist Board

South Africa

Reasons to Visit: The Karoo region in South Africa is renowned for its clear skies and minimal light pollution. The Sutherland Observatory, one of the country’s premier astronomy hubs, hosts various stargazing events and workshops. The nearby town of Ceres also offers excellent stargazing opportunities, making it an ideal base for astro-tourism enthusiasts near to Cape Town.

Source: South African National Parks

Kenya

Reasons to Visit: Kenya’s remote areas, such as Masai Mara, provide excellent conditions for stargazing. The contrast of the dark sky against the expansive savannah landscape creates a magical atmosphere for visitors. Many lodges offer astronomy nights, allowing guests to learn about the stars and planets visible in the region.

Source: Kenya Tourism Board

Botswana

Reasons to Visit: The Okavango Delta and Kalahari Desert are prime locations for observing the night sky. The absence of urban light and the natural beauty of the environment make Botswana a top destination for astro-tourism. Visitors can enjoy guided night drives to witness the stars and nocturnal wildlife.
Source: Botswana Tourism Organisation

Egypt

Reasons to Visit: While often celebrated for its ancient history, Egypt’s deserts offer a stunning backdrop for astro-tourism. The Siwa Oasis and White Desert provide unique landscapes where travelers can engage in stargazing. The combination of history and celestial exploration can attract a diverse audience.

Source: Egypt Tourism Authority

The global growth of film-inspired tourism is reframing destinations worldwide, with estimates suggesting the cinema and filming market could reach $110 billion by 2028.

Disney’s Mufasa is set to roar into theatres this December, with African tour operators bracing for a surge in bookings to echo well into 2025.

The anticipation follows the success model noted with Disney’s 2019 The Lion King, which tour operators say reignited interest in African safari destinations, especially in Kenya and Tanzania, where travellers sought to experience the film’s setting firsthand.

Similarly, Marvel’s Black Panther cast a futurist spotlight on Africa, reinvigorating its cultural design and heritage with an uptick in tourism interest, particularly in South Africa, where parts of the movie were filmed.

The Rise of “Setcations”

The spread of digital media, streaming services, and globalisation of film distribution continues to fuel the popularity of travel tied to movies and shows. Globally, destinations like Italy continue to teem with tourists after the filming of White Lotus’ second season. Thailand, as the latest filming location, is also anticipating a flurry of interest next year with the release of its third season.

This trend has the power to inspire global audiences, presenting an exciting opportunity to bring more visibility to the continent’s unique destinations, explains Discover Africa Co-Founder, Andre van Kets.

“For African travel companies, capitalising on this wave requires a proactive approach,” he says. “Londolozi’s cheeky play on the original Lion King remains memorable. But travel operators can take it step further and develop tailored tours that let travellers experience film locations firsthand, adding cultural narratives that connect the destination’s heritage with the film’s story.”

Furthermore, he explains, by prioritising partnerships with local communities, travel companies can help preserve the very landscapes that make Africa such a sought-after film destination.

“Together, we can foster not only increased tourism but also pride in African heritage and storytelling that will resonate for years to come,” he adds.

African Creative Hub for Global Filmmakers

Celebrate British Actor Idris Elba’s recent “Zollywood” initiative has seen a swathe of interest. The actor has secured land and government approval for his proposed plan to build filming studios in Tanzania and Ghana.

This highlights another emerging model that has the potential to share the appeal of Africa’s destinations through incredible storytelling. Elba’s blueprint envisions film studios built on Tanzania’s Zanzibar islands and in Ghana’s capital, Accra, to catalyse the growth of Africa’s film industry, turning it into a global powerhouse.

Combined with Tanzania’s natural beauty and cultural richness, this project further positions the East African nation as a compelling destination for tourists eager to explore African landscapes seen on screen.

Elba’s initiative aims to support local film talent, provide infrastructure, and draw in foreign investment, similar to South Africa’s film industry. For example, the South African government has supported several productions, establishing the country as a hub for global filmmakers.

Offering location subsidies and building the necessary post-production infrastructure has helped attract international projects like Mad Max: Fury Road and The Kissing Booth, and increased South Africa’s visibility and drove tourism to filming locations.

Nigeria’s film industry, commonly known as Nollywood, also cannot be overlooked, with an estimated contribution of around US $2.56 billion to Nigeria’s GDP in 2023 alone. Increased investment from streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime has further fueled this growth, with Netflix contributing over US $23 million over seven years, creating thousands of jobs and elevating the reach of Nigerian films internationally.

In Kenya, Mombasa is actively using film festivals to attract tourism, as seen in the inaugural Mombasa International Film Festival (MIFF), which drew attention to local talent and helped position the coastal city as a film destination. This approach not only boosts tourism but also creates opportunities for cultural exchange and local talent development.

For countries like Rwanda and Morocco, which have also opened doors to international productions, the benefits of hosting filmmakers are evident as tourism to these regions continues to rise. Morocco, for instance, saw tourism gains following the production of Game of Thrones in Ait Benhaddou and Gladiator in Ouarzazate.

Putting Africa’s Destinations on the Red Carpet

This trend of film tourism not only boosts local economies but fosters cultural pride and strengthens the continent’s global visibility. If supported with strategic partnerships and infrastructure, Africa could become a global leader in film-inspired travel, enriching local communities and offering immersive experiences for travellers worldwide.

It’s clear a combined and continued focus on film tourism in Africa holds promise, leveraging cinematic storytelling to promote diverse destinations across the continent.

A safari in Botswana is more opulent thanks to Savute Safari Lodge’s new look. With its focus on the natural beauty of the environment, while maintaining comfort and style, this refurbished lodge is the perfect sanctuary in the wilderness. Here’s what you can expect when on safari with Desert & Delta at their Savute Safari Lodge.

A Luxurious Wilderness Retreat

In the late 1990s, the well-known Lloyd’s Camp on the Savute Channel in Chobe National Park was brought into the fold by Desert & Delta, and Savute Safari Lodge was born.

Desert & Delta Safaris is a tour de force in the world of Botswana safaris. After being established in 1982, it became one of the most successful safari operators in the country.

Their safari properties – which are managed by local citizens – are located within Botswana’s prime wildlife destinations, famous for the diversity of experiences and incredible wildlife. Savute Safari Lodge is no exception.

Located on the Savute Channel, which runs a distance of 100 km from the Chobe River to the Mababe Depression, the lodge offers guests stunning wildlife encounters. See massive herds of elephants, spectacular bird life, and predators including lions and spotted hyenas.

Refurbishments at Savute Safari Lodge

Savute Safari Lodge recently underwent a complete rebuild to upgrade the space, further cementing it as a fantastic choice for travellers wanting a luxury safari experience in Botswana.

There are 11 standard rooms and one family room, with each featuring a combination of natural thatching and canvas. This not only surrounds guests in a beautiful natural environment but also acts as an efficient climate control measure during the hotter months. Earthy décor and colours create a calming atmosphere to fully relax in the wilderness.

The private outdoor showers further enhance the rooms – what’s better after a day of game drives and activities than taking a shower under a canopy of stars?

Guests will be blown away by the views. Rooms have been designed to afford spectacular views of the abundant wildlife that gathers around the waterholes to drink and play in the shallows.

Out of the rooms and into the communal areas, the awe-inspiring views are still prioritised. From here, guests can look out at one of Botswana’s most famous waterholes, which has been featured in wildlife documentaries, including National Geographic’s Savage Kingdom and the BBC’s Planet Earth series.

The campfire that overlooks the Savute Channel is the perfect place to share stories of the day’s wildlife sightings. On the edge of the channel is a pool offering guests the opportunity for refreshing dips overlooking the wilderness.

“The design and styles are distinctly different to other lodges in the Desert & Delta Safaris portfolio, ensuring each lodge exhibits its own individual character while upholding our commitment to local empowerment and warm, friendly and professional service,” says Desert & Delta Safaris managing director Matthew Johnson.

Activities at Savute Safari Lodge

Botswana is one of the best safari destinations in Africa, with Chobe National Park famous for having the largest population of elephants on the continent. It’s also home to lions, leopards, buffaloes, and over 450 bird species. So, game drives in this region are thrilling!

Other wildlife activities include walking safaris, boat safaris along the Chobe River, and photographic safaris.

At Savute Safari Lodge, guests can also enjoy a visit to the ancient San rock paintings at Gubatsa Hills.

Sustainability at Savute Safari Lodge

Desert & Delta Safaris is passionate about preserving the natural environment they call home.

They’re active in raising awareness and funding for the Botswana Rhino Relocation and Reintroduction Programme, and introduced Africa’s first fleet of electric-powered CO2-emission-free vehicles and safari boats to the Chobe region to reduce their carbon footprint.

Solar projects, greywater treatment plants, careful waste management protocols, as well as the use of sustainable building materials wherever possible, further set Desert & Delta’s lodges and camps apart as sustainable accommodations.

This new look further entrenches Desert & Delta as a must-visit destination for a Botswana safari tour. Savute Safari Lodge is the perfect choice for safari goers who want to explore Chobe National Park and enjoy almost constant views of the incredible wilderness and the animals that call it home.