ATTA - African Travel & Tourism Association

23/09/2024

Here's a feel good story for a Monday👇

Scientists have identified a new species of miniature chameleon in Madagascar's threatened littoral forests. Named 𝘽𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙖 𝙣𝙤𝙛𝙮 after its habitat in Ankanin'ny Nofy, the diminutive reptile is roughly the size of a fingertip.

This discovery marks the first time a mini chameleon from the Brookesia genus has been found in a littoral forest ecosystem. The finding was prompted by tourist photographs shared on social media, which alerted researchers to the potential new species.

Discover more about this species in the link

https://atta.travel/resource/tiny-new-chameleon-species-discovered-in-madagascar.html

Madagascar: Scientists have identified a new species of miniature chameleon in Madagascar's threatened littoral forests.

19/09/2024

🥳 Congratulations are in order! Our ATTA® member, Serengeti Balloon Safaris, has won Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice Best of the Best 2024 award.

This prestigious award places them among the top 1% of attractions worldwide, recognising their exceptional experience and service, as well as their glowing reviews.

From dawn flights over the Serengeti to close wildlife encounters, Serengeti Balloon Safaris continues to create lifelong memories

18/09/2024

🦏 In a ground-breaking development, South Africa's Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary has announced the birth of their first critically endangered black rhino calf.

The newborn, a male, is the offspring of two orphaned poaching survivors, marking a significant milestone in rhino conservation efforts.

Read more about this little guy's story here 👇https://atta.travel/resource/first-black-rhino-calf-born-to-poaching-survivors.html

South Africa: In a groundbreaking development, South Africa's Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary has announced the birth of their first critically endangered black rhino calf.

16/09/2024

📰Member News : Asilia Africa expand their reach in Uganda.

"In our efforts to continuously expand upon our Positive Impact, we are incredibly proud to share news of our latest endeavour with you. Our new initiative is aimed at contributing to the preservation of one of the world’s most critical and biodiverse ecosystems - the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda – adding an incredible guest experience while benefitting local communities."

Read more about this initiative here 👉https://atta.travel/resource/asilia-africa--expanding-our-reach-in-uganda.html

Uganda: Asilia Africa has been a pioneer in nature-positive travel in East Africa for the past 20-plus years, being at the forefront of protecting and restoring vital natural landscapes

03/09/2024

Destination Africa is pleased to announce the launch of its new website, designed to make planning your African adventure easier and more enjoyable.

The updated website provides a choice of well-crafted itineraries and travel ideas, making it easy for travel agents to explore Africa's multitude of options.

Read more 👉 https://atta.travel/resource/destination-africa-launches-new-website-featuring-exciting-itineraries.html

Destination Africa is pleased to announce the launch of its new website, designed to make planning your African adventure easier and more enjoyable.

02/09/2024

Experience Africa's First Wilderness Quiet Park...

28/08/2024

Help us name the new Mlevu rhinos with a $25 donation!
As are rhinos get ready for their road trip to the Mlevu Sanctuary, we are inviting you to be part of their naming process! These names were suggested by local village Headmen, the area Councillor, one of our senior Cobras Community Wildlife Protection scouts and the Grade 7 class of Mlevu Primary School!

Donate $25 and vote for your favourite rhino names here.
Donate a larger amount for your vote to be worth more!
https://www.hwangecommunityrhino.com/vote-for-mlevu-rhino-names

27/08/2024

The team at Nomad Tanzania has been very busy doing good!

"Our mission is simple as we look to harness the power of our safaris to create life-enhancing opportunities wherever possible. We know our business has the power to improve lives and it's this that drives everything we do."

We encourage you to read their newly released impact report. It provides a snapshot of the amazing projects happening on the ground and more

Have a read 👉https://atta.travel/resource/nomad-tanzania-social-impact-report--hot-off-the-press.html

By booking a Nomad safari, you join a force for good. Our newly released impact report provides a snapshot of the amazing projects happening on the ground, the opportunity for our people - all as a result of a Nomad safari.

22/08/2024

Kitich Forest Camp is making a positive impact in the local community!

We are excited to announce the launch of Ngilai Outreach Center, which aims to enhance the quality of life in the remote Ngilai community by offering essential services, fostering empowerment opportunities, and improving education, health, and overall well-being within the community. We are working towards a more empowered and self-sufficient community.

Additionally, it will serve as a link between the community and the camp to develop community relations further, in addition to providing a vital platform for guests to engage in meaningful community initiatives, thereby making a positive impact in the community.

Read more and find out what services the outreach center will provide the community👉 https://atta.travel/resource/kitich-forest-camp-making-a-positive-impact-in-the-local-community.html

We are excited to announce the launch of Ngilai Outreach Center, which aims to enhance the quality of life in the remote Ngilai community by offering essential services, fostering empowerment opportunities, and improving education, health, and overall well-being within the community.

21/08/2024

🗣 Job opportunity: 𝗕𝘂𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗧𝗧𝗔® 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀

Are you an experienced tourism professional with a deep understanding of Africa and a strong network in key source markets? We're looking for a mid-to-senior Buyer Engagement Manager to join our dynamic team at ATTA® Events!

In this pivotal mid-to-senior level role, you'll be responsible for fostering strong relationships with our key buyers from tour operators to travel agents and more. The ideal candidate will have an established network in the UK & Ireland, Continental Europe, and North America, along with a deep understanding of the African tourism industry.

Important details:
• Role is based at the ATTA® head office in London, UK
• View the full job description and apply today:
👉https://atta.travel/resource/atta-events-buyer-engagement-manager.html

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Buyer Engagement Manager to join our team. In this pivotal mid-to-senior level role, you will be the driving force behind fostering strong relationships with our key buyers, who include Tour Operators, Independent Consultants, Travel Agents, MICE agents and A...

20/08/2024

📰Member News: Lemala Osonjoi Opening on 15th July 2025!

Lemala Osonjoi Lodge is the newest addition to the Lemala Camps & Lodges portfolio and completes our enviable circuit of tented camps and lodges.

Situated on a hill just back from the Ngorongoro Crater rim, Lemala Osonjoi is named after the Osonjoi trees, which hold both symbolic and medicinal significance for the Maasai. Chosen by the Lemala staff, we are proud to use a name that symbolizes the multiple benefits we aim to bring to the land and people of East Africa—a core principle of everything Lemala stands for

Read more 👉https://atta.travel/resource/adventure-awaits--lemala-osonjoi-opening-on-15th-july-2025.html

Tanzania: We are thrilled to announce that Lemala Osonjoi Lodge will open its doors to guests on 15th July 2025.

15/08/2024

It's ! Let's jog your memory. What show and year was this event❓ If you recognise someone in the photo, tag them in comments.

13/08/2024

Did you know? Ethiopian Airlines now offers 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦 WiFi in Business Class!

You can now stay on top of things while flying and keep an eye on those urgent emails.

Find out more 👇 https://www.ethiopianairlines.com/aa/shebaSkyConnect

06/08/2024

Tanzania's Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Danstan Kitandula, has called for increased investment in the beekeeping sector.
During a visit to the East Usambara Mountains Conservation Fund EAMCEF Tanzania on 3 August 2024, Kitandula emphasised the sector's potential for both environmental conservation and economic growth.

Read more about how this investment can boost the economy and conservation👉https://atta.travel/resource/tanzania-urges-investment-in-beekeeping-for-conservation.html

Tanzania: Tanzania's Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Danstan Kitandula, has called for increased investment in the beekeeping sector.

31/07/2024

Today we honour our rangers and say thank you for protecting our wildlife.

FOR RELEASE ON WORLD RANGER DAY - 31/07/2024
MEDIA STATEMENT: CELEBRATING RANGERS ON WORLD RANGER DAY

On World Ranger Day, we celebrate the vital role of rangers in conservation and honour those who have sacrificed their lives protecting nature. Rangers are the custodians of our planet, essential to advancing global biodiversity goals and ensuring a sustainable future for both people and nature. Their work in managing vast areas of land and water significantly contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including the target of protecting 30% of the planet by 2030 (30x30).

This year, once again in recognition of rangers and their work we are excited to announce the launch of the 2024 African Conservation Awards, set to take place in November. These awards will recognize the exceptional contributions of rangers across Africa, underscoring their critical role in global planetary health which all humans and nature rely upon to survive.

We are also proud to be organising partners, alongside Tusk Trust, of the Wildlife Ranger Challenge which launches today. This event is set to take place on 21st September and has contributed to over $18.5 million to uplifting rangers across Africa since 2020. A significant achievement!

On World Ranger Day we encourage all beneficiaries of ecosystem services—such as clean air, water regulation, soil health, and protection from natural disasters—to join us in celebrating and supporting rangers. Their work is vital for both human well-being and environmental health. We remember and honour our fallen colleagues both in Africa and globally. Just this week we lost five of our African Parks ranger colleagues in Benin (alongside seven soldiers) in an attack by militant jihadists in W National Park. An absolute tragedy highlighting the odds rangers face.

The Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA) reports 64 ranger deaths in Africa over the past year. Since 2011, over 700 African rangers have lost their lives, with at least 353 killed by militant groups, terrorists, or poachers. The International Ranger Federation reports that 140 rangers worldwide have died in the past year while on duty.

"On World Ranger Day, we pay tribute to our fallen ranger colleagues and acknowledge their steadfast dedication. We honour their immense sacrifices and celebrate the bravery of rangers working to protect our natural world for the benefit of us all. Today, and every day, we will put rangers first. Happy World Ranger Day!" said Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer, Game Rangers' Association of Africa.

**ENDS**

Information:
● Game Rangers’ Association of Africa: https://www.gameranger.org/
● International Ranger Federation: https://www.internationalrangers.org/
Please join us on social media:
● https://www.facebook.com/GameRangersAssociationOfAfrica
● https://www.instagram.com/gamerangersassociationofafrica/

Tagline: Supporting rangers is crucial to achieving conservation goals



FOR ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, QUOTES OR IMAGES CONTACT US:
LOUISE DE BRUIN
GRAA ADMINISTRATOR
+27 (0) 72 1235384
[email protected]

ABOUT THE GAME RANGERS’ ASSOCIATION OF AFRICA (GRAA)
Founded in 1970, the Game Rangers’ Association of Africa (GRAA) is a registered non-profit organisation which is the oldest, largest and most representative ranger association in Africa. We are a member of the International Ranger Federation (IRF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) with over 2500 members.

25/07/2024

🌳We love this! Lemala Camps & Lodges partners with SeedBombs Tanzania to combat deforestation in rural Tanzania.

Seed bombs are a simple propagation method of reforestation, and are proven to reverse desertification through no-till farming.

Find out how it works 👉https://atta.travel/resource/lemala-camps-and-lodges-partners-with-seedbombs--tanzania.html

Tanzania: Lemala are proud to partner with SeedBombs, Tanzania to combat deforestation in rural Tanzania.

22/07/2024

Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain Aerial Cableway has temporarily suspended operations for essential maintenance. The closure, which began recently, will last until 1 September, halting all commercial activities during this period.

The 7-week shutdown is a crucial part of the cableway's commitment to global safety standards, including adherence to Swiss BAV regulations for cableways. This annual maintenance occurs during South Africa's winter, typically a quieter tourism season.

https://atta.travel/resource/table-mountain-cable-car-closed-for-maintenance-until-september.html

South Africa: Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain Aerial Cableway has temporarily suspended operations for essential maintenance.

15/07/2024

The industry-leading + Leisure magazine has named Timbuktu Travel the #1 Tour Operator in its prestigious World’s Best Awards 2024. Editors made the announcement this week as part of the annual awards program voted by readers, appearing in the magazine’s August 2024 issue.

Each year, Travel + Leisure recognizes the top hotels, islands, cities, cruise lines, airlines, spas, and tour operators around the globe, according to the results of the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2024 readers’ survey.

Additional information about the methodology, including criteria, can be found here https://www.travelandleisure.com/wba-2024-tour-operators-8660730

For more information about Timbuktu Travel, visit www.timbuktutravel.com

Travel + Leisure readers have selected their top tour operators for 2024. Check out which companies made the cut in our annual “World’s Best Awards” survey.

14/07/2024

Congratulations to the winners of the Digital Storytelling Champion award!

🏆 How Many Elephants, United Kingdom

UK registered charity 🐘 How Many Elephants is a powerful design-led awareness campaign, innovative in its 100% non-gory approach. It showcases the annual poaching rate of 35,000 elephants in Africa through a visual exhibition to inspire and educate a global audience about the devastating impacts of the ivory trade. How Many Elephants collaborates with and supports female rangers on the front line.

And what did our Judge's have to say?...
"There are many amazing charities that focus on Africa, but what Holly Budge has achieved in both how she presents the female ranger role alongside its challenges in an unusual and design-led way is so powerful. This is evidenced in How Many Elephants' media and fundraising achievements, which have each year built on this momentum very successfully, having moved from Female Ranger Day to Female Ranger Week."

The award was proudly accepted by the Founder (and recent Everest summiteer) of How Many Elephants, Holly Budge.

Let's celebrate their incredible achievements and dedication to making a positive impact!

13/07/2024

Congratulations to the winners of the Traveller Education and Awareness Champion award!

🏆 UNIGLOBE Lets Go Travel , Kenya

Let’s Go Travel Uniglobe is a leading sustainable and inclusive travel management company in East Africa. Established in 1979 with their head office in Nairobi, Kenya, they are IATA-approved and automated, offering computerised reservations, ticketing, and personalised travel experiences. Let’s Go Travel Uniglobe has implemented a comprehensive set of social and environmental initiatives focused on raising awareness about conserving the environment, empowering communities, and fostering a new generation of sustainability champions.

Have a read to see what our judges had to say:

"Let’s Go Travel has immensely demonstrated their commitment to ensuring their sustainability efforts are widely known, experienced, and witnessed through their website, initiative beneficiaries, youth integration, and capacity-building efforts, among other interventions including the creative idea of caring for senior citizens. They also highlighted numerous evidence in the form of documentation, videos, or online material, which further complemented their detailed application."

The award was proudly accepted by Rosemary Muthoni on behalf of Let’s Go Travel Uniglobe.

Let's celebrate their incredible achievements and dedication to making a positive impact!

13/07/2024

Congratulations to the winners of the Collaborative Champions of Climate and Social Justice award!

🏆 Gamewatchers Safaris & Porini Camps

Gamewatchers Safaris is an exclusive tour company that specialises in delivering tailored safaris to small camps and lodges in Africa. They are dedicated to preserving Africa’s unique wildlife, landscapes, and local communities. As one of the longest-established safari outfitters based in East Africa, their commitment to conservation and community engagement is truly exemplary.

Here is what our Judges had to say:
"Through the detailed application form complemented by the supportive content, Gamewatchers Safaris & Porini Camps provided a very intense account of the enterprise’s collaborative initiatives towards climate and social justice. Their numerous partnerships, such as those with the Maarifa Foundation, the Smart Learning Project, Wi-Learn, and PadMad, to name a few, have shown true impact."

The award was proudly accepted by Sally Brunning and Helen Simmans.

Let's celebrate their incredible achievements and dedication to making a positive impact!

12/07/2024

We had such a strong lineup of finalists for the Meaningful Engagement Champion category, but walking away with the award was African Monarch Lodges - The Sijwa Project, Namibia.

African Monarch Lodges operates two properties in Namibia’s Bwabwata National Park: Nambwa Tented Lodge and Kazile Island Lodge. These lodges, part of a Joint Venture Collection, are located in the Eastern Zambezi Region, at the heart of KAZA — the world’s largest conservation area.

Committed to sustainability and community support, the company launched The Sijwa Project. This initiative focuses on repurposing and reinventing recyclable waste from both their lodges, the local community, and neighbouring properties. The project exemplifies African Monarch Lodges’ ongoing efforts to contribute positively to conservation and community development.

See how impressed our Judges were 👇
"We’re beyond impressed at how far this initiative has come considering it was only started in Covid times. To see both the practical benefits to the wider community of waste disposal and recycling, and the soft power of the education and community immersion is superb. African Monarch Lodges provides a best-in-class example of how tourism and local communities really can co-exist and both profit from a financial and emotional perspective".

Read more about https://awards.atta.travel/

Award accepted by Storm Napier on behalf of African Monarch Lodges

12/07/2024

🏆 Winning our Earth-Friendly Cuisine award was the team at Lemala Camps & Lodges

Lemala Camps & Lodges properties are an authentic collection of luxurious lodges, intimate villas and classic tented camps located in Tanzania’s Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire regions, and Uganda’s River Nile.

Our Judges had this to say:

An extraordinary example of a totally holistic approach to a sustainable food initiative, which educates guests and so many people in the local community. Combined with some original thinking, Lemala Camps and Lodges are a brilliant case study globally.

Well done! Setting the bar high for the rest of the world to follow.

Award accepted by Tesna Simonsen on behalf of Lemala Camps & Lodges

10/07/2024

🏆 Congratulations to Chumbe Island Coral Park for winning an award for – Ethical Wildlife Experience

Chumbe Island Coral Park (CHICOP) is a private island off the coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania, and is a social non-profit enterprise.

Established in 1992, CHICOP is famous for turning Chumbe Island’s coral reefs and forest into a fully managed internationally recognised nature reserve, they have created the world’s first privately managed marine park that’s fully financed through ecotourism.

Here's what our Judges had to say:

The impact of the efforts of Chumbe Island Coral Park (CHICOP) is evident in its successful conservation outcomes and community benefits. The park has achieved significant biodiversity preservation with high densities of fish and coral species. Studies have shown the effectiveness of the spillover effect, which benefits local fisheries. The park's initiatives have also led to improved livelihoods for community members and greater environmental awareness. CHICOP's model of sustainable park management, funded by ecotourism, serves as an exemplary case for conservation efforts globally.

Award accepted by Eleanor Carter - Co-Director of Chumbe Island

10/07/2024

🏆 Winner - Heart for Heritage and Community Champion

Chem Chem Safari Lodges - Tanzania Africa

Chem Chem Safari owns and operates three exclusive safari camps, Chem Chem Lodge, Little Chem Chem, and Forest Chem Chem, which are located in the 50,000-acre (160,000 hectares) Burunge Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in northern Tanzania. The land belongs to the communities around Chem Chem who have set it aside for conservation and wildlife protection.

Here's what the judges had to say:

It's amazing to see how Chem Chem acknowledges that successful conservation requires community involvement. Their impact report highlights impressive numbers, showcasing their intertwined efforts for both conservation protection and community empowerment.

Congratulations!