FlySafair Targets Safari Sector with New Direct Cape Town-Kruger Route
FlySafair, fresh off its win as Africa’s Best Low-Cost Airline at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2025, is set to launch a new route connecting Cape Town directly with Hoedspruit, the gateway to the central Kruger National Park region. Starting October 2, 2025, the airline will operate three weekly flights every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, opening up exciting new opportunities for travel agents specializing in safari tourism.
This strategic move positions FlySafair as a key player in facilitating access to one of South Africa’s most sought-after destinations. The new route will significantly enhance connectivity for travelers eager to explore the abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of the central Kruger area, including numerous private game reserves renowned for their exclusive safari experiences. This expansion demonstrates FlySafair’s commitment to boosting domestic tourism and providing seamless travel options for both local and international visitors.
Eastgate Airport (HDS) in Hoedspruit, a modern and well-equipped facility, serves as the arrival point for this new route. The airport offers a range of amenities, including comfortable lounges, convenient retail options, and reliable Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant travel experience for passengers. With a capacity to handle growing passenger numbers, Eastgate Airport is well-prepared to accommodate the increased traffic anticipated with FlySafair’s new service. Travel agents can confidently book their clients knowing they will arrive at a comfortable and efficient airport.
The timing of this launch coincides with a period of robust recovery and growth in South Africa’s safari tourism sector. The industry, currently valued at approximately USD 9.7 billion, is experiencing a surge in demand, particularly from high-spending international tourists seeking unique wildlife experiences. This presents a lucrative opportunity for travel agents to capitalize on the growing interest in safari adventures and curate unforgettable itineraries for their clients.
FlySafair’s expansion to Hoedspruit complements its existing daily service between Cape Town and Mbombela (Nelspruit), the southern gateway to Kruger National Park. By offering convenient access to both the central and southern regions of the park, FlySafair provides unparalleled flexibility for safari-goers. Travel agents can now tailor their clients’ trips to explore different areas of Kruger, maximizing their wildlife viewing opportunities and catering to diverse preferences.
The projected annual passenger capacity for the new Cape Town-Hoedspruit route, estimated at nearly 60,000 passengers, underscores the significant potential for growth in this market. With varying load factors, this figure could range from approximately 35,000 to 53,000 passengers annually. This presents a substantial opportunity for travel agents to tap into a significant stream of travelers seeking convenient and affordable access to the Kruger region.
This latest development from FlySafair aligns with broader trends in the safari tourism market, including the increasing demand for sustainable and conservation-focused experiences. Travel agents can leverage this growing interest by promoting eco-friendly lodges and highlighting the importance of responsible tourism practices. By partnering with FlySafair, agents can offer their clients seamless travel arrangements while contributing to the preservation of South Africa’s natural heritage.
With its expanding network, commitment to on-time performance, and focus on key tourism destinations, FlySafair is empowering travel agents to curate exceptional safari experiences for their clients. This new route to Hoedspruit not only enhances connectivity but also opens doors to a wealth of opportunities within the thriving South African tourism market. By embracing this new offering, travel agents can position themselves at the forefront of the safari tourism boom and deliver unforgettable journeys to the heart of Africa’s wilderness.
