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Planning a trip to Zululand is about to become a whole lot easier.
From 1 November 2026, you can – once again - fly directly between Johannesburg and Richards Bay, as CemAir reinstates this scheduled service to northern KZN after a hiatus.
While the route is a welcome boost for business travellers heading to one of South Africa's busiest industrial centres, it's equally exciting news for holidaymakers looking to discover everything the region has to offer. Bookings officially opened on 16 July 2026.
READ: Radisson is bringing serviced apartments to Umhlanga
Your gateway to Zululand
Richards Bay has long been more than just a port city.
It's the perfect launching pad for exploring one of South Africa's most diverse tourism regions, where world-class wildlife, rich history, pristine beaches and unforgettable outdoor adventures all lie within easy reach.
Within a short drive, visitors can experience:
- The UNESCO-listed iSimangaliso Wetland Park
- World-renowned diving and snorkelling in Sodwana Bay
- Big Five safaris in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park and other nearby private game reserves
- Zululand's famous birding hotspots
- Cultural villages and authentic heritage experiences
- Historic Anglo-Zulu War battlefields
- Endless stretches of unspoilt coastline and fishing destinations
READ: The best small town experiences near Durban
Easier travel for business and leisure
The reinstated route also strengthens connectivity between Johannesburg and one of South Africa's most important economic hubs.
Richards Bay is home to Africa's largest coal export facility and one of the country's busiest cargo ports, making it a key destination for the mining, manufacturing, forestry and maritime industries.
Improved air access also means more tourists!
With its combination of spectacular natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, iconic battlefields and internationally acclaimed conservation areas, northern KZN has long deserved to be higher on travellers' bucket lists.
READ: KZN launches R73m green jobs programme to tackle invasive plants
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