South African Airways has launched efforts to promote Mauritius as a holiday destination for Nigerian travellers, particularly fun-seeking tourists.

The airline disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, following a meeting with top travel industry CEOs, where the serenity and other attractions of the island were discussed.

According to the statement, the event, held as part of SAA’s broader strategy to expand its footprint beyond Johannesburg, featured presentations on Mauritius’ appeal for leisure, weddings, honeymoons, and adventure travel.

Speaking at the meeting, SAA Country Manager for Nigeria, Mrs Leke Bamtefa, highlighted the strategic significance of the Mauritius route, emphasising the airline’s commitment to providing seamless connections to the island.

She said, “This event is about exposing our top travel trade partners to the opportunities that abound in Mauritius as a vibrant destination. SAA has the best connections into Mauritius, and through our partnership with Emotions DMC, we offer expert ground-handling services to meet clients’ needs on arrival.”

She revealed that SAA is considering organising a familiarisation trip to Mauritius for selected travel professionals, giving them the opportunity to experience the destination firsthand and better market it to Nigerian clients.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Emotions Destination Management Company, David Collard, described Mauritius as a unique blend of experiences.

He said, “Emotions DMC provides inbound handling services in Mauritius, and we are excited to partner with SAA to develop the Nigerian market. Mauritius is visa-free for Nigerian travellers, provided they have essential documents such as travel insurance, return tickets, at least $100 per night in spending money, and pre-booked or proposed tour activities.”

He further explained that the island, home to 1.2 million people, “is a cultural melting pot surrounded by barrier reefs, offering safe water activities, the longest zip line in the Indian Ocean, and nightlife hotspots like Green Bay. Visitors can also enjoy quad biking in the south and explore the UNESCO-listed Le Morne Peninsula, renowned for its stunning beaches and the iconic Le Morne Mountain.”