With more people in the world having access to cell phones than clean water, it’s no surprise that everything in life is going digital. One of the biggest tourism trends highlighted at the recent ITB Berlin convention (regarded as a trends barometer for the international travel industry) was the dramatic increase in the number of people using mobile devices to book and plan their travel in 2012.
Here are some handy apps that will help you get the most out of your South African travels:
Africa:Live
Kruger: Live, which allowed visitors to the Kruger National Park to spot and report sightings of wildlife, has recently been re-launched as Africa: Live. The location-based software allows users to input the location of the animals they have spotted, upload photos, and include a brief description of the sighting. The information then becomes available on both the app and website platforms. You can also share photos and information, as well as ask questions about unidentified species on Facebook and Twitter. The updated app also includes a new marine mammal category.
But the app is not just about helping people get more out of their safari. It is a critical anti-poaching tool where users can alert the authorities about suspicious activity. Although the updated app expands the number of animals that can be identified, developers continue to hide sighting reports of animals such as rhino that are targeted by poachers. The platform also serves as a valuable data-generation tool for scientists at the Endangered Wildlife Trust and University of Cape Town. The free app is available for Android devices on Google’s Play Store as well Apple devices on the AppStore. The mobile-friendly website serves other devices.
Gauteng Travel Guide
Gauteng Tourism’s first mobile app has reached the number one spot as South Africa’s favourite free travel app download. Produced by the Gauteng Tourism Authority and Tourism Radio South Africa®, the Gauteng Travel Guide is the prefect tool for the independent traveller to explore the province.
The Gauteng Travel Guide provides detailed maps and travel information of more than 350 Points of Interest (POIs) across Gauteng, including contact details, opening hours, prices, local ‘GeePee’ discounts, and links for more information. This includes about an hour of high quality audio content on some of the most popular attractions. The app covers a wide range of interests from museums and nature reserves, to restaurants and accommodation. There is also an extensive list of entertainment, adventure, and leisure activities for even the most well-travelled residents. Once you’ve set up the Gauteng Travel Guide online, the map becomes available to use completely offline, so there are NO data costs while you’re out exploring!
A Walking Tour of Central Cape Town
Tourism Radio South Africa® and Cape Town Tourism have teamed up to bring you a helpful travel companion that will guide you through the the natural beauty, enchanting spirit, and creative freedom of the Mother City. There’s no need for chunky guide books, because A Walking Tour of Central Cape Town gives you detailed maps and information about popular tourist attractions most relevant to your current location, whether you are at the V&A Waterfront or Company Gardens.
Road Tripper
Using the best of Google Maps, Foursquare, and Facebook, Europcar has created the exciting Road Tripper Facebook app where road trippers can share their experiences, offer tips and suggestions, and plot their next incredible journey across South Africa.
Become a fan of the Europcar SA Facebook page to find the Road Tripper app link. You can submit your own routes or browse routes compiled by other travellers and well-known travel bloggers such as Andrew Brauteseth, who shares his thoughts and photographs on ‘Guy with Camera’. Why not experiment with themed routes, like ‘The Coffee Lover’s Guide to Cape Town’ or the ‘Girl’s Night Out in Sandton.’
South African Airways
Now you can check SAA flights and travel information on the go by downloading the two new South African Airways apps through iOS or Android mobile phones, and tablets from the Apple App Store and Google play stores. View your booking information, check-in for a flight, track your luggage, and view information on lounges, flight schedules, and SAA destinations. You will also find special fares, view your Voyager status and miles, use a currency converter, and get an updated 10-day weather forecast for any of SAA’s destinations.
Flymango
Since the launch of Mango Airlines’ mobisite in 2012, it has logged over 30,000 flight queries via the platform. In response to this growing need for mobile accessibility, Mango has become the first African airline to launch a booking, payment, and brand engagement app on the BlackBerry 10 platform. The Flymango app enables you to search and book flights, receive push notifications, and browse airline news, among other things. The app is available on BlackBerry® World™ and allows you to make payments with Edgars and Jet account cards. Mango has further plans to launch additional products and services in 2013, so watch this space!
What South African travel apps to you recommend?
