South African Airways (SAA) is ramping up efforts to position Mauritius as a top holiday choice for Nigerian travellers, targeting leisure tourists with promises of idyllic beaches, adventure experiences, and seamless travel connections.

The airline revealed its latest marketing drive in a statement on Tuesday, following a high-level meeting in Lagos with leading travel industry CEOs. The event was designed to showcase Mauritius’ diverse appeal — from weddings and honeymoons to adventure tourism — as SAA looks to grow its footprint beyond its Johannesburg hub.

“This event is about exposing our top travel trade partners to the opportunities that abound in Mauritius as a vibrant destination,” said Mrs Leke Bamtefa, SAA’s Country Manager for Nigeria, at the meeting. She stressed that SAA offers the best connections into Mauritius from Nigeria, leveraging its Johannesburg hub to deliver smooth onward travel.

Bamtefa also announced that the airline is exploring plans to organise a familiarisation trip for selected Nigerian travel professionals. “We want them to experience Mauritius firsthand so they can better market it to their clients,” she said, underscoring SAA’s strategy to work closely with local partners to boost outbound tourism.

The promotional event was held in collaboration with Emotions Destination Management Company (Emotions DMC), which provides ground-handling services in Mauritius. David Collard, Emotions DMC’s Managing Director, described the island nation as “a unique blend of experiences” and expressed optimism about growing 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,” Collard explained.

He highlighted Mauritius’ rich cultural diversity and wealth of attractions for visitors. “It’s 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.”

The push comes as airlines and destination partners around the world compete for the growing Nigerian outbound leisure market. With an increasingly mobile middle class and a strong appetite for travel, Nigeria has become a priority for tourism boards and carriers seeking new growth opportunities.

For SAA, strengthening the Mauritius route represents both a strategic expansion beyond southern Africa and a chance to deepen ties with Nigerian travel agents and tour operators. By offering tailored packages and expert local support through partners like Emotions DMC, the airline hopes to make the island a more accessible, attractive choice for Nigerian holidaymakers in search of sun, adventure, and relaxation.