United Airlines and Certified Africa, a  US-based travel and tour company that offers travel to Africa, have teamed up to create  options for travellers looking to visit Africa for African heritage experiences.

Travellers can now book all-in-one private or group travel experiences that include United flights. The customisable experience packages also include accommodation, airport pick-up/drop-off, transportation, cultural tours and activities, along with some meals and guides.

Certified Africa also helps ensure that travellers are prepared and informed about travel requirements like visas, immunisations, COVID-19 precautions and travel insurance.

“One of the most intimidating aspects of travelling abroad is the unknown. Every new culture has its own customs, languages, and traditions, which can be hard to navigate if you're not used to them,” said Certified Africa Co-Founder, Kristin Tellis Quaye.

Glenn Hollister, United Airlines Vice President of Sales Strategy and Effectiveness, said: “This partnership will be welcome news for United customers who are eager to explore Africa but may need a little help creating their ideal itinerary. “Certified Africa’s deep expertise and extensive network of local partners made them a great choice for United to work with.”

Heritage trips to Africa have long been pivotal journeys for people of African descent who are looking to connect to their roots and culture.

Last year, United launched three new non-stop routes to Africa. Direct flights to Accra, Ghana, and Lagos, Nigeria now operate three times a week from Dulles International Airport in the Washington, DC metro area. The airline also started a year-round, daily non-stop service from Newark Liberty International Airport to Johannesburg.

Furthermore, United is to launch its thrice-weekly service between Newark and Cape Town in June and has also applied for regulatory approval in the US and South Africa to introduce year-round flights between Cape Town and Washington DC, starting with three flights a week.