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6 November 2024 Media Release: Blue flags to fly at twenty Garden Route beaches

Media Release: Blue flags to fly at twenty Garden Route beaches

6 November 2024

Twenty (20) Garden Route beaches have been awarded Blue Flag Status this year by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), in partnership with coastal municipalities and private entities. Three of the Garden Route beaches were awarded pilot Blue Flag status. South Africa has participated in the Blue Flag Programme for 23 years, since 2001.

GRDM Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel upon receiving the news, said: “The awards symbolise that beaches have been recognized for their excellent water quality, safety, security, sound environmental management, and accessibility.”

“Blue Flag Beaches have improved tourism facilities and includes enhanced approach to the management of coastal systems,” says Stroebel.

Stroebel also shared his gratitude to the coastal municipalities for their dedicated efforts: “Thank you to Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George and Bitou municipalities for your commitment in applying for Blue Flag Status and maintaining our beautiful beaches to the highest standards. Your hard work is truly commendable. This achievement not only boosts the image of the Garden Route but also reinforces our region as a top destination for both locals and visitors.

Garden Route beaches with successful Blue Flag accreditation include the following:

George (3) – Visit George Tourism website
* Herold’s Bay
* Victoria Bay
* Wilderness Beach

Plettenberg Bay (6) – Visit the Plett Tourism website
* Robberg 5
* The Waves
* Nature’s Valley
* Lookout Beach
* The Dunes
* Singing Kettle Beach

Mossel Bay (5) – Visit the Mossel Bay Tourism website
* De Bakke Beach
* Hartenbos Beach
* Little Brak Breach
* Santos Beach
* Glentana Beach

Hessequa (6) – Visit the Hessequa Tourism website
* Witsand Beach
* Preekstoel Beach
* Lappiesbaai Beach
* Jongesnfontein Beach
* Gouritzmond Beach
* Stilbaai-Wes Beach

The Blue Flag Pilot Sites in George include Leentjiesklip, and in Mossel Bay it includes Tweekuilen and Suiderkruis beaches.

On top of the beaches that received Blue Flag Status, the following marinas and sustainable boats also received Blue Flags!

Two (2) marinas and 2 sustainable boating tourism operators have been awarded Blue Flag status. The marinas are Thesen Islands and Thesen Harbour in Knysna, while the sustainable boats are Robberg Express and Oceanic Express operated by Offshore Adventures in Plettenberg.

The list of sites is available here for viewing.

Enjoy your time exploring these beautiful spots along the Garden Route!

Feature image: Victoria Bay received Blue Flag Status for the second consecutive time. Pictured is also the Victoria Bay Caravan Park sites – the Western Terrace in the left corner and the Railway Terrace at the top. Both of these sites are fully booked for the holiday season.

ENDS

2 October 2024 Media Release: 32 New Signs for Garden Route Peaks to Boost Adventure Tourism

Media Release: 32 New Signs for Garden Route Peaks to Boost Adventure Tourism

3 October 2024

The Garden Route and Klein Karoo (GR&KK) is world-renowned for its breathtaking hiking, trail-running and mountain biking trails, offering adventure seekers routes that traverse peaks reaching up to 1,578 meters (Cradock Peak) above sea level in the George area.

During an informal handover ceremony, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel met with members from the Mountain Ultra Trail (MUT), the Garden Route Trail Running community-based running group and a Conquer Together community enthusiast.

Mayor Stroebel said: “In support of enhancing these trails for local and international visitors, the GRDM is proud to donate 32 new signs to rebrand key mountain peaks”.

“These new signs will replace the current faded ones, ensuring a refreshed experience for hikers and trail runners.”

Each sign will prominently feature the GR&KK logo, a QR code and a few other brands, which offer a gateway to valuable resources, including links to:

The signage and trail maintenance in George have long been carried out by the dedicated members of the Mountain Ultra Trail (MUT) group, who fund these efforts independently. Recognising their hard work and commitment, GRDM’s contribution aims to alleviate some of the financial pressure on the group, helping to ensure these trails remain safe, clear and accessible for all.

The highest peak, Cradock Peak, will also receive a new sign right at its highest point.

Feature image: The handover ceremony took place at the GRDM Mayor’s Office. Each person held a sign featuring one of the 6 big peaks in the George area – Vensterberg, Losberg, George Peak, Cradock Peak, Tierkop and Groenkop. The stakeholders present included (fltr): Jacques Mouton (FKT & GTR), Herman Pieters (GRDM Communication Manager), Andrew Stroebel (GRDM Executive Mayor), Clare Mouton (FKT & GTR), Zane Schmal (MUT), and Attie Bedeker(Conquer Together).

ENDS

30 August 2024 Re-Advertisement: Work Experience Placement Opportunities – Tourism and/or Hospitality

Re-Advertisement: Tourism and/or Hospitality Work Experience placement opportunities – A Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative

The Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be placed at a Tourism and/or Hospitality Organisation for an eighteen (18) month work experience opportunity, as part of a  Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative. Preference will be given to persons with disabilities. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35. Opportunities are currently available within the Kannaland Municipal Area.

Programme and Entry Requirements

This is an eighteen (18) month work experience placement programme at a Tourism / Hospitality organisation in the Garden Route.

Applicants will be selected based the following sequentially prioritised criteria:

  • 1st Criteria: Persons with a NATED N6 Tourism / Hospitality Qualification that need 18-months work experience for a National Diploma.
  • 2nd Criteria: Persons with any Local or International Tourism / Hospitality Qualification with no work experience .
  • 3rd Criteria: Persons with any Local or International Tourism / Hospitality Qualification with less than six months work experience.
  • 4th Criteria: Persons with at least a NQF 1 Qualification with a desire to work in the Tourism / Hospitality Sector.
  • Persons with a disability supported by a medical certificate are encouraged to apply and will be exempt from any of the above criteria.

In addition, the GRDM, subject to receiving enough applications and available workplaces,  will also attempt to allocate applicants evenly across all municipal wards in the District.

Scope of Work and Duties

  • This will be determined by the Tourism / Hospitality organisation, but could include administration, reception, room services bar services, restaurant services, food services customer services or any other typical work within tourism and hospitality.
  • All shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a pre-assessment to assist with correct career development.

Stipends will be paid for eighteen months by the Garden Route District Municipality. Stipends must be used for meals, accommodation and travel costs. The Programme also does not include uniforms, PPE or any equipment unless supplied voluntarily by the host employer. Applicants must apply using the GRDM online system called Unemployed Solutions (red button) found at https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/.

THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED:

  • A copy of South African ID Document certified within the last six months
  • A copy of highest educational qualifications certified within the last six months
  • An affidavit certified within last six months that confirms previous work experience, including any Learnerships.
  • A criminal record clearance report from the SA Police Services.

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044-803 1363, or Nolwando Sambokwa at 044 803 1344 during office hours only. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months after the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.

Click here to download the Official Advert

Closing date: 13 September 2024          
Notice number: 106/2024

30 August 2024 – 25 x Training Opportunities – Occupational Certificate: Cook

Training Opportunities – Occupational Certificate: Cook x 25 Opportunities

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) invites unemployed persons between the ages of 18 to 35, male or female residing within the Kannaland Local Municipal area of the Garden Route District, to apply for the opportunity to be trained on the Occupational Qualifications programme as a Cook. This forms part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative (skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za).

Programme and Entry Requirements

This is a twelve (12) month training programme in the Garden Route only.

Applicants need to have as a minimum, an NQF Level 1 Qualification (Grade 9) with Mathematics.

  • Pure Academic Mathematics or Technical Mathematics or Mathematics Literacy will all qualify.

Applicants will undergo a formal psychometric assessment for selection and those selected will undergo a medical assessment.

In addition, the GRDM, subject to receiving enough applications and available workplaces, will also attempt to allocate applicants evenly across all municipal wards in the district.

Scope of Qualification

A qualified learner will be able to:

  • Prepare for food production, associated areas, commodities, staff and cooking environment.
  • Communicate with and assist other kitchen personnel.
  • Prepare, cook and assemble specific food items using the correct method and techniques to meet customer and organisational requirements.
  • Assist kitchen and service staff to prepare and serve food.
  • Hygienically prepare and assemble food, and clean food preparation areas.

Applicants must apply using the online UNEMPLOYMENT SOLUTIONS (RED BUTTON) on the Skills Mecca website at https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/.

THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED:

  • A copy of South African ID Document certified within the last three months.
  • A copy of the highest educational qualifications certified within the last three months.
  • An affidavit certified within the last three months that confirms previous work experience.

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044-803 1363 during office hours only.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months after the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.

Click here to download the Official Advert

Closing date: 13 September 2024   
Notice number: 103/2024

13 June 2024 Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism exhibited at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024

Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism exhibited at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024

13 June 2024

The Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism recently exhibited at the iconic African leisure trade show known as the Africa Travel Indaba 2024, which took place from 13 to 16 May 2024 at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) in the Kwa-Zulu Natal Province.

“This year, we have secured a prominent space on the Cape Town and Western Cape Platform, hosted by our provincial partners, Wesgro. By joining hands with all the regional tourism offices in the Western Cape and two of our Local Tourism Offices – Plett and Visit Knysna Tourism, we sent a strong unified message to tourism and travel markets domestically and internationally,” said Richard Dyantyi, Manager of Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) District Economic Development and Tourism.

As a result of exhibiting on the Western Cape platform, the Garden Route & Klein Karoo region was able to engage directly with tour operators, travel agents, and travel media, bringing in more tourists to the region.  The GRDM responsible for tourism marketing and development, coordinates efforts from its regional tourism office under the brand name Garden Route and Klein Karoo. This office collaborates closely with local tourism bureaus as well as provincial, national, and international tourism organisations to promote the region.

Africa’s Travel Indaba is renowned as one of the largest tourism marketing events on the African calendar and ranks among the top three ‘must-visit’ events of its kind globally. Showcasing the best of Africa’s tourism products, the event draws international buyers and media from around the world. It is owned by South African Tourism and organised by Synergy Business Events (Pty) Ltd.

This major event brings together a diverse range of Southern African tourism products and services for the international travel trade. Exhibitors include provincial authorities, accommodation providers, tour operators, game lodges, transport companies, online travel agencies, luxury product vendors, media publications, and industry associations. Outdoor exhibitors feature transport services, camping, and safari companies.

During this four-day event, the Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism team utilised online diaries and set meetings to engage meaningfully with tour operators, travel agents, travel media, and destination marketing companies. Interests spanned a variety of areas, including cuisine, scenic drives, media publications and advertorials, standard and luxury packages, caravan and camping, glamping, museums, the 50+ historical market, familiarisation trips, and general inquiries. Besides scheduled meetings, the tourism office welcomed numerous walk-ins, highlighting the growing interest in reconnecting with tourism destinations. Visitors sought to understand the current tourism landscape, inquire about operational activities and attractions, explore new experiences, and introduce the region to markets such as the United States of America, Australia, Israel, Brazil, Thailand, Vietnam, Canada, and Mauritius.

According to Dyantyi, this marketing initiative aligns directly with the Garden Route Growth and Development Strategy. It provides a platform for all participants to attend tourism marketing promotional stands under national, provincial regional and local tourism brands, thereby fostering growth and development for all.

Feature Image Caption:  Officials from the Garden Route District Municipality, who were part of the Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism team that attended the Africa Travel Indaba 2024. FLTR: Richard Dyantyi, Manager of GRDM District Economic Development and Tourism, and Denver Johnson, GRDM Tourism Officer.

Here are a few of the activities and interactions the Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism team engaged in at the stand.

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7 May 2024 Media Release: A Garden Route familiarization trip for UK & Ireland travel trade professionals is hosted by South African Tourism and Wesgro

A Garden Route familiarization trip for UK & Ireland travel trade professionals is hosted by South African Tourism and Wesgro

7 May 2024

South African Tourism, in collaboration with Wesgro, is pleased to announce the hosting of a group of seven travel trade professionals from the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland on a familiarization trip to the Garden Route from 9-13 May 2024. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote South Africa as a premier tourist destination ahead of the Africa’s Travel Indaba trade show which will take place in in Durban from 13 – 16 May 2024.

The planned familiarization trip will immerse the participants in the unparalleled beauty and diverse offerings of the Garden Route and Klein Karoo region. Throughout their itinerary, the group will explore the towns of George, Wilderness, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and the Tsitsikamma area.

During their stay, the travel trade professionals will experience a rich tapestry of experiences, including our scenic landscapes, vibrant culture and heritage, abundant wildlife, thrilling adventures, and delectable food and wines. To give visitors a tantalizing taste of our destination’s diversity and allure. The Garden Route and Klein Karoo Tourism Unit has curated goodie bags featuring items from across the region.

Familiarization trips, also known as FAM trips, are an integral to the tourism industry, serving as vital tools for developing business and marketing destinations. These trips provide first-hand experiences of tourism products and services to industry opinion makers and business providers, enabling them to make informed decisions and effectively promote the destination to prospective visitors.

“We are thrilled to welcome our esteemed guests from the UK and Ireland to experience the wonders of the Garden Route and Klein Karoo,” said Denver Johnson, Tourism Officer at the Garden Route District Municipality. Through this familiarization trip, we aim to showcase the incredible offerings of our destination and encourage meaningful partnerships with key stakeholders in the travel trade industry.”

For more updates and insights from the familiarization trip, follow our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/grandkk.

END

07 May 2024 Media Release: Calling all tourism organisations – R4 million ‘Tourism Growth Fund’ now open for applications


Media Release: Calling all tourism organisations – R4 million ‘Tourism Growth Fund’ now open for applications

For immediate release
07 May 2024

The Western Cape Government’s (WCG) Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) has officially opened the 2024/25 ‘Tourism Growth Fund’  and is inviting organisations to apply for project funding for tourism development, tourism infrastructure, and tourism product development.

Speaking about the launch of the latest iteration of the fund, Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, said “tourism in the Western Cape is on the up. We have moved from post-COVID recovery and into impressive growth, showing that the province is a tourism destination of choice and very much in demand.”

“This is why I am very excited to launch the latest R4 million Tourism Growth Fund so we can work with more organisations across the sector to further improve our world-class attractions and offerings. This fund will allow us to add to and boost the already impressive array of offerings we have across the province, attracting even more visitors, and creating many more jobs in the Western Cape,” continued Minister Wenger.

The Fund challenges those involved in the tourism ecosystem – both public and private – to co-invest in high-impact attractions and experiences in order to offer a more compelling reason to visit the Western Cape and its districts.

The Fund will provide co-funding to:

  1. collaborative initiatives that enhance high-volume tourism attractions through tourism infrastructure development/upgrading and/ or place-making/ beautification interventions; and/ or
  2. collaborative initiatives of tourism organisations working with tourism enterprises to enable businesses to enhance and expand their tourism offerings in areas with high growth potential.

There are two categories for which funding can be applied for:

Category 1: Tourism Infrastructure Support initiatives with a focus on upgrading high-volume attractions 

The Fund will support regional and local tourism organisations, industry associations, district and local authorities, and tourism enterprises with initiatives to enhance high-volume tourism attractions through tourism infrastructure development or upgrades and/ or place making/ beautification activities.

Tourism infrastructure upgrade means the enhancement or development of any existing or new infrastructure required to ensure that tourists can visit attractions and experiences in a safe, clean, comfortable, and accessible manner. Examples of tourism infrastructure include trails, walkways, signage, street furniture, public lighting, public toilets, shelters, hides, and more.

Category 2: Tourism Product Development Support initiatives with a focus on assisting tourism enterprises (specifically small, medium and micro enterprises) with tourism product development

The Fund will provide financial support to enhance and/or expand collaborative programmes and projects aimed at assisting SMMEs with tourism product development. Regional and local tourism organisations, industry associations, and district and local authorities can apply for support through the programme; in exceptional circumstances, individual enterprises will be considered.

Tourism product development support includes, but is not limited to:

  • product and/ or experience development;
  • capacity development; and/or
  • provision of bespoke support (machinery, equipment, licenses, accreditation, memberships, health and safety compliance, standards etc).

This year, the Tourism Growth Fund will prioritise private sector-led initiatives aimed at stimulating high-growth, high-yield forms of tourism including in Halal, adventure, food, wine, culture and heritage, and township-based tourism offerings.

Minister Wenger emphasised that “As part of our ambitious economic action plan, ‘Growth For Jobs’, we are determined to double the number of visitors to the province by 2035 to aid in our overarching goal of enabling a R1 trillion, jobs-rich, inclusive, diverse, and resilient provincial economy that is growing at between 4% and 6% in real terms.”

“I would like to encourage those organisations who may benefit from the fund to apply without delay, and I look forward to working with the sector to attract more and more tourists to this wonderful province – because more tourists mean more jobs in the Western Cape,” concluded Minister Wenger.

For more information on the fund and on how to apply, interested applicants can visit this website: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/site-page/economic-sector-support-tourism-growth-fund

Enquiries can be directed to Mrs Lindy Cambouris at:
G4Jtourismfund@westerncape.gov.za  or at 021-483-6527.

ENDS       

By Mireille Wenger, Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities

Media Queries:
Georgina Maree
Spokesperson for the Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities
(Responsible for the Provincial Treasury and the Department of Economic Development and Tourism)
Cell: 076 423 7541
Email: georgina.maree@westerncape.gov.za

Issued by Corporate Communication, Department of the Premier

03 May 2024 Media Release: Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities visits beneficiaries of the Tourism Development Fund

Media Release: Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities visits beneficiaries of the Tourism Development Fund

For immediate release
03 May 2024

On Monday, 29 April 2024, the Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Ms Mireille Wenger, paid a visit to some of the beneficiaries of the Tourism Development Fund in the Garden Route, Mossel Bay, namely; Nova Hot Air Balloons  and The Skipper Foundation.

Whilst in Mossel Bay MEC Wenger also paid a visit to The Mossel Bay cruise port to discuss some of the future expansion plans of the Mossel Bay port for cruise tourism with the port management and Mossel Bay Trading Hub. With the Western Cape Governments’ assistance to small businesses at the trading hub in relation to alternative energy solutions to ensure business continuity during loadshedding, the MEC was joined by the Executive Mayor of GRDM, Alderman Memory Booysen, and Mossel Bay Councillor, Cllr Anton Dellemijn.

What is  The Tourism Product Development Fund?

The Tourism Product Development Fund supports the development of new tourism products and experiences and/or major upgrading of existing tourism products and experiences to increase the Western Cape’s destination attractiveness to visitors.

The Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) requested organisations and businesses from both private and public organisations to apply for project funding via the Tourism Product Development Fund.

The Tourism Product Development initiative seeks to develop new or existing tourism products and experiences within the Western Cape. The Fund supported new or existing tourism products and experiences that address gaps and opportunities identified by the draft Tourism Blueprint 2030. A total of R 5 million was made available for disbursement during the 2022/2023 government fiscal year by the Western Cape Government.

Additional: The Department of Economic Development and Tourism’s Tourism Growth Fund is open to receive fund applications.

Click here to visit the dedicated web page for DEDAT’s Tourism Growth Fund for more information and to apply online.

The Tourism Growth Fund – APPLY TODAY! 

The Department of Economic Development and Tourism is requesting organisations implementing tourism development projects or programmes in the categories of Tourism Infrastructure Support and Tourism Product Development Support to apply for project funding via the Tourism Growth Fund. The Fund will provide financial support to development programmes and projects that benefit Western Cape-based tourism attractions and businesses. A total of R4 million is available in 2024 for disbursement to successful applicants.

Applications and criteria:

  1. Applicants must complete the online application form and will be required to upload all of the requested supporting documents. The submitted proposals must be structured toward one of the following categories:
  • Category 1: Tourism Infrastructure Support Initiatives with a focus on upgrading high visitor volume attractions.
  • Category 2: Tourism Product Development Support Initiatives with a focus on assisting tourism enterprises (specifically small, medium, and micro enterprises) with tourism product development.
  1. Only applications submitted via the online process will be considered. No emailed or hand-delivered applications will be considered.
  2. Thoroughly read the application guidelines before completing the online application. All sections in the application form are mandatory.
  3. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with the online form so that you have the necessary information at hand when completing your application. You can refer to the attached document for an electronic copy of the form, as well as the call for proposals.

There is no closing date, however funds are subject to availability. Don’t delay, apply today!

For more information, contact Lindy Cambouris on  021 483 6527 or G4JTourismFund@westerncape.gov.za

ENDS

30 April 2024 Media Release:  Regional Tourism Office unpacks their recent WTM Africa attendance

Media Release:  Regional Tourism Office unpacks their recent WTM Africa attendance

For immediate release
30 April 2024

This year, with the Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism (GR&KK), once again used the opportunity at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2024 to successfully exhibit in a 90m2 space with local tourism offices and small business.

The GR&KK’s presence at the platform allowed the region to engage with tour operators, travel agents and travel media to direct more visitors to the region. These platforms contribute significantly to the increasing of numbers of international and domestic tourists as per the Wesgro survey report applicable from November to January 2023/24.

With approximately twenty (20) products exhibited under the GR&KK umbrella, three (3) of the products were beneficiaries of the GRDM Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME)  Support & Development programme. The collective initiative is just one of the development aspects to support SMMEs.

Numerous engagements and meetings took place, and these engagements included the following topics of interest:

  • General interests in GR&KK marketing and general, but broad interest and possible linkages with the brand.
  • High-end luxury packages, tourists tour packages, private safaris in the region and Avi-tourism initiatives
  • General interests in products, i.e. hotel and resort products
  • Route 62 and Klein Karoo referrals and interest.
  • United Kingdom (UK) market expansion and information.
  • Garden Route Chapter feedback and updates.
  • Member reach and expansion of products.
  • Bookings platforms.
  • General enquiries and information

With the interaction at the GR&KK stall over the three-day period, connections through meetings with these contacts (international, domestic buyers and media) were built and it delivered fruitful discussions and possible future relations. Some products furthermore indicated their interest to form part of the GR&KK representation at next year’s WTM. The Western Cape Minister of Finance, Economic and Tourism also visited the GR&KK stand where discussions were mainly focused on the current performance of the GR&KK as the destination.

This regional initiative sent out a strong message of unity/collaboration to ensure that the GR&KK is undoubtedly recognised as the preferred tourism destination.

ENDS

10 April 2024 Media Release:  Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism showcases Region’s vibrant offerings at World Travel Market Africa 2024

Media Release:  Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism showcases Region’s vibrant offerings at World Travel Market Africa 2024

For Immediate Release
10 April 2024

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), responsible for tourism marketing and development, proudly announces its participation in the upcoming World Travel Market Africa 2024 (WTM Africa 2024), scheduled to take place from 10 April to 12 April 2024. As a vital opportunity to position the region on the global stage of travel and tourism, the Garden Route and Klein Karoo Tourism office will showcase the diverse and enchanting offerings of the Garden Route and Klein Karoo.

WTM Africa, a renowned event within the travel industry, gathers over 6000 professionals annually to explore the latest trends and opportunities in both inbound and outbound African travel markets. This year, the physical event promises pre-arranged meetings, buyer speed networking sessions, and an extensive conference program, providing an ideal platform for Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism to connect with industry stakeholders.

Recognising the significance of this opportunity, Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism has secured a prominent 90m2 exhibition space, the largest in the region’s history, to highlight the collective offerings of the region. The platform will feature not only the regional tourism office but also local tourism offices and their respective products, all under the banner of Garden Route & Klein Karoo.

Participating alongside Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism are 19 entities, including 6 local tourism offices and 13 products showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and unique experiences. Among them, three products have benefited from the GRDM SMME Support & Development program, underscoring the region’s commitment to nurturing sustainable tourism growth and supporting local businesses.

Tourism employees and product owners promoting and selling Klein Karoo and Garden Route attractions and offerings.

The others products are:

Plett Tourism                                

  • Crags Country Lodge
  • Offshore adventures
  • SASSA

Visit Knysna                                      

  • Lithemba Crafts & Tours
  • Vuka Ukhanye Tours

George, Wilderness & Uniondale  

  • Redberry Farm
  • Hawthorn Boutique Hotel
  • Explore our Hood

Oudtshoorn & de Rust Tourism       

  • Cango Caves
  • Surval Boutique Olice estate
  • Swartberg Experience & Kobus se Gat

Explorer’s Garden Route – Hessequa Tourism

Mossel Bay Tourism                         

  • Cape Saint Blaze Artisanal Distillery
  • Eight Bells Mountain Inn

“We are thrilled to represent the Garden Route and Klein Karoo region at WTM Africa 2024,” said Denver Garden Route Johnson, GRDM Tourism Officer. “This platform not only allows us to showcase our breathtaking landscapes and diverse attractions but also highlights our dedication to supporting local businesses and promoting responsible tourism practices.”

Visitors to the Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism stand can expect to discover a wide array of experiences, from thrilling adventures to tranquil escapes, all nestled within the natural beauty of the region. With a focus on forging valuable connections and fostering collaborations, the team is eager to engage with tour operators, travel agents, and travel writers to drive more tourism to the Garden Route and Klein Karoo.

Did you know?

World Travel Market Africa delivers the leading global events for the travel industry. One of six shows in the WTM portfolio, the Africa show was launched in 2014 under the Africa Travel Week umbrella to bring the benefits and opportunities of the global industry expertise to travel professionals in South Africa. Traditionally taking place in Cape Town, South Africa, joined by over 6000 travel industry professionals who attend Africa’s leading and only business to business (B2B) exhibition for both the inbound and outbound African travel and tourism markets.

The Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism office coordinated the platform for the region. Local Tourism Offices in the region and their products will have the opportunity to exhibit with the regional tourism office on the collective stand under the banner of Garden Route & Klein Karoo.

-End-