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Tourism

21 April 2026 Media Release: Garden Route reflects on 2025/26 tourism dynamics

Media Release: Garden Route reflects on 2025/26 tourism dynamics

For immediate release
21 April 2026

The Garden Route tourism sector has rebounded strongly after the COVID-19 downturn, with 2025/26 figures showing growth beyond pre-pandemic levels in both domestic and international markets. This recovery highlights renewed confidence in one of South Africa’s premier nature-based destinations.

Despite rising travel costs linked to global instability and fuel prices, regional tourism is expected to remain resilient. International arrivals, particularly from Europe are increasing, drawn by the Garden Route’s strong value-for-money offering and unique experiences.

The Port of Mossel Bay.

“The tourism industry is one of the top contributors to the regional economy, supporting jobs and growth,” says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF). “Strategic investments, including upgrades to George Airport and developments around the Port of Mossel Bay, are strengthening the sector’s long-term potential.”

George Airport.

Central to this growth is the region’s natural environment. Indigenous forests, fynbos, and coastal ecosystems underpin a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to golf and paragliding. The environment remains the foundation of the Garden Route’s global appeal.

However, sustaining tourism growth will require a stronger focus on environmental protection. Safeguarding biodiversity and advancing the green economy are essential to long-term success.

Climate change is intensifying risks such as drought, flooding, severe storms and wildfires, placing pressure on both infrastructure and ecosystems. Addressing these challenges demands coordinated action from government, the private sector and civil society.

As a climate change think tank, GREF continues to promote sustainable development to ensure the Garden Route’s environment and its tourism economy endures.

The Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) is a public platform for environmental managers and a climate change think tank.(www.grefecsf.co.za).

Feature Image: Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism represented at the World Travel Market.

ENDS

13 April Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo well represented at the World Travel Market Africa 2026

Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo well represented at the World Travel Market Africa 2026

For immediate release
13 April 2026

The World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2026 officially kicked off today in Cape Town where teams from the Garden Route and Klein Karoo Regional Tourism Offices (RTOs) and Local Tourism Offices (LTOs) are in attendance to represent the entire region.

The event is taking place until 15 April at the Mother City’s well-known International Convention Centre.

Ald. James Vos, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, overseeing tourism, investment, and business development, visiting the stalls of GR&KK at the WTM Africa 2026. (Left and right) Ald. Vos in discussions with GR&KK’s Tourism Intern, Reatile Mathabathe and (middle) Ald. Vos with the Iconic Mossel Bay team at the event.

The WTM Africa is the continent’s premier travel and tourism trade show, connecting over 6,000 international buyers, media, and industry leaders. The presence of the various local tourism officials and other stakeholders, is to ensure the region is showcased on a global stage, strengthening the regional and local brands, building long-lasting and meaningful partnerships, and driving new tourism opportunities.

The region is exhibiting at a 90m² exhibition space, which can be found at stand M02 at the CTICC (Main Exhibition Hall).

The following representatives from across the region are present, including:

  • Hessequa Tourism with partners like Inverroche Distillery and Gourikwa Coastal Nature Reserve.
  • Mossel Bay Tourism alongside Cape Saint Blaize, Global Blessing Solutions and Masambe Tours.
  • Oudtshoorn & De Rust Tourism with attractions such as Cango Caves, Safari Ostrich Farm, Cango Wildlife Ranch, De Zeekoe Guest Farm and Surval Boutique Olive Estate.
  • George, Wilderness & Uniondale Tourism with Redberry Farm.
  • Plett Tourism with Offshore Adventures and Athina’s Cove.
  • Visit Knysna with Lithemba Crafts & Tours.

The mission is clear: to increase tours and trips to the Garden Route & Klein Karoo, strengthen international networks, and showcase the region’s unique blend of nature, culture, and hospitality.

During a walkabout as part of day 1 (today) at the event, Ald. James Vos, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, overseeing tourism, investment, and business development, visited the team and commended  them for their “excellent marketing initiatives and team work while promoting the region as a whole”. 

Members of the public or investors are invited to visit the stand (M02), where they will have the opportunity to experience the region’s work firsthand and also engage with representatives. Alternatively, follow the Facebook page Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism or visit www.visitgardenrouteandkleinkaroo.com to stay informed, receive the latest updates, and ensure that you do not miss any highlights or announcements.

ENDS

01 September 2025 Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism celebrates Tourism Month

Media Release: Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism celebrates Tourism Month 2025

For immediate release
1 September 2025

Tourism Month, celebrated every September, highlights the vital role tourism plays in South Africa’s economy and communities.

In the Garden Route and Klein Karoo (GR&KK) region, tourism is a powerful driver of sustainable transformation, creating jobs, attracting local investment, and fostering a sense of regional pride. By promoting cultural exchange and showcasing the area’s rich heritage and traditions, tourism not only strengthens the local identity but also encourages responsible travel practices that preserve the environment and empower communities for future generations.

A basic intro of the GR&KK

The Garden Route and Klein Karoo (GR&KK) region is one of South Africa’s most breath-taking and diverse travel destinations. Stretching over 24,000 km from Witsand in the west to Plettenberg Bay in the east, this region is home to lush forests, pristine beaches, majestic mountains, and charming towns like Still Bay, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Oudtshoorn, Calitzdorp, and Ladismith and more!

As a key tourism hub, the GR&KK offers something for everyone from thrilling outdoor adventures and rich wildlife to cultural heritage and culinary delights. Under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the region continues to grow in ways that protect its natural beauty, celebrate its people, and create lasting opportunities for local communities.

Find out what the Garden Route & Klein Karoo has to offer or for more information, visit/contact:

ENDS

06 August 2025 Media Release: Indian Consul Visits GRDM to Explore Potential Collaborations

Media Release: Indian Consul Visits GRDM to Explore Potential Collaborations

6 August 2025

This week Tuesday, the Consulate General of India in Cape Town, led by Consul Ruby Jaspreet, along with the Vice Consul General Mr Prince Kumar and their Marketing Officer Ms Mkize, officially visited the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM). This marked the Consul General’s first official visit to the region since her appointment in January 2025, a first-ever visit by the Consulate General of India.

The Garden Route District Municipality delegation led by Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel opened the meeting signalling it a ‘historical event’ by welcoming the guests to the beautiful Garden Route.  He gave a brief overview of the district, the major towns that constitute the region, and highlighted several picturesque features that the region is endowered with in which any visitor can enjoy.

In response to the Executive Mayor, the Consul General thanked him and his delegation for the warm and sincere welcome and further expressed that they were ‘very grateful’ to be in the Garden Route District. She noted that the Consulate has had a 30-year presence in Cape Town and emphasised their interest to expand their footprint to other parts of the province. In outlining the purpose of their visit, she began by referring to the historic trade relationships that this region, province and country share with India. She reduced her submission to India’s strengths; priority sectors; and potential areas of collaboration that could serve to further enhance the already existing relations.

Jaspreet further highlighted the following key areas during her address:

  • Exploring potential areas of cooperation between India and municipalities in the Garden Route District.
  • Providing an update on various capacity building initiatives led by the Government of India.
  • Identifying opportunities for educational collaboration.
  • Tourism and creating programmes for Tour Operators to increase the Indian market.
  • Energy with specific focus on Renewable Energy.
  • IT Sector with specific focus of Digitalisation.
  • Discussing strategies to enhance two-way trade and investment.

The Executive Mayor responded with a few remarks, highlighting on current opportunities in the Garden Route that aligns with some of the key areas touched on by the Consult General.  He briefly elaborated on several developments and opportunities in the region, including the public-private partnership between GRDM and Solar Energy Africa for the establishment of a new Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station in George, one of the first of its kind in the region.  “This initiative serves as an opportunity to promote the Garden Route as a green energy route,” said Stoebel. He further highlighted some of the agricultural products exported from the region to Dubai and other European countries.

Lusanda Menze, Executive Manager of Integrated Planning and Economic Development delivered a presentation on behalf of the GRDM.  He emphasis the importance of creating and enabling an environment that is attractive to investment. He unpacked the Growth and Development Strategy of the GRDM that serves as a 20-year roadmap for development in the region, supported by a strong implementation structure and offering opportunities for collaboration and joint decision-making.  It includes, amongst others, various investment opportunities in the region, as well as the current catalytic projects assisting in economic growth.  These include the Garden Route Regional Landfill Facility in Mossel Bay, the Agro-processing Facility in Oudtshoorn, and the GRDM Skills Mecca initiatives which was established to identify skills gaps and demands across all sectors and to ensure the supply of relevant skills to meet those demands.

Menze concluded with some of the proposed infrastructure and energy investment opportunities, including the planned Solar PV Plant in Dysselsdorp, and the Digital Transformation Connectivity and Data Centre project, which aim to ensure consistent access to information across region.  He also mentioned other proposed projects related to Urban & Economic Development as well as Transport and Logistic Enhancement, which include the development of the Port of Mossel Bay, the Expansion of the George Airport, and the establishment of a Fresh Produce Market in the region.

Some of the slides presented by GRDM

Richard Dyantyi, Manager: District Economic Development, Tourism and EPWP, during his remarks re-emphasised the existing Indian market in the region, highlighting the Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn as one of the main ‘drawcards’ and key attractions for Indian tourism market.

From a Tourism perspective, GRDM Regional Tourism Officer, Denver Johnson, highlighted the fact that there is currently no direct flight between India and South Africa, and that the cost and safety perception remain key challenges for the Indian market.  He also noted the limitations in accommodation offerings across the region particularly in meeting the Indian market’s dietary requirements, which often include the need for separate kitchen facility.  However, he pointed out that there are already certain establishments and restaurants in the Garden Route & Klein Karoo that offer such facilities, presenting opportunities for future expansion to better service this growing market.

Following the GRDM delegation’s presentation along with inputs from the two Members of the Mayoral Committee, Ald. Rosina Ruiters and Councillor Dave Swarts, and the Acting Municipal Manager, Raisa-Mlandu, the Consul General of India posed a few questions to gain clarity on specific projects and their value propositions. She thanked the GRDM for a well-delivered presentation and reassured the Executive Mayor and delegation that they have identified several projects highlighted during the presentation where the Government of India would consider collaborating with GRDM and expressed her interest in further discussions and engagement.

Featured image and above: The Consulate General of India’s delegation with the Garden Route District Municipality delegation during the meeting.

In conclusion, and in closing a very fruitful deliberation, the GRDM Executive Mayor thanked the Indian delegation for choosing the GRDM for their visit.  He expressed that as the Garden Route Municipality, they look forward to future collaborations that will yield mutual benefit for both parties.

03 July 2025 Media Release: Public-Private EV Charging Partnership Launched in Garden Route

Media Release: Public-Private EV Charging Partnership Launched in Garden Route

For immediate release
03 July 2025

The Garden Route’s green mobility future is charging forward with the confirmation of a landmark public-private pledge signed this afternoon at the François Ferreira Academy. The initiative commits land and infrastructure for the establishment of a new Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station in George – one of the first of its kind in the region.

As part of this pioneering initiative, the François Ferreira Academy has donated the site for the first EV charging station to be installed by Solar Energy Africa, a leading national provider of solar power solutions. The pledge signed by Mayor Stroebel and stakeholders includes the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) and Africa Skills Private Training, both instrumental in the region’s economic and skills development.

This collaboration marks the first step in a broader rollout of EV charging stations strategically located along the N2 and in rural tourism nodes from Cape Town International Airport to Plettenberg Bay. The goal is to future-proof mobility in the Garden Route and beyond—supporting the transition to electric transport and enabling infrastructure for both locals and visitors.

This collaboration follows the Garden Route EV Seminar, hosted last week at Africa Skills GeorgeTech, where the growing demand for skilled artisans to support the EV sector took centre stage. The seminar explored South Africa’s evolving EV market and its impact on training, artisan development, and job creation.

The EV pledge was formally signed by:

  • Executive Mayor of GRDM, Alderman Andrew Stroebel
  • Jessica van der Merwe, Managing Director of Solar Energy Africa
  • Phillip Harmse, Director: New Business Development of UXi Artisan Development

The Western Cape Government is actively transitioning its public transport and fleet vehicles to electric alternatives. In alignment with this, Africa Skills has already introduced EV-relevant artisan training through its work-integrated learning model and accredited electrical apprenticeships.

“This shift to electric mobility is more than just an infrastructure change – it’s a skills revolution,” said Phillip Harmse. “From battery technology and EV maintenance to solar integration and charging installation, Africa Skills is equipping young artisans to meet this fast-growing demand.”

Speaking at the seminar, Anthonie Janse van Rensburg, Acting Chief Director of the Western Cape Department of Mobility, confirmed the rollout of new EV infrastructure. “Our vision is to establish fast, efficient EV charging hubs across the N2 corridor and urban centres. This is part of our broader EV fleet migration strategy for provincial and local government.”

Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel reaffirmed the municipality’s vision: “As a global tourism hub, the Garden Route must be EV-ready. We’re embracing innovation and partnerships to make this happen.”

As demand for EV adoption increases and the national government explores limitations on internal combustion imports, the Garden Route stands poised to become a leading green mobility destination – powered by solar, driven by skilled artisans, and supported through strong public-private collaboration.

Issued by UXi Artisan Development

Enquiries Images, Soundbites or Interviews:  Jan Greyling – 082 556 8778, jan@uxi-ad.co.za

Feature Image:

FLTR: Alex Engelke (Corporate Services: UXi Artisan Development & Africa Skills, Phillip Harmse (New Business Development: UXi Artisan Development), Jessica van der Merwe (CEO: Solar Energy Africa), Andrew Stroebel (Executive Mayor: Garden Route District Municipality), Johan du Plooy (Operations Manager: François Ferreira Academy & Apprentice) and Lizelle Wessels (Corporate Services: UXi Artisan Development).

ENDS

27 June 2025 Public Notice: Garden Route & Klein Karoo (GR&KK) Tourism Strategy is open for public perusal and comment

Public Notice: Garden Route & Klein Karoo (GR&KK) Tourism Strategy is open for public perusal and comment

Notice Number: 65/2025

Notice is hereby given that the Garden Route & Klein Karoo Tourism Strategy is available for public perusal and comments for 14 days closing on 10 July 2025.

All questions and recommendations can be directed to Raylene Meyer at tel: 044-803 1405 / E-mail: raylene@edendm.co.za.

Click here to download the Official Notice.

Click here to download the Tourism Strategy

Nthabeleng Raisa-Mlandu
Acting Municipal Manager
54 York Street
PO Box 12
GEORGE
6530
Tel: 044 803 1300
Notice number: 65/2025

20 May 2025 Media Release: Reinforcing the Garden Route & Klein Karoo’s place in Domestic & International Tourism

Media Release: Reinforcing the Garden Route & Klein Karoo’s place in Domestic & International Tourism

20 May 2025

The Garden Route and Klein Karoo Tourism (GR&KK) Regional Tourism Office (RTO) exhibited at Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI), last week from 13 – 15 May. This year’s ATI was hosted at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban.

The RTO secured space alongside the Cape Town and Western Cape platform – a space provided by the official Tourism, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency for the Western Cape (Wesgro). GR&KK was joined by three Local Tourism Offices (LTO); George, Wilderness & Uniondale, Iconic Mossel Bay and Visit Knysna.

Africa’s Travel Indaba is one of the largest tourism marketing platforms on the annual African calendar and one of the top three ‘must visit’ events of its kind on the global calendar. The platform provided representatives from the region the opportunity to engage with domestic and international tour operators, travel agents and travel media. In time, more visits would therefore be directed to the Garden Route & Klein Karoo.

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel highlighted: “This region is one of the top destinations in South Africa, attracting tourists and holidaymakers from our continent and the six others. It is therefore critical that, as part of our mandate as the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), we continue to actively market our region on both national and international platforms”.

“Our presence at the ATI shows our commitment to supporting tourism businesses, including guesthouses, hotels, golf courses, shark cage diving operators, and more to excel, create jobs, and contribute to economic growth. That is why, as a Mayor, I consider it a priority to strengthen our region’s visibility and appeal through every available platform.”

Exhibitors included, above and beyond the travel trade and media partners, also provincial authorities and products and African countries, accommodation, game lodges, transport providers, online travel, luxury products, hidden gems, publications and industry associations. Outdoor exhibitors focused primarily on transport, camping and safari companies.

Denver Johnson (GR&KK Tourism Officer), Richard Dyantyi (GR&KK Tourism Manager), and Zama Mcambi (Assistant Director National Department of Tourism)

Throughout each day, panel discussions and networking sessions for tourism industry practitioners took place where experts exchanged insights, explored emerging trends, shared best practices

To date, the GR&KK RTO has participated in ATI since 2004. However, it is important to note that several global events have disrupted the consistent hosting of ATI, of which the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a three-year suspension. The event resumed virtually in 2022 and made its full physical return in 2023.

For further enquiries contact the GR&KK Tourism Officer, Denver Johnson.

Cell: 067 037 0352
E-mail: denver@gardenroute.gov.za

RTO and LTO websites for this region

Feature image: Western Cape Provincial Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, with GRDM Tourism Officer, Denver Johnson at the GR&KK exhibition space. 

ENDS

 

8 April 2025 Media Release: Regional Tourism Office will be at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025 with Local Tourism Offices and Several Businesses

Media Release: Regional Tourism Office will be at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025 with Local Tourism Offices and Several Businesses

8 April 2025

Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Regional Tourism Office will once again join more than 6000 travel industry professionals at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 9 – 11 April 2025.  Local tourist products from the Garden Route and Klein-Karoo will attend the WTM Africa as part of a collective initiative. According to Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel, “the WTM, annually brings travel professionals from around the world together to connect, network, and explore business opportunities within the African travel market”.

“It is therefore important for the GR&KK to be present at this platform to promote the offerings of the region, alongside Local Tourism Offices”.

Key features of WTM Africa include:

  • Exhibitions to showcase destinations, travel services, and products.
  • Networking that provides opportunities to meet industry peers and potential business partners.
  • Conferences and Seminar sessions on the latest trends, insights, and innovations in the travel industry.
  • Pre-scheduled meetings to facilitate business discussions and deal-making.

Visiting the World Travel Market enables the Regional Tourism Office to establish valuable relationships and collaborate with global industry leaders and travel professionals. They will gain valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations in the travel industry, helping the office to remain competitive and well-informed.

This year, the GRDM Executive Mayor, Alderman Andrew Stroebel, will attend the event alongside officials from the Regional Tourism Office.  According to Stoebel, “By attending this prestigious event provides an excellent opportunity for Local Tourism Offices and tourist products in the region to showcase the region’s attractions, services, and unique experiences to a global audience, increasing visibility and attracting more tourists to the region. The Regional Tourism Office is responsible for promoting the entire region on international platforms like this, ensuring the GR&KK brand is recognized and positioned as a preferred travel destination of choice in the highly competitive tourism industry in the world,” Mayor Stroebel said.

Come join us and our esteemed stakeholders at Stand number: Q03 on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, 9 April 2025: 10:00 – 18:00
  • Thursday, 10 April 2025: 10:00 – 18:00
  • Friday, 11 April 2025: 10:00 – 16:00

Our stakeholders include:

  • Mossel Bay Tourism
  • Plett Tourism
  • Emily Moon
  • Simola Hotel Country Lodge & Spa
  • Crags Country Lodge
  • George Wilderness & Uniondale
  • Wilderness Hotel
  • Redberry Farm
  • Hessequa Tourism
  • Seeplaas
  • Cape Saint Blaize
  • Offshore Adventures
  • Issaquena Heights Boutique Hotel
  • Visit Knysna
  • Lithemba Arts & Crafts
  • Parkside Guesthouse
  • Rooiberg Lodge
  • Cango Caves
  • De Zeekoe Guest Farm
  • RJ Tours

For those who are in Cape Town over the next few days, pop-in at the GR&KK exhibition to connect, explore and support our regional and local tourism offices.

Featured Image Caption:  A photo from a previous year’s World Travel Market (WTM) Africa, showcasing various products at the Garden Route & Klein Karoo stand.

-END-

28 February 2025 Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca Launches Tourism & Hospitality Project with Comprehensive Induction Workshops

Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca Launches Tourism & Hospitality Project with Comprehensive Induction Workshops

For immediate release
28 February 2025

The Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM), which forms part of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), has officially launched its new Tourism and Hospitality Project, a significant initiative funded by the National Skills Fund (NSF), with a series of comprehensive induction workshops held across the Garden Route. The sessions commenced on 24 February 2025 and today the last session is held in Hessequa at the Riversdale Civic Centre.

Areas where workshops were already conducted include Bitou, Knysna, Mossel Bay, George, Calitzdorp, Ladismith and Oudtshoorn.

A packed hall of participants in attendance at the Workshop conducted in Knysna.

These workshops, facilitated by Reginald Salmons, Coordinator for Skills Development at GRDM, marked the commencement of a valuable opportunity for Work Integrated Learners (WIL) and Cooks to acquire essential skills and to contribute to the region’s vibrant hospitality industry.

Portfolio Chairperson for Corporate Services, Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi said: “The sessions brought together learners and host employers from local businesses, with the GRDM team playing a pivotal role in guiding the participants and providing crucial insights”.

The Induction Workshop conducted in Mossel Bay on 25 February 2025.

Each morning, participants were welcomed by a representative of the respective municipality, fostering a positive and collaborative atmosphere, followed by a detailed overview of the GRSM’s background. Salmons further emphasised the importance of the GRSM in the local community and its contribution to regional skills development.

Following an opportunity for attendees to network and engage with one another, these workshops also explored the core components of the program, including:

  • a thorough review of the learner contract of employment;
  • the Code of Conduct;
  • the roles and responsibilities of host employers; and
  • salary cut-off dates.

“Discussions are designed to ensure that all participants have a clear understanding of their obligations and expectations, promoting transparency and accountability throughout the program,” said Ndayi.

Presentations made by the GRDM and NSF teams during the Induction Workshop in Oudtshoorn.

A dedicated question and answer session was built into the programme that provided learners with a platform to address any queries or concerns, fostering open communication and ensuring clarity. The induction concluded with a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the learners for their participation.

The launch of this NSF-backed Hospitality Project represents a significant investment in the future of the Garden Route’s workforce. By providing learners with essential skills and practical experience, the project aims to enhance their employability and contribute to the continued growth of the region’s thriving hospitality sector.

According to Mayor Andrew Stroebel, the GRSM’s commitment to skills development is “evident in the comprehensive nature of the induction workshops, laying a solid foundation for the success of the project and its participants”.

“This initiative promises to empower individuals and strengthen the local hospitality industry, ensuring a brighter future for the Garden Route,” he concluded.

More Induction Workshops conducted across the district.

ENDS

13 January 2025 Media Release: Garden Route environment key to its economic prosperity, but wild fires remain a threat

Media Release: Garden Route environment key to its economic prosperity, but wild fires remain a threat

For immediate release
13 January 2025

“Thousands of tourists from all over the world flocked to the Garden Route over the 24/25 holiday season to experience one of the most beautiful places on earth, and in doing so, they make a vital contribution to the regional economy,” says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF).

Garden Route regional and local government and conservation bodies consistently go to great lengths to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to ensure a well- managed environment for all to enjoy. These efforts do come at a cost for those responsible for managing the environment, but the return on investment is high and the jobs created through the tourism sector is vital to the quality of life for all those living in the region.

Easily accessible clean and safe beaches, several world class nature reserves, hiking trails through forests and mountains, picnic spots, restaurants and high standard accommodation options – all contribute to the Garden Route value proposition for tourists.

Unfortunately during the festive season, the Garden Route suffered from increasingly frequent wild fires which kept authorities busy in actively fighting and monitoring several wild fires scattered all over the region. This ever- present threat will only increase as summer temperatures are set to rise to record highs in 2025.

The devastating fires presently raging through Los Angeles is a stark reminder to Garden Route residents who experienced the Knysna wildfire disaster back in June 2017. Fact is that, as climate change shows its teeth, the danger of regional wild fire disasters are clear and present and on the increase, and in many respects, there are correlations between the factors which contributed to the ferocity of the LA and Knysna wildfire disasters.

Garden Route regional authorities and professional firefighting entities such as the Southern Cape Fire Protection Association (FPA), are better prepared than ever to prevent and manage wildfires. Despite best efforts and equipment, the Los Angeles disaster showed that when nature unleashes its full fury, nothing will stop it from destroying everything in its path.

The Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF) is a public platform for environmental managers and a climate change think- tank (www.grefscli.co.za)

Photo: The scenic Garden Route is a major draw card for thousands of tourists and makes an invaluable contribution to the economic prosperity of the region.