Tourism South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 - South Africa Yearbook 2015/16
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Tourism
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16
Tourism
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 405
Tourism
Tourism remains a key driver of South Africa’s enjoyment of all its residents and foreign
national economy and contributes to job creation. visitors
The tourism industry is a major contributor to • provide for the effective domestic and interna-
the South African economy and employment of tional marketing of South Africa as a tourist
citizens. The sector contributes about 9% to the destination
country’s gross domestic product. • promote quality tourism products and services
A total of 8 903 773 foreign tourists visited • promote growth in and development of the
South Africa in 2015. Over 1,6 million local and tourism sector
international tourists visited the Kruger National • enhance cooperation and coordination between
Park in 2015, one of the favourite destinations. all spheres of government in developing and
During the same year, government introduced managing tourism.
far-reaching immigration regulations to combat In terms of the Act, responsible tourism is tourism
child trafficking and improve security at South which:
Africa’s points of entry. • seeks to avoid negative economic, environ-
According to research conducted by the mental and social impacts
National Convention Bureau, 40% of all • generates greater economic benefits for local
convention delegates attending meetings in South people, enhances the well-being of host
Africa return in the next five years as tourists, thus communities and improves working conditions
boosting tourism growth and job creation. and access to the tourism sector
The National Department of Tourismʼs (NDT) • involves local people in decisions that affect
strategic goals over the medium term are to: their lives
• maximise domestic tourism and foreign • makes positive contributions to the conser-
tourist arrivals in South Africa vation of natural and cultural heritage and to
• expand domestic and foreign investment in the maintenance of the worldʼs diversity
the South African tourism industry • provides enjoyable experiences for tourists
• expand tourist infrastructure through meaningful connections with local
• improve the range and quality of tourist people and a greater understanding of local
services cultural, social and environmental issues
• improve the tourist experience and value for • provides access for physically challenged
money people
• improve research and knowledge management • is culturally sensitive, engenders respect
• contribute to growth and development between tourists and hosts and builds local
• expand the tourism share of gross domestic pride and confidence.
product (GDP) The mandate of the NDT, as outlined in the
• improve competitiveness and sustainability in Tourism Act, 1993 (Act 72 of 1993), is to promote
the tourism sector sustainable growth and development in the
• strengthen collaboration with tourist organi- tourism sector. The 1996 White Paper on the
sations. Development and Promotion of Tourism in South
The inflow of tourists to South Africa is the result Africa provides for the promotion of domestic
of the success of policies aimed at entrenching and international tourism
South Africaʼs status as a major international The Tourism Act, 1993 provides for:
tourism and business events destination. • promoting tourism to and in South Africa
• regulating and rationalising the tourism
Legislation and policies industry
The NDT operates under the following legislation • implementing measures aimed at the
and policies: maintenance and enhancement of the
The Tourism Act, 2014 (Act 3 of 2014) standards of facilities and services hired out or
provides for the development and promotion made available to tourists
of sustainable tourism for the benefit of South • coordinating and rationalisating the activities
Africa, its residents and its visitors. It also of people who are active in the tourism industry
provides for the continued existence of the South • establishing a board with legal powers
African Tourism Board, the establishment of the • authorising the Minister of Tourism to establish
Tourism Grading Council, and the regulation of a grading and classification scheme in respect
the tourist guide profession. of accommodation establishments
The Act aims to: • authorising the Minister to establish schemes
• promote the practising of responsible tourism for prescribed sectors of the tourism industry
for the benefit of South Africa and for the • registering tourist guides
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 406Tourism
• prohibiting any person to act for gain as a tourist companies. Some R557,3 million over the
guide unless he or she has been registered as medium term is allocated for this in the Tourism
a tourist guide in terms of the Act. Incentive Programme. A Cabinet-approved
budget reduction of R67,6 million will be effected
Budget and funding in the programme over the medium term.
The National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS) South African Tourism is responsible for
seeks to increase tourism’s total direct and marketing South Africa as a tourist destination of
indirect contribution to the economy from choice. Transfers to the entity constitute 51,5% of
R189,4 billion in 2009 to R318,2 billion in 2015 the departmental budget over the medium term.
and R499 billion in 2020. Through transfers from government’s economic
The NDT'ʼs budget for 2015/16 was competitiveness package, expenditure in the
R1,8 billion. According to an economic impact Tourism Incentive Programme is projected
report published by the World Travel and Tourism to increase by R100 million in 2015/16 and
Council, tourism contributed 9,4% to South R105 million in 2016/17.
Africa’s GDP in the previous financial year, and
almost 10% to employment. Role players
The National Development Plan (NDP) South African Tourism (SAT)
recognises tourism as one of the main drivers In terms of the Tourism Act of 1993, SAT is
of South Africa’s economy and of employment. mandated to market South Africa internationally
Subsequently, the NDT’s policy focus over the and domestically as a preferred tourism destination,
medium term will be on creating work opportu- to ensure that tourist facilities and services are of
nities and increasing the number of domestic the highest standard, and to monitor and evaluate
and international tourist arrivals from 11 million the performance of the tourism sector.
in 2015/16 to 12 million by 2017/18. The organisation’s main strategic goal over
The NTSS seeks to increase the tourism the medium term is to ensure that the tourism
sector’s total direct and indirect contribution to sector makes an increasing contribution to
the economy from R189,4 million in 2009 to economic growth.
R318,2 billion in 2015 and R499 billion by 2020. Other goals include increasing the annual
Specifically, the strategy commits the tourism volume of international tourists visiting the
sector to creating 22 000 additional jobs by 2020. country, growing tourists’ contribution to the
The department creates employment opportu- economy through their spending, increasing
nities through the Expanded Public Works international brand awareness of South Africa
Programme (EPWP) funded in the Domestic as a travel and business destination, and
Tourism programme. increasing the number of graded accommo-
A significant share of the department’s budget dation establishments.
over the medium term is allocated to this In 2015, the NDT set a target of attracting
programme to support the creation of 10 922 12 million international tourist arrivals by 2018,
full-time equivalent jobs. This is the department’s as well as an increase in domestic holiday trips
contribution to the NDP’s target of creating two from 2,8 million in 2014 to 4,1 million by 2020.
million job opportunities a year by 2020. This would assist the NDT in achieving its
Through labour-intensive methods targeting target of creating 225 000 jobs within the sector
youth, women, people with disabilities, as well as by 2020. Consequently, 54% of the department's
small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), budget was allocated to SAT.
the EPWP both creates jobs and develops The “Itʼs Here, Vaya Mzansi” campaign is
tourism infrastructure. Infrastructure projects an industry-wide project that relies on collabo-
over the medium term will include trails, lodges, ration and partnership from the wider industry
camp sites, resorts, and tourism information for success and to grow domestic leisure travel
centres, among others. to meet targets. SAT partnered with more than
Spending is reflected in the Social Respon- 50 tourism companies in South Africa to create
sibility Implementation subprogramme in discount vouchers ranging from tour-operator
the Domestic Tourism programme. Cabinet services, accommodation and experiences
approved a budget reduction of R44 million in including wine tastings, canopy tours and hiking.
this subprogramme in 2015/16.
The department further supports SMMEs by Tourism Enterprise Partnership (TEP)
assisting SMME tour operators to participate TEP is a non-profit company that facilitates the
in local and international trade exhibitions, thus growth, development and sustainability of small
creating direct linkages with international tourism tourism businesses. This is achieved through a
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 407Tourism
To date, there are 41 South African beaches that have been Lucien Beach, South Coast
i awarded Blue Flag status, and several others are in the pilot
phase.
To achieve Blue Flag status, 33 main criteria covering
four aspects of coastal management have to be met. These
Marina/San Lameer Beach, South Coast
Southport, South Coast
Trafalgar Beach, South Coast
Umzumbe (Pumula) Beach, South Coast
four aspects are water quality, environmental education and
information, environmental management, and safety and Northern Cape
services. McDougalls Bay Beach, Port Nolloth (Richtersveld)
The Blue Flag programme is a recognised international
accreditation initiative that acknowledges excellence in Western Cape
maintaining the highest standards of environmental man- Bikini Beach, Gordon's Bay
agement, safety, services and amenities. Brenton-on-Sea, near Knysna
South Africa was the first country, outside of Europe, to Buffalo Bay beach, near Knysna
introduce the Blue Flag programme, in November 2001. Camps Bay Beach, Cape Town
Locally, the initiative has grown from just three beaches in Clifton 4th Beach, Cape Town
the first year to 41 beaches in 2015/16. De Bakke, Mossel Bay
At the launch of the 2015/16 Blue Flag season, it was Gouritsmond, near Mossel Bay
announced that 39 beaches, 9 boats and 6 marinas have Grotto Beach, Hermanus
achieved full Blue Flag status, and a further 30 beaches Hartenbos Beach, Mossel Bay
have been awarded pilot status. Western Cape is leading Hawston Beach, near Hermanus
the pack with more than 30 full Blue Flag status beaches Keurboomstrand, near Plettenberg Bay
followed by Kwa-Zulu Natal and then the Eastern Cape. Kleinbrak Beach, near George
Beaches with Blue Flag status for 2015/16 are as follows: ·Kleinmond Beach, near Hermanus
Lappiesbaai Beach, Stilbaai
Eastern Cape Llandudno, Cape Town
Boknes Beach, near Port Alfred Mnandi Beach, Cape Town
Dolphin Beach, Jeffrey's Bay Muizenberg Beach, Cape Town
Humewood Beach, Port Elizabeth Natures' Valley, near Plettenberg Bay
Kariega Beach, Kenton-on-Sea Preekstoel, near Still Bay
Kelly's Beach, Port Alfred Robberg 5th, Plettenberg Bay
Kings Beach, Port Elizabeth Santos Beach, Mossel Bay
Middle Beach, Kenton-on-Sea Silwerstroom, Cape Town
Kleinemonde Beach Strandfontein Beach, near Cape Town
Strandfontein Beach, Vredendal, West Coast
KwaZulu-Natal Wilderness Beach, near George
Alkantstrand, Richards Bay Witsand Beach, mouth of the Breede River
number of products and services that provide presented by the Association of World Travel
hands-on, step-by-step support and guidance, Awards.
ultimately leading to improved product quality, It showcases a wide variety of southern Africa’s
operational efficiency and market reach. best tourism products and attracts international
Funding for TEP’s small tourism business visitors and media from across the world.
development interventions is provided by the To bolster growth, government has identified
NDT as well as the Business Trust, the Tourism core markets, investment markets and tactical
Micro-enterprises Support Fund (a sister company markets across regional Africa, the Americas,
that provides funding specifically for the support Asia and Australasia, as well as in Europe.
of micro enterprises), global financial services
company Credit Suisse, and the Eastern Cape Meetings Africa
Development Corporation. Meetings Africa is the African continent’s largest
trade show for the business events industry.
Tourism Indaba Hosted annually by the South African National
The annual Tourism Indaba provides an Convention Bureau (SANCB), a division of South
opportunity to showcase South Africa and its African Tourism, 2016's event was held from
people. It was held from 7 to 9 May 2016. 22 to 24 February at the Sandton Convention
Hosted by Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, the centre. In attendance was 70 quality vetted
Tourism Indaba is one of the largest tourism hosted buyers from across the globe, all intent
marketing events in Africa and one of the top on pursuing business ventures with the best
three events of its kind in the world. The Tourism Africa has to offer.
Indaba has twice won the award for Africa’s Meetings Africa has been lauded as the
best travel and tourism show. This award was premier business event in this industry,
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 408Tourism
showcasing Africa’s diverse offering of services Tourism Broad-Based Black Economic
and products. Here African associations and Empowerment (BBBEE) Charter Council
meetings industry professionals can partner to The Tourism BBBEE Charter Council’s roles
help transform our continent. include:
Positioned as “Advancing Africa Together”, the • providing guidance on sector-specific matters
sole ambition of the trade show is to contribute effecting BBBEE in entities within the sector
to the growth of Africa’s potential as the world’s • compiling reports on the status of BBBEE
fastest-growing and most sought-after business within the sector for the Minister and the BEE
events destination. Advisory Council
A key element of t2016s Meetings Africa is the • sharing information with sector members,
addition of the European Cities Market Summer approved accreditation agencies and the
School, which will launch ahead of Meetings Minister pertaining to BBBEE in the sector.
Africa, from 19 to 21 February 2016. This was
the first time that this initiative took place on Programmes and projects
South African soil. A series of incentives to help tourism
establishments grow their businesses and to
Tourism, Hospitality and Sport improve South Africaʼs tourism attractions were
Education and Training Authority (Theta) announced in March 2015.
Theta is the sector education and training The investment of around R600-million will
authority (Seta) established under the Skills help establishments to become graded and seek
Development Act, 1998 (Act 97 of 1998), for the new markets for their products, and will later
tourism, hospitality and sport economic sector. include retrofitting key tourist attractions with
Theta comprises the following chambers: renewable energy sources.
• hospitality It is estimated that tourism supports 1,4 million
• conservation and tourist guiding direct and indirect jobs and contributes 9,5% of
• sport, recreation and fitness South Africaʼs total GDP.
• tourism and travel services The Tourism Incentive Programme represents
• gaming and lotteries. an investment of R557-million over the medium
Every chamber has its own committee that helps term to support tourism enterprises to reach
Theta to identify industry needs. their full potential. The programme will put
Thetaʼs main function is to contribute to raising tourism businesses in a better position to
skills or bringing skills to the employed or those make sustainable contributions to the growth
wanting to be employed in their sector. This is of the industry and to the countryʼs economy,
done by ensuring people learn skills needed by making South Africa a more competitive global
employers and communities. destination.
The programme will start by focusing on
Tourism Grading Council of South creating better access to new markets and
Africa (TGCSA) customers, encouraging greater participation
The TGCSAʼs grading system is South Africa’s in the grading system, and making catalytic
only officially recognised system for the star investments in key tourist attractions.
grading of accommodation establishments. The programme comprises:
Establishments are assessed according to the • A subsidy towards the costs incurred by
type of accommodation they provide. There are tourism establishments to participate in trade
nine types of establishments: exhibitions and marketing roadshows. This
• formal service accommodation (hotels, lodges) will include a capped reimbursement towards
• self-catering pre-determined expenses such as airfare,
• backpacker accommodation and exhibition fees for partici-
• hostelling pation in marketing platforms supported by
• caravans South African Tourism.
• camping • Support for owners of establishments who
• meetings want to be graded by the Tourism Grading
• exhibitions Council of South Africa in the form of a
• special events. structured system of retroactive discounts or
rebates on the assessment fee for grading.
This aims to make grading more affordable
for smaller businesses, and encourage more
establishments to become graded.
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 409Tourism
• A pilot project to retrofit facilities at state-owned skills, customer care, leadership and HIV and
destinations and attractions such as World AIDS management.
Heritage sites and National Botanical Gardens On completing the first phase, trainees are
with renewable energy technology. This will placed in tourism establishments where they
guide the design of a programme to help make receive on-the-job training with internationally
establishments, including those in the private accepted standards as laid down by the
sector, more environmentally sustainable. hospitality industry.
• The Tourism Incentive Programme supports At the end of the training, beneficiaries
the objectives of South Africaʼs overall receive certificates of competence and can be
industrial policy, which includes creating absorbed by hospitality establishments.
jobs, building the local industrial base and
transforming to a green economy. National Tourism Service Excellence
Requirements
National Tourism Sector Strategy The National Tourism Service Excellence
The vision of the NTSS is to position South Requirements are aimed at improving and
Africa as one of the top 20 tourism destinations maintaining service levels at all service touch
global by 2020. points in the tourism value chain as well as
The overall goal of the strategy is to drive the guiding the sector to achieve the NTSS objective
tourism economy, enhance visitor experiences, of positioning South Africa as one of the top
position South Africa as a destination of choice 20 global tourism destinations.
and sustain good governance in the industry. Previously the tourism value chain in South
The key focus areas of the NTSS are arrivals, Africa did not have integrated standards and
GDP and job creation. The tourism sector is norms, and this contributed to inconsistencies
working towards creating 225 000 jobs by 2020. in service levels.
To achieve all of its objectives, the NTSS The Service Excellence Requirements
focuses on domestic tourism with the intention provides a yardstick to be used by all tourism
to increase the number of domestic trips from service providers in the value chain to deliver
30,9 million in 2009 to 54 million by 2020. quality service and experiences that equal or
Regional tourism is also being targeted with surpass world standards.
South Africa looking to take advantage of hitherto The South African Bureau of Standards
untapped markets such as outbound tourists. developed the standards on behalf of the tourism
This strategy represents the department’s sector and benchmarked them against interna-
commitment to intelligent planning and policy tional requirements. The requirements have four
formulation. It was developed over two years key focus areas, namely marketing, products,
in close collaboration with local and provincial delivery of service, and monitoring and evaluation.
government, an advisory panel of top industry The department also introduced a National
minds, representatives of various professional Service Excellence campaign under the theme
bodies, academia, tourism marketing agencies, “Excellent Service Starts with Me”. The campaign
civil society and the broader public. is aimed at creating awareness and educating
The NTSS is a document that the entire sector consumers and tourism product owners about
is committed to and includes coordinated and the requirements.
credible targets. The strategy rests on three
pillars, namely: National Minimum Standard for
• driving the tourism economy Responsible Tourism (NMSRT)
• enhancing visitor experiences Responsible tourism is a tourism management
• ensuring sustainability and good governance strategy in which the tourism sector and tourists
in the industry. take responsibility protecting and conserving the
natural environment, respecting and conserving,
Hospitality Youth Initiative (HYI) for local cultures and ways of life, and contribute
The HYI is aimed at helping unemployed youth to stronger local economies and a better quality
to find meaningful employment in the hospitality of life for local people.
industry at entry level. It targets unemployed It includes providing better holiday experiences
youths between the ages of 18 and 35 with for guests and good business opportunities for
Grade 12 senior certificates. tourism enterprises. The concept of responsible
The programme provides one monthʼs tourism is gaining ground as a newly emerging
theoretical training for entry into the hospitality trend worldwide.
industry. Training focuses on communication, life The NDT, in partnership with tourism stakeholders
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 410Tourism
and the private sector, particularly accreditation compared to the same period in 2015.
agencies, developed the NMSRT. Africa exhibited strong growth with a 14,4%
South Africa has taken the lead on the increase in travellers coming from the rest of the
continent by publishing a set of national minimum continent, which signifies a strong recovery from
standards that are aligned with international 2015.
standard ISO/IEC 17011. The 15,4% translates to more than 4,9 million
The NMSRT comprises 41 criteria divided into tourists from across the globe. Asia leads the
four categories, namely: growth with an increase of over 40% with close
• sustainable operations and management to 162 000 tourists coming from this region
• economic criteria during this period. Europe still dominates as the
• social and cultural criteria key source market with 697 373 tourists coming
• environmental criteria. from Europe. This is a 14,7% increase when
compared to the same period last year.
Lilizela Tourism Awards North American travellers coming to South
The Lilizela Awards recognises industry Africa increased by nearly 18% while Central
players within four focus areas reflecting eight and South American tourists increased by 17%.
categories, with the ninth category being the Australasia’s tourist arrivals to South Africa grew
Minister’s Award. by 10,8% during the same period.
The awards acknowledge and applaud
the efforts of people whose work sets global Guidelines for international
benchmarks in excellence. tourists
Awards are made in a number of categories Every international traveller to South Africa must
including the Service Excellence Award have a valid passport and, where necessary, a
(with sub-categories Accommodation, visa.
Visitor Experience, Tourist Guides and Tour The Immigration Act, 2002 (Act 13 of 2002),
Operators); Entrepreneurship (for emerging stipulates that all visitors to South Africa are
tourism businesses); Sustainability and Good required to have at least one blank page (both
Governance; and the prestigious Minister’s back and front) in their passport to enable the
Award, awarded at the minister’s discretion. The entry visa to be issued.
award categories are: If there is insufficient space in the passport,
• Minister’s Award: This prestigious award, entry will be denied.
which recognises tourism innovators and Enquiries may be directed to South African
pioneers, went to renowned Mpumalanga diplomatic representatives abroad or to the
artist, Esther Mahlangu. A previous Lilizela Department of Home Affairs in Pretoria. Visas
category winner in the Roots and Culture are issued free of charge.
category, Mahlangu’s colourful Ndebele Visitors who intend travelling between South
designs have been exhibited around the world Africa and neighbouring countries are advised to
and have graced global brands such as BMW, apply for multiple-entry visas.
British Airways, Fiat and Belvedere luxury Passport holders of certain countries are
vodka, placing South African traditional art and exempt from visa requirements.
design on the international map. Tourists must satisfy immigration officers that
In 2016, the awards attracted a record number they have the means to support themselves
of 1 122 entries, up 18% from last year’s total. during their stay and that they have return
or onward tickets. They must also have valid
International tourism international health certificates.
SAT’s Strategic Plan and Annual Performance Visitors from the yellow-fever belt in Africa
Plan aims to increase tourism revenue’s and the USA, and those who travel through or
contribution to the economy from a projected disembark in these areas, have to be inoculated
R91,2 billion in 2015 to R124,4 billion by 2020. against the disease.
The key performance indicators to be looked at Malaria is endemic to parts of KwaZulu-Natal,
for the strategy was the number of international Mpumalanga and Limpopo. It is essential to take
tourist arrivals, total revenue, percentage of anti-malaria precautions when visiting these
brand positivity and number of domestic holiday areas.
trips. Foreign tourists visiting South Africa can have
South Africa continued to enjoy a strong their value-added tax (VAT) refunded, provided
growth trajectory in tourist arrivals with a 15,4% the value of the items purchased exceeds R20.
increase overall for the first six months of 2016, VAT is refunded on departure at the point of exit.
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 411Tourism
South Africa’s means of transport infrastructure to ensure that the information received from the
– airlines, railroads, luxury touring buses provinces is subjected to a vetting process as
(coaches) and motor cars – is such that tourists prescribed in the Tourism Act, 2014.
can travel comfortably and quickly from their port The training programmes for tourist guides
of entry to any part of the country. taking place in provinces focus on skills
South African Airways, as well as a number of development for existing tourist guides to make
international airlines, operate regular scheduled them more marketable and employable within
flights to and from South Africa. the sector.
Several domestic airlines operate in the country.
There are also mainline trains to all parts of the Tourism niche markets
country. Domestic tourism (Sho’t Left)
The tourist-accommodation industry in South SAT’s Sho’t Left campaign aims to promote a
Africa provides a wide spectrum of accom- culture of local holiday travel, targeting ordinary
modation, from formal hotels to informal holiday South Africans and their families who have a
flats and cottages, game lodges and reserves, desire to see more of the country but don't know
guest houses, youth hostels and bed-and- where to go.
breakfast establishments. SAT relaunched its Sho’t Left campaign in
August 2007, challenging South Africans to
Tourist guiding "see your world differently," even when only
The NDT entered into an agreement with the visiting family or friends. The campaign is aimed
Culture, Arts, Tourism and Hospitality Sports at young upcoming individuals, independent
Seta (Cathsseta) which seeks to prioritise tourist- couples and families, with research into the
guide training and development throughout domestic tourism market indicating that over
South Africa. 5-million South Africans have both the resources
The memorandum of understanding with and the desire to travel.
Cathsseta also addresses areas of transfor- In February 2016, it was announced that SAT
mation within the tourist guiding sector, as would invest R100 million a year to promote
well as the maintenance of standards through domestic tourism encouraging South Africans to
quality training and effective skills development tour their country.
programmes aimed at existing tourist guides.
The department engaged the Road Traffic Adventure tourism
Management Corporation to educate traffic The country’s diverse terrain, together with an
officials throughout South Africa on how to ideal climate for outdoor activities, makes it
enforce the legislation pertaining to tourist guides. perfect for the adventure tourism niche market.
The NDT works closely with the Department of Activities such as climbing, surfing, diving, hiking,
Transport with a view to ensuring enforcement of horseback safaris, mountain-biking, river-rafting
tourist-guiding issues relating to tour operators – and just about any other extreme activity are
and related regulations in the National Land supported by dedicated operators.
Transport Act, 2009 (Act 5 of 2009). South Africa offers some of the best rock
The department wants industry bodies that are climbing and abseiling opportunities in the
committed to growing the tourist-guiding sector world. Those who prefer rivers have a choice
and elevating the profession to enter into formal of trips ranging from mostly scenic to Grade 5
agreements with stakeholder bodies that share white-water rafting. Opportunities for escorted or
departmentʼs vision. self-guided trips are also available.
The department undertook a process to For those who want to take to the skies, there
review the Regulations in Respect of Tourist are more than 100 listed paragliding or hang-
Guiding. This included wide consultations with gliding launch sites as well as numerous less
tourist guides and key stakeholders throughout known sites. There are also many opportunities
the country to improve processes and systems for helicopter rides balloon and microlight flights,
to register tourist guides and ensure compliance aerobatics and skydiving.
within the sector. Thousands of kilometres of hiking trails wind
The department is working with the provinces through the country in desert, forest, mountain or
to establish a centralised database of tourist coastal terrains, many with adjacent mountain-
guides. bike trails.
Once a viable database is in place, the NDT In addition, South Africa offers a wide variety of
will be able to engage the departments of home horse trails through vineyards, on beaches and in
affairs and justice, and other relevant authorities the mountains. For the more adventurous there
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 412Tourism
are also horseback safaris in game reserves. The which is the richest hominid fossil site in the
216-metre Bloukrans Bridge on the border of the world
Eastern and Western Cape offers the highest • Mapungubwe in Limpopo, one of the richest
commercial bungee jump in the world. archaeological sites in Africa where an
advanced South African culture prospered
Business tourism between 1 200 AD and 1 270 AD
South Africa remains one of the top 15 long-haul • Soweto’s Heritage Trail, a reminder of the
business-events destinations in the world and is events that characterised South Africa’s
the premier business-events destination in Africa. liberation struggle, such as the student uprising
The business-events industry was identified on 16 June 1976. Many cultural villages have
as an important contributor towards the NTSS’s been established throughout South Africa to
target of 15 million international arrivals by 2020. reflect the different cultures and traditions of
Government recognises business-events the country’s people.
tourism as an area with significant growth
potential and has therefore established the Medical tourism
first South African National Convention Bureau South Africa has emerged as a medical tourism
(SANCB) to further promote growth in the destination of choice for travellers from other
conferencing industry. The SANCB is tasked African countries as well as further afield; and
with coordinating national bidding, undertaking the industry is proving to have extensive growth
research and collaborating with city and potential.
provincial convention bureaus and the business- Most medical tourists come to South Africa
events industry to present a united front for for cosmetic surgery, but the country’s skilled
destination South Africa. surgeons can also perform organ transplants,
Over the next five years, South Africa will host cardiac, orthopaedic and obesity surgery, and
200 international conferences that will attract an dentistry.
estimated 300 000 delegates and an additional
R1,6 billion to the economy. Nature-based tourism
South Africa’s fauna and flora and varied land-
Cruise tourism scapes have enormous recreational value and
The department works closely with the cruise attract several million tourists each year.
line industry to ensure that packages and Protected natural areas serve not only to
excursions are developed and that passengers maintain biodiversity, but sustainable visitor
are encouraged to visit the country’s shores, access to these areas adds economic, recrea-
enjoy what it has to offer and inspire other tional and aesthetic value to that which is being
travellers to visit South Africa. conserved within their borders. It also helps
to preserve a wealth of traditional indigenous
Cultural tourism knowledge related to biodiversity, which is in
Heritage and cultural tourism is the fastest- itself a tourism resource.
emerging competitive niche within domestic and South Africa has 19 national parks as well
international tourism markets. This category as numerous private game farms and nature
accounts for 40% of international tourism. reserves. Three of the country’s eight United
The National Heritage and Cultural Strategy is Nations (UN) Educational, Scientific and
aimed at guiding the integration of heritage and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) world heritage
cultural resources with mainstream tourism. It is sites are natural sites, while one is a mixed
set to stimulate sustainable livelihoods through cultural/natural site. These are the Cape
heritage and cultural tourism products and to Floral Region, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park,
diversify the sector and raise awareness of the Vredefort Dome, and the uKhahlamba
heritage and cultural resources. Drakensberg Park.
South Africa’s diversity is reflected in its cultural South Africa’s popularity as an avi-tourism
tourism with many destinations commemorating destination is due to the large number of birds,
the past. These range from the ancient nomadic endemic species and major bird habitats. Birdlife
San culture to European settlement, apartheid South Africa, South Africa’s national birding
rule and the struggle for political freedom. organisation has more than 8 000 members and
Cultural tourist destinations include the: 40 branches nationwide.
• Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park in KwaZulu-
Natal, which is home to the ancient rock art Rural tourism
of the San The NDT’s National Rural Strategy is aimed
• Cradle of Humankind near Johannesburg, at creating community-driven bed-and-break-
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 413Tourism
fast operations, catering for international and Regional tourism
domestic tourists. Western Cape
In supporting the geographic spread of The Western Cape lies at the southern tip of
tourism and in particular tourism growth in rural Africa. The province’s unmatched natural beauty,
areas and enhancing the supply of rural tourism famous hospitality, cultural diversity, excellent
products, the department is focusing on rural wine and rich cuisine make it one of the world’s
communities. greatest tourist attractions.
Culture and heritage products are the fastest The tourism industry in the province has grown
emerging competitive niche offerings in the faster and created more jobs than any other.
domestic and international markets. One in 10 employees in the Western Cape earns
Sustainable development will be achieved a living in the tourism industry, which contributes
if the people, whose land, culture and natural more than R25 billion to the provincial economy.
resources are used for tourism, benefit from
such use in a meaningful way. Cape Metropole
Tourism in the city of Cape Town, which lies at the
Sports tourism foot of the magnificent Table Mountain, centres
It is estimated that sports tourism contributes on the Victoria and Alfred (V&A) Waterfront. A
more than R6 billion to the South African tourism working harbour, the V&A offers everything from
industry. upmarket shopping malls, arts and craft markets,
More than 10% of foreign tourists come to and a variety of restaurants, to theatres, live
South Africa to watch or participate in sports music and museums.
events, with spectators accounting for 60% to Table Mountain, which forms part of the Table
80% of these arrivals. Mountain National Park, is one of the New Seven
The world-class sporting events on South Wonders of Nature. A modern cableway takes
Africa’s annual calendar include the: visitors to the top of the mountain, providing
• annual Cape Argus Cycle Race, which caters spectacular views.
for 35 000 people riding and pushing their Other major attractions in the city include the
bikes over a 10km course Bo-Kaap Museum, the Castle of Good Hope, the
• Midmar Mile in KwaZulu-Natal, which attracts Company’s Garden, the District Six Museum,
18 000 openwater swimmers annually flea markets, the Grand Parade, the Houses of
• Comrades Marathon. Parliament, the South African Cultural History
In October 2014, the forth annual Sports Events Museum and the South African National Gallery.
and Tourism Exchange (SETE) took place in The Gold of Africa Museum, established by
Durban. Anglo Gold, houses a celebrated collection of
The fifth annual SETE conference was held in more than 350 gold artefacts.
the City of Tshwane on 28 and 29 October 2015. Air flips and trips are available, as are many
boat and yacht trips from Table Bay Harbour.
Township tourism There are also trips to Robben Island
Township tours have the potential to present (proclaimed a world heritage site and also the
South Africa’s culture and heritage and the NDT place where former President Nelson Mandela
wants packages to be developed to achieve was imprisoned for 18 of his 27 years in prison).
that goal. Government wants to capitalise on The Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben
job-creation opportunities in this sector. Island is in the Clock Tower Precinct at the V&A
Waterfront. The gateway houses interactive multi-
Wine tourism media exhibitions, an auditorium, boardrooms,
Wine tourism is growing fast worldwide and the Robben Island Museum and a restaurant.
play, an especially important role in South Africa Jazz is big in Cape Town. From traditional
with its centuries-old reputation for making blues through progressive jazz to African-
high-quality wine. International Wine Review, influenced jazz, every taste is catered for at a
one of the world’s most influential opinion number of restaurants, jazz cafés, cigar bars,
formers on wine, has rated South Africa’s wine pubs and wine farms. The top jazz event in the
tourism the best developed in the world. Western Cape is the annual Cape Town Interna-
The country’s vineyards are mostly situated in tional Jazz Festival.
the Western Cape near the coast. The South African Rugby Museum in
All South African wine routes fall under the Newlands reflects the history of the sport as far
auspices of the Wine of Origin Scheme. back as 1891.
Stylistically, South African wines fit somewhere The Rhodes Memorial in Rondebosch on the
between Old World and New World.
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 414Tourism
slopes of Table Mountain was built from granite of old buildings in the country.
from the mountain as a tribute to the memory of The Stellenbosch Village Museum consists of
Cecil John Rhodes, Prime Minister of the Cape four homesteads and gardens ranging from the
from 1890 to 1896. late-17th to the mid-19th centuries.
The University of Cape Town is worth a visit for The Stellenbosch Toy and Miniature Museum
its historic Middle Campus and many buildings houses a collection of 1:12 scale miniatures
designed by Sir Herbert Baker. such as room boxes, miniature houses, antique
Cape Point, part of the Table Mountain dolls, cars and cuddly toys.
National Park, offers many drives, walks, picnic The Spier Summer Arts Festival livens up
spots and a licensed restaurant. Care has been summer nights from November to March at
taken to protect the environmental integrity of this the Spier Wine Estate near Stellenbosch.
22 100 ha reserve of indigenous flora and fauna. Supervised pony and cart rides for children are
Simon’s Town’s naval atmosphere and Historic available on the lawns of the Spier Estate. There
Mile are major attractions in the area. A statue of is also a horse-carriage tour and equestrian
the famous dog and sailors’ friend Able Seaman centre for older children.
Just Nuisance stands at Jubilee Square. The Freedom Monument at Pniel commem-
Hout Bay is renowned for its colourful working orates the freed slaves who were the first settlers
harbour. Seafood outlets, round-the-bay trips to at the mission station, established in 1843.
the nearby seal colony, shell and gift shops, and Franschhoek has become known as the
a famous harbour-front emporium attract many “Gourmet Capital” of the Cape. The Huguenot
visitors. Monument was built in 1944 to commemorate
Duiker Island is a seal and sea-bird sanctuary. the arrival in 1688 of the Huguenots who were
The World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary is one predominantly French. In April each year, the
of the largest bird parks in the world and houses region hosts the South African Cheese Festival.
some 3 000 birds. Visitors can also enjoy various hiking trails
Big Bay in Bloubergstrand is a surfers’ para- and historical walks, as well as the Vignerons
dise and hosts an international windsurfing de Franschhoek Wine Route. There is also an
event. annual book/literary festival in Franschhoek.
Rietvlei Nature Reserve is a unique wetland Butterfly World, one of the more unique
area with over 110 bird species, including attractions of the Western Cape winelands,
pelicans and flamingos. consists of a tropical garden in a 1 000 m2
Canal Walk, Century City, is one of the greenhouse.
largest shopping centres in Africa, with close to The Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre
400 shops, and is home to the largest cinema is on 15 ha focuses mainly on African wildlife,
complex in South Africa. Giraffe House provides a place for people to
New Year in Cape Town is a festive affair, enjoy a picnic in the fresh air, while experiencing
when the Cape minstrels take to the streets with and learning about animals and conservation.
their upbeat music and fancy costumes. Drakenstein Lion Park was established
The Monkey Town Primate Centre is home to as a sanctuary for lions born in captivity.
over 200 individual primates and is located east Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, which includes
of Somerset West on the N2. the smaller Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve, is
Strawberry-picking in Cape Town on the Mooi- near Stellenbosch, comprising the Jonkershoek
berge Strawberry Farm is available in season, Mountains and portions of the upper Jonkers-
which begins in November. hoek Valley. The reserve stretches over
9 800 hectares (ha) and its rugged terrain is
Cape winelands ideal for hiking. Assegaaibosch is much smaller
The Cape winelands feature dramatic mountains, and is suitable for shorter walks and picnics.
rolling farmlands and peaceful vineyards. They On Le Bonheur Estate visitors can experience
are home to Route 62, the world’s longest wine guided croc-pond tours, which lead across open
route. dams via ramp-ways. Over 1 000 crocodiles are
The Stellenbosch Wine Route comprises over housed in these dams. Visitors can touch a baby
100 wine estates, most of which offer cellar crocodile, and during summer months, witness
tours. them being fed.
Stellenbosch is the oldest town in South Paarl is famous for its Cape Dutch and
Africa. The town is a gracious blend of old Cape Victorian architectural treasures found along a
Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture. 1-km stretch of the main street. The area’s fynbos
Dorp Street consists of one of the longest rows supports many south-western Cape endemics,
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 415Tourism
such as the Cape sugarbird and orange-breasted coastline which includes Mossel Bay, George,
sunbird. The Afrikaans Language Monument Wilderness, Sedgefield, Knysna, Plettenberg
is on the slopes of Paarl Mountain, while the Bay and Nature’s Valley – each with its own
Afrikaanse Taalmuseum (Language Museum) is charm and attractions. Famed for its lush
in the centre of the town. greenery and the vast Tsitsikamma Forest, the
The town of Wellington lies in a picturesque Garden Route is the most biodiverse region in
valley, with the majestic Hawequa Mountains on the world.
its eastern border. Wellington is also the home of The Garden Route features the pont at
South Africa’s dried-fruit industry. Malgas, which is one of the two remaining ponts
Experience life as the pioneers did in years in the country, ferrying vehicles and livestock
gone by at the Kleinplasie Living Museum. The across the Breede River. The Grootvadersbosch
KWV Brandy Cellar, the largest of its kind in the Nature Reserve outside Heidelberg comprises
world, offers cellar tours and brandy tastings. the popular Bushbuck Trail, a wilderness trail
The Hex River Valley is the largest producer of and two mountain-bike trails. Riversdale is one
table grapes in southern Africa. Visitors can pick of South Africa’s most important fynbos export
their own grapes at harvest time and sample the areas. Other attractions include the Julius
variety of export-quality produce. Gordon Africana Museum.
The well-known Hex River 4x4 trail and the At the historical Strandveld Architectural He-
ochre san rock art trail is a must for nature ritage Site at Still Bay, visitors can watch tame
lovers. De Doorns lies in the heart of the Hex eels being fed. Ancient fish-traps can be seen at
River Valley. Bonnievale on the Breede River, Morris Point and the harbour.
features several cheese factories. At the aloe factories at Albertinia, aloe juice is
For the adventurous outdoor enthusiast there extracted for medicine and high-quality skin-care
are canoe trips, as well as bird watching and products. Nearby, bungee-jumping at the Gouritz
river boating. River Gorge, hiking, mountain-biking and angling
Surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and roses, are popular pastimes.
Robertson is known as “The Valley of Wine and The Point in Mossel Bay is not only popular
Roses.” It is known for its connoisseur-quality among surfers, but its natural pool formed by rock
wines and its thoroughbred horses. Renowned is also a favourite swimming spot at low tide. The
for its muscadel wines, Montagu is the gateway St Blaize trail starts here and is the ideal place
to the Little Karoo. from which to watch the whales and dolphins at
Relax in the healing waters of the Avalon play in season. The harbour at Mossel Bay is one
Springs or visit the Montagu Museum, which of the most modern commercial and recreational
houses, among other things, original cartoons harbours on the southern Cape coastline. Other
and books by well-known cartoonist TO Honiball. attractions include the Attequas Kloof Pass,
The picturesque village of Gouda is known Anglo-Boer/South African War block-houses
for the Parrotts Den pub, a living museum in the and the Bartolomeu Dias complex. Great Brak
Gouda Hotel. River offers a historic village with many opportu-
McGregor has a variety of charming thatched nities for whale- and dolphi- watching along the
cottages and well-preserved Victorian houses, extensive coast.
making it one of the best-preserved examples The Slave Tree in George, located just
of mid-19th-century architecture in the Western outside the Old Library, was planted in 1811,
Cape. when George was laid out. It is known to be the
Prince Alfred Hamlet is the gateway to the biggest English oak in the Southern Hemisphere.
Gydo Pass, known for its scenic views. This George is popular among golfers and is home to
quaint village lies in an important deciduous-fruit the renowned Fancourt Country Club and Golf
farming area. Hidden amid vineyards and wine Estate, as well as various other acclaimed golf
estates lies Rawsonville, known for its award- courses. Visitors can board the Power Van at
winning wines. the Outeniqua Transport Museum, and enjoy a
Tourists can enjoy an afternoon drive along glimpse of the Garden Route Botanical Garden
the beautiful Slanghoek Valley with its lush from this rail bus. The Big Tree at Woodville,
vineyards and panoramic views or relax in the an Outeniqua yellowwood, is estimated to be
mineral springs at Goudini Spa. around 850 years old. It is located about 40 km
outside of George in the direction of Knysna.
Garden Route The George Airport, Outeniqua Pass, railway
The Garden Route spans roughly 200 km of line and the N2 offer convenient access to this
the southern coast, incorporating the stretch of region, making George the ideal hub from which
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 416Tourism
to explore the Garden Route and Little Karoo. annually. Some 29 km from Oudtshoorn lie
Victoria Bay and Wilderness are popular the Cango Caves, a series of subterranean
for their unspoilt beaches. Wilderness is the limestone caverns. Bearing evidence of early
western gateway to the southern Cape lakes San habitation, the cave features magnificent
area. It is a nature lover’s paradise, best known dripstone formations.
for its beaches, lakes, placid lagoon and lush Amalienstein and Zoar are historic mission
indigenous forests. stations midway between Ladismith and
The Langvlei and Rondevlei bird sanctuaries Calitzdorp. Visitors can go on donkey-cart and
in the Wilderness National Park, which hosts hiking trails through orchards and vineyards,
over 230 different bird species, is popular among while the Seweweekspoort is ideal for mountain-
bird watchers. Sedgefield borders Swartvlei biking, hiking, and protea and fynbos admirers.
Lagoon, the largest natural inland saltwater lake Calitzdorp has four wine estates, three of which
in South Africa. Activities include beach horse- are open to the public.
riding, hiking, angling and bird watching. The spring water of the Calitzdorp Spa is rich
Knysna nestles on the banks of an estuary, in minerals and reputed to have medicinal
guarded by The Heads (two huge sandstone properties. The Gamka Mountain Reserve is
cliffs) and surrounded by indigenous forests, home to the rare and endangered Cape mountain
tranquil lakes and golden beaches. zebra.
This natural wonderland is home to the largest Excellent wines and port are produced in the
and smallest of creatures, from the Knysna Calitzdorp and De Rust areas. The Swartberg
seahorse to the Knysna elephants, rare delicate Nature Reserve and Pass with their gravel roads
butterflies and the endemic Knysna loerie, a are also worth a visit. De Rust lies at the southern
colourful forest bird. entrance to Meiringspoort. The Meiringspoort
The abundant fynbos and forest settings Gorge extends 20 km through the Swartberg
host over 200 species. Knysna is also famous Mountain Range. Halfway through is a beautiful
for its delectable home-grown oysters, enjoyed 69-m waterfall. Wine farms in the area are open
with locally brewed beer in quaint pubs and to the public.
restaurants. The Knysna Oyster Festival, a Ladismith is home to the Towerkop Cheese
celebration of the good life, has established itself Factory. There are various hiking, mountain-
as one of the most popular annual events in the biking and 4x4 trails in the area, as well as
Western Cape. the Anysberg, Little Karoo and Towerkop nature
An eclectic mix of art galleries presents the reserves.
diversity of talent in the area. There are also Uniondale, on the main route between
lagoon cruises, forest hikes, golf and adventure George and Graaff-Reinet, features the largest
sports on offer. water-wheel in the country, the Old Watermill.
Plettenberg Bay is adventure country, offering Uniondale Poort is a scenic drive linking
boat-based whale watching, black-water Uniondale with Avontuur in the Langkloof Valley.
tubing, hiking, and forest and cycling trails. The At Vanwyksdorp, visitors can see how fynbos
Keurbooms River Nature Reserve at Plettenberg is dried and packed for the export market.
Bay offers a canoeing trail, while the Robberg Donkey-cart rides take visitors to Anglo-Boer/
Nature Reserve is a treasure trove of land, South African War grave sites.
marine, geological and archaeological wealth.
Central Karoo
Little Karoo The Central Karoo, a fascinating semi-desert
The Little Karoo’s fascinating landscape is area, lies in the heart of one of the world’s most
fashioned almost entirely by water. Its vegetation unique and interesting arid zones. This ancient,
ranges from lush greenery in the fertile river fossil-rich land is five times the size of Great
valleys to short, rugged Karoo plants in the veld. Britain. Here, visitors will find the Earth’s largest
Gorges feature rivers that cut through towering variety of succulents. Beaufort West, the oldest
mountains, while breathtakingly steep passes town in the Central Karoo, is often referred to
cross imposing terrain. The region is also home as the “Oasis of the Karoo.” The local museum
to the world’s largest bird – the ostrich. The Little displays awards presented to heart-transplant
Karoo is rich in culture and history. Oudtshoorn, pioneer, Prof. Chris Barnard, a son of this town.
the world’s ostrich-feather capital, is the region’s A township route introduces visitors to the
main town. Xhosa culture in the area. The Karoo National
The Klein-Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees Park, on the town’s doorstep, is home to a variety
(National Arts Festival) is held in the town of game, as well as the highly endangered
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 417Tourism
riverine rabbit. Further north, visitors encounter the Olifants
Matjiesfontein, a national monument, offers River Valley and the vast plains of the Knersvlakte
tourists a peek into yesteryear and the opportunity with its wealth of indigenous succulent plants.
to overnight in Victorian splendour. The village The citrus area in the Olifants River Valley is the
houses a transport museum and the Marie third-largest in South Africa.
Rawdon Museum. The town of Darling draws visitors to its country
Experience the vastness of the Great Karoo museum and art gallery, annual wild flower and
in Murraysburg, an ecotourist and hunter’s orchid shows, basket factory and wine cellars.
paradise. The entertainment venue “Evita se Perron”
Laingsburg, a tiny village that was devastated is situated at the old Darling Railway Station
by floods about a century after it was established, and offers top performances by South African
was rebuilt afterwards. It is the best place to entertainers.
study the geology of the region. Malmesbury is the biggest town in the Swartland.
Prince Albert is a well-preserved town at the Major attractions include the Malmesbury
foot of the Swartberg Mountains. It is the ideal Museum and the historical walk-about.
place to sample Karoo cuisine, see examples of The Riebeek Valley is known for its scenic
local architecture dating back to the early 1800s beauty. The area has become a popular haven for
and enjoy several scenic drives. well-known artists of various disciplines. Wines
The Fransie Pienaar Museum introduces and olives can be tasted at various cellars.
visitors to the cultural history of the area. It has a Elands Bay is a popular holiday resort and
fossil room and an exhibit covering the gold rush surfer’s paradise. Khoi and San rock art can be
in this area in the 19th century. The museum viewed at the Elands Bay caves.
has a licence to distil and sell “witblits” (white Moorreesburg and Koringberg are major
lightning). Prince Albert is the closest town by wheat-distributing towns. Tourists can visit the
road to Gamkaskloof. Wheat Industry Museum, one of only three in
The Hell, a little valley in the heart of the the world. Bird watching, hiking, 4x4 routes,
Swartberg Mountains, was the home of one of clay-pigeon shooting, mountain-bike trails,
the world’s most isolated communities for almost canoeing and waterskiing at Misverstand are
150 years. Gamkaskloof is a nature reserve and popular activities.
national monument managed by Cape Nature Yzerfontein is famous for its unspoilt beaches,
Conservation. It has overnight facilities and can fynbos, beautiful views and whale watching.
be accessed by a 57-km long (but two-hour Another major attraction is the historical lime
drive) winding road which starts at the peak of furnaces.
the Swartberg Pass. Langebaan, a popular holiday destination, is
home to the West Coast National Park. An
West Coast internationally renowned wetland that houses
The West Coast is a region of outstanding about 60 000 waterbirds and waders, the park
beauty and contrast. The coast’s scenic beauty attracts thousands of visitors each year. The
is challenged only by culinary experiences of oldest anatomically modern fossilised human
mussels, oysters, calamari, crayfish and abalone footprints were also discovered here.
in season, or linefish pulled from the Benguela The Langebaan Lagoon forms part of the park
Current’s cold waters. and is zoned for specific activities. The Postberg
During April every year, Lambert’s Bay has the section of the park, across the lagoon, is famous
Crayfish and Cultural Festival. The area is not for its wild flowers that bloom mainly during
only a birder’s paradise, but every year migrating August and September.
whales visit the coastal waters from July. Cape Columbine at Paternoster is the last
Vredenburg, the business centre of the area, manned lighthouse build on the South African
has a popular golf course with a bird hide. coast. The Columbine Nature Reserve is home to
Lambert’s Bay is a traditional fishing village, with a variety of seabird species.
Bird Island as a popular tourist attraction. It is a Saldanha is a water sport enthusiast’s para-
breeding ground for African penguins, the Cape dise. Its attractions include Doc’s Cave, a land-
cormorant and other sea birds. mark on the scenic breakwater drive, and the
Within two months of the first good winter rains, Hoedjieskoppie Nature Reserve.
wild flowers on the West Coast explode in a There are various hiking trails in the SAS
brilliant display of colour. Saldanha Nature Reserve.
The Swartland region is known for its wheat St Helena Bay is best known for the Vasco
fields, vineyards, wineries and outdoor activities. Da Gama Monument and Museum. Visitors
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