Tourism bodies are reporting a steady rise in bookings at resorts throughout KZN, a phenomenon attributed to factors such as people being travel-starved, good discounts at venues, warmer weather conditions, and a long heritage weekend.
In keeping with the theme of “Rural Tourism and Development” this September Tourism Month; KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Ms Nomusa Dube-Ncube has been visiting various tourism attractions and in the process putting on the world map hidden gems that visitors can explore when visiting the province.
“At every corner of the province there is something very special for our visitors to explore, whether it’s our coffee at Beaver Creek down the South Coast or the variety of wines harvested at Cathedral Peak Wine Farm in the Drakensberg. KZN truly does have it all,” she says.
Tourism KZN has been working very closely with tourism trade partners to put together amazing specials that potential travellers can take advantage of and explore the province with friends, family and loved ones. All tourism venues have been fully briefed on the need to abide by health and hygiene measures to keep visitors safe from the pandemic.
Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (Fedhasa) Operations Manager, Charles Preece, said their members are keen for the country’s borders to open again to allow international travellers back to South Africa.
“But it is good to note that, the KZN North and South Coast tourist destinations have been active since the opening of the economy due to people wanting to get out after being under lockdown at home.
“We are nearing about 70% occupancy rate of local and domestic tourists coming into Durban this long weekend”.
Preece said there will be no massive short-fall of tourists coming into the province this December holiday season and Fedhasa looked forward to welcoming more visitors under safe protocols.
Belinda Spence, Chairperson of Drakensberg Experience Tourism Association, said she is ecstatic that all establishments for the Drakensberg Experience were fully booked for the past long-weekend.
“Visitors have taken advantage of day trips to the battlefields and museums, rock art, and game viewing.”
