The Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism Agency (ECPTA) officially launched Tourism Month on 3 September in Stutterheim, within the Amahlathi Municipality.
This year’s launch celebrated the vibrant tourism industry and the rich cultural heritage of the Eastern Cape while highlighting the theme of “Tourism and Peace,” which emphasised the importance of sustainable and responsible tourism. September held special significance for the Eastern Cape, marking Tourism and Heritage Month. This dual celebration offered an opportunity to acknowledge tourism’s significant contributions to the local economy and honour the diverse cultural heritage that shaped the province.
ECPTA showcased the UNESCO-recognised Baviaanskloof Mega Reserve, a World Heritage Site known for its incredible biodiversity. These sites highlighted the natural wonders of the Eastern Cape and reflected a commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism, aligning with the theme of “Tourism and Peace.”
ECPTA’s Marketing Manager, Lavinia Shaw, emphasised tourism’s crucial role in boosting the Eastern Cape’s economy, contributing significantly to local development and community upliftment.
“The province saw a steady increase in visitor numbers, from 2.2 million in 2020 to 6.8 million in 2023, demonstrating the appeal of its offerings and the effectiveness of its promotional efforts. The aim is to sustain and build on this momentum, ensuring tourism continues to benefit local communities and preserve heritage sites for future generations,” said Shaw.
While celebrating these achievements, ECPTA acknowledged the sector’s challenges, particularly in ensuring tourist safety. Through Board Member Ms Vuyelwa Mantyi, the Agency committed to working closely with local communities to address crime and create a safe environment for all visitors. ECPTA urged all citizens to join hands in making the Eastern Cape a secure and welcoming destination.
As part of this year’s Tourism Month initiatives, ECPTA introduced a variety of unique travel deals on www.ec.traveldeals.co.za, offering visitors opportunities to explore the province’s hidden gems at attractive rates. ECPTA also offered a Free Access Week to provincial nature reserves, allowing visitors to experience these natural spaces’ breathtaking beauty and tranquility at no cost. These initiatives encouraged locals and visitors to engage more deeply with the Eastern Cape’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
