The Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency’s (ECPTA) Destination Development unit conducted a series of site visits aimed at assessing tourism products and identifying the type of support that could be provided to strengthen their operations and growth.
The first visit took place at Grand View Lodge, where the owner sought guidance on compliance requirements and how to structure the business in line with recognised South African tourism quality standards. The engagement allowed the ECPTA team to better understand the establishment’s needs and to advise on steps that would help position the lodge more competitively within the tourism sector.
The second visit was conducted at Nxarhuni in the Newlands location, where the team met with two young entrepreneurs who run an information-based hiking business in the village, leading visitors to Nahoon Dam. ECPTA had previously supported the youth through training in adventure tour guiding and first aid, and they also received four kayaks through the Oceans Economy programme. In addition, the agency assisted them with applying to become professional tour guides. The purpose of the visit was to assess how the business was operating and to explore further ways in which ECPTA could support its growth and integration into the mainstream tourism economy.
The final visit took place at Redside Farm, a game farm whose owner had approached the agency for guidance on developing the property into a tourism offering. The owner expressed interest in introducing activities such as hiking trails, quad biking, chalets, and game drives, while also seeking assistance with compliance matters related to operating a reserve. The site visit provided an opportunity for ECPTA to evaluate the potential of the farm and discuss possible development pathways that would align with sustainable tourism practices.
