The Limpopo Economic Development, Environment and Tourism Department (LEDET) has announced a R25 million (€1.27 million) investment in upgrading two of the province’s key wildlife resorts.

The funds will be allocated to the refurbishment of facilities at the Nylsvley Nature Reserve and Wolkberg Wilderness Reserve, positioning Limpopo as a leading destination for nature-based tourism.

Resorts targeted for refurbishment

According to LEDET, the allocated budget will be used for upgrades of specific facilities within the two reserves. At Nylsvley Nature Reserve, improvements will focus on refurbishing the restaurant and kitchen. Meanwhile, the Wolkberg Wilderness Reserve will see significant upgrades to its access road, making it easier for visitors to explore the reserve’s scenic offerings, including Mawetse Camp.

Tourism competitiveness and economic impact

LEDET believes investing in infrastructure is crucial to maintain Limpopo’s tourism competitiveness. The province, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, attracts local and international tourists.

“It is imperative that the province invests in infrastructure to provide visitors with a superior experience,” a spokesperson for LEDET told Tourism Update. “In the long term, these investments support formal and informal economies that rely on tourist revenue to sustain jobs and develop SMEs.”

In addition to the resort upgrades, there is growing focus on the development and maintenance of hiking trails at other key reserves including the Mphaphuli, Schuinsdraai, Lekgalameetse, Makuya, Doorndraai Dam and Masebe nature reserves.

Nature reserves as key attractions

Visitors to Limpopo’s wildlife resorts enjoy a variety of experiences from family-friendly camping and wildlife activities to exploring mountainous landscapes, indigenous forests and waterfalls. The reserves also boast a wealth of birdlife in the famed Nylsvley Flood Plains and the world’s largest breeding colony of Cape vultures at Blouberg Nature Reserve. With affordable tariffs and diverse offerings, Limpopo’s reserves are a prime destination for domestic tourists seeking nature-based activities.

Comparing annual budgets

Last year, R26.4 million (€1.34 million) funded upgrades at the Blouberg, D’Nyala, Lekgalameetse and Letaba nature reserves. LEDET confirmed that no other major tourism infrastructure investments are planned for the rest of this 2024/25 financial year.

Tourism Month activities in Limpopo

Celebrating Tourism Month, Limpopo has a full calendar of activities designed to showcase the province’s natural beauty and cultural heritage this September. Notable events included:

• Sho’t Left Travel Week (September 2-8) offering discounted holiday packages for future travel to the province.
• Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival (September 13-14) celebrating Limpopo’s culture and heritage in the Vhembe district.
• Limpopo Wildlife Resorts Mahala Week (September 9-15) offering free access to the province’s wildlife resorts for a limited time.

Additionally, Premier Phophi Ramathuba and LEDET MEC, Tshitereke Matibe, will participate in a hiking activity at Lekgalameetse Nature Reserve this month, further promoting Limpopo as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Driving tourism in Limpopo

Beyond infrastructure projects, LEDET’s initiatives aim to attract more visitors to Limpopo. The department recently launched the Tourism Thursdays campaign – an extension of the national Tourism Tuesdays initiative.

This campaign, developed in collaboration with South African Tourism, aims to increase engagement with the province’s tourism offerings and encourage greater awareness of its diverse attractions.

With its vast natural landscapes, rich wildlife and cultural significance, Limpopo remains a prime destination for tourists. The province’s ongoing investment in its tourism infrastructure will ensure it remains competitive and capable of offering exceptional experiences to all who visit.