FOCUSDramatic mountain
FOCUSDramatic mountain landscapes attracttourists in large numbers.visitor experiences, inspiringexploration and driving thedemand for unique destinations.Situated in the heart of SouthAfrica, the Free State boastsa rich and varied landscapeshaped by seasonal climates andnatural beauty. The province’sdiverse environment, rangingfrom expansive grasslands tomountainous terrain, makes itan ideal setting for eco-tourism,adventure tourism and culturaltourism investments. Additionally,the integration of conservationareas such as the Maloti DrakensbergTransfrontier Park into crossbordertourism initiatives offersfurther potential for sustainabletourism development.Mountainous landscapes areamong the most sought-aftertourist destinations globally,second only to coastal regions,accounting for 15% to 20% ofall tourism activities. Thesescenic terrains offer a uniqueblend of breathtaking views,fresh mountain air, a mildclimate and a rich cultural andnatural heritage, making themprime locations for tourismdevelopment. By strategicallydeveloping the province’seco-tourism sector, investorscan help drive economic growthwhile preserving the region’snatural beauty. Sustainable tourism initiatives will not only enhancethe visitor experience but also create jobs, support local businesses andposition the Free State as a premier destination for nature lovers andadventure seekers.Tourism SMMEsSouth Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) sets ambitious targetsfor 2030, including the elimination of income poverty, reduction ofinequality and achieving a 6% unemployment rate. A key driver inreaching these objectives is the growth of small, medium and microenterprises (SMMEs), which have been identified as essential forfostering inclusive economic growth and development.The South African government has set a goal to generate90% of new employment through SMMEs by 2030, underlining thepivotal role these businesses play in driving innovation, increasingcompetitiveness, and creating jobs. For tourism in the Free State,this presents a significant opportunity. The expansion of tourismfocusedSMMEs, whether in hospitality, travel services or localcraftsmanship can contribute not only to the economic growth ofthe province but also to reducing inequality by providing sustainableemployment opportunities.Overcoming growth barriers for SMMEs is crucial to unlocking theirpotential as key drivers of job creation and poverty alleviation. TheFree State’s tourism sector, with its thriving family-owned andcommunity-based enterprises, presents an exciting investmentopportunity. These businesses offer unique tourism experienceswhile creating much-needed employment and contributing to localeconomic growth.Routes and trailsThis route-based approach to tourism development has been widelyadopted in many countries, including South Africa. Tourism routesserve as exemplary models of tourism networks, connecting diverseregions and experiences in a seamless way. In South Africa, tourismroutes, such as backpacking and community-based trails, have shownsignificant potential to attract visitors and provide immersive culturalexperiences.FREE STATE BUSINESS 202520PHOTO: SA Tourism
The Willem Pretorious Nature Reserve is nearVentersburg.Zuikerkop xxx Country Game Lodge isnoted for weddings and has its own airstrip.Tourism routes have becomean integral part of the tourismexperience, and all stakeholdersinvolved in these routes mustunderstand their roles to ensure arewarding experience for tourists.In the Free State, investing inand establishing heritage routesand trails can serve as a powerfulcatalyst for tourism growth. Bylinking diverse historical, culturaland natural attractions, thesetourism routes can encouragevisitors to explore the region morethoroughly, driving economicactivity, job creation and longtermsustainable growth.Events and festivalsThe growing interest in festivalsand events within the tourismindustry highlights their increasingimportance as catalysts fordevelopment. Research into thesignificance of events has surged.Events have the power to driveeconomic growth by offeringboth tangible benefits such asdirect economic impact, jobcreation and tax revenue andintangible rewards, like a sense ofcommunal pride, integration and apositive atmosphere. By investingin and promoting events andfestivals in the Free State, there isan excellent opportunity to enrichlocal communities and enhancethe province’s tourism sector.Festivals and events haveconsistently attracted both localand international visitors to South Africa. The Free State’s vibrant scheduleof events, ranging from cultural festivals to sporting competitions, offersan excellent opportunity to diversify the province’s tourism offeringsand appeal to various interests. By investing in the infrastructure andpromotion of these events, substantial economic benefits can be realisedfor local communities, including increased revenue, job creation and thefostering of cultural exchange.ConclusionThe Free State province offers vast investment opportunities within thetourism sector. Tourism has long been recognised as a powerful tool forfostering international understanding and cooperation. While the privatesector plays a central role in driving tourism, government support iscrucial in shaping the industry’s growth and success. By encouraginginvestment in tourism, governments, especially in developing countries,can foster significant economic development. Tourism is known for itshigh multiplier and spillover effects, making it a key driver for economicdiversification. Public investments are especially valuable when theprivate sector is hesitant to invest, as they help reduce risks and increaseprofitability, paving the way for more successful partnerships andgrowth in the region. ■CONTACT:POPULAR FREE STATE EVENTSEVENT DATE HOSTED BY APPROXATTENDANCECherry Festival November Ficksburg 3 000Lemo Festival October Bloemfontein 15 000MatjhabengSummer BlowSeptember/DecemberWelkom 16 000Bottoms Up NYE December Welkom 3 000Colours of Love December Parys 3 000Free State Gambling, Liquor and Tourism AuthorityTel: 051 404 0300Email: officeofceo@fsgrb.co.zaWebsite: www.gla.fs.gov.zaPHOTO: FSGLTA , FDC21 FREE STATE BUSINESS 2025
