Tourism Month 2025

This September, the Western Cape Government invites you to rediscover the beauty, culture, and heritage of our province.

From vibrant festivals and charming dorpies to breathtaking nature reserves and world heritage sites, there’s no better time to explore local destinations, support community tourism businesses, and celebrate Spring. 

Tourism is more than leisure. It’s a powerful driver of growth. 

In 2023 alone, tourism contributed R28.6 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the Western Cape economy and supported over 257,000 jobs in hospitality, guiding, agriculture, transport, culture, and the creative industries.

"Every trip within the Western Cape creates an opportunity for growth - for our communities, our small businesses, and for the families who depend on tourism for their livelihoods. By travelling responsibly and with purpose, residents can help protect what makes our province bloom." - Dr Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism. 

This Tourism Month, take part by:

• Celebrating Spring — support community-based tourism businesses, join cultural festivals, and discover our dorpies, townships, and villages.
• Finding Spring in Nature — visit CapeNature reserves or SANParks, travel responsibly, respect wildlife, and leave no trace.
• Springing Into Heritage — explore Robben Island, the Cape Floral Kingdom, museums like District Six and the Slave Lodge, or immerse yourself in living history at the Bo-Kaap, Stellenbosch, Tulbagh, Matjiesfontein, and Cederberg rock art sites.

Tourism Month also coincides with Heritage Day on 24 September, offering opportunities to celebrate diverse traditions and stories through events like the Khwa ttu Heritage Festival and other cultural showcases.

Your local travel makes a real difference:

• Every visit supports local entrepreneurs, guides, and artists.
• Every ticket purchased helps grow our economy.
• Every responsible action protects our biodiversity and cultural legacy.

Tourism is a shared journey — when we travel with impact, we help the Western Cape flourish.

Download the Tourism Month calendar for more travel, events, and activities happening this September in the Western Cape.