Tourism Month 2017 | Western Cape Government

Tourism Month 2017

September is Tourism Month, which places a focus on the importance of this sector in our local economy and aims to highlight the many attractions to be explored by foreigners and  locals alike. Family visiting the beach

It also presents a unique opportunity to raise awareness on the contribution of sustainable tourism among public and private sector decision-makers, while mobilising all stakeholders to work together in making tourism a catalyst for positive change.

Minister of Economic Development and Tourism, Alan Winde together with Minister of Local Government, Anton Bredell kicked off the Western Cape Government Tourism Month programme, with a focus on saving water in the tourism sector.

The Western Cape has seen a surge which has lasted through the winter season and in line with this year’s theme of tourism as a development tool, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism will be using this month to highlight success stories of entrepreneurs in this space.

According to the latest Domestic Tourism Survey (DTS) by Stats SA, the Western Cape received more than 1.1 million overnight leisure trips. They also came out top in the following important categories.

Be a tourist in your own city

The Western Cape is a leading tourism destination for leisure and business travel in the world. Why not use this opportunity to explore our beautiful province with your family and friends. Visit these top 10 tourist attractions we have in our province: 

1. Table Mountain  Cable car in Cape Town

Table Mountain is ideal for anyone who wants to view the Mother City from above. Before you visit this flat-topped mountain it’s best to first check the weather forecast, as panoramic views are best when the sky is clear with little to no wind.

2. Groot Constantia 

This fully operational farm which is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the Western Cape is situated on the Cape Peninsula and overlooks False Bay. The area has a maritime climate due to the ocean surrounding the Cape Peninsula, and has an annual average rainfall of +/- 1,100 mm per annum combined with cool southern slopes and deep mountain soil which provides the ideal setting for the making of top quality wines. Other attractions include restaurants and museums.

3. Robben Island

This historical island is located in Table Bay, on the west coast of Bloubergstrand and it’s where Nelson Mandela was detained for 18 years as a political prisoner. You’ll need to catch a ferry at the V&A Waterfront which will take you to a the island and a guided tour.
 
4. Cape of Good Hope (Cape Point)

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the Cape of Good Hope is where you should be heading. Hiking, surfing, angling, picnicking, beaching and cycling opportunities are scattered all over this nature reserve, which forms part of the Table Mountain National Park. The spectacular backdrop of mountains and coastline of the Cape Peninsula will leave you with a unique perspective on nature.

5. Cango Caves

The Cango Caves are regarded to be the only and largest show cave in Africa. It's situated 29 km from Oudtshoorn and some of the activities they offer include a 60 minute moderate walk.

6. V&A Waterfront V&A Waterfront in Cape Town

If you’re looking to indulge in some entertainment and shopping, then the V&A Waterfront is the perfect place for you. Here you’ll find hundreds of speciality and craft shops, a choice of cinemas and helicopter rides.

A convenient information centre is also available to those looking for something specific in and around the V&A. The Waterfront Information Kiosk in Victoria Wharf might also come in handy to those who are unfamiliar with the area.

7. Tsitsikamma National Park

The Tsitsikamma National Park is a coastal reserve which is located on the stunning Garden Route. A visit to this park is ideal for someone who enjoys Scuba diving, mountain biking, forest excursions, hiking,  nature walks and water activities.

8. Wilderness National Park

The Wilderness National Park is also in the Garden Route and is a combination of rivers, lakes, estuaries and beaches and some of the activities you can enjoy when at this park include birding and 4x4 trail driving.

9. Boulders
couple admiring Cape Town mountain viewsThis beach is situated in Simon’s Town, it’s one of the few in the world and has become a popular international tourist destination spot. Ideal for children, in this beach you enjoy penguin viewing and boardwalks.


10. Agulhas National Park

Situated in the L'Agulhas, this park is for someone who loves extreme outdoor activities; diving into the depths, reaching poles and sailing around the tips of the continents are just some of the activities you can experience when you visit this coastal park. 

To find out more about fun activities around the Western Cape during tourism month, have a look at the Cape Town and Western Cape Tourism Calendar

Read more about Minister Winde’s Tourism Month programme.

The content on this page was last updated on 14 September 2017