Tourism is a significant industry in South Africa. In Mpumalanga, it is one of the largest contributors towards development. With one of the most diverse tourism ecosystems, the province is well known for its majestic natural attractions. With an array of amazing natural attractions along the Panorama route, and the serene Lowveld Botanical Gardens in Nelspruit. Mpumalanga is not short of wonders. It has built an ecosystem able to co-exist with the massive tourism industry. Eco-tourism is the reason at Ekhaya guesthouse we promote and encourage green living. We understand the importance of preserving and protecting the environment.
Tourism in Mpumalanga
It is a necessity that the tourism industry in Mpumalanga thrives. It is one of the most consistent contributors to the economy and development of the province. South Africa, is in fact, a popular tourist destination. This is mainly because of its amazing natural attractions and landscapes. Our culture of co-existing in such an ecosystem is also a contributing factor. In Mpumalanga, tourism is a significant contributor to employment. In 2021, it contributed between 4.2% to 4.7% to job creation in Mpumalanga. Even at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was able to stay alive.
The diverse natural ecosystem driving tourism in Mpumalanga.
Mpumalanga has several natural attractions that contribute to its tourism. From the scenic Panorama route with attractions such as God’s window, Three Rondavels and Bourke’s luck potholes- to the Drakensberg mountains and Kruger national park. The province is the ultimate tourist destination. As an establishment surrounded by the Kruger National Park, the Lowveld Botanical Gardens and Chimp Eden, we, at Ekhaya, pride ourselves as key points of eco-tourism in Nelspruit.
The role of Eco-tourism in Mpumalanga, South Africa.
According to David Fennell, eco-tourism is a sustainable form of natural resource-based tourism focused on conserving and sustaining nature while exploring. It is a form of tourism that not only encourages but also advances the ways to sustain natural resources. Through eco-tourism, we have been able to experience our majestic natural attractions while preserving them. Tourism in Mpumalanga is a major part of South Africa’s tourism. This is why it is one of the leading provinces in advocating nature conservation. As a result, we have the Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act No 10 of 1998. This Act consolidates and amends laws relating to nature conservation within the province.
The significance of eco-tourism to the biodiversity of Mpumalanga.
Eco-tourism plays a key role in conserving the biodiversity of Mpumalanga. It is part of the initiative that brings major awareness towards the preservation of our biodiversity. Its impact has birthed organizations such as The Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA). It is also responsible for the introduction of policies such as the Tourism Act of 2014. This act holds guidelines that promote minimizing environmental impact, building cultural awareness, ensuring benefits for local communities, and fostering positive visitor experiences. The main objective is to preserve and sustain the ecosystem. Because of such initiatives, the state had an obligation to redirect funding towards organizations such as DFFE for the preservation of biodiversity in Mpumalanga.
Tourism creates opportunities
Eco-tourism does not only play a role in the tourism industry. Through it, we can sustain industries such as agriculture and fisheries. By preserving the natural ecosystem, we allow nature to flourish and be sustained. As advocates for nature conservation, Ekhaya guesthouse has also built its own natural oasis displaying the beauty of nature in Mpumalanga. This is to show appreciation for nature that has evolved into our own identities as people of Mpumalanga. Ekhaya is also the best place to visit if you want to experience a diversified side of eco-tourism.
The co-existence of humans and biodiversity is vital for tourism in the province. Eco-tourism is an important part of preserving our environment and its biodiversity. This is why we encourage everyone to play their part in this initiative to conserve our province and its inhabitants.
