The Western Cape is set for a bustling summer season, with the province enjoying unparalleled global connectivity

According to Dr. Ivan Meyer, the MEC for Agriculture, Economic Development, and Tourism, the region is anticipating a significant influx of visitors, with approximately 200 000 cruise passengers and crew expected to arrive at the ports of Cape Town and Mossel Bay. This is due to 88 scheduled ship calls to the province, marking a record-breaking year for cruise tourism.

At the same time, the province’s airports are seeing a surge in international and domestic travelers. Cape Town International Airport alone has experienced an 11% increase in international visitors so far this year, with a 7% rise in domestic travel. Meyer highlighted that 27 airlines will service the airport this summer, providing access to 31 international destinations across 38 routes. ‘The Western Cape has never been as well connected with major global tourism markets as it is now,’ Meyer said.

However, Meyer was quick to emphasise that safety remains a top priority for the province’s tourism strategy. He assured that his department is working closely with the City of Cape Town, emergency services, and other stakeholders to ensure that safety standards are upheld throughout the peak season.

A key part of the province’s efforts to safeguard visitors is the establishment of a dedicated tourism law enforcement unit, the first of its kind in South Africa. This unit is deployed at major tourist hotspots, offering visible policing and support to both tourists and residents. Meyer also expressed his support for the formalization of the Volunteer Safety Services, which facilitates better coordination between SANParks and volunteer organisations. Additionally, the revival of the Table Mountain Safety Forum will focus on improving safety on the mountain, including enhanced signage, better wayfinding, and increased human resources to manage visitor flow and potential risks.

In a move to further boost the province’s tourism appeal, Meyer noted the Department of Home Affairs’ efforts to streamline travel for visitors from high-growth markets such as China and India. He also highlighted the introduction of a digital nomad visa, aimed at attracting long-term remote workers to the region.

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