South African Customised Private Tours promises a unique experience with our personalised options suitable to your unique travel needs. They cater to both local and international travellers. Whether you are a local or international traveller, there is something for everyone! We have options for private groups, standard tours, day trips and can customise tours according to your bucket list!

The Department of Tourism and Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) remains committed to working with the greater tourism stakeholders. We acknowledge it has been a challenging year for accommodation providers, conferencing and events venues throughout South Africa.

It is with great pleasure that we can announce the renewal of the Tourism Grading Support Programme from April 2024 and March 2025. This programme is a part of the Department of Tourism’s; Tourism Incentive Programme which aims to encourage the growth and transformation of graded establishments. Through this programme, your establishment may receive an 80% discount on TGCSA grading fees.

To qualify for up to 80% discount, you are required to submit the following docs:

• A copy of a current and valid SARS Tax Clearance Certificate
• A copy of identity document (ID)
• A copy of relevant business registration documents i.e. company registration document (for CC’s and Private Companies)/partnership Agreement (for Partnerships)/ trust Deeds (for Trusts) identification Document (for Sole Proprietors)
• A certified copy of B-BBBEE certificate or sworn affidavit (in the case of Exempt Micro Enterprise (EME) to Qualifying Small Enterprise (QSE) with more than 51% black shareholding); and
• A copy of public liability insurance

If you are a TOMSA member, your business will qualify for a further 10% discount.

For new applications go to www.tourismgrading.co.za and commence your membership.

The TTA aims to provide an opportunity for members to participate in forthcoming trade shows (2025). The trade shows are Meetings Africa (February 2025), World Travel Market (April 2025) and Africa’s Travel Indaba (May 2025).

The proposal is to offer a shared platform, at a reasonable cost, under the Tshwane banner and together with other members. i.e. Should enough interest be shown by members the Association will coordinate a stand on which interested members can exhibit together, each having their own space.

TTA members will have the chance to showcase their products and services to a wide audience of industry professionals, potential clients, and partners. This exposure can lead to increased brand visibility, networking opportunities, and potential business deals. Additionally, attending these trade shows allows TTA members to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the travel and tourism industry, helping them to remain competitive and innovative in their offerings. Overall, participation in these trade shows can be a valuable investment for TTA members looking to grow their businesses and expand their reach in the market.

This shared platform would not only provide a cost-effective way for members to showcase their products or services, but it would also create a sense of unity and collaboration within the Association. By pooling resources and working together, members can benefit from increased visibility, networking opportunities, and potential business leads.

Additionally, having a collective presence at events or trade shows can help elevate the overall reputation and credibility of the Association as a whole. Overall, this proposal has the potential to be a win-win situation for all involved parties.

Participation: Any fully paid-up member of the Tshwane Tourism Association may participate.

Non TTA members can apply for TTA membership to be part of the shared stand.

Please refer to the link to view other TTA membership benefits  https://www.tshwanetourism.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/TTA-membership-benefits.pdf

Costs:             To be communicated in due course (inclusive of floor plan)

Interest:          All interested members are requested to HERE or            send an email to admin@tshwanetourism.com

Tourist arrivals went up by 11,1% (+315 228) for the period January-April 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. The tourist arrivals during January to April 2024 were, however, still 12.7% lower compared to the tourist arrivals recorded in the pre-COVID period of 2019 (Jan-April).

Read more…

The Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 is the second edition of an index that evolved from the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) series, a flagship index of the World Economic Forum that has been in production since 2007.

The TTDI is part of the Forum’s broader work with industry and government stakeholders to build a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for economies and local communities. Read more….

“SANBI Gardens membership scheme unveiled.

Inviting a diversity of South Africans in; making the National Gardens accessible and more affordable; inviting people to co-invest in maintenance and management of the properties.

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), managing custodian of the South African National Botanical and Zoological Gardens, today unveils a SANBI membership scheme that optimises the affordability of visiting the National Botanical and Zoological Gardens and is engineered to expand the diversity of people who visit them.

The membership scheme came into effect on 1 April 2024 at the commencement of the SANBI financial year. It enables people to become SANBI card-carrying members and enjoy unlimited access for a year to all South Africa’s National Botanical and Zoological Gardens.

In terms of the scheme, adult membership is R800 per annum. Membership for verified students is R600 per annum. Children (aged six to 17) pay R400 per annum. Children younger than six do not require membership to enter the national botanical gardens and those under the age of two enter free at the national zoological gardens. Pensioners require membership to enter every day except on those days when they may enter for free on Tuesdays in most gardens. Information on pensioner access and other fee structures applicable outside the membership is available on the SANBI website at https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/.

“The introduction of the membership scheme comes after requests received from visitors to our gardens,” says Director of Marketing, Communication and Commercialisation, Nontsikelelo Mpulo. “We conducted market research and determined that an annual membership fees proposed is reasonable and accessible.”

Educational programmes in gardens will continue as normal with special reduced rates for schools and other educational research activities.

She adds that the rationale for introducing the membership scheme includes attracting a greater diversity of South Africans into the National Botanical Gardens. “For the annual fee, a person may visit the gardens as often as they like. It works out R3 per entry, per adult who visits five times per a week and it compares really well from an affordability point of view to present pay-per-entry fees at the gates of the National Botanical and Zoological Gardens.”

“Our country is one of the most biodiverse on earth,” Mpulo says. “It is certainly one of the most beautiful. The biodiversity of South Africa is celebrated and preserved in the National Botanical and Zoological Gardens where people come in their tens of thousands every year to enjoy the restorative and relaxing natural surrounds of these gorgeous urban-based properties.”

“The SANBI Gardens membership,” she adds, “will enable more people to enjoy these treasures of biodiversity, the beauty of South Africa’s great outdoors and the sheer joy of spending time with family and friends in well managed, accessible, and safe natural surrounds.

“SANBI will continue to strive for the highest maintenance standards at all garden,” says Ms Mpulo. “The scheme,”, “gives the South African public an opportunity to invest with us in biodiversity conservation and champion biodiversity sustainability alongside us while enhancing their health and wellbeing.”

Full details on membership are available at https://www.sanbi.org/sanbi-annual-membership/

Southern Sun is delighted to announce that it has received the prestigious Gold Award for its exceptional stand at the recent Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024, the largest travel and tourism trade show on the African continent. The award, judged by a panel of external experts, recognises excellence in design, materials used, operations, and overall look and feel of the stand.

This year’s Indaba, held in Durban, set a record number of 1,200 stands, attracting visitors from across the globe, including the UK, India, China, and greater Europe. The event showcased the best of African tourism, drawing attention to the continent’s diverse travel offerings.

The Gold Award highlights Southern Sun’s enduring commitment to quality and excellence in the tourism industry. Southern Sun looks forward to continuing its support for South African tourism and contributing to the growth and development of the hospitality sector. Read more…

“Kievits Kroon Winelands Spa is thrilled to announce that we have been awarded the Top Spa award at The Spa Consultants Annual Business Awards ceremony! This prestigious recognition is a testament to our team’s dedication and excellence in the industry.

The judging criteria for this award were stringent, encompassing several critical aspects of business success, and we are proud to have excelled in these areas. This achievement highlights our commitment to providing exceptional spa services and maintaining the highest standards of quality and customer satisfaction.

“We are also excited to congratulate Hazel Lefifi for winning the Therapist of the Year award and Mandy Maphalle for winning the Most Improved Retail Therapist award. These individual accolades are a reflection of the talent and dedication within our team, and we are incredibly proud of their accomplishments. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible team for their hard work and dedication. We couldn’t have achieved this without you. Here’s to many more milestones together!” said Francois Stremmelaar, General Manager at Kievits Kroon.

About Kievits Kroon Winelands Spa:

Kievits Kroon Winelands Spa is renowned for its luxurious treatments, exceptional service, and serene environment. Located in the picturesque surroundings of Pretoria, South Africa, our spa offers a range of wellness services designed to rejuvenate and relax our valued guests.

See more of Kiviets Kroon spa offerings HERE.

Centurion, South Africa, 29 May 2024 – Calling all fitness fanatics and fun-loving walkers to join the annual Race of Gratitude taking place at Centurion Mall on Saturday, 29 June 2024, starting at 7am.

The Race of Gratitude is about connecting the community by creating a social experience. This initiative provides an opportunity for tenant participation and collaboration with non-profit organizations (NPOs) specializing in skills development and the upliftment of the community. It offers a fun and interactive way to socialize with shoppers and tenants in an outdoor setting.

Skosana Development Running is the appointed NPO for the race, dedicated to empowering and uplifting the youth to make their mark in the South African running scene. Skosana Development collaborates with Development Clubs to form the Skosana Development program, which identifies talent at various schools in Pretoria.

The first Race of Gratitude, held in May 2022, proved to be a great success, with Centurion Mall being one of the recipients in the digital marketing silver category at the 2022 South African Council of Shopping Centres (SACSC) Footprint Marketing Awards.

This year, participants can select from various routes, including 5km, 10km, and 21.1km. The first one hundred participants will receive a goody bag with a variety of items, proudly supported by the Centurion Mall tenants.

Register today to join Centurion Mall at this award-winning community event in #theheartofcenturion: https://shorturl.at/Zrp1k

Carmen Stevens’ highly anticipated wine, Petrichor, made its dazzling debut at Kievits Kroon Gauteng Wine Estate in Pretoria on Monday, May 13th, 2024.

Esteemed guests from the industry were treated to an unforgettable experience of sophistication and indulgence, personally guided by Carmen Stevens herself. The event unveiled a meticulously curated selection of wines, culminating in the grand reveal of Petrichor, Carmen’s magnum opus.

Crafted with great care, all fruit for Petrichor is handpicked and sorted to ensure only the highest quality. A combination of wild and cultured yeast transforms the grape juice into wine, while aging for 15 months in French oak barrels enhances its complexity and character. Petrichor 2022 represents a fusion of five grape varieties sourced from three distinct growing regions, showcasing the best of Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Wellington, with an average vine age of 28 years. These vines flourish in diverse soils, adding depth and complexity to the final blend.

Carmen Stevens wines have garnered widespread acclaim, earning numerous prestigious awards across the globe. From gold medals to top honours at renowned wine competitions, Carmen Stevens’ dedication to crafting exceptional wines has been consistently recognised. With each sip, wine enthusiasts experience the culmination of her passion, expertise, and commitment to quality, solidifying Carmen Stevens’ reputation as a beacon of excellence in the world of winemaking.

Don’t miss your chance to experience Petrichor.

Order yours on your next visit to Kievits Kroon!

”

Kievits Kroon is thrilled to announce a series of exciting new additions and upgrades to our esteemed estate, further enhancing our offerings and ensuring an unparalleled experience for our valued guests and visitors.

New Main Entrance Gate – A Grand Welcome

We are delighted to announce the completion of our latest enhancement project: the brand-new main entrance gate! The new entrance gate stands as a testament to our dedication to elegance and functionality.

Boasting a striking design, it serves as a beacon of welcome to all who enter our premises. Accompanied by our newly installed estate signage wall, navigating your way to our facilities through the enchanting Jacaranda Lane has never been easier. With this revitalized entrance, we aim to elevate the arrival experience, ensuring that every guest feels the warmth of our hospitality from the moment they set foot on our grounds.

New Reception Desk in the Executive Block – A Luxurious Welcome

Step into modern luxury as you’re greeted by our state-of-the-art facilities and a charming curio shop, stocked with delightful treasures. And what better way to start your stay than with a refreshing welcome drink?

Our team is here to ensure your comfort and convenience every step of the way, with easy access and even a golf cart service available for your convenience!

Introducing the Magnificent Amphitheatre!

We are delighted to unveil the newest gem in our array of venues – the magnificent Amphitheatre! This versatile outdoor space is perfect for large gatherings and unique events. Whether you’re planning a dynamic drumming circle, an after-conference boma gathering, or any other outdoor celebration, our Amphitheatre provides the perfect setting. Experience the magic of the open air combined with our exceptional service and hospitality. At Kievits Kroon, we are dedicated to making every event unforgettable.

Revamped Cultivar Fountain Area – A Warm Welcome Awaits

The beautifully revitalized Cultivar Fountain area now offers an even warmer welcome to large groups and tours, complete with ample drop-off space for tour buses. Whether you’re planning an al fresco breakfast, a wine tasting session, or an elegant dinner, this versatile venue is perfect for any occasion. Come experience the charm and elegance of the new Cultivar Fountain Area at Kievits Kroon and book your event with us today!

Manor House Venues – The Perfect Setting for Corporate Events

Looking for the perfect setting for your next corporate event? Look no further! Our Manor House Venues provide an ideal backdrop for conferences, boardroom meetings, and breakout sessions. With spacious and well-equipped facilities, we ensure a productive and comfortable environment for all attendees. What sets us apart is our charming courtyard braai area – the perfect blend of business and pleasure, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on your guests. For more information visit www.kievitskroon.co.za

Adventure specialists Dirty Boots celebrate hiking as our number one adventure in Tshwane this month. The simple pleasure of walking and exploring in a beautiful place is the great ancestor of all adventure activities. Greek philosophers coined the phrase ‘Solvitur Ambulando’ – ‘it is solved by walking’. Even in those days they were aware of the restorative powers of walking. In an increasingly stressful world hiking is having an enormous surge in popularity. So, if you’re not already a dedicated walker, it’s time to put those trainers on (you can purchase some proper hiking boots once you’re hooked) and see why so many of us are heading into nature on foot…

Tshwane residents are lucky to have easy access to two magnificent hiking areas…the Magaliesberg and the Muningi Gorge near Cullinan. Both these options offer exciting hiking opportunities with stunning kloofs and gorges being the dominant geological feature. The unique and protected flora and fauna of these locations enhance the hiking experience.

The Magaliesberg is such an ancient range that rivers have carved out playgrounds of rock and water over millennia. Hiking in kloofs, leaping from boulder to boulder and swimming in sparkling pools is all food for the soul and adds spice to any hiking route in the Magaliesberg. The Magaliesberg has a diverse range of trails. Beginner hikers as well as experienced mountain folk can be catered to in this spectacular area.

For the newbie hiker, Adventure Zone’s well marked hiking routes in the Muningi Gorge are the way to go. Start with the 3-kilometer route and as you get the hang of it, move to the longer routes- a 5-kilometer and an 8-kilometer trail. The Muningi Gorge trails offer a glimpse into the world of hiking. Hiking allows you access into unique and beautiful areas that you could not otherwise see as well as getting you away from the crowds because not everyone has the ‘gees’ to use their own two legs. The excitement of exploring along a rocky river where the scenery changes around every bend cannot be overstated. River crossings, rock hopping, scrambling over giant boulders and even the occasional swim, all add to the fun.

One of the great aspects of hiking is that the barrier to entry is low. Firstly, you get fit on the job, no need to train before you do the activity. Equipment wise, all you need is a good pair of walking shoes or trainers and you’re off- no expensive, complicated gear. That said, it’s always good practice to have a fully charged phone, your water, warm jacket, hat and snack in a day pack before you set off. And don’t forget to tell someone where you’re going!

For more hiking experiences visit  www.dirtyboots.co.za

Get ready for an adventure like no other! At Acrobranch, trade in your screens for a safe Tree-Top experience where you’ll be secured in a harness & free to climb, dash, swing and zip your way through the forest. Recharge and reboot with nature and loved ones – book your spot now!

Deal: R800 for a family of 4

– Any course selection/s & gloves incl.

Min: 1 Adult & 1 child (Max. 4)

Larger family? No worries, add additional kids at our normal p/p rates

Min: 3 Years – Adults

Promo code: AcroFamPass

11 Parks across SA:

*Gauteng: PTA North | Garsfontein | Centurion | Melrose | Modderfontein | Muldersdrift

Western Cape: Constantia | Garden Route | Stellenbosch

*Kwazulu-Natal: Pietermaritzburg | Hillcrest

Operational Days: Wed-Sun (incl. Public School – & Public Holidays)

1st slot at 9 am – last slot at 3 pm – parks close at 5 pm

Book here https://acrobranch.co.za/bookings/

Embrace the warmth of winter with Kiviets Kroon’s sizzling 24 Hour Express Winelands conference offer!

Experience the ultimate blend of luxury and productivity with their full-day conference package, complemented by a delightful overnight stay.

Here’s what’s included:

– Full day conference facilities

– Luxury accommodation

– Complimentary 3-wine Kievits Kroon Wine tasting with accompanying Bakers Basket platter

– Delectable dinner and breakfast

All this for an incredible price of only R2875 for single occupancy and R2335 per person sharing!

Available for conference days on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Stay over on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights only.

Valid from 1 May – 31 August.

For more information visit www.kievitskroon.co.za

Exciting News! Mark Your Calendars and buy your tickets for the Kievits Kroon Father’s Day Festival!

Get ready for a day filled with family fun and festivities at the highly anticipated Kievits Kroon Father’s Day Festival on Sunday, June 16th! Following last year’s phenomenal success, we’re back to celebrate dads in style.

Join them for:

– All-you-can-eat lunch stations

– Wine tasting & Gin tent

– Build-your-own pizza station for the little ones

– An array of activities and entertainment including pool-side spa treatments, gin tent, face painting, lawn games, and much more!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to show Dad just how much he means to the family. Save the date and get ready for an unforgettable celebration!

Book your ticket HERE

Don’t miss out on om Mangwa Valley Lodge’s winter accommodation specials, they have Luxury Tents, 2 sleeper Rooms, 6 and 8 sleeper Chalets.

Get up to 50% discounted rates on self-catering units, a bargain not to be missed, take advantage and book now!!

The offer is valid till 31 August 2024 except Weekends and Public Holidays.

Please contact their office for bookings or follow a link below

https://www.mangwavalley.co.za/offers/midweek-specials/

Father’s Day! That’s a special day to honor and celebrate the amazing dads out there, it’s a day to shower your father, stepfather, or father with love, appreciation, and gratitude.

hosting a Father’s Day Special 3-Course Buffet Lunch.

See details below:

When – 16 June 2024.

Cost – R300.00 per adult.

– R200.00 per child under 12 yrs.

Includes – A complimentary welcome drink.

Get ready to ignite the romance this June with an unforgettable dinner date at Casa Toscana Lodge’s LeSi Restaurant!

Every Tuesday, indulge in a delightful 3-course meal, complete with a shared appetizer and heavenly dessert.

Plus, savour a complimentary bottle of House wine, all for just R395 per couple. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your date night with sensational flavours and a truly enchanting atmosphere.

Create lasting memories together that you’ll cherish forever!

Book your table now at https://bit.ly/3WCIu9d.

This Father’s Day, treat Dad to an unforgettable dining experience at LeSi Singing Waiter Restaurant where exquisite cuisine meets live entertainment!

Enjoy a delectable meal prepared by the talented chefs while their Singing Waiters serenade you with classic tunes, creating the perfect way to show Dad how much he means to you. Join them for an afternoon filled with delicious food, heartwarming melodies and special moments.

Book your table HERE and make this Father’s Day one to remember!

This June, pamper your dad with our exclusive Father’s Month spa offerings. From personalised massages to luxurious facilities, we have the perfect package to make your dad feel special and appreciated.

For more information visit www.kievitskroon.co.za

Escape the chill and indulge in a one-night stay of pure luxury at Kievits Kroon Gauteng Wine Estate. Picture this: cozy accommodation, romantic turndown service, VIP Jar Snacks, and a delightful breakfast spread—all for just R2250 per couple!

Book HERE.

“Tree-t” your dad to an unforgettable experience at Acrobranch, where he’ll get to soar through the trees, conquer obstacles and create lifelong memories.

as a special treat, use promo code AcroDad25 to get 25% off all adventures booked on Sunday, June 16th! Don’t miss out on this awesome opportunity to show dad how much you care!

#GETHOOKED TODAY

021 201 1121

bookings@acrobranch.co.za

www.acrobranch.co.za

11 Parks across SA: Gauteng | Western Cape | KZN

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