KwaZulu-Natal prepares for a festive season influx of holidaymakers

KwaZulu-Natal is officially ready to welcome holidaymakers from across South Africa and around the world ahead of the festive season.Rev. Musa Zondi, the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, together with KZN Tourism and Film Authority Chairperson Dr Sibusiso Ndebele, CEO Sbusiso Gumbi, and uMgungundlovu District Deputy Mayor, Sandile Mnikati, launched the province’s Summer Campaign in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.

The launch included a site inspection of the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, which is currently undergoing refurbishment. Upgrades include a new access road, a redesigned gatehouse, expanded parking and an improved stormwater system.

The project is funded by the National Department of Tourism and implemented by KZN Tourism and Film. According to the department, the upgrades are 95% complete and are expected to be finalised ahead of the festive summer peak.

Once completed, the improvements will allow for a far smoother visitor experience, including access for large buses. Previously, buses transporting tourists were unable to enter the premises, creating challenges for school groups, seniors and tour groups.

As part of the launch programme, officials also visited the newly opened La Clef Boutique Hotel in the Midlands, a black-owned establishment contributing to transformation and tourism growth in the region.

Speaking at the launch, Rev. Zondi said KwaZulu-Natal was fully prepared to host local and international travellers.“We know that the summer season brings a high volume of visitors to KwaZulu-Natal, so our key priority is to ensure that safety and security are well arranged. We have put measures in place - not only relying on SAPS or municipal police, but also on tourism safety monitors,” he said.

He added that coastal safety had been strengthened, with improved lifeguard deployment, shark safety nets, beach patrols and emergency readiness. The province has also introduced QR-coded safety and travel information at beaches, hotels and popular attractions to provide instant guidance and emergency contacts.

Rev. Zondi emphasised that this year marked a turning point for the tourism sector.“This is not just another tourism season - this is a season of return, a season of confidence, and a season of bold new steps forward for the province,” he said.

Between January and May this year, Durban alone recorded over 2.8 million domestic trips and 186,000 international visitors, contributing more than R5 billion to the local economy. The MEC confirmed that forecasts indicate more than 1.3 million visitors in Durban over the festive period, with additional growth expected across uMhlathuze, iLembe, uMgungundlovu, Harry Gwala and the South Coast.

With 600 kilometres of coastline, Zondi assured the public that KwaZulu-Natal’s beaches are ready for the holidays.“Water quality along our coast continues to improve thanks to coordinated action between municipalities, water authorities and tourism safety teams. As of today, only one beach remains closed - this is a significant improvement compared to previous seasons.

”He added:“Visitors can be assured that beaches are actively managed, professionally cleaned and safe. So, when we say ‘Welcome to KwaZulu-Natal’, it is not just warm hospitality -it is a guarantee of peace of mind. Because here, your safety is our starting point.”