LIMPOPO – Tourism buyers from Uganda, Botswana, Lesotho, Zimbabwe and other provinces of South Africa have praised Limpopo as a tourism destination after taking part in a two-day Explore Tzaneen initiative.

The initiative was organised by the Limpopo Department of Economic, Environment and Tourism (Ledet) in partnership with the Greater Tzaneen Tourism Association and involved 30 tourism buyers.

Day one: Ziplining and township experience

The group’s first day included a zipline experience at Magoebaskloof Canopy Tours, followed by a Kasi/Township Tour Experience at Mzansi Cheers Pub and the Pot.

Guests enjoyed braaied meat, boerewors, pap and chakalaka while experiencing local entertainment before returning to Tzaneen Country Lodge, where they were accommodated.

Day two: Boat cruise, brewery and waterfalls

The following day started with a boat cruise at the lodge before the group headed to Magoebaskloof and Zwakala Brewery to learn about the beer-making process and enjoy lunch.

The tour continued to Debegeni Waterfalls before concluding with a traditional dinner at Karibu Leisure Resort.

‘I did not want to return home’

Paul Mukiza of Uganda told the Herald that he did not want to return home, praising the warmth of the local people.

“I love seeing that there is still a good sense of culture. I also loved seeing people on the road selling bananas. That is good tourism,” he said.

Mukiza said he could see his clients enjoying experiences such as ziplining in Magoebaskloof and exploring what the region has to offer.

Obakwe Olegeletse of Tujane Travels Limited said Tzaneen’s landscapes impressed him, while he particularly enjoyed the food at Mzansi Cheers Pub and the experience at Debegeni Falls.

‘We are growing and making a mark’

Pattern Mametja, assistant director for Tourism Planning at Ledet, said the initiative demonstrated that Limpopo has much to offer visitors.

The same group toured Vhembe last year, while this year’s programme focused on Mopani.

“We still have room to improve, but as a province we are growing and making a mark in tourism,” Mametja said.