The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) convened a multi-stakeholder meeting on Monday, November 17, to provide clarity and reach consensus on the temporary, partial closure of the Swadini Viewpoint for a film shoot in December.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the MTPA, the Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Tourism (KLCBT), the Blyde River Canyon Communal Property Associations (CPAs), and Triosphere, the production company responsible for the filming.

While details about the production cannot be revealed at this stage, Triosphere confirmed that the site will be used as a location for an international television series.

The initial announcement of the closure during the busy festive season had raised concerns among tourism operators.

Following the meeting, the MTPA’s acting CEO, Lemmy Mdluli, said all parties recognised the dual importance of maintaining tourism while capitalising on the economic benefits of filming in the region.

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Providing clear information

“We are pleased that this multi-stakeholder meeting provided clarity on the imminent partial closure that will affect tourism during the festive season. All parties recognise the importance of filming in the province, especially at a prominent attraction such as the Swadini Viewpoint. This initiative will bring positive economic spin-offs for the province and surrounding communities.”

To address public concern, the MTPA committed to providing clear information.

The only areas affected by the closure will be the Swadini Waterfall and the viewpoint, and the closure will apply only on specific days when filming is taking place.

All prearranged boat trips will continue to operate without disruption.

“We encourage those planning to visit the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve during the festive season to continue with their arrangements and enjoy the scenic beauty of Mpumalanga. We are ready to welcome everyone to the province, and we are working hard to ensure a safe and memorable experience,” Mdluli said.

He added that popular attractions, including the Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, God’s Window and Pinnacle Rock will remain open throughout the festive season.

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Oupa Pilane satisfied

Oupa Pilane of the KLCBT said he was satisfied with the outcome of the meeting.

“We are pleased to have met with the MTPA, Triosphere and the Blyde CPAs. We are committed to working together to ensure that our communities benefit from this initiative, and also to drive traffic to this popular site as we approach the festive season.”

Tourism business owner Joris Bertens, who attended the meeting, said, “We have agreed that, as key stakeholders, we need to ensure continuous engagement and consultation on matters that have a significant impact on tourism. From the 2026/27 financial year, prior engagements and consultations on filming dates will take place to ensure clarity and support from tourism businesses. We have also agreed that we will not pursue further legal channels to stop this process.”

Oloff Bergh of Triosphere said the production is fully supported by the Blyde CPAs, and that locals have been hired to provide services such as catering and transport for the 550-member film crew.

Closure dates for 2025:

• The Swadini Waterfall will be closed from November 17 to December 23.
• The Swadini Viewpoint gates will be closed from November 24 to December 24 (excluding prearranged boat trips).

Closure dates for 2026:

• The Swadini Waterfall will be closed from December 31 to January 5.
• The Swadini Viewpoint will remain open to the public, with security guards deployed at specific locations.