The iLembe District is bracing for a festive tourism surge, with more than 150 000 visitors expected this holiday season.

Speaking at the Enterprise iLembe launch of its 2025 festive season media campaign last Thursday, district mayor Thobani Shandu said he believes the influx will not only boost holiday activity but also reinforce tourism as a key driver of the local economy.

Shandu said the district welcomed more than 120 000 visitors and supported over 10 000 jobs last December and that he looked forward to seeing both numbers increase. He also encouraged visitors to enjoy the area’s beaches, culture and outdoor activities, describing iLembe as “the destination that has it all.”

A study by Enterprise iLembe shows the district attracted nearly 800 000 visitors in 2023, contributing more than R6-billion and supporting around 13 000 jobs. Visitor spend in the first half of that year reached R2.2-billion, more than double the same period in 2022.

Although 2024 recorded a slight dip, tourism continues to play a central role in the district’s growth.

Natasha Pretorius of Parsons Lettings said their accommodations are fully booked, largely by families travelling domestically. Beaches continue to be the main attraction, highlighting the importance of maintaining the Blue Flag status.

Enterprise iLembe deputy chairperson Geoffrey Khumalo warned that December often brings heavy rain and flash flooding, making strong disaster readiness essential. Municipalities have activated improved early-warning systems, evacuation routes and clearer communication channels.

Khumalo also urged visitors to remain vigilant when booking accommodation online, following several cases of cybercrime reported last year. Awareness campaigns are now in place to prevent similar incidents.

The district is also preparing for the annual Shembe Pilgrimage in early January, which draws thousands of worshippers to Ndwedwe. Plans covering water provision, sanitation, traffic management and safety have been put in place.

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