South Africa Launches SAAO Visitor Centre to Boost Astro-Tourism
South Africa has officially opened the new South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Visitor Centre in Cape Town, marking a key milestone in the country’s National Astro-Tourism Strategy. Announced on 9 July 2025 by Ministers Patricia de Lille and Blade Nzimande, the centre aims to merge science education and tourism by offering interactive exhibits, indigenous celestial storytelling, and access to historical telescopes. The initiative is co-funded by the Departments of Tourism and Science, Technology and Innovation, along with the National Research Foundation.
Located on the historic SAAO grounds in Observatory, the centre is projected to attract over 18,000 visitors annually. It supports all three pillars of the astro-tourism strategy: indigenous narratives and skills development, infrastructure investment, and inclusive tourism growth. The visitor centre showcases how tourism and science can coexist to create economic and educational opportunities, and represents a growing focus on niche tourism offerings that highlight South Africa’s rich cultural and scientific heritage.
Source: Government of South Africa