South Africa Positions Itself as Leading Astro-Tourism Destination
South Africa is positioning itself as a leading astro-tourism destination with the introduction of a government-backed Astro-Tourism Strategy, set to be presented in Parliament by Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande. Developed in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, the strategy aims to leverage the country’s world-class astronomical infrastructure, including the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) in Sutherland and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, to drive both tourism growth and scientific engagement. By integrating astronomy with tourism, the initiative is expected to create employment, foster economic opportunities in rural areas, and attract high-value travellers seeking immersive stargazing and observatory experiences.
The new strategy proposes investments in visitor facilities, dark-sky reserves, and educational experiences, while encouraging partnerships with tour operators and local communities. Similar models have succeeded in Chile and the United States, positioning observatories as major tourism draws. South Africa's clear skies and expansive landscapes provide an ideal setting for this niche segment, aligning with global trends in sustainable tourism. With a growing focus on scientific tourism, the initiative is expected to enhance infrastructure, draw international visitors, and bolster the country’s reputation as a hub for space science and exploration.
Source: Travel and Tour World