Nelspruit – Tourism experts are calling on Mpumalanga to adopt a collaborative approach to attract more visitors beyond the Kruger National Park. The advice comes following insights shared at the SATSA 2025 Conference in Johannesburg, where the Western Cape showcased the benefits of regional partnerships.
Oupa Pilane, co-founder of Graskop Gorge and board member of SA Tourism, said the province’s tourism potential is vast, from the Panorama Route to cultural and adventure sites, but current visitor numbers remain low. He urged towns such as Graskop, Sabie, Hazyview, Bushbuckridge, and Hoedspruit to work together to create combined itineraries and events that can generate significant economic benefits.
Pilane highlighted Western Cape examples, including George Tourism’s adoption of neighboring towns and Mossel Bay’s cruise ship partnerships, as models for success. Coordinated marketing, shared experiences, and community involvement are central to the strategy, he said. 
The proposed “Mpumalanga Pack” initiative would focus on joint promotions to international markets, embedding local communities in tourism operations to maximize impact and revenue.
