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The South African Tourism Industry. Will it be a Total Disaster?

Updated: May 16, 2020


Lesotho 4x4 Tour

The travel industry has been one of the worst affected by the global Corona Virus pandemic. From borders being closed, flights being grounded, cruise ships stuck out at sea and no interprovincial travel allowed, small adventure travel businesses like ourselves have been hit very hard. We would like to keep all of you up to date with what's happening in the industry and how we are able to operate during the various stages of lockdown.


This is what we know, and everything below is based on current government

projections using their sliding scale:


According to the information we've received, local travel will only be allowed to start taking place from Level 2, which, apparently, could be as late as November 2020, while the country's borders may also only be opened in January or February 2021. This means no regional or international trips until then will take place.


We've asked the Minister of Tourism to please confirm this and, according to the department's estimate, indicate when local, regional and international travel could resume.


South African Tourism has surveyed businesses that are connected to the industry, such as individuals and companies that provide accommodation, tour operators, tourist attractions and restaurants. Only 4% of businesses that participated in the survey will be able to survive for more than a year. About 36% of respondents said they could only pay partial salaries. About 31% have staff that are currently on unpaid leave and 18% have already had to retrench employees and close their doors.


As for our 4x4 Training program, we are categorized under the leisure and travel industry and not as a K53 supplier. We may not currently conduct any 4x4 training as we teach in groups and utilise a classroom type of training environment. We hope these rules will be relaxed under level 2 restrictions.


We will keep you posted with updates as they filter through to us. We really hope to get going soon and can't wait to get out on an adventure with you soon!


Remember we're planning some awesome tours within South Africa once we can travel again so keep checking our website for the details!


Please let us know your thoughts below and share our post on your social media platforms.


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