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​The Northern Cape might not have the highest density of tourists compared to other provinces, but it calls for travellers to participate in it. From the desert landscapes of the Karoo and Kgalagadi to the rugged 320 kilometre Atlantic coastline, the Northern Cape promises an authentic experience of the sublime. This was the sentiment shared by the Northern Cape Tourism Authority (NCTA) at the penultimate edition of the Provincial Showcase on Thursday, 23 December. The showcase is being held at the South African Pavilion during the Expo 2020 Dubai. It promotes the business and leisure tourism opportunities that exist in each of the nine provinces. The pavilion calls on investors around the world to “Think South Africa, Think Opportunity,” when looking for a new destination in which to do business. Northern Cape promises authentic experiences According to the NCTA’s General Manager for Marketing and Promotion, Dianna Martin, tourism trends show that travellers are avoiding city centres and are heading to remote locations. This makes Northern Cape’s expansive natural environment all the more alluring. The province’s authenticity is its drawcard. It is home to six national parks including Augrabies and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park with which they share with Botswana. The Tankwa Karoo plays host to the annual AfrikaBurn. Hakskeenpan was the location for the Bloodhound land speed record set in 2019. And Sutherland is the home of the stargazing Southern African Large Telescope, the largest optical telescope in the southern hemisphere. Martin said they have punted mountain biking, hiking and glamping in recent months, primarily to the domestic tourist segment. “We have attracted the new visitor,” said Martin. “We have been encouraging municipalities to look at increasing caravan sites and the like because that is what people want. For instance, we have seen an increase in 4x4 visitors who are looking for those glamping experiences and the outdoors.” She said the province has been encouraging travellers and sports organisers to look at hosting individual sporting events in the Northern Cape as an alternative to the large super spreader gatherings. “We have been hosting an increased number of these individual sporting events and there has been good growth. The NCTA’s CEO, Sharron Lewis, said the Northern Cape is quickly establishing itself as a viable sports destination, having hosted the internationally recognised 2021 Billabong Namakwa Surf Challenge in August and the Kalahari Rally pre-qualifier for the 42nd Dakar Rally. “Organisers of these activities came into the Northern Cape and discovered that this is the place where you can do things differently and they have stayed. So we have seen an increase of different sporting organisers coming here.” Northern Cape ensures traveller confidence According to Lewis, the NCTA has forged partnerships that ensure the safety of its tourists amidst the pandemic. “Tourism is a serious business, which is why there are government campaigns around safe travel.” She said that the NCTA has been constantly engaging with product owners and government on how to improve safety and instil confidence in travellers. “With the Covid restrictions, we paused and you absorbed but did not go dormant. This is a very resilient sector. This pandemic has been brought the industry closer because we need each other. Tourism is everybody’s business. We have developed material to create awareness and keep tourism alive because it is about saving jobs and saving tourism.” Keep up with the South African Pavilion Team on Twitter using the handle TeamSA_Expo2020. Follow the events at the pavilion using #ThinkOpportunity #Expo2020SA #ShareSouthAfrica.

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Northern Cape

Written by Karen Hastings , Carri Wilbanks and Becca Blond Updated Apr 25, 2022

Steeped in stark, semi-desert beauty, the Northern Cape province is the largest of all the South African provinces and the most sparsely populated. This is a place to find solitude in a land of big skies and bold hues. From the red earth and golden grasses of the Kgalagadi (Kalahari) Transfrontier Park , one of the world's largest wilderness areas, to the kaleidoscopic wildflowers of Namaqualand and the deep blue, cloudless skies of Kimberley , once the diamond capital of the world, the region serves up striking vistas.

At Augrabies Falls National Park , travelers can watch the Orange River plunge into a gaping gorge at the world's sixth largest waterfall. In the desert, black-maned Kalahari lions and quirky quiver trees eke out a living on the scorching plains. And the province is also rich in history; visitors can tour historic battlefields, as well as Victorian villas where mining magnates once mingled during the country's illustrious diamond rush days.

Discover the best things to do in this rugged region with our list of the top attractions in the Northern Cape.

1. Kgalagadi (Kalahari) Transfrontier Park

2. goegap nature reserve, namaqualand, 3. the big hole, kimberley, 4. the kimberley mine museum, 5. augrabies falls national park, 6. mokala national park, 7. tankwa karoo national park, 8. belgravia historic walk, 9. quiver tree forest, 10. magersfontein battlefield & museum, 11. ai-ais richtersveld transfrontier national park, 12. upington, 13. kakamas and the green kalahari, 14. riemvasmaak hot springs, map of tourist attractions in the northern cape.

In 2000, South Africa's Kalahari Gemsbok National Park and Botswana's Gemsbok National Park merged, creating one of the largest wilderness areas in the world-more than 3.6 million hectares. Cornflower blue skies, russet red dunes, and golden grasslands provide a striking canvas for photographic safaris in this harsh, arid region.

Wildlife is abundant and easily viewed thanks to the scant vegetation here. Beautiful black-maned Kalahari lions are the most iconic animal in this region, and the park also protects leopards; cheetahs; gemsbok; meerkats; and many species of birds, including sociable weavers, with their giant nests, and birds of prey.

Accommodation ranges from campsites to comfortable chalets. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for some of the rugged tracks here.

Official site: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/kgalagadi/

In the big-sky semi-desert of Namaqualand, Goegap Nature Reserve offers fun 4WD tracks and stunning displays of wildflowers in the spring. This 15,000-hectare reserve is worth visiting even when the wildflowers aren't in bloom. The vegetation is typical of Namaqualand, with succulents; shrubs; and bizarre quiver trees or kokerboom trees, a type of branched aloe.

The park also protects animals that are specially adapted to the parched conditions, including antelopes, the endangered Hartmann's zebra, aardwolf, honey badgers, and more than 94 species of birds.

In the spring, the arid landscapes erupt in an impossible blaze of colorful blooms that delight avid photographers. Rainfall and temperature variations influence the types of flowers in bloom, surprising visitors with different color combinations each year.

Besides photography, popular things to do here include hiking on the varied trails, mountain biking, and stargazing at the crystal clear night skies. Campsites and basic accommodation is available within the park.

The capital of the Northern Cape and once the world's diamond capital, Kimberley lies on the boundary between the Northern Cape Province and the Orange Free State and is a convenient stopover on the road from Cape Town to Johannesburg . Kimberley is known as the Diamond City , as this is the place where the foundations of South Africa's wealth were laid during the heady diamond rush days of the 1870s.

In 1871, prospectors struck it lucky on a farm belonging to the de Beer brothers and on a neighboring hill. Today, that area is known as The Big Hole. The size of eight football fields, this is the world's largest man-made hole and one of Kimberley's main tourist attractions. Between 1871 and 1914, 22.6 million tons of earth and rock were excavated from the mine for a yield of 14.5 million carats of diamonds.

Visitors peer down from a viewing platform into the mine, now filled with water, and picture what it was like when thousands of men toiled here, hauling the rock up to the surface with cables. Afterwards, a visit to the Mine Museum takes visitors on a journey back through the heady diamond rush days.

Official site: http://www.thebighole.co.za/

On the west side of the Big Hole is the open-air Kimberley Mine Museum, a village of almost 50 buildings, some original and some reproductions, representing Kimberley during the diamond rush days. Sightseers can tour some of the houses, which are furnished in the style of the time.

The first church built in Kimberley was the German Lutheran church of St. Martin (1875). Kimberley's oldest house, however, dates only from 1877; it was built of prefabricated parts imported from Britain: a residence of extraordinary luxury at a time when everyone else was living in tents.

Other houses, shops, and workshops line a cobbled street. The Mining Hall displays a collection of photographs and documents from diamond rush days. Opposite, is the Diamond Hall, with a 616-carat diamond , one of the largest uncut diamonds in the world, and the Eureka, the first diamond discovered in South Africa. A restored tramcar from 1913 carries visitors between the Neoclassical City Hall (circa 1899) and the Big Hole and museum.

The Augrabies Falls, near the frontier with Namibia, are one of the country's great natural wonders. Here, the Orange River plunges in a series of cascades almost 150 meters wide into an 18-kilometer granite gorge enclosed by soaring rock walls. In the language of the Hottentots, who held the falls in awe as a sacred place, the name Augrabies means "place of the great noise," and indeed the falls, which rank among the six largest in the world, justify their name.

The national park, established in 1967 to protect the falls, is a region of extreme aridity with sparse vegetation, consisting mainly of euphorbias and kokerboom or quiver trees. Among the animals living here are klipspringer; porcupines; leopards; baboons; vervet monkeys; and more than 140 species of birds, including Verreaux's eagle, which is frequently seen at the falls.

The 26-kilometer-long Klipspringer Hiking Trail through the gorge takes about three days with overnight accommodation in huts. In summer, the trail is closed because of the heat, however this is the best time to see the falls-particularly in late summer when the river swells with water. Other highlights include Moon Rock , and the scenic viewpoints Oranjekom , Ararat, and Echo Corner . Accommodation is available in campsites and well-equipped chalets.

Official site: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/augrabies/

About 70 kilometers south-southwest of Kimberley, Mokala National Park protects some of the country's most endangered species, including white and black rhino. Visitors can also see roan and sable antelope, tsessebe, black wildebeest, caracal, aardwolf, giraffe, kudu, oryx, zebra, and many species of birds. Named after the Setswana word for camel thorn, the park's red earth and golden grass-cloaked plains are dotted with these semi-desert trees, as well as dolerite hills, making a beautiful backdrop for photographs.

Besides day and night game drives, visitors can enjoy horseback rides, hiking, and mountain biking here. Accommodation options include safari bungalows, self-catering cottages, and campsites.

Official site: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/mokala/

Remote and rugged, Tankwa Karoo National Park is a land of haunting beauty. The national park lies near the border of the Northern Cape and Western Cape in one of the county's most arid regions, with stark desert plains and glittering night skies. Satellite phones are handy here.

Wildlife in the park includes red hartebeest, mongoose, oryx, and a diversity of reptiles. Birding is a popular activity, and visitors can take self-guided game drives on the rough and rutted roads. Besides wildlife watching, visitors come here to bounce around on the 4WD tracks, stargaze at the dazzling night skies, and photograph the stunning semi-desert landscapes from scenic viewpoints. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended. Accommodation includes campsites, self-catering cottages, a lodge, and guesthouse.

Official site: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/tankwa/

Graced by the grand homes of former mining merchants and magnates, Belgravia is the upscale residential area near Kimberley's old diamond mines. Today, visitors can step back in time and see some of these beautiful old Victorian villas on the Belgravia Historic Walk. The walk visits 30 historic sites and begins at the McGregor Museum , which offers a great overview of the area's history, and was the former temporary residence of imperialist Cecil John Rhodes.

Highlights along the walk include Dunluce , an outstanding example of Late Victorian architecture dating from 1897, and Rudd House , once the home of the mining magnate H. P. Rudd, whose father was a friend and business partner of Cecil Rhodes. Both of these houses are attached to the McGregor Museum and can be toured by appointment. In the 13-story Harry Oppenheimer Building (1974), designed by the German architect H. Hentrich, all diamonds found in South Africa are graded.

Also on the tour, the Duggan Cronin Gallery contains a unique collection of photographs of the native people of South Africa, taken by A.M. Duggan Cronin between 1919 and 1939. Some of the traditional tribal rites depicted can never be photographed again.

The William Humphreys Art Gallery opened in 1952 and displays works by Dutch, Flemish, British, and French masters, as well as South African artists.

On Gannabos, a farm near the small towns of Loeriesfontein and Nieuwoudtville , the Quiver Tree Forest is the world's largest colony of these bizarre flowering aloes, also known as kokerboom, (aloe dichotoma). Photographers and budding botanists often stop here on the way to Augrabies Falls and the Kalahari to admire these giant aloes, which would look right at home on the pages of a Dr. Seuss book.

Able to store water in its trunk, the quiver tree can live up to 400 years and is perfectly adapted to the arid conditions. Its name comes from the practice of the San (Bushmen) who used to make quivers for their poison arrows from the dried-out hollow branches. Sociable weaver birds often build their huge multi-chambered nests from their branches. The best time to photograph these sculptural trees is when they produce their bright yellow flowers, usually during May, June, and July.

About 30 kilometers south of Kimberley, the battlefield of Magersfontein is the scene of a British defeat during "Black Week" in the Boer War, l. The site is well signposted, and visitors can view the battlefield and trenches from an observation point and explore the small museum, which screens an audio-visual presentation and displays a collection of weapons and uniforms.

Near the museum, hilltop memorials honor the dead and provide beautiful views over the area. Guided tours provide fascinating details about these historic events and are highly recommended for history buffs.

In the northwest corner of the Northern Cape, right on the border with Namibia , is the spectacular and otherworldly Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier National Park. The most remote national park in South Africa, the landscape here is made up of volcanic mountains, bizarre-shaped trees, heat-baked red sand, and crumbled rocks. It is at once hostile and beautiful and well worth exploring if you like to get off the beaten path.

The Orange River also flows through this park that spans two countries and where it does, you'll find activities from fly fishing to whitewater rafting. This national park is quite remote, however, and getting here requires a 4WD vehicle. Accommodation in the park is also basic and limited. It is best to visit on an organized tour with a company out of Upington .

On the banks of the Orange River, the vibrant town of Upington serves as the main hub for activities in the region. From here, you arrange safaris to Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier National Park or try white water rafting or canoeing down the Orange River on a day or overnight trip.

In Upington itself, try a sunset river boat cruise on the Orange River with Sakkie Se Arkie , which has been popular with locals and tourists for decades. Also in Upington is the Kalahari-Oranje Museum , which is home to a life-sized bronze statue of a donkey that was sculpted by Hennie Potgieter to pay respect to the animal that played such an integral role in helping develop the area in the 1880s pioneer days.

The Green Kalahari is a Northern Cape region that is filled with contrasting colors and dramatic landscapes. The aforementioned Augrabies Falls National Park is here, as is the town of Upington. It is also home to small towns like Kakamas.

Originally constructed by the Dutch Reformed Church in 1897, its moniker means "poor pasture" in the Khoi language. This name is not very fitting, however, as the town sits in a lush valley surrounded by vines, cotton, and fields of flowers along the lower Orange River. The town is home to a number of interesting water canals that were hand built in the early 20th century and can still be viewed today.

Riemvasmaak Hot Springs is 57 kilometers outside the town of Kakamas and is one of the coolest remote attractions in the Northern Cape. Set in a deep ravine surrounded by rolling hills and dotted with wild fig trees, it is a gorgeous mountain desert wilderness area. Besides hot mineral spring pools, there are a number of activities you can partake in here. Check out the challenging 4WD trail, or take a hike past the soaring granite cliffs down to the Orange River.

Whatever you choose to do, you'll be able to soak up this magnificent, almost lunar, landscape just 170 kilometers from the Namibian border. There is lodging in simple chalets that can sleep up to eight people and come with cold showers and kitchenettes but no electricity.

Official site: www.riemvasmaak.co.za/riemvasmaak-hot-springs/

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Safari Time: No trip to South Africa is complete without a safari experience. There is nothing like seeing a lion sleeping in the shade of a thorn tree just feet from your open-sided vehicle to make you feel alive and awed at once. Seriously, safaris are magical, and if you have the funds then the best way to do one is in luxury style. But with so much competition it can be difficult to know which lodge and reserve to visit. Check out our article on Top-Rated Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa for the scoop on where to stay and why.

Western Cape Wander : Now that you've explored the Northern Cape, it is time to head south to the equally gorgeous Western Cape. This is possibly South Africa's most beautiful province and is home to Cape Town , as well as Africa's southernmost tip, Cape Agulhas , where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. See our Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Western Cape article for more on exploring this magnificent province. It will introduce you to the best of the region, including how to chill with penguins and where to watch for whales.

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Northern Cape Tourism Authority, South Africa

The objectives as set out are:

To develop and promote a highly sought after Northern Cape tourism brand and destination as unique within South Africa To encourage tourism growth (increased numbers), as well as increased length of stay and expenditure by provincial visitors (inter province) and domestic (national) visitors to the Northern Cape, through segmented marketing approach

To encourage tourism growth by optimizing and increase of international visitor numbers, increased length of stay and expenditure in the Northern Cape through a segmented marketing approach

Aligning marketing activities in all sectors of tourism in the Province in collaboration with existing entities;

Facilitating the pursuit of transformation and empowerment goals within all sectors of the Province’s tourism industry Fostering relations and entering into agreements with organizations of all kinds, both public and private for the purpose of promoting the objectives of the entity; and

Fostering close co-operation between the public and private sectors in the pursuit of tourism growth for the benefit of; all the people of the Province.

The Northern Cape is South Africa’s largest province and a must-see destination, whether you prefer the ocean, the desert, the bush or quirky towns rich in history and culture.

The Northern Cape Tourism Authority (NCTA) is the official marketing agency for the Northern Cape and markets the Northern Cape as South Africa’s premier destination for extreme escapism, exploration and adventure.

The vision of the Northern Cape Tourism Authority is to position the Northern Cape as an authentic leisure tourist and competitive business events destination that offers value-for-money tourism experiences.

by Dianna Martin, GM: Marketing and Promotions

www.experiencenorthencape.com

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Positioning the Northern Cape Province as a world class extreme sport destination is a primary objective of marketing the province as the mecca of adventure sports. The Northern Cape Provincial Government identified Tourism – through the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy – as a crucial and vibrant sector that must contribute to improving the long-term socio-economic well being of the people of the province.

The Northern Cape Tourism Authority (NCTA) was specifically established to act as the provincial government’s implementing agency for promoting the Northern Cape as a tourism destination. In 2008 the NCTA commenced the positioning of the Northern Cape Province as an action sport destination to attract Domestic and International tourists to the Province. The decision was based on the competitive and comparative advantages that the Province have in terms of the vast area of landmass covering 361,830 km2 which is approximately 30% of South Africa. The topography and the extreme conditions that exist in the Province lends itself well to the implementation of a number of extreme sporting activities.

Emanating from the above it should be clear why it is a strategic necessity to bring events of international stature and credibility to the Northern Cape Province. Anything less would defeat the purpose and intent of the marketing and branding strategy. Anything less than an international extravaganza will undermine the international position of the province and diminish the chances of obtaining the objectives of the Northern Cape Province’s long-term economic and development strategy. The Maloof Money Cup becomes the catalysts to achieve the positioning of Extreme Sport. It will also ensure an immediate gateway for international and local travellers, supporters and fans to visit the Northern Cape Province.

WHY SKATEBOARDING?

Skateboarding, has a strong youth bias and could contribute to the general upliftment of youth and the emergence of new heroes in a new sporting environment. Every child needs a chance to play sport in some way; pre-event skate clinics can provide an opportunity for the youth to take up this emerging sport as it is an activity, which is easily accessible and cost effective. In addition to this, it will help to enhance talent identification and promote a healthier lifestyle and will leave a tangible legacy. Skate parks are purpose-built recreational environments for skateboarders to ride and develop their sport and technique. A skate park may contain half-pipes, quarter pipes, handrails, trick boxes, vert ramps, pyramids, banked ramps, full pipes, stairs, and any number of other trick-oriented objects to test the skills of skateboarders.

NORTHERN CAPE AND THE MALOOF MONEY CUP

The Northern Cape Province will be the first to host an international Maloof Money Cup skateboarding championship outside of its home base. The MMC is an internationally broadcast three-day, five event skateboarding event, competition and festival.

In February 2010, after meaningful negotiations, the Northern Cape Provincial Government entered into an agreement with the United States-based Maloof family to stage the Maloof Money Cup South Africa extreme skateboarding event in Kimberley for three years commencing September 2011.

Joe Maloof – owner Maloof Money Cup with MEC John Block (Finance, Economic Development and Tourism) and MEC Sokhatso (Health) after the signing of the Maloof Money Cup South Africa agreement in Kimberley.

The Maloof Money Cup was first staged successfully in August 2008 in Orange County, Los Angeles. The New York event in 2010 was the first foray away from the home base of the Maloof Money Cup and the Maloof family invited Premier Hazel Jenkins and a delegation which included business to see first hand how an event of this nature is put together. Opportunities were created for the Northern Cape to profile the destination through television interviews with the Premier and an exhibition venue to promote the Northern Cape.

MALOOF MONEY CUP ORANGE COUNTY

SPONSORSHIP

The agreement between the Northern Cape Provincial Government and the Maloof Money Cup defines that the province will secure the necessary funds to host the event. The provincial government tasked Northern Cape Tourism (NCTA) to secure the required sponsorships in conjunction with the Maloof Money Cup management. The NCTA secured appointments with members of organisations from the skateboard industry, Television stations, Corporates, Agencies and individuals who may want to become sponsors of the event. Mr Tim McFerran, the CEO of the Maloof Money Cup visited South Africa between 25 September – 9 October 2010 to meet with the interested sponsors and assist the NCTA in securing sponsorships. Of cardinal importance were the deals to be struck with television broadcasters. The team met with the SABC sponsorship division, ETV marketing division and Primedia management. A meeting with DSTV Supersport is currently being secured. Deals are now structured by Mr McFerran to secure broadcast rights in order to create term sheets for various sponsors based on the promotional exposure they will receive.

SKATEBOARDING EVENT – 9 October 2010

Hundreds of Skateboarding enthusiasts pitched up for the Skateboarding Expose with Live entertainment consisting of DJ artists and hip hop dance groups entertaining the crowd. The promotion of the sport included skateboarding demonstrations from renowned skateboarding champions in South Africa, running of skateboarding clinics throughout the day for the youth, an education station where demonstrations took place on how to construct the different components of a skateboard. do it yourself area where professional ramp builders demonstrated on how to build ramps and obstacles and a graffiti board were all part of the day’s events.

THE ROAD AHEAD

The 9 October event was the start of the provincial drive to establish skateboarding as a sport discipline and to introduce the Maloof Money Cup event to the Northern Cape community.

It is important to now ensure that this initiative is taken to the rest of the towns and communities in the province and a rollout plan is currently being prepared, which Intends to introduce skateboarding throughout the province. The rollout plan will include both a Pro circuit as well as skating clinics starting on 22 November and planned to be maintained and activated throughout until the actual event commence on 30 September 2011.

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083 482 9276 / [email protected]

Esti Venske is a senior lecturer and programme coordinator for the Advanced Diploma in Event Management in the Department of Tourism and Event Management at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. As curriculum project leader in the department, she is extensively involved in Tourism and Event curriculum development projects that encourage partnership between educators and industry practitioners to advance knowledge and skills alignment in the sector. Her experience in event management education spans over 18 years and she serves on a number of academic and industry committees.

Apart from lecturing and supervising postgraduate students, Esti has standing experience in organising local and international conferences. She has authored and co-authored accredited international academic journal articles, international conference proceedings and book chapters in the field of event management. She is involved with various community engagement projects and her current research focus areas include event management curriculum, business event tourism, sustainability and wellness events.

CSIR ICC – Business Development Manager

079 513 8708 / [email protected]

Minister is a young dynamic individual, passionate about the tourism and business events industry. He holds a BA degree in Corporate and Marketing Communications from the University of the Free State and an Honors degree in Strategic Marketing from the University of the Johannesburg. He is currently under the employ of CSIR International Convention Centre as a Business Development Manager. Given his passion for the meetings industry, Minister is in pursuit of a Masters degree in Communications at the University of North West. His research seeks to understand how the latest communication paradigm, can be used to advance business events in South Africa. He serves on the national board of SAACI as a board member responsible for Youth Development.

Position at SAACI National Office

Chief Executive Officer

082 575 7565 / [email protected]

“Promoting positive community and economic growth in our neighbourhood” is an objective that drives Glenton daily. Glenton had refined his public and private sector strategic management skills during his tenure as MD of Tourism Buffalo City, as CEO of Nelson Mandela Bay and as CEO of the ECPTA. As an Associate Director at KPMG he led the Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism Unit for Africa before moving onto Grant Thornton in a similar position.

His position as Project Manager at the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber ensured that Business embraces its civil society role by driving a holistic approach which enables business within the Metro to work towards long-term sustainability. Glenton’s business management experience cuts across various sectors, such as Tourism Hospitality, Petro-chemical, Mining and all spheres of government. As an active citizen, Glenton acts as an independent advisor to the Nelson Mandela Bay Consultative Christian Churches, The Nelson Mandela Bay Civil Society Coalition, and the Northern Areas Education Forum. He also mentors’ businesses within the ICT and Services Sector. He is the President of the Nelson Mandela University Football Club and is a budding golfer.

Mise-en-place Solutions – Owner

082 652 2008 / [email protected]

Professionalism has been the foundation of each of the roles that have enjoyed, mostly within the tourism sector. My goal is to continually deliver consistent, top quality, friendly and value to the client experience within the business environment.

The Role of SAACI Chairperson weaves into my personal goals as the association works to build on norms and standards. Supporting our members through our stakeholders, educational opportunities and newly formulated professional designations we am to continue to add to the Tourism sector GDP.

Peri Expo – Owner

082 578 5987 / [email protected]

International Congress and Convention Association – Regional Director:  Africa

084 056 5544 / [email protected]

Johannesburg Branch Committee Member – Events Portfolio

Event Synthesis – Event & Wedding Specialist / Safety Officer

060 970 7653 / [email protected]

Johannesburg Branch Committee Member – Treasurer

Multi-Media (Pty) Ltd – Director of Innovation

082 854 2230 / [email protected]

Durban ICC – General Manager: Marketing, Sales and Events

079 692 4604, 031 360 1360 / [email protected]

Irene Vallihu is the General Manager of Marketing, Sales and Events at the multi-award winning Centre, Durban International Convention Centre (Durban ICC). She is a creative, focused, energetic, resilient and customer-focused professional with over 29 years progressive experience in the hospitality industry. Irene has held 6 positions during her 15 year tenure at the Durban ICC. Her management experience includes Marketing, Sales and Events, thus contributing positively to a comprehensive event lead management strategy. Irene is adept in planning and executing aggressive strategies to achieve organizational and departmental goals. She is a results orientated individual with experience in leading high performance teams and successfully increasing efficiency and productivity whilst reducing costs and inefficiencies. Irene also serves as a Trustee of the DUT (Durban University of Technology) Foundation.

Irene’s personal mantra is “I am because you are”.

Chat’r Xperience (Pty) Ltd – Founder & CEO

083 415 2774 / [email protected]

John founded Chat’r Xperience after 15 years as a Founding Director at Magnetic Group and Brand Activations Director at Ogilvy|Brand Activation. He brings his organisational and project management skills, creative conceptualisation, choreography and passion for client satisfaction and years of experience in the eventing and experiential marketing into the online and streaming world. When he’s not working, John spends his time outdoors in his boat or 4×4 and following his passion for photography, and lately he considers himself a bit of a masterchef.

SAACI National Office Membership Services Consultant

071 299 0601 / [email protected]

Alshanthe has previously been employed as a Project Manager for Meetings Africa, Africa’s Travel Indaba, GovTech 2019 and Comrades Marathon Expo. Prior to this she has worked extensively in Convention Centre’s around the country, fulfilling both Sales and Event Coordination roles. Alshanthe is also a proud Top 40 Women in MICE nominee for 2018 and have won the 2017 SAACI National Young Achiever of the Year Award. Her passion for Business Events is evident in all roles undertaken throughout the decade she has spent in the industry, and she is honoured to continue serving and contributing to this legacy.

Eastern Sun Events – Owner

041 374 5654 / [email protected]

Denise owns and runs a conference management company, specialising in medical association conferences. Denise has been involved with SAACI for many years and was Chairperson of the Eastern Cape branch, head of the PCO Chapter and National Chairperson of SAACI. Eastern Sun Events has run successful online conferences during Covid but is looking forward to being host live events again.

Be-Moved – Managing Director

060 993 7542 / [email protected]

With a passion for events, exhibitions and activations, Jaques thrives on elevating a client’s brand through unforgettable experiences. While employed at Gearhouse and Formative he has gained a wealth of knowledge in production, stage design and the technical ‘know how’ of running in person, virtual and hybrid events. He accumulated over 10 years’ experience working on some of the most prestigious local and international conferences and stage productions. Jaques has also served on the SAACI Western Cape Branch prior to being elected to the National Board. Jaques is passionate about the Business Events Industry and eventing runs through his veins with production as his game.

The sought-after Branch of the year award was originally judged on membership growth and retention, but additional criteria was added in 2014.

Branches needs to:

• Grow membership in terms of company representatives
• Advance member category representation
• Grow networking events attendance by members
• Retain existing membership
• Bonus points:
• Board reports submission
• Maintain a fully operational branch committee
• Other Branch activities that supports the SAACI vision

The Young Achiever of the Year Award is an acknowledgement of a minimum of 3 years’ service to SAACI. The individual is between the ages of 25 – 35 years and is motivated, energetic, involved and an active member of the Association. The individual presents an extraordinary view of the value of being a member to the community at large and within the business events industry and has provided a special and positive contribution to the development of SAACI through service on a branch committee.

These awards are presented at branch level during the annual general meeting and is nominated by the committees in each branch. The winners in each region are then eligible for the national award at the national congress.

The Fellowship award is an acknowledgement of a minimum of 10 years’ service to the Association. The individuals noted below have provided a special and positive contribution to the development of SAACI through:

• Service on the SAACI Board either as Board Directors’ or Advisories
• Served as Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson or Treasurer
• Presents an extraordinary view of the value of being a member to the community at large, to government and within the business events industry.

The individual is:

• Role-model and mentor in the industry
• Willing to assist the youth and newcomers to the industry
• An inspiration to colleagues in the industry

• Strategy & Planning
• Training and Capacity Building
• Marketing Solutions
• Case Studies

Strategy and Business Plan for the Northern Cape Tourism Authority

The Northern Cape Tourism Authority’s strategy is to promote the Northern Cape, South Africa as a destination for Extreme Escapism, for enjoying the extreme space and extreme topography and features of the province.

We have formulated both the 2007-2010 and 2011-2013 strategy and business plan for the NCTA.  On both occasions we worked closely with the management and staff in setting a vision, mission, objectives, strategic guidelines and an action plan for the next 3 years.  The strategy has evolved from a positioning of “exploration” to one of “extreme escapism”, with  a strong focus on attracting extreme events such as the Maloof Skateboard Cup, landspeed record attempts, paragliding, rafting, etc.

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Project Details

Client: Northern Cape Tourism Authority

Destination: Northern Cape Province, South Africa

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Northern Cape to Showcase Its Tourism Diversity at INDABA

These new online marketing strategies aim to develop an effective e-business platform and system to encourage and improve the usage of the Internet to manage information and promote tourism within the Northern Cape. The new 3.0 website platform, www.experiencenortherncape.com will allow potential visitors to Northern Cape the opportunity to preplan their time within the province with extensive information on what to do, where to go and where to stay. Website browsers will be able to access special web promotional rates on accommodation and activities and receive current information on events, activities and the latest NCTA promotions and marketing activities.

The tourism authority also launched an e-learning course this week. The recently completed 15 page e-learning module about the Northern Cape was uploaded onto the Dutch e-learning website of Travelution, etraveltraining.nl. Travelution is currently the market leaders in the Benelux region as well as other key European and UK markets with their e-learning modules.

Stretching across 360 000 square kilometres, the Northern Cape boasts with remarkable natural beauty, wide open spaces, a rich cultural history and their world-renowned hospitality, which will transform any visit into a dream holiday. Due to the wide array of activities and tourism attractions in the province, the destination appeals to market segments ranging from mature travellers to families, young adventurers and adrenaline junkies.

According to Dianna Martin, General Manager: Marketing and Communications, the Northern Cape offers an unsurpassable selection of tourism offerings. “The Northern Cape offers visitors extreme nature, extreme culture and extreme adventure and each of our five regions has its own unique character and charm. Due to its geographical spread, the Northern Cape is a province that celebrates its diversity and as such appeals to a wide tourism audience. From the desert to the coast, the abundant animal and birdlife of our parks and reserves to our unique floral kingdom, the Northern Cape has something for everyone. In addition, we can also boast with great outdoor adventure activities, superlative incentive offerings, amazing cultural engagements and real slow living, so that visitors can really pick and choose itineraries that will suit their lifestyles and personal preferences,” mentions Martin.

Namaqua and the Karoo regions are perfect destinations for the over 50 audience with a variety of accommodation options ranging from guest houses, B&B’s to excellent caravan and camping facilities. The Namaqua region offers include leisurely hiking trails, interesting historic attractions such as the Old Copper Way commemorating the rich mining history of the province, the beautifully rugged |Ai|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, stargazing at the SA Astronomical Observatory in Sutherland and the magnificent floral beauty of the Namaqua. Several tourism routes criss-cross through the province and is an ideal way to discover the hidden gems of the Northern Cape. The wide open spaces of the Karoo and the warm hospitality of its people offer a laid-back travel experience.

For families, the Diamond Fields and Kalahari regions are perfect for family fun that is both entertaining and educational. In total, there are six national parks and two of the country’s largest rivers in the Northern Cape, which makes water sport and game viewing some of the top must-do activities. A visit to the Big Hole museum complex in Kimberley is well worth a visit with a tram ride, interactive audio-visual presentations and an underground experience, while kids can even search for their own diamonds at the Diamond Dig and Skittle Alley.

The Green Kalahari beckons young adventurers, who are spoilt for choice with loads of affordable accommodation options such as backpacker lodges, camping sites and holiday resorts on the river banks. Perfect fun activities for a group of friends include white water river rafting down the mighty Orange River. For a rejuvenating stop-over, visit the Vanderkloof dam and its legendary Klub Kudu pub or go dune surfing in Witsand in the Kalahari. Discover a Kalahari Ferrari (better known as a donkey) during a visit to the Quiver Tree route outside Upington or enjoy a sundowner cruise on a barge in Upington.

The Northern Cape has also undoubtedly earned its reputation as the capital of adventure sports. For action-packed adventures, try a bridge swing in Barkly-West, rock climb or abseil at Riemvasmaak or embark on an epic, extreme MTB marathon. The world-class skate plaza in Kimberley has been home to the Maloof Money Cup skateboarding world championships for the past three years and offers skateboarding fans an exhilarating street and vert course. Take to the skies and go skydiving or paragliding at De Aar or join an extreme motorbike rally. Speed freaks can pull out all the stops during the annual Kalahari Desert Speedweek at Hakskeenpan, the site where the Bloodhound Supersonic Car will attempt to set the next world land speed record.

In addition, the Northern Cape has also become one of Southern Africa’s fastest growing business destinations. It offers a wide selection of excellent transport, logistics, communications and financial services, along with international standard accommodation and facilities to suit every requirement for meetings, conferences, events and exhibitions. Facilities such as the recently opened state-of-the-art of Mittah Seperepere Convention in Kimberley add to the stunning portfolio available to the MICE sector in the province with incredible breakaway opportunities in close proximity.

Get a sneak preview of the magic of the Northern Cape at stand DEC2 C20 at the Durban International Convention Centre from 11 – 14 May.

For more information, visit www.experiencenortherncape.com .

For media enquiries, please contact Tebogo Velembo on +27 71 462 3150 or email [email protected] .

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