Tourism leaders warn that the Panorama Route’s problems run far deeper than Tourism Month clean-up campaigns. While efforts at Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Three Rondavels were welcomed, industry players argue these initiatives are cosmetic and fail to address long-standing challenges.
GROWTH WITHOUT VALUE
Recent figures from the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT) highlight a widening gap between rising visitor numbers and economic impact. Mpumalanga was the second-largest province for international arrivals in 2024, drawing 2.1 million visitors, 23.8% of South Africa’s total and a 15.6% year-on-year increase.
Despite this growth, spending remains low. International tourists generated just R7.5 billion, which the DEDT described as “underwhelming” due to outdated and limited tourism offerings. Domestic travel also disappointed, with only 3.2 million trips recorded, ranking Mpumalanga fifth nationwide. Most travellers were either visiting family or passing through to the Kruger National Park, barely engaging with other attractions.
INFRASTRUCTURE AND SAFETY CONCERNS
Kruger Lowveld Tourism (KLT) engagement sessions across the province revealed widespread frustration over decaying infrastructure. “Sites are an eyesore as they are in a state of disrepair and fall below international standards. Maintenance is unsatisfactory and poses health and safety risks to visitors,” said KLT Chief Operations Officer Nomkhosi Tshabalala.
She also flagged Pilgrim’s Rest as a case of neglect worsened by illegal mining and weak product development. Poor access roads, such as those leading to Lone Creek Falls, were singled out as deterrents for both local and international visitors.
Responding to the criticism, interim Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) board chairperson Fish Mahlalela said, “We are starting a new chapter of governance with a commitment to serve our tourism industry with empathy and dedication. The board remains committed to bringing stability to the entity, rebuilding confidence with its stakeholders and ultimately protecting the integrity of the institution.”
MISSED OPPORTUNITES AND COMMUNITY EXCLUSION
The KLT report also flagged weak marketing and limited community participation. Familiarisation trips are rare, film tourism is overlooked, and late communication from the MTPA leaves businesses unable to plan. Communities along the Panorama Route are excluded from opportunities such as guiding and co-management agreements that could draw investment.
Tshabalala warned: “The Panorama Route cannot be revitalised without the involvement of the private sector and communities.”
BEYOND CLEAN-UPS
According to Tshabalala, cosmetic efforts are no substitute for a credible turnaround plan. There’s an urgent need for upgraded infrastructure, coordinated marketing, and inclusive growth to restore investor confidence.
With the end of Tourism Month, the Panorama Route stands as both a symbol of promise and a warning. Without modern attractions, safe infrastructure and community participation, Mpumalanga risks becoming a transit point rather than a destination.
