Through the introduction of a government-backed strategy, South Africa is positioning itself as a leading destination for Astro-Tourism.
As reported by African Travel & Tourism Association, the Astro-Tourism Strategy is aimed at leveraging the country’s world-class astronomical infrastructure to drive scientific enhancement and tourism growth.
Some of the astronomical infrastructure to be leveraged includes the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) in Sutherland, as well as the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project.
Southern African Large Telescope (Image: Sourced)
The strategy has been presented by Prof. Blade Nzimande who is the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, as well as Deputy Tourism Minister, Ms Maggie Sotyu.
According to a Parliamentary statement, it was also shared during the presentation that South Africa is the first country in the world to have an Astro-Tourism Strategy.
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The integration of astronomy with tourism seeks to attract high-value travellers who are in search of immersive stargazing and observatory experiences.
It also presents the potential for employment opportunities, as well as the fostering of economic development in rural areas.
As the focus on scientific tourism continues to grow, the Astro-Tourism Strategy is expected to draw international tourists and to enhance infrastructure. Additionally, it will fortify South Africa’s reputation as a hub for astronomical exploration and space science.
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