MiniMe Mobile Spa Emporium, based in Groblersdal in the Sekhukhune District in Limpopo was among the scores of exhibitors at this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba hosted in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
Owned by entrepreneur Reshoketswe Ntobeng, the business offers mobile spa services and a day spa, providing wellness experiences that combine relaxation with outdoor tourism settings.
MiniMe was among 70 tourism SMEs that formed part of a delegation of the Limpopo provincial government to the Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026.
This is part of the province’s efforts to expand market access, grow rural tourism businesses and strengthen the sector’s contribution to the economy.
The delegation from the province’s five districts showcased accommodation, wellness services, cultural tourism and adventure experiences to both local and international buyers.
The Indaba which took place from 11 to 14 May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, remains one of Africa’s leading tourism trade platforms, connecting exhibitors with global investors, buyers and industry stakeholders.
“Being part of Africa Travel Indaba 2026 is a huge opportunity for my business because it gives us exposure to both local and international tourism markets,” Ntobeng said.
She added that the platform helps small businesses access important industry networks and improve their services.
“As an SME, platforms like this allow us to network with industry leaders, accommodation establishments, travel buyers and other tourism businesses,” she said.
Participation was coordinated through the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (Ledet) and the Limpopo Tourism Agency under the MSME Support Programme, which focuses on expanding market access for rural and emerging tourism enterprises.
Ledet MEC Tshitereke Matibe said the expanded SME participation reflects the province’s long-term tourism growth strategy.
“Limpopo is determined to reclaim its position as South Africa’s most preferred domestic tourism destination. By ensuring that more of our tourism products are represented at Africa’s Travel Indaba, we are creating greater visibility and opening doors for entrepreneurs to access new markets and partnerships,” he said.
Keleo Safari Lodge’s Elizabeth Muzhuzha said participating in ATI is a big deal as it brings industry professionals together and showcases Africa’s diverse tourism offerings.
“As an exhibitor, we have a chance to connect with potential clients, generate leads and showcase our establishment’s unique offerings,” she said.
Among the exhibitors was Keleo Safari Lodge which operates in Limpopo and Gauteng. It has two establishments, Mela Luxury Lodge in the Dinokeng Game Reserve near Pretoria and Keleo Safari Lodge in Bela-Bela in the Waterberg District of Limpopo.
The group offers accommodation and conferencing facilities, spa and wellness services, a restaurant and bar, as well as outdoor tourism activities including game drives, guided bush walks, quad biking, mountain biking and bird watching.
Mathendele Bush Lodge founder Matsidiso Ncube said participation in the Indaba is key to connecting with international markets and strengthening Limpopo’s tourism profile.
Mathendele Bush Lodge, based in the Mopane Bushveld under Musina Municipality in the Vhembe District of Limpopo, offers luxury accommodation for group travellers and romantic getaways in a remote bushveld environment.
“I am hoping to meet with the international market and create synergies with other stakeholders while selling Limpopo as a destination of choice. The more tourist traffic attracted, the more jobs and local economic growth,” Ncube said.
