Cold seasons are traditionally quiet for the Limpopo tourism sector, but businesses like Fumani Game Lodge believe the recent launch of a winter campaign will boost their businesses.
The Limpopo Tourism Agency’s (LTA) 2025 Warmer Winter Tourism Campaign, which was launched at the Mopani Rest Camp in the Kruger National Park, aims to attract more than 10 million domestic and international visitors by positioning the province as the ultimate winter destination.
“The winter season is traditionally a quieter period for tourism in Limpopo, so this campaign presents an opportunity to boost visibility and drive bookings,” said Fumani’s marketing manager Akesa Mokhare.
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To attract off-peak visitors, the lodge is focusing on midweek business retreats and romantic getaways, which are enhanced by spa treatments, game drives and tranquil bush settings.
Mokhare also stressed the importance of partnerships.
“We would like to see greater integration between LTA and SMMEs through influencer collaborations, co-branded content and targeted media campaigns,” he said.
For businesses like Borutho Tours and Travel, the campaign offers more than just increased foot traffic. Managing director Liorna Berend believes that its success hinges on inclusivity and local collaboration.
“Their plan to attract over 10 million tourists will have a positive impact on my business,” Berend said.
“I foresee a high number of visitors who will need our services. However, for it to work, it must reflect the full range of offerings across Limpopo, including all districts and rural areas.”
Berend, who offers rural and township cultural tours, said her business integrated local attractions, talent and accommodation in its packages.
“This not only enhances the tourist experience but also stimulates local economic development,” she said.
Among those hoping to benefit from the campaign is Seemole Thobane, a qualified beauty therapist and founder of Berrytops Beauty Bar in Modimolle.
Thobane offers hydrating winter facials, body wraps and hand treatments to combat dry winter skin.
She views the campaign as a chance to elevate the visibility of her spa and local beauty products.
“This is an opportunity to advertise our services and products while collaborating with other spas and suppliers,” she said.
“We want to connect with lodges that do not yet offer spa services and even those that host golf tournaments; we would love to provide massages for the golfers.”
The beauty bar is also committed to broader community upliftment.
“We plan to collaborate with local producers of scrubs, oils and soaps to improve our offerings. We also want to train youth and host massage events in the community,” Thobane said.
The businesses believe there is a need for meaningful connections between small businesses and major tourism players.
Whether through joint promotions or curated experiences, they are eager to turn winter into a season of shared prosperity.
“Our weekday specials are aimed at local professionals to keep business flowing and jobs sustained,” said Mokhare.
“Every booking supports multiple layers of the economy, from hospitality staff to artisans and small-scale farmers.”
The LTA maintains that the campaign is not just about boosting tourist numbers, but ensuring province-wide inclusive economic growth.
Limpopo’s SMMEs are ready to make the most of the winter surge.
