GARIEP DAM – The Free State tourism summer campaign, aimed at promoting affordable and memorable travelling experiences, will officially kick off on Thursday, 6 November.

Free State MEC for Finance, Economic Development, and Tourism Ketso Makume will launch the tourism summer campaign at Gariep Dam, one of the 15 largest dams in the world.

Domestic and international appeal

The summer campaign is also aimed at encouraging both domestic and international travellers to explore and discover the hidden gems of the Free State during the upcoming summer season.

Gariep Dam area has been earmarked to launch the festive season campaign as a memorable destination for tourists to enjoy water sports including sailing, canoeing, swimming, and land-based activities such as game drives, 4×4 trails, and mountain biking.

Premier destination features

Visitors can also visit Gariep Dam Nature Reserve with accommodation and camping areas. Within walking distance lies the Gariep Dam wall—South Africa’s largest dam, standing 88 metres high and 914 metres long. It provides a significant source of water storage and power.

This massive body of water covers more than 370 square kilometres when full and can store nearly
6 000 million cubic litres.

Inspiring tourism growth

MEC Ketso Makume explained that launching the festive season campaign from a boat on the dam will inspire tourists to travel throughout the Free State and experience the diverse range of tourism attractions in different establishments across the province.

“The Free State is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering diverse experiences across its breathtaking landscape. It is a treasure trove of heritage and culture, offering travellers an unforgettable journey through its rich history and traditions,” he said.

Affordable local experiences

“We call on the people of Free State to explore their own backyard and find its hidden gems. DESTEA’s resorts and reserves across the province offer unforgettable experiences at low cost: chalets, braai and picnic areas, camping sites, game driving, fishing, and catering for all demographics and year-end functions.”

Economic development focus

This event marks a renewed commitment to invigorate the tourism industry to continue creating much-needed jobs and grow the economy whilst showcasing the vibrant culture, breathtaking landscape, diverse tourism offerings, and rich heritage of the Free State.

“Therefore, the time is now for Free Staters to create lasting memories with peace and tranquillity,” MEC Makume concluded.

“Free State is a place to go to and not a place to go through.”

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