HOEDSPRUIT — The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) and Limpopo Tourism Agency (LTA) officially launched their joint Winter Campaign at the Radisson Safari Hotel in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, on 29 May 2026, marking a significant step towards strengthening tourism cooperation between the two neighbouring provinces.
Hosted under the themes “Wild Warm Winter” and “Two Provinces, One Destination,” the launch brought together tourism stakeholders, media representatives, tourism youth formations and industry partners in a collaborative effort to promote regional tourism and increase visitor numbers across both provinces.
The campaign forms part of ongoing efforts by the two agencies to strengthen tourism marketing, increase tourism arrivals and position Mpumalanga and Limpopo as preferred winter travel destinations. The collaboration follows engagements held during World Travel Market and Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 and builds on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two agencies to promote regional tourism integration and destination marketing.
During the launch, the two provinces showcased some of their most sought-after tourism attractions and experiences, highlighting the scenic beauty, cultural heritage, adventure activities and hospitality offerings available to visitors throughout the winter season.
A key objective of the campaign is to encourage travellers to view and explore the two provinces as a single destination, taking advantage of the diverse experiences available across both regions.
Speaking on behalf of the Limpopo Tourism Agency, Deputy Chairperson Grace Sibara described the launch as a historic milestone for the tourism sectors of both provinces.
“We have made history today. This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to working together as neighbouring provinces to grow tourism and create opportunities for our people. We are excited about the future of this partnership and the many initiatives that will follow,” said Sibara.
She added that Limpopo would continue supporting Mpumalanga’s tourism initiatives in the spirit of partnership and for the advancement of the tourism sector.
Representing MTPA, Interim Chairperson of the Finance and Investment Committee Sizile Ndlovu called on media houses to continue telling positive stories about tourism and showcasing the attractions available across Mpumalanga and Limpopo.
He encouraged the media to use their platforms to inspire travellers to spend more time exploring the two provinces, particularly during winter when both destinations offer favourable weather conditions and unique tourism experiences.
Ndlovu said the partnership presents an opportunity for both provinces to leverage their respective strengths. He noted that Mpumalanga remains one of South Africa’s leading provinces for international tourist arrivals, while Limpopo continues to perform strongly in the domestic tourism market.
Through the partnership, the two agencies hope to attract more visitors, increase tourism spending and create economic opportunities for local communities and tourism businesses.
Tourism stakeholders and members of the media were also afforded an opportunity to engage directly with the leadership of both agencies, sharing ideas and discussing opportunities to strengthen regional tourism development.
The agencies said the launch represents the beginning of a broader partnership that will see Mpumalanga and Limpopo working together on various tourism initiatives aimed at growing the regional tourism economy.
A key focus of the collaboration will be ensuring that visitors enjoy safe and memorable experiences through coordinated efforts involving government, the private sector and law enforcement agencies.
The two agencies are currently planning additional joint initiatives for the 2026/27 financial year, which will be announced in due course.
While the Joint Winter Campaign Launch marks an important milestone, both agencies said it is only the beginning of a long-term partnership aimed at unlocking greater tourism opportunities and economic benefits for both provinces.
