Oudtshoorn and De Rust, South Africa, Kick Off Festive Season with Heartwarming Welcome Campaign for Holidaymakers

Published on December 15, 2025

Every year, as the holiday season approaches, the Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau in South Africa takes an important step towards promoting tourism and spreading holiday cheer. On Saturday, December 13, 2025, the Bureau, in collaboration with local businesses and authorities, launched its annual welcoming campaign to greet visitors arriving in the region. This campaign is a key highlight in the tourism calendar for Oudtshoorn and De Rust, not only welcoming visitors but also increasing the region’s appeal as a top tourist destination.

The event was held just outside the town of De Rust, in the heart of the Garden Route and Klein Karoo regions. The event, which aimed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for incoming holidaymakers, was attended by a variety of stakeholders, including Tourism Bureau members, Oudtshoorn municipal traffic officials, local law enforcement, provincial traffic police, and even Marais Kruger, the newly appointed mayor of the Garden Route District Municipality. This collaboration demonstrates the region’s unified approach to tourism promotion and community engagement.

A Heartfelt Welcome to Holidaymakers

Visitors arriving in the region were greeted with warmth and enthusiasm, as the tourism campaign aimed to ensure that their experience began on a positive note. Upon their arrival, holidaymakers were presented with welcome bags containing essential items such as holiday guides, discount pamphlets, local treats, and bottled water. These thoughtful gifts were not only a gesture of hospitality but also a way to introduce visitors to the unique offerings of the Oudtshoorn and De Rust areas.

The initiative aims to show tourists that the region is a place where they can relax and feel at home. The tourism manager, Corleen Barnard, emphasized the importance of making visitors feel comfortable right from the start. This annual tradition has become a key part of the region’s tourism strategy, as it not only promotes local attractions but also encourages repeat visits by fostering a strong connection with the area.

In addition to the welcome gifts, the event provided an opportunity for local businesses to showcase their offerings, allowing tourists to discover the hidden gems of the area, from family-friendly accommodations to unique dining experiences. The involvement of municipal and law enforcement personnel further ensured that visitors felt safe and secure during their stay.

Promoting Tourism with a Collaborative Effort

The partnership between the Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau and its local partners, including businesses and government authorities, underlines the collective effort to support and promote tourism in the region. This collaborative approach has proven to be effective in making the region a popular destination for domestic and international tourists alike.

The Tourism Bureau has been working tirelessly to highlight the region’s unique attractions, including the renowned ostrich farms, natural reserves, and the scenic Klein Karoo. These efforts are aimed at boosting the local economy while ensuring that tourism remains sustainable and beneficial to the community.

Marais Kruger, the new mayor of the Garden Route District Municipality, was also present at the welcoming campaign, marking his support for the tourism sector. His participation symbolizes the importance of local government in driving initiatives that promote tourism and foster a sense of community. The mayor’s presence is seen as a sign of the continued collaboration between local authorities and the tourism industry to strengthen the region’s position as a must-visit destination.

Giving Back to the Community: A Christmas Outreach

The spirit of the season was not limited to welcoming visitors; the Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau also made sure to give back to the local community. Earlier in the month, the Bureau spread festive cheer by engaging in an outreach project aimed at making the Christmas season special for local children. The initiative took place at Helderliggies-kleuterskool, a local kindergarten, where every child received a Christmas present.

This annual tradition is one that remains close to the hearts of the Bureau’s members, showcasing their commitment to supporting the local community alongside their tourism promotion efforts. The Bureau’s dedication to community engagement was further demonstrated by the generous donations from local sponsors, who contributed gifts to ensure the success of the outreach programme.

A Community-Driven Approach

The combination of tourism promotion and community outreach is what sets the Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau apart from other regions. By focusing on both tourism growth and community welfare, the Bureau has been able to create a sustainable model that benefits everyone in the region. Visitors are welcomed with open arms, and at the same time, the local community feels the positive impact of increased tourism.

Barnard highlighted the success of the outreach initiative, which not only made a positive impact on the children at the local school but also reinforced the message that tourism can be a force for good in the community. This holistic approach ensures that the benefits of tourism are felt at every level, from local businesses to individual residents.

The Future of Tourism in Oudtshoorn and De Rust

Looking ahead, the Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau remains committed to expanding its tourism offerings and strengthening its community outreach projects. With ongoing support from local businesses, government officials, and the community, the Bureau is optimistic about the future of tourism in the region.

The region’s unique attractions, including its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and world-renowned ostrich farms, continue to draw tourists from across the globe. The welcoming campaign and festive outreach efforts are just a small part of the larger strategy to position Oudtshoorn and De Rust as key players in South Africa’s tourism landscape.

Conclusion

The Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau’s annual welcoming campaign is more than just a seasonal event; it celebrates the region’s hospitality, tourism commitment, and community welfare. As the region becomes a more popular tourist destination, initiatives like these play an important role in creating a welcoming environment for visitors and ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared by everyone.

Through continued collaboration and outreach, the Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau is laying the groundwork for an even brighter future in which both locals and visitors can enjoy the region’s diverse cultural experiences and natural beauty.