Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau Hosts Annual Welcome Campaign for Holidaymakers, Here’s What You Need to Know

Published on December 15, 2025

On Saturday, 13 December 2025, a well-awaited annual welcoming campaign by the Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau in collaboration with Garden Route and Klein Karoo Tourism was held outside De Rust. The purpose of this campaign is to welcome the holidaymakers on arrival in the region, giving a signal to the beginning of the festive season. This campaign was a part of several other continuous efforts towards the development of tourism in these areas of Oudtshoorn and De Rust, ensuring warm reception for visitors right from the first step into the region.

A Warm Welcome for Holidaymakers

As the festive season kicks off, tourism officials and local community members gathered at key entry points to the region to personally welcome holidaymakers. According to tourism manager Corleen Barnard, the event was a significant success, as holidaymakers were greeted with warmth and hospitality. Visitors received welcome bags filled with holiday guides, discount vouchers for local attractions, treats, and bottled water—ensuring that tourists have everything they need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay in the Oudtshoorn and De Rust areas.

“We’ve been welcoming holidaymakers to our region for years now, and it’s always a special time for our tourism team and local partners,” Barnard said. “We collaborate with our members, local traffic officials, law enforcement, and provincial police to make this event a success and show our visitors the best of what our region has to offer.”

The welcoming initiative, which takes place every year, is not only designed to greet visitors but also to introduce them to the range of experiences available in the Oudtshoorn and De Rust areas. These regions are known for their unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and local hospitality, making them an ideal destination for both local and international tourists.

Community Engagement and Regional Support

In addition to the official welcome campaign, the event was further enhanced by the participation of Marais Kruger, the newly appointed mayor of the Garden Route District Municipality. Kruger’s involvement underscored the importance of community and government support for local tourism initiatives. His presence at the welcoming event was a show of solidarity for the region’s tourism efforts and highlighted the critical role local leadership plays in promoting the area as a top travel destination.

The campaign was supported not only by the tourism bureau but also by several key stakeholders in the region, including Oudtshoorn’s municipal traffic officials, law enforcement, and provincial police. The collective effort demonstrates the strong partnerships between the tourism bureau and local authorities, all working together to ensure that the region’s visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.

This annual welcoming event is part of a broader initiative aimed at making tourists feel comfortable and at home from the moment they arrive. In addition to greeting holidaymakers, the campaign serves as a powerful promotional tool, drawing attention to the many attractions in Oudtshoorn and De Rust. These areas are well-known for their rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and unique wildlife experiences, including the famous Cango Caves and nearby game reserves.

Extending the Holiday Spirit to the Local Community

While tourism plays a central role in the region’s economy, the Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau is equally committed to giving back to the local community. Earlier this month, as part of their annual outreach project, the tourism bureau spread festive cheer at Helderliggies-kleuterskool (a local preschool). In a heartwarming gesture, every child at the school received a Christmas gift, ensuring that the holiday spirit was shared with everyone in the community.

“We are deeply committed to our local community, and this outreach project is something close to the hearts of our bureau and its members,” Barnard shared. “While tourism is important, giving back and supporting our local families is just as significant. We are grateful for the sponsors who helped make this project a success, and we are proud to play a role in spreading joy during the festive season.”

The outreach project, which has been a tradition for several years, highlights the tourism bureau’s dedication to supporting both the local economy and the people who call Oudtshoorn and De Rust home. By fostering a strong connection between the tourism industry and the local community, the bureau aims to create a more sustainable and harmonious environment for both residents and visitors.

A Bright Future for Tourism in Oudtshoorn and De Rust

The Oudtshoorn and De Rust Tourism Bureau’s welcoming campaign is just one example of the region’s efforts to position itself as a top tourist destination. The annual initiative not only celebrates the start of the festive season but also plays a vital role in promoting the region’s diverse attractions. By welcoming visitors with open arms and highlighting the region’s strengths, the tourism bureau hopes to encourage more tourists to explore the Oudtshoorn and De Rust areas.

These efforts are expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, as more visitors translate into greater demand for accommodations, restaurants, tours, and other services. Local businesses will benefit from increased foot traffic and enhanced visibility as a result of the tourism bureau’s outreach and promotional campaigns.

Looking ahead, the region’s tourism industry is set for continued growth. With its scenic landscapes, unique cultural offerings, and commitment to providing exceptional visitor experiences, Oudtshoorn and De Rust are poised to attract more tourists from across South Africa and beyond. As the welcoming campaign continues to gain momentum, it will undoubtedly strengthen the region’s reputation as a must-visit destination in the Garden Route and Klein Karoo.

Fostering Tourism and Community Spirit

As time goes by in this festive season, this campaign will attract even more tourists to this region, thus impacting their economy. With a focus on both marketing and outreach programs, Oudtshoorn & De Rust is right on course to becoming a major tourist destination for all adventure-seekers in search of fun, relaxation, and learning.