Siphelele Nketo
TO observe the month of tourism and heritage in the Umzimvubu Local Municipality, the first-of-its-kind Ntsizwa Hiking Trail will be launched this month with hikers exploring a 6.3km route, from Lusuthu village to the Lugelweni Ntsizwa Hiking Trail site.
The community-based tourism and outdoor recreational event is aimed to showcase the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and tourism potential.
The event from September 25-26 will further create opportunities for participants to experience the scenic landscapes, cultural heritage and rural hospitality in the area while supporting local tourism enterprises.
Umzimvubu Local Municipality mayor Zukiswa Ndevu explained that the initiative forms part of the municipality’s broader efforts to promote rural villages, adventure, heritage and tourism.
“The Ntsizwa Mountain and its surrounding landscape offer scenic mountain views, diverse natural vegetation and a rich historical association with Chief Madzikane, making the area an important asset for both tourism and heritage preservation,” she said.
The theme for the event is ‘Celebrating Our Living Heritage: Strengthening the Ties That Bind Us’. According to the municipality, two identified local tourism cooperatives will play a central role in the event.
It has been reported that overnight hikers will be accommodated in local home-stays in Lusuthu village, while the hiking experience will conclude at the Lugelweni Ntsizwa Hiking Trail site on the following day with entertainment, community braai and tourism-focused flea market to showcase locally produced and crafted products, tourism information and other offerings.
