Siphelele Nketo
PREPARATIONS for the first-of-its-kind Ntsizwa Hiking Trail 2026 are at an advanced stage with more than 95 hiking enthusiasts, hiking teams from across the Alfred Nzo district and neighbouring municipalities already confirming attendance.
Beyond promoting adventure and outdoor recreation, the weekend event will create opportunities for participants to experience the scenic landscapes, cultural heritage and rural hospitality in the Umzimvubu area while supporting local tourism enterprises. The theme of the day is “Celebrating Our Living Heritage: Strengthening the Ties That Bind Us”.
Two identified local tourism cooperatives, Ntombi-yexesibe Cooperative in Lugelweni and Fikiswa Ndilele Cooperative at the Lusuthu Village, will play a central role in the event as key partners. The Umzimvubu Local Municipality said that overnight hikers will be accommodated in local homestays in the Lusuthu Village on day one as an effort to promote community-based tourism.
The hiking experience will conclude at the Lugelweni Ntsizwa Hiking Trail site on the second day where participants will enjoy entertainment, a community braai and a tourism-focused flea market showcasing locally produced and crafted products, tourism information and other offerings.
