Tourist Guides Amazing Contributions Celebrated in the Western Cape

Western Cape Government celebrates 6 000 tremendous tourist guides.

Today, as we mark International Tourist Guide Day, we celebrate the great contribution tourist guides in the Western Cape make to the tourism and hospitality sector, particularly in promoting and educating South Africa and the world about our beautiful province.

“I’d like to say a very big thank you to all our dedicated and valued guides, who act as ambassadors for the province and who really do make a world of difference in this important sector. Tourist guides help keep visitors coming back and attract many more visitors to the Western Cape to experience some of our famous hospitality,” said Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger.

There are an estimated 6 000 tourist guides in the Western Cape – the largest guiding community in the country and possibly the continent.

First held in 1990 by the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations, the day is also aimed at increasing awareness of the contributions tourist guides make to the economy.

Tourism and hospitality in the Western Cape is a vital sector, contributing approximately R15.5 billion to the provincial economy and supporting 174 000 direct jobs in 2019.

Tourist guides are required to meet certain criteria before receiving certification and must abide by a code of conduct while having first aid training.

“I encourage our own residents to explore their own province and to book one of the many wonderful, guided tours that are on offer. This is just one way we can show our appreciation to our guides while at the same time getting out to see and learn more about this wonderful place that we call home.” Concluded Minister Wenger.

To view more information about the criteria to become a tourist guide, please click the link.