The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) will implement the new tariffs for the 2021/2022 financial year at its various nature reserves, effective November 1.

The tariffs will remain largely unchanged to cater for the domestic market and to respond to the economic challenges faced by the tourism industry due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Although the tariffs will remain largely unchanged, we have made some adjustments in other areas. There will be no increase on the pricing for the current accommodation, except for a minimal increase for some of the chalets at Manyeleti Nature Reserve. There will be a nominal increase of entrance fees at God’s Window for locals and this will be adjusted accordingly for SADC and international visitors. The Three Rondavels tariff will remain unchanged,” said Johannes Nobunga, CEO of MTPA.

He added that a per-person tariff fee of R100 (€6) would be introduced for camping instead of the R350 (€20) that was previously charged per camp site. 

The recently established Day Visitor Facility at Mahushe Shongwe Nature Reserve includes the new swimming pools, picnic area with braai stands, communal ablution area and the upgraded conference centre, which can take up to 100 delegates. This will, therefore, see an increase to the conservation levy.

Nobunga pointed out that, as part of enhancing the product portfolio, the MTPA would continue to introduce new tourism activities for specific nature reserves, such as a bush braai service and guided bush walk. This will go a long way to attract the domestic market as well as providing more choices to enhance the visitor experience.

“The MTPA is governed by the MTPA Act of 2005, which obliges the agency to progressively generate its own revenue collection. It is therefore important to note that the income in general will be used for continuous upgrading of infrastructure at our nature reserves and to further provide visitors with the best possible experience and value for money,” said Nobunga.

For a detailed schedule of tariffs for each nature reserve, click here.