The Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), in partnership with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, hosted a successful educational tour for the iNgakithi Tourism School winners. Held from 21 to 23 November 2025, the learners enjoyed a rich and immersive tourism experience in St Lucia and Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park.

The iNgakithi Tourism Schools Competition provided learners with a dynamic learning platform across the Poem, Public Speaking, Culinary, and Master Chef categories. Through these activities, they explored tourism through creative expression, gained practical hospitality and culinary skills, and developed confidence, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation of tourism’s value within their communities and future career pathways.

During the tour, the learners were treated to an unforgettable tourism adventure, experiencing some of KwaZulu-Natal’s most iconic destinations. Their journey included a serene overnight stay at Hilltop Camp Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, where they woke up to an early-morning game drive through the breathtaking Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. They visited the iMfolozi game reserve Centenary centre-rhino awareness, encountered fascinating wildlife at the St Lucia Crocodile Centre, and experienced the natural beauty of the St Lucia Estuary during a scenic boat tour.

To cap off an already memorable day, the evening concluded with a magical “Dinner Under the Stars” experience right in the heart of the bush—an inspiring moment that deepened their connection to nature, culture, and conservation. Altogether, the experience offered a captivating blend of wildlife, culture, and conservation learning that truly brought the world of tourism to life.