Night-sky guides graduate to boost Astro tourism sector
Western Cape government says astro tourism is driving job creation, particularly in rural areas
Black News 
Western Cape Minister for Economic Development and Tourism Ivan Meyer says astro tourism is contributing to job creation, particularly in rural communities.
Astro-tourism is a niche travel experience focused on observing the night sky, celestial events such as eclipses or meteor showers, and visiting locations with minimal light pollution, such as dark sky reserves.
Meyer was speaking following the graduation of specialist night-sky guides in partnership with the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa.
A ceremony was held near Darling on the West Coast to mark the qualification of the new guides.
Meyer says the provincial government is investing in niche tourism sectors to support economic growth.
He says rural areas in the Western Cape offer suitable conditions for astrotourism due to low light pollution.
“Tourism is about growth for jobs, and in the Western Cape, we are investing in experiences that create real economic value. Astro tourism brings visitors into smaller towns, supports economic development and creates new jobs, especially in our rural communities. With the right skills and professional standards, we can grow a tourism sector that is smarter, more sustainable and inclusive and that benefits communities across the Western Cape,” said Meyer.
The department says the initiative forms part of broader efforts to expand tourism opportunities across the province.
GOVERNMENT PRIORITIES ASTRO TOURISM
[MEDIA STATEMENT] Tourism reaches for the stars with Astro Tourism
Tourism Minister @PatriciaDeLille, welcomes the Cabinet’s concurrence with the National #AstroTourism Strategy.https://t.co/6H77B5jQcS #skao #SARAO#AstroGuides #SouthAfricaAwaits#WeDoTourism @dstigovza pic.twitter.com/nvJx3VuRvJ
— Dept of Tourism (@Tourism_gov_za) May 23, 2025
