Tourism sector responds with coordinated measures to ensure visitor safety and support local economies amid ongoing water restrictions and seasonal fires.
SATSA, the voice of inbound tourism, encourages clear, reliable, and factual communication as parts of the Garden Route continue to experience water shortages and increased fire activity in the height of summer in South Africa
While these conditions are not uncommon at this time of year, the current situation requires heightened vigilance and coordinated response from both authorities and the tourism sector. Local authorities are actively managing water restrictions and fire preparedness measures to protect communities, visitors and essential services.
Level 4 water restrictions are now in place in the Greater Knysna area, with contingency planning underway should conditions require further escalation. The Western Cape government has reported regional dam levels lower than at the same time last year and has expressed that early proactive measures are far more effective than emergency restrictions.
At the same time, emergency services remain vigilant as hot, dry, and windy weather continues to drive fire risk across the country. The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality confirms that whilst fire incidents have increased since December, teams are successfully containing outbreaks and maintaining a high level of readiness.
Firefighting efforts continue in Mossel Bay and the municipality has urged the public to remain alert and avoid affected areas, allowing emergency services to operate safely.
Despite these pressures, tourism businesses across these regions remain open and operational. Industry-wide conservation measures, including water-saving protocols and guest education initiatives, have been adopted to ensure responsible resource use. The sector draws on extensive experience managing similar seasonal challenges in the past and is committed to maintaining high service standards whilst safeguarding the wellbeing of visitors and local communities.
What travellers should expect
Visitors may notice practical water conservation efforts – shorter showers, towel reuse programmes, and occasional low pressure. In areas affected by active fires, certain outdoor activities or routes may be temporarily restricted in line with official safety advisories. Route changes could also impact travel time.
Practical advice for visitors
- Contact your booking consultant or accommodation provider directly to understand current conditions and any adjustments
- Be mindful of water use in impacted areas and follow on-site conservation guidelines
- Pack with water conservation in mind – fewer outfit changes, quick showers
- Stay flexible with outdoor plans and monitor local emergency advisories
- Avoid areas where authorities advise against travel due to fire risk
- Continue supporting local businesses where it is safe and appropriate to do so
Useful contacts
Relevant municipal fire and water updates are available via official local authority channels. Some key contacts are listed below. We also recommend following local authorities on their social media channels to revise real-time updates.
Knysna Municipality – knysna.gov.za
George Municipality – george.gov.za
City of Cape Town – capetown.gov.za
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality – nelsonmandelabay.gov.za
Mossel Bay Tourism – visitmosselbay.co.za By working directly with local authorities and maintaining credible information, we can safeguard local economies and ensure that visitors continue to have a positive and safe experience.