Gariep Dam town eyes tourism boost as airport expansion takes off

The expansion of an aviation facility near the Gariep Dam could boost tourism and leisure activities in the Free State town of Gariep, while bringing greater attention to neighbouring Karoo settlements.

[Image used for illustrative purposes]Harbour of the Gariep dam in South Africa/By: GroblerduPreez/iStock

Formerly known as Gariep Airport, the airfield has been renamed Big Water Aero under the ownership of aviation group RSA.aero. Plans are under way to develop the facility into a broader regional aviation and tourism hub.

The airfield is already a popular destination for gliding and regional aviation, with favourable flying conditions and reliable thermal winds attracting aviation enthusiasts. Its proximity to the Gariep Dam also creates opportunities to expand the area’s adventure tourism offering.

Proposed activities include microlight flights and hot-air ballooning, which could introduce more visitors to the region.

According to Wayne Rubidge, area principal for Pam Golding Properties Karoo, the investment could benefit Gariep and the nearby towns of Philippolis and Bethulie by increasing visitor numbers and raising their profile among prospective home buyers.

Rubidge said greater exposure could introduce new audiences to the three towns, each offering a different character and lifestyle.

Property prices in the area range from approximately R650,000 to R850,000, with higher-end homes selling for around R1 million and above.

Philippolis and Bethulie offer older Karoo-style homes, while Gariep has a more modern housing selection, including retirement estates. Its location near the dam and aviation facilities also adds to its appeal.

ALSO READ:

South Africa’s aviation safety record challenged by rising deaths

What travellers can do around Gariep Dam

Gariep, formerly known as Oranjekrag, was established in 1965 and 1966 to accommodate workers involved in building the Gariep Dam. The town lies on the northern bank of the Orange River, approximately 50km west of Bethulie and 48km north-east of Colesberg. It was renamed Gariep in 1996.

Today, it serves as a convenient overnight stop for travellers driving between Gauteng, the Western Cape and the Eastern Cape. However, its appeal extends beyond its position along major road routes.

The Gariep Dam is a major drawcard for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for motorboating, jet skiing, sailing, canoeing and freshwater angling. Its extensive open waters provide a setting for visitors looking to spend time outdoors.

Nature lovers can also explore the neighbouring Gariep Nature Reserve, which covers approximately 13,500 hectares of land and water. Wildlife found in the reserve includes springbok, Cape mountain zebra, black wildebeest and red hartebeest, alongside a variety of bird species.

Aviation is another established attraction. The area’s thermal winds have made it a popular destination for gliding, and the airfield hosts international gliding championships during the summer. Several world soaring-distance records have also been established in the area.

The proposed expansion into additional adventure aviation activities could broaden the range of experiences available to visitors.

Gariep also offers everyday amenities, including medical and professional services, as well as a mix of conventional and prefabricated homes. The historic De Stijl Hotel, overlooking the Gariep Dam adventure resort and yacht harbour, adds to the town’s tourism offering.

Small-town living draws interest

Beyond tourism, the planned development could strengthen interest in Gariep and its neighbouring settlements as places to live.

The combination of open space, water-based recreation and a quieter pace of life appeals to some middle-aged and retired buyers. Rubidge also noted growing interest from younger purchasers considering a move to smaller towns.

While the airport’s expansion is still part of a broader development vision, it could provide an additional reason for travellers to explore the Gariep Dam region beyond a quick stop along the highway.

Source: Newsday

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Spotify