In celebration of Tourism Month this September, K3 SA Forest Adventures proudly hosted Dr. Ivan Meyer, the Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development, and Tourism, during the launch of the world’s longest zipline on 23 September 2024. The K3 zipline, stretching an impressive three kilometres, descends from the breathtaking Caledon Mountains to lush farmland below, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Overberg’s vibrant green and yellow hills, as well as the distant mountain ranges.
This milestone event aligns with Wesgro’s recent report highlighting the Western Cape’s potential to emerge as a global hub for adventure tourism – a niche sector projected to reach a staggering value of $4.6 trillion by 2032. Adventure tourism encompasses a variety of thrilling activities, including ziplining, water sports, caving, climbing, and skydiving, all designed to provide physical challenges while showcasing natural beauty and cultural experiences.
During the event, Clinton Lerm, owner of K3 SA Forest Adventures, remarked, “As SA Forest Adventures, we are very happy with our new product – it is an extension of our list of 20 adventure activities that we host in the Western Cape. We hope it will pull more international tourists – tourists will build their entire vacation around visiting and experiencing K3, the longest zipline in the world.” This highlights the significance of this attraction for both the local community and adventure tourism as a whole.
Dr. Meyer highlighted the importance of the adventure tourism boom as a significant opportunity for economic growth and job creation in the region. “A farmer makes a plan; a tourist executes it,” he remarked, underscoring the interconnectedness of local agriculture and tourism.
Ald Sakkie Franken, Executive Mayor of the Overberg District Municipality, expressed his admiration for the work being done by Lerm and the SA Forest Adventures team. “I have the utmost respect for what you are doing for the area and adventure tourism,” he stated. He also welcomed Dirk Kotze, the Executive Mayor of Mossel Bay, who joined in the excitement by experiencing the zipline firsthand.
Ricardo Mackenzie, the Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, echoed the enthusiasm, stating, “It was beautiful going down the zipline – it was fantastic! Please come and do this activity; it is exciting and fun!”
K3 SA Forest Adventures not only highlights the natural beauty of the Overberg region but also serves as a catalyst for sustainable tourism development. By promoting adventure tourism, K3 is set to attract thrill-seekers from around the globe while contributing to the local economy.
For more information about K3 SA Forest Adventures and to plan your visit to the world’s longest zipline, please visit www.saforestadventures.co.za.
