Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
ZIMBABWE, Mozambique, and South Africa have successfully concluded a week-long tourism expedition in the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area (GLTFCA), which comprises national parks from the three countries.
The programme, held from August 30 to September 7, was supported by the SADC Transfrontier Conservation Areas and Boundless Southern Africa. It ran under the theme The Power of Cross-Border Tourism. GLTFCA International Coordinator,
Mr Gwinyai Muti, said yesterday that the initiative brought together 44 participants and 22 vehicles, accompanied by two journalists and a filmmaker to document the event.
“It was an unforgettable journey, giving participants the chance to experience three of Southern Africa’s most iconic protected areas — Limpopo National Park (Mozambique), Kruger National Park (South Africa), and Gonarezhou National Park (Zimbabwe),” he said.
“Boundless Southern Africa, with support from the Joint Action NaturAfrica/Climate Resilience and Natural Resource Management (C-NRM) Programme — a partnership between the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the European Union, and the German Government, implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) — proudly celebrated the successful Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area (GLTFCA) Adventure Trophy, which took place from 30 August to 7 September 2025 across the partner states: Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.”
He said the pioneering adventure showcased the region’s extraordinary natural beauty, cultural richness, and the seamless potential of a three-country, one-itinerary tourism experience.
Mr Muti explained that the journey began on August 30 in South Africa, with participants travelling through Zimbabwe’s Sengwe-Tshipise Corridor and camping at the Manjinji Pan community campsite — a model for community-based tourism.
He said the tourists explored the dramatic landscapes of Gonarezhou National Park, from the Chilojo Cliffs to the wild banks of the Runde River, and immersed themselves in the rugged beauty of bush camping.
“In addition, they experienced a community partnership at Lowveld Wanderer Camp, where conservation and livelihoods intersect, before entering Mozambique via the Sango Border Post and crossing the historic Mapai Pontoon on the Limpopo River. They camped on its banks under star-filled skies,” said Mr Muti.
“The team concluded with a symbolic crossing back into South Africa through the Pafuri Border Post, before finishing at Awelani Community Lodge. This journey was not only a thrilling adventure but also a powerful demonstration of how TFCAs can unlock tourism growth, create jobs, and strengthen regional collaboration.”
He highlighted that the GLTFCA Adventure Trophy underscores the unique value of cross-border conservation tourism. By linking protected areas across three nations, Mr Muti said, the TFCA offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience ecosystems without borders and to contribute directly to conservation and community upliftment.
“Boundless Southern Africa extends its sincere appreciation to the various government ministries, departments, and agencies of Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe for their support and collaboration.
“Their commitment to transboundary conservation and tourism development was instrumental in the success of this initiative,” added Mr Muti.
He said the initiative was an inspiring example of what can be achieved through partnership, vision, and shared stewardship of natural heritage.
The programme paves the way for future cross-border tourism products that position Southern Africa as a premier global destination for adventure, wildlife, and cultural travel.
Mr Muti stressed that by aligning with the SADC Tourism Programme 2020–2030, the Adventure Trophy contributes to regional efforts to diversify tourism offerings.
“It also strengthens transboundary collaboration and enhances the visibility of Southern Africa’s unique tourism assets on the global stage.
Boundless Southern Africa remains committed to supporting initiatives that celebrate conservation landscapes, empower local communities, and drive sustainable economic growth across the region,” he said.
