Astro Tourism Enterprise Development: A New Horizon for Young Entrepreneurs in the Karoo

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Carnarvon Astro Tour Guides

Six young entrepreneurs from the heart of the Great Karoo have embarked on an inspiring journey into the world of astro tourism, setting a new precedent for the industry in South Africa. This initiative, born from the dusty plains of the Northern Cape, is as remarkable as the Milky Way that arches over the Karoo on a starry night.

Amy-Lee Visagie, Nicole Vermeulen, Kaylene Malgas, Brandon Booysen, Gillian Kamies from Carnarvon, and Chrislin de Koker from Vanwyksvlei are the pioneering participants in this groundbreaking project. Just over a year ago, these five unemployed youth were given the opportunity to train as astro tourism entrepreneurs, and today, they are not only fully qualified guides but also burgeoning business owners in this niche sector.

Affectionately known as the “Astros,” these young individuals have excelled in a rigorous course that covered a broad spectrum of subjects essential for their new roles. From entrepreneurship and business management to astronomy and telescope maintenance, the training equipped them with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the tourism industry. This comprehensive program, the first of its kind in South Africa, also included destination knowledge, storytelling, first aid, tourist guiding, and practical experiences designed to build their confidence and refine their expertise.

The “Astros” gained hands-on experience by traveling across South Africa, including visits to key locations such as the Hartebeeshoek Radio Astronomy Observatory in Pretoria, and several small towns like Loxton, Sutherland, and Loeriesfontein. Their journey has now brought them to the 32nd General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union in Cape Town, where they are actively promoting the Northern Cape as a premier astro tourism destination while engaging with leading astro scientists and media from around the world.

For these young entrepreneurs, the course was more than just a training program—it was a life-changing experience. Not only did they gain invaluable knowledge and exposure, but they also earned a steady income through stipends provided for each day of training. This financial stability has elevated their status within their local communities, where they are now seen as role models and sources of pride.

The astro tourism project aims to enhance the sustainability of the soon-to-be-built SKA Carnarvon Exploratorium and boost the appeal of the Karoo Highlands and Forgotten Highway tourist routes. This initiative will significantly contribute to the growth of tourism in the rural areas of the Northern Cape. Once operational, the SKA Carnarvon Exploratorium, set to become the largest tourism project ever launched in the province, will provide a platform for the “Astros” to showcase their skills and knowledge to a global audience.

The “Astros” offer a captivating sky-viewing experience, enriched with ancient stories passed down by the Karoo’s indigenous peoples, including the !Xam San and Xhosa, who have long looked to the stars, moon, and sun for inspiration and guidance. In addition to stargazing, they also guide visitors along the scenic Carnarvon heritage Karoo walking trail and offer unique town tours via donkey cart, blending traditional and modern tourism experiences.

This project, funded and implemented by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism in partnership with the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), represents a significant step towards expanding astro tourism to other Karoo towns and the Kalahari. The success of the “Astros” is a testament to the transformative power of education and opportunity, lighting the way for a brighter future in the Northern Cape.

For more information about this initiative and to follow the journeys of the “Astros,” visit our website and stay connected with SARAO as we continue to support the growth of astro tourism in South Africa.

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