The Kasi2Kasi tourism campaign has continued its journey through the Free State highlands with a stop at Dinkoeng Tented Camp and Adventure — a destination blending adventure tourism, indigenous history and environmental education in one of South Africa’s most scenic mountain landscapes.
Positioned along the north-eastern edge of the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountains between the Kingdom of Lesotho and KwaZulu-Natal, the camp forms part of the growing movement to place township, village and rural tourism experiences at the forefront of South Africa’s tourism economy.
A Gateway Between the Free State, Lesotho and KwaZulu-Natal
Located near the Monontsha border post and the western exit of Golden Gate Highlands National Park into QwaQwa, the camp sits at an altitude of between 2,100 and 2,300 metres above sea level.
The dramatic mountain terrain creates a landscape of:
- Waterfalls
- River streams
- Deep gorges
- Cliffs and hiking trails
- Panoramic viewpoints into Lesotho
During summer, the area transforms into lush green vegetation, while winter often blankets the mountains in snow — attracting outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
Tourism Rooted in Indigenous History
What sets Dinkoeng apart is its connection to centuries of regional history and cultural heritage.
The area is believed to have served as:
- A corridor for nomadic San communities during the 1400s
- A migration and settlement zone for Basotho tribes in the 1600s
- A strategic passage during the Lifaqane conflicts of the 1800s
Visitors can also learn about indigenous medicinal plants traditionally used by Basotho communities to treat various ailments — adding an educational dimension to the eco-tourism experience.
Organisers of the Kasi2Kasi campaign say destinations like Dinkoeng reflect the growing importance of heritage tourism in South Africa.
Outdoor Adventures for Every Traveller
The campsite offers a wide range of activities designed for families, groups, solo travellers and experienced adventurers alike.
Popular activities include:
- Hiking trails such as Dinkoeng Edu Trail, Witsies Cave and Drakensberg routes
- 4×4 adventure trails
- Quad biking
- Horse riding
- Bird watching at Sephoko Peak
- Bushman painting tours
- Obstacle courses and team-building activities
- Day picnics and sundowner experiences
Nearby attractions within a 30km radius include:
- Basotho Cultural Village
- San rock art trails
- Traditional healer village tours
- The Vulture Restaurant viewing site
- Bats Cave excursions
Eco-Tourism Meets Community Tourism
The Kasi2Kasi campaign, spearheaded by South African Township and Village Tourism Organisation alongside partners including Sho’t Left, South African National Taxi Council and Jaecoo South Africa, is designed to spotlight destinations often overlooked by mainstream tourism marketing.
The initiative focuses on:
- Community-based tourism
- Rural and township storytelling
- Cultural preservation
- Sustainable tourism growth
Tourism analysts say rural adventure destinations like Dinkoeng could play a major role in diversifying South Africa’s tourism economy beyond traditional urban attractions.
Building a New Tourism Narrative
As influencers, tourism stakeholders and media teams travel through provinces documenting hidden gems, the Kasi2Kasi campaign is steadily reshaping perceptions of local tourism.
Rather than focusing solely on luxury destinations, the campaign places emphasis on:
- Authenticity
- Heritage
- Nature-based tourism
- Community involvement
This approach aligns with growing global demand for meaningful travel experiences that connect visitors directly with local cultures and landscapes.
Final Word
The stop at Dinkoeng Tented Camp and Adventure highlighted the untapped potential of South Africa’s mountain, village and heritage tourism sectors.
From San history and Basotho culture to hiking trails and eco-adventures, the destination offers a powerful reminder that some of the country’s most valuable tourism experiences lie far beyond traditional city routes.
As the Kasi2Kasi campaign continues, it is helping to tell a richer, more inclusive story about South African travel — one rooted in culture, history and community pride.
Follow the campaign online using:
#Jaecoo #SATOVITO #ShotLeft #SANTACO #Kasi2Kasi #SiyamengConsultants #VisitFreeState #DiscoverFreeState #JaecooShotLeft
