South Africa has officially opened the new South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Visitor Centre in Cape Town, marking an important milestone in the country's national Astrotourism strategy. Announced on July 9, 2025 by Ministers Patricia de Lille and Blade Nizimande, the centre aims to blend science education and tourism by providing interactive exhibitions, indigenous heavenly storytelling and access to historical telescopes. The initiative is co-designed by the Departments of Tourism and Science, Technology and Innovation, along with the National Research Foundation.
Located in the observatory's historic Sao Ground, the centre is expected to attract more than 18,000 visitors a year. It supports all three pillars of astrotourism strategy: Indigenous narrative and skill development, infrastructure investment, and comprehensive tourism growth. The Visitor Centre focuses on niche tourism products that highlight South Africa's rich cultural and scientific heritage by showing how tourism and science can coexist and create economic and educational opportunities.
read more
Source: South African Government
