The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) decision to close parts of the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve for filming during the December holiday season has drawn strong criticism from tourism stakeholders.
In a statement, Special Attaché for the Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Tourism Oupa Pilane called the move “a slap in the face to tourists and local communities” – arguing that it prioritises “quick cash from film crews over the livelihoods of local businesses and the recovery of the tourism sector”.
The MTPA announced that the Swadini Viewpoint will be closed from November 24 to December 24 with no visitor access except for prearranged boat trips. Similarly, waterfall areas will be closed to the public between November 17 and December 23, and again from December 31 to January 5, 2026, due to filming activity.
Pilane said the timing is “economically reckless and tone deaf”, pointing out that December is a critical trading period for small operators and local communities in areas such as Graskop and Hoedspruit.
“The MTPA’s own notice states other Panorama Route sites remain open but let’s not pretend God’s Window alone can replace the full Blyde experience,” he said.
Guides, traders and visitors are being unfairly impacted, he added. “Tell that to the boat tour guides losing 40 days of income, the informal traders who rely on Swadini foot traffic and the families who saved all year for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday – only to find gates locked.”
Pilane has called for full disclosure of the film production company involved, details of revenue earned and assurances that affected communities will benefit. He also urged the MTPA to enforce a moratorium on peak season commercial filming at flagship public sites and to consult local operators before any future closures.
“Mpumalanga’s tourism is not a film set for the elite; it is the lifeblood of our people. The MTPA must stop treating it like one,” he said.
