The Hogsback region in the Eastern Cape of South Africa attracts visitors to its indigenous forests, lush mountainous landscape, and breathtaking hikes. Lieve Claessen and partner Elliot Sonjani operate Elundini Backpackers in a rural community at the edge of Hogsback. In this wonder-filled “Good Tourism” Insight, Lieve shares some of the ongoing challenges facing Elundini and its host community.
For thousands of years the Xhosa people have lived harmoniously with each other and with nature. Their traditional lifestyle is strongly sustainable and even today they still live with a heartfelt connection to traditional ways.
Since 2009, my Xhosa husband Elliot Sonjani and I have been operating backpackers accommodation in the rural and agriculture-dependent Elundini area. Our responsible tourism objectives for Elundini Backpackers include empowering our host community and ensuring that the benefits of the tourism we attract reach our neighbours. To accomplish this we have devised schemes designed both to give back to the community and provide guests with authentic experiences.
Read the full "GT" Insight at https://goodtourismblog.com/2020/02/how-a-small-south-african-backpackers-is-making-a-big-community-based-difference/