Uncover hidden gems of Phiring with PESP3 participants
Phiring
In the heart of Phiring Village, amidst the rugged beauty of Fetakgomo Tubatse, lies an extraordinary landscape waiting to be discovered.
Phiring is a community that has faced its share of struggles, yet it is blessed with ecological wonders like Sekweneng and Sethunyeng, often overlooked by its own residents.
However, a recent initiative aimed to change that narrative and foster a sense of pride and ownership among the locals, was revealed through ecotourism and community development.
The Phiring Ecotourism Project, which is an initiative of a collaboration between the community and project partners such as Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region, Conservation South Africa, and Hoedspruit Hub, has been started on the tourism site, aiming to harness the potential of tourism for the region’s development.
With meticulous planning and community consultation, two breath-taking sites, Sekweneng and Sethunyeng, were identified and prepared to welcome visitors.
Recently, a group of 200 participants from the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP3), had the privilege to visit Phiring and experience these hidden gems at first-hand.
Welcomed by the Ba-Dinkwenyane Tourism Association, the participants embarked on a journey of exploration and wonder.
Their first stop was Sekweneng, home to a magnificent perennial Tufa Waterfall. As they stood beneath the cascading waters, surrounded by lush vegetation, the participants were enveloped in the sheer beauty and power of nature.
The aroma of damp soil mingled with the freshness of the waterfall, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.
The group later ventured to Sethunyeng, a site nestled amidst riverine trees and meandering streams. Guided by local experts, they traversed through the forest, encountering an abundance of flora and fauna along the way.
Their efforts were rewarded as they reached the awe-inspiring ‘Gun Rock’, a towering stone outcrop surrounded by cascading waterfalls. Lost in wonder, they explored the pools and waterfalls, marvelling at the pristine beauty of the site.
After their adventure, the participants were treated to a delightful traditional meal and entertained with local songs and games. It was a moment of camaraderie and celebration when they reflected on their journey in a forged bonds with the local community.
The excursion not only allowed the participants to reconnect with nature but also highlighted the success of community-led development initiatives. Through collaboration and determination, Phiring has transformed into a beacon of ecotourism, enriching the lives of its residents and visitors alike.
As the participants bid farewell to Phiring, they carried with them memories of natural splendour and cultural richness. Their journey served as a testament to the transformative power of ecotourism and the resilience of communities united in pursuit of a shared vision.
In Phiring, the spirit of adventure and community thrives, inviting all who visit to discover its hidden treasures and leave revitalized, inspired, and deeply connected to the land and its people.
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