24 - 27 Sep 2026
Related Experiences
Arts and culture
Nature and wildlife
Related Places
Uniondale
Garden Route and Klein Karoo
Mal’va De Rust Project & Festival – Tourism Revival Through Community and Nature
De Rust in the Klein Karoo is driving a community-led tourism recovery through the Mal’va De Rust Project and Festival, following recent storm damage and repeated disruptions to the Meiringspoort access route, which have significantly impacted visitor numbers and local tourism businesses.
In response, residents, businesses and stakeholders are working together to reposition De Rust as a distinctive floral destination anchored in the indigenous Mal’va (Pelargonium). The initiative is transforming the town through large-scale greening, with approximately 6 000 plants already established and a further 14 000 cuttings in preparation.
Beyond environmental enhancement, the project is encouraging local entrepreneurship through Mal’va-inspired products and experiences, while supporting job creation and tourism recovery in the region.
The initiative will culminate in a Heritage Weekend in September 2026, bringing together the Mal’va Project launch, Open Studios De Rust, and the Motorcycle Film Festival to attract visitors and stimulate local economic activity.
A fundraising campaign is currently underway to support expansion and community development:
👉 https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/malva-de-rust
