The first ever South Africa Heritage and Culture Pavilion was hosted by the Department of Tourism (NDT) and South African Tourism (SAT) at the 2013 Tourism Indaba.

The aim of the pavilion was to give live to the Heritage and Culture Strategy developed by the Branch: Domestic Tourism Management. The result, the South African Heritage and Culture Pavilion was the buzz of the 2013 Indaba.

The success of the pavilion was due to a metamorphosis, like the life-cycle of a butterfly. It took collaboration and partnership between NDT and SAT, creativity, brainstorming sessions to break old habits, a dash of courage, trust, teamwork and lots of team spirit, all mixed carefully to course a stir.

During the Indaba four television shows were recording the event at the Pavilion, these included Morning Live, Sunday Live, s and Top Billing. One of the special guests who visited the Heritage and Culture Pavilion was Dr. Albertina Luthuli, the daughter of Chief Albert Luthuli, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in the non-violent struggle against apartheid. Dr. Luthuli wrote her message on the graffiti wall, “In the Freedom Charter rests the tenets of responsible leadership.”

The Pavilion showcased the eight World Heritage Sites and 20 heritage and culture products. A variety of local products including up-cycled furniture, accessories and fittings were also on display.

The Heritage and Culture Pavilion was a true example of the NDT living its brand and vision as a catalyst for tourism growth and development in South Africa. In the words of the Minister of Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, “Bravo culture and heritage”.

​	​
​	​