Tourism in Binga has been on the up and up for years now. An addition to boosting tourism in the resort town is the refurbishment of the Binga airstrip. Private chartered planes now can access the tourist town with ease. Both local and international tourists can now access Binga via air. This is a great improvement as driving there, for some, is a tedious and long journey. The airstrip has seen an increase in international tourists to the Matabeleland North District.
The refurbished airstrip can accommodate up to four planes a day. This project came to play in 2021 with the government’s aim to improve tourism in remote areas. Tourism in Binga is one of the many ways the sector is set to improve. Also, a number of improvements in the sector are underway. Some of them include moving tourism to sustainable practices. The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority is at the forefront of championing this initiative. Additionally, before the refurbishment, occupancy rate was between 40 to 50 percent. The airstrip is making it possible for international tourists to fly in and the occupancy rate has risen to about 70 percent
Tourism in Binga: Some of the available activities
Also, some Zimbabwean tourists are on the trail to Binga to experience the sandy beaches, something the landlocked country does not have. Therefore, locals are taking advantage of this feature and are building tourist accommodation to house such enthusiasts. The beach is just a part of what Binga has to offer tourists. The Binga Sand Beach lies on the shores of Lake Kariba and is the only sand beach in Zimbabwe. Moreover, tourism in Binga promises to be on the upward trajectory. Tourists are able to picnic and play games on Binga Sand Beach.
Additionally, some of the other activities Binga offers include fishing. Binga is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Lake Kariba is abundant with various fish species, including tiger fish, bream, and catfish. Moreover, visitors can hire local fishing guides and experience the thrill of catching these prized fish. Fishing is one way to reduce stress, relax and catch up with your loved ones. The quiet, serene environment will do wonders on one’s health, both mental and physical. Tourism in Binga has a lot to offer and fishing is just a part of it.
Furthermore, cultural experiences are another way to immerse tourists in the day-to -day living of locals. Binga is home to the Tonga people, who have a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting traditional villages, attending cultural festivals, and interacting with the friendly locals. The Tonga people are known for their traditional music and dance, which adds a vibrant element to the tourism experience.
Finally, with the recent refurbishment of the airstrip, Binga’s economy is set to improve. Reports of increase in traffic on the airstrip is evidence of this. The government’s involvement has left the district in a better position to grow economically as well as socially.
