SA AIA Wraps KZN Regional Conference At ATKV Drakensville: A Week Of Adventurous Learning, Collaboration And Industry Momentum

Under the theme “Adventurous Reflections: Changing thought, changing behaviour, impacting lives,” the conference brought together over fifty delegates from across adventure tourism, outdoor education, training providers, guides, academics, and allied organisations. The programme combined talks, panels and practical workshops with high-value networking—anchored by the now-beloved Soup & Sherry Meet & Greet.

Programme highlights

Sessions explored current and future needs across the sector, including:

• Adventure-Based Learning (ABL) & experiential facilitation
• Risk identification and management for operators and educators
• Wilderness & survival medicine and Stop the Bleed fundamentals
• Ropework and canyoning techniques, and a Mountain Biking skills workshop
• Community tourism development and supporting adventure tourism startups
• Models for South African ABL qualifications and pathways

What delegates said

Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and reflective of a sector ready to move forward together:

• “Excellent value. Well worth it. Excellent networking.” — Conference delegate
• “It was like freedom… sitting with folk who speak the same language was so comforting and encouraging… reignited the way forward.” — Conference delegate
• “The spirit of the organisers, coordinators and delegates… the openness to learn and explore made all the difference. A world-class event!” — Conference delegate
• “Truly enlightening and insightful. The speakers were well prepared and clear… commitment and dedication added real value.” — Conference delegate
• “Amazing how people from different backgrounds work together and complement each other in this industry. Learned a lot.” — Conference delegate

A full post-conference reflections report will be shared with members.

ATKV-Drakensville’s role as host & title sponsor

Welcoming delegates, ATKV-Drakensville emphasised that “adventure goes hand in hand with education,” underscoring their commitment to safe, meaningful outdoor experiences. As host, ATKV provided comprehensive on-the-ground support—from venue setup and daily resets to flexible catering solutions and access to adventure facilities—helping SA AIA keep the event accessible while elevating the delegate experience.

ATKV-Drakensville’s Environmental Centre welcomes around 6,000 students from 138 schools annually, delivering adventure-led development programmes facilitated by trained and accredited guides. The resort also runs a two-year adventure guide internship and supports ATKV-Postmatriek, a 10-month gap-year programme that integrates adventure, learning and accredited pathways.

About SA AIA

The South African Adventure Industry Association (SA AIA) is a voluntary, non-profit, member-driven association and professional body for the Experiential Learning, Adventure-Based Learning, Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC) and Adventure Tourism sectors. SA AIA advances professional standards, promotes continuous professional development, and advocates for safe, high-quality practice across the industry.

What’s next

SA AIA invites organisations interested in partnering or hosting a future conference to reach out. Members and stakeholders can stay updated via the website and mailing list.

Media & Partner Enquiries: Jessi Sunkel, Executive Director — info@saaia.org.za | +27 76 601 4997 Website: www.saaia.org.za.