Objectives

The primary objectives of the tender are to conduct a feasibility study for the development of the Matatiele Mountain Lake Hiking Trail and Campsite. Specifically, the study aims to:

• Assess the viability of establishing a hiking trail and campsite in the area.
• Evaluate environmental, social, financial, and institutional aspects related to the project.
• Provide evidence-based recommendations for development, management, and operational models.
• Identify potential risks and mitigation strategies.
• Promote sustainable eco-tourism, community participation, and conservation principles.

Scope

The scope of work includes, but is not limited to:

• Situational and site analysis, including land ownership and surrounding attractions.
• Environmental and biodiversity assessments, including impact assessments.
• Cultural and heritage evaluations.
• Market and demand analysis, focusing on outdoor recreation and camping.
• Technical feasibility studies.
• Socio-economic impact assessments, including community participation mechanisms.
• Financial and economic analysis, covering costs, revenue, and funding options.
• Institutional, legal, and regulatory requirement assessments.
• Risk assessment and mitigation planning.
• Development of an implementation framework.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements specify that the service provider must:

• Apply a mixed-method approach, including stakeholder engagement.
• Deliver comprehensive reports in both electronic and hard copy formats.
• Complete the feasibility study within 12 weeks from appointment.
• Provide expertise in eco-tourism, hiking trail development, and environmental management.
• Demonstrate experience in coordinating and developing feasibility studies in tourism.
• Ensure all assessments (environmental, cultural, market, technical, socio-economic, legal, and risk) are thoroughly conducted.
• Propose sustainable development and management models aligned with local and national regulations.

Skills Requirements

The bidder must demonstrate the following skills and expertise:

• Proven experience in eco-tourism and sustainable tourism development.
• Strong background in environmental and biodiversity assessments.
• Expertise in socio-economic impact analysis and community engagement.
• Capability to conduct market and demand analysis for outdoor recreation and camping facilities.
• Technical proficiency in feasibility studies, including legal, institutional, and regulatory frameworks.
• Project management skills to deliver reports within stipulated timeframes.
• Ability to identify risks and develop appropriate mitigation strategies.
• Experience in developing implementation frameworks for tourism projects.
• Team members with relevant qualifications in tourism management, environmental management, or related fields, supported by certified copies of certificates.