What were once considered the West Rand’s hidden gems will now be every traveller’s first discovery upon landing at Lanseria International Airport. The launch of the Visitor Experience Centre (VEC) marks a new chapter for local tourism, placing Mogale City, Rand West City and Merafong City firmly on the tourism map.
Strategically located across Wimpy on the first floor of the airport’s main terminal building, the VEC serves as a welcoming hub for domestic and international visitors, many of whom are unaware of the cultural heritage, adventure, and hospitality offerings that lie just beyond the runway.
The centre is managed by MORAME, a West Rand Regional Tourism Association representing the three West Rand municipalities, under the guidance of the Gauteng Tourism Authority. It symbolises a shared commitment to regional economic growth, community empowerment, and tourism-led development.
Lanseria Airport is uniquely positioned as the gateway to two Mogale City based UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely the Cradle of Humankind and the Magaliesberg Biosphere. This proximity not only strengthens the airport’s role as a tourism connector but also positions the VEC as a catalyst for increased foot traffic and economic activity across the West Rand.
According to Tourism South Africa, an estimated 9 million international tourists visited the country in 2024, with Lanseria International Airport handling over 2 million passengers in the same year. By capturing even a fraction of this growing audience, the new centre could significantly boost local spending, accommodation bookings, and participation in township and eco-tourism experiences.
The VEC is designed as a one-stop shop for travel information, offering:
- Guidance on local attractions, tours, and experiences
- Assistance with accommodation bookings and transport options
- Access to maps, brochures, and cultural itineraries
- On-site tour bookings and curated package deals
Friendly tourism representatives are stationed at the centre to ensure visitors receive personalised, insightful guidance on how to make the most of their stay, whether that means exploring the Cradle’s fossil trails, hiking Magaliesberg’s scenic routes, or sampling Mogale City’s culinary delights.
Ultimately, the VEC reflects a regional tourism revival, turning Lanseria from a point of transit into a launchpad for exploration, investment, and local pride.