The Department of Tourism (DoT) has unveiled South Africa’s newest cultural and scientific attraction and visitor experience, the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, in the Free State.

The centre was supported by R120-million in funding from the EU through South Africa’s National Treasury, to create more educational and globally compelling tourism experiences.

The centre will officially launch on June 22, marking a milestone moment for the departments of Tourism and Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, South African National Parks and the Free State provincial government.

Under the theme “A Nation That Works for All – Unearthing Our Past, Building Our Future”, the new centre offers an immersive celebration of Africa’s ancient story, spotlighting one of the world’s oldest known dinosaur embryos ever discovered.

With interactive exhibitions blending palaeontology, archaeology, geology, and cultural heritage, the centre promises to awaken curiosity and delight in every visitor, the department says.

Fossil bones were first discovered by BaSotho communities in the Free State.

The launch will include the graduation of newly trained local tourist guides, a testament to the project's role in empowering youth, women, and rural communities through skills development, job creation, and tourism-led economic growth.

The launch event will also comprise a Ministerial walkabout and exclusive media tour, keynotes by government and conservation leaders, a certification ceremony for local tourist guides, cultural performances by traditional artists, interviews with dignitaries and exploration of fossil sites.

“The Kgodumodumo Centre is a true depiction of tourism championing inclusive growth and driving South Africa’s determination to build a resilient tourism economy that is shared by all.

“Located within a setting of natural beauty, the centre will anchor longer stays in the region, support small business development, and deepen the Free State’s tourism profile, especially among adventure seekers, family travellers and heritage tourists,” the DoT concludes.