KZN South Coast visitors can now experience ‘The Longest Date’ through a scenic tourism package

On Monday 26 July, SABC 3 viewers got to meet the latest contestants in the popular extreme adventure competition, The Longest Date. Filmed on the KZN South Coast, their weekly escapades are set against a backdrop of cascading waterfalls, beautiful dive sites, golden beaches, tranquil lagoons and coastal forests.

And for those wanting to experience these scenic locations in person, Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) has put together an exclusive hospitality package that gives visitors a real-world experience of this incredible series. “We’re delighted that the KZN South Coast was the chosen location for the production of the latest season of this South African TV series,” said CEO of Ugu South Coast Tourism, Phelisa Mangcu. “The region is fast becoming a prime filming destination for both local and international production companies. We have such diversity in terms of natural terrain from the coast to the hinterland region, alongside affordable venues and a welcoming industry that is ready to assist production crews at a moment’s notice.” She said, in addition to the benefits to production companies, local tourism establishments and communities benefitted from job creation and steady economic growth: “This has been a wonderful experience for us on the KZN South Coast, and a really great opportunity to showcase the wealth of natural beauty this region offers tourists.

The Longest Date Tourism Package will give visitors a comprehensive, adventure-filled experience of those sites viewed in the show.” Working alongside Brandgen production company, Paul Jefferys from Go 2 Films, was taken on board as the Line Producer for season 2, tasked with taking charge of the business aspects of the physical production of the series which was filmed in March this year.

Jefferys describes the KZN South Coast as one of the best filming locations he’s worked on: “The natural, expansive beauty, together with the intensely challenging adventure locations of The Longest Date season 2 has ensured an exciting and surprising outcome of the series. The appeal of the KZN South Coast and vast array of scenic beauty makes this a must-watch season!” The show, which airs every Monday on SABC 3 at 9pm, follows the adventures of 16 single South Africans in search of love and adventure.

Matched on ‘the ultimate blind date’, the eight couples embark on a journey to experience high-octane adventures over 13 episodes. Each episode shows how the couples attempt to connect while also undertaking extreme challenges set against the backdrop of the KZN South Coast. The lowest-scoring couples from each round are eliminated from the game, with the winning couple taking home the cash prize.