Skift Take

Curiocity, a South-African company that offers both tours and activities as well as hotel and hostel stays, had to pivot post-pandemic. The switch reveals a new focus on domestic travel and Afro-tourism, driving a shift in its business model.

Curiocity, a travel company rooted in immersive and local experiences in South Africa, never experienced the post-Covid travel boom. Instead of a sudden and possibly short-lived boost, however, a new audience dedicated to local, community-oriented, impact tourism emerged.

“Post-pandemic, we thought there'll be this massive pent-up demand where everyone would be itching just to travel,” said Bheki Dube, the founder and CEO of Curiocity. “Unfortunately, and maybe fortunately, that hasn't been the case.”

Bheki Dube, founder and CEO of Curiocity. Credit: Curiocity.

Curiocity offers locally owned hotels, hostels, and travel experiences. The company has a total of eight hotel and hostel locations, with its latest opening this month on Kloof Street, a