travel industry trends in south africa

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South Africa’s Tourism rising momentum continues

The recent official release of international arrival figures by Statistics South Africa for January to December 2023 underscores the rising momentum of South Africa's tourism sector.

International tourist arrivals from January to December 2023 totalled 8.5 million, representing a remarkable 48.9% increase when compared with same period in 2022.

Africa continues to lead the Way

• South Africa welcomed 6.4 million visitors from the rest of the African continent between January and December 2023, marking a significant 75.6% of all arrivals.
• Zimbabwe and Kenya stood out for their remarkable growth, with Zimbabwe experiencing a 70.8% increase in tourist arrivals to South Africa when compared to 2022, totalling 2.1 million arrivals, while Kenya recorded a 99% surge when compared to 2022, reaching 42,403 arrivals for January to December 2023.

Strong Momentum from the Americas

• Tourist arrivals from the Americas registered at 455,901 reflecting a 39.8% growth compared to the same period in 2022.
• The United States of America saw 353,975 arrivals to South Africa, marking a 35% increase compared to 2022.

Strength in European Markets

• From January to December 2023, South Africa saw 1.2 million tourist arrivals from Europe, a 38.2% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
• The United Kingdom remains the top European source market with 356,160 tourists choosing South Africa, marking a 25.8% growth compared to 2022
• Germany experienced a 41.6% increase in arrivals compared to 2022, amounting to 245,259 tourists
• This was followed by the Netherlands which saw an increase of 45.5% when compared to 2022, amounting to 131,371 tourist arrivals between January and December 2023
• Russia exhibited a dramatic growth of 74.7% when compared to 2022, contributing 28,357 arrivals in 2023

Noteworthy growth from the Asia markets

• Asian markets also showed significant growth with a total 199,308 arrivals from the region, representing an astounding 69.1% when compared to the same period in 2022.
• We welcomed 79,774 tourists from India, a 43.7% growth compared to 2022
• Notably, we saw 37,164 arrivals from China, a massive 204.9% surge in 2023 when compared to 2022

Robust Gains in the Middle East

• The Middle East saw a robust increase with 54,339 arrivals in the January to December 2023 period — a 33.7% growth when compared to the same period in 2022. South Africa received 16,351 arrivals from Saudi Arabia in 2023, marking an increase of 42.6% when compared to 2022
• The United Arab Emirates saw 6,511 arrivals to South Africa, a remarkable 110% increase when compared to 2022

Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille expressed delight at the impressive numbers from the African continent and highlighted the strategic decisions that contributed to the growth in specific markets.

She adds “Kenya’s remarkable performance can be attributed to the strategic decision by government to simplify the visa regime in 2023 as well as targeted and effective insights-driven marketing campaigns”.

“This recovery can be attributed to consistent efforts to showcase South Africa as a welcoming, responsible tourism destination, highlighting experiences that align with intrepid, green economy conscious travellers,” the Minister said.

Minister de Lille emphasised the charm and magnetism of South Africa as a tourism destination, with specific mention of the reopening of the Chinese market and the resumption of direct flight routes in 2023.

Looking ahead, Minister de Lille emphasised the need to unlock barriers such as visa regulations and limited air access and airlift for sustained growth.

The Minister expressed commitment to working with partners and government colleagues to facilitate policy and regulation revisions.

In conclusion, minister de Lille thanked all visitors for choosing to visit South African and likewise thanks South Africans for their continuous hospitality and warm welcome to visitors, expressing optimism for sustained charm, attractiveness, and relentless tourism growth.

For further information, contact

Zara Nicholson

Ministry Media Liaison Officer

Cell: +27 (0) 79 416 5996

Email: [email protected]

Thandiwe Mathibela at South African Tourism

GM: Global PR, Communications and Stakeholder Relations

Tel: +27 825 520979 Email: [email protected] Website www.southafrica.net

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Top 10 travel and tourism trends for 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of travel, each passing year brings exciting new trends that shape the way people explore the world. The travel industry is poised for a transformative journey, driven by emerging technologies, shifting consumer preferences, and a global mindset that seeks unique and immersive experiences.

Here are 10 key travel trends, challenges, and opportunities the tourism industry is expected to face in 2024.

1. Time to shift from luxury to mainstream

Post-pandemic, South Africa’s 5-star tourism surged ahead, but mainstream 3-star tourism is facing hurdles, including a shortage of flight seats, which are now 50-60% more expensive than pre-2020.

This reality is diverting travellers to other destinations, which can be seen in East Africa’s tourism growth. Though 5-star luxury travel is enjoying rapid recovery, it is approaching capacity – and the priority is to reignite the mainstream segment in South Africa to ensure sustained tourism growth in 2024.

2. Open skies now

Meaningful tourism growth necessitates legislative changes, which include open skies policies. The call is to address capacity constraints and ensure that anyone willing to fly to South Africa is allowed to.

3. Infrastructure reinvestment vital

Tourism entities need to reinvest significantly in infrastructure. Customs and export restrictions on luxury coaches, for example, result in a shortage, among other challenges. The tourism industry is capital-intensive, and government amendments for tax-free coach imports will boost infrastructure.

4. Streamline visa regulations

Government deciding to boldly adjust visa regimes, e-visas, and visa-free arrivals will make a material difference in attracting tourists, as will taking recommendations discussed at TBCSA level and implementing them swiftly.

5. Fix educational sector challenges

Educational shortcomings have led to numerous unfilled positions at Tourvest, for example. Scalability hinges on addressing deep structural issues in education, CATHSETA, and the lack of specific qualifications for inbound leisure.

The shortage of tour guides and travel consultants, for instance, must be addressed.

6. It’s about scalability

We must grow tourism if we want to earn more foreign exchange for this country and create decentralised employment in rural areas – which we do.

We’re all trying very hard to get these things right, but we need to fix the bottlenecks to achieve scalability in the industry. Anything that hinders us from scaling up should be reviewed and reworked in a hurry, and that’s not happening… yet.

7. Government quandary on tourism vs immigration control

While the Minister of Tourism strives for accessibility, the Minister of Home Affairs must navigate the delicate balance of protecting borders and limiting illegal immigration.

The tourism industry understands these challenges, and it is a delicate area for government to navigate while trying to promote travel to the country and maintain immigration control at our borders.

8. Marketing immersive experiences

SA Tourism’s key marketing message is ‘Live again’ which sums up the call to come and explore, and immerse yourself in the culture, fauna, and flora. South Africa positions itself as a destination for experiences that appeal to the shift in post-pandemic tourism trends, focusing less on pure consumption and more on cultural exploration. A lot of good work has been done in this from a marketing and social media material aspect.

9. Connecting travelable parts of Africa

According to  Statista.com , of the 969.39 international tourist arrivals in 2022, the African continent attracted only 46.61, while Europe attracted 594.9 and the Americas, 156.18. This means Africa attracted less than 5% of global tourism, but it also means there are endless opportunities for the travelable parts of the continent.

For instance, just focusing on sub-Saharan Africa, would include Ghana, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Benin in West Africa; Ethiopia, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya in East Africa; and all SADC countries in southern Africa.

10. Multi-destination travel

A surge in pan-African connectivity, as seen in Ethiopian Airlines, is enabling multi-destination travel. This novel trend attracts travellers by combining destinations like Cape Town and the Serengeti, or a safari in South Africa with a beach holiday in Zanzibar and fosters more significant global interest in the continent.

From embracing sustainable travel practices to the fusion of technology and tradition, these trends are not just predictions; they are glimpses into the future of how we will embark on our journeys, create memories, and connect with the world around us.

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Travel trends in South Africa: Navigating sales-specific insights

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1. Rise of experiential travel

Why it matters.

Experiential travel is no longer a niche market; it has become a mainstream expectation. Travelers are increasingly seeking immersive experiences that allow them to connect with local cultures, traditions, and environments.

Sales strategy

• Product development : Curate packages that offer unique, authentic experiences such as guided tours of historical sites, cultural festivals, and culinary adventures.

• Professional development : Equip sales teams with deep knowledge of local destinations and experiences. Training should include storytelling techniques to communicate the value of these experiences to potential clients effectively.

2. Sustainable tourism

Sustainability is a growing concern among travellers. Eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism initiatives are becoming significant selling points.

• Product development : Develop eco-tourism packages that promote sustainability in all its guises, including conservation efforts, supporting local communities, and reducing emissions.

• Professional development : Train sales teams on the principles of sustainable tourism and the specifics of the eco-friendly initiatives within the packages offered. This includes understanding the environmental, cultural, and social impact of travel options.

3. Wellness travel

The global wellness industry is booming, and travel is a crucial part of this trend. Wellness travel encompasses everything from spa retreats to yoga vacations and mental health retreats.

• Product development : Create wellness-focused travel packages that cater to different aspects of health and well-being, such as spa treatments, fitness programs, yoga, and mindfulness retreats.

• Professional development : Educate sales teams on the benefits of wellness travel and how to tailor packages to meet the specific needs of health-conscious travellers. This training should also cover the latest wellness trends and practices.

4. Integration

Technology is revolutionising the travel industry, from booking processes to personalised customer experiences. Staying ahead of technological advancements is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge.

• Product development : Incorporate advanced technology solutions such as AI-driven customer service, virtual reality tours, and personalised travel recommendations into offerings.

• Professional development : Ensure sales teams are proficient in using new technologies and understand how these can enhance the customer experience. Regular training sessions on emerging technologies and their applications in travel should be mandatory.

5. Luxury travel

The demand for luxury travel is growing, with an increasing number of travellers seeking high-end, exclusive experiences. This segment is willing to pay a premium for superior service and unique offerings.

• Product development : Offer bespoke luxury travel packages that include exclusive access to events, private tours, and high-end accommodations.

• Professional development : Develop the sales team’s skills in managing high-net-worth clients and personalizing travel experiences to meet their exacting standards. This includes advanced training in customer relationship management and service excellence.

Enhancing people skills, growth, and stakeholder management

• People skills : Develop sales teams' communication, empathy, and customer service excellence. Understanding client needs and building strong relationships are crucial for success in the travel industry.

• Growth : Foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Encourage travel companies to invest in ongoing professional development to stay abreast of industry trends and enhance sales performance. Growth is driven by a deep understanding of market dynamics and proactive adaptation to changes.

• Stakeholder management : Emphasise the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, and partners. Focus on negotiation skills, conflict resolution, and strategic partnership development.

By focusing on these trends and investing in professional development, South African travel companies can enhance their sales strategies, meet evolving customer expectations, and drive sustainable growth in the industry.

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South African tourism rebounds, but several factors influence its future path – part one

South Africa has always attracted tourist visitors from the old colonial powers, and though diminished, they kept up appearances during the pandemic. Following a big influx of visitors in 2022 and 1Q2023, the country's tourist authority must now consider whether the time is right to seek new markets, or whether it should continue to focus on these markets in which there will always be a solid base.

The position is made more complex by uncertainty over the future of South African Airways . With there being an imminent takeover, that future looks brighter than it has been for quite a few years, but there is still much work to be done.

And while the country sells itself easily with its big open spaces and beaches, the crime rate is of sufficient concern that the formation of a special tourist police force is under consideration, nationally. The biggest area of concern, though, must be the allegations made in the past week or so that a Russian cargo ship was permitted to transport arms to that country from a South African port.

South Africa is repositioning itself geopolitically, away from its previous ties to the US , UK and the Netherlands , but to gravitate too far, too fast, could have a negative impact on numerous elements of its economy, including tourism.

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South Africa’s Travel & Tourism’s Growth to Outpace the National Economy for the Next 10 Years

South Africa’s Travel & Tourism’s growth to outpace the national economy for the next 10 years

Travel & Tourism to create more than 800,000 jobs over the next decade

London, UK: The World Travel & Tourism Council ( WTTC ) has revealed the South African Travel & Tourism’s GDP will drive the national economic recovery over the next decade.

The forecast from WTTC’s Economic Impact Report (EIR) shows the South African Travel & Tourism sector is forecasted to grow at an average rate of 7.6% annually over the next decade, significantly outstripping the 1.8% growth rate of the country’s overall economy.

By 2032, the sector’s contribution to GDP could reach more than ZAR 554.6 billion (7.4% of the total economy), injecting nearly ZAR 287 billion into the national economy.

The sector is also expected to create more than 800,000 jobs over the next decade, to reach more than 1.9 million by 2032.

Although the data reveals a bright future for South Africa’s Travel & Tourism sector, the recovery was seriously hampered after the detection and surge of the Omicron variant.  

Many countries around the world placed severe and damaging restrictions on African countries, which caused even further damage to those economies and put thousands more livelihoods at risk.

By the end of this year, Travel & Tourism’s contribution to GDP is expected to grow 37.2% year on year, to nearly ZAR 268 billion (4.3% of total economy).

Employment in the sector is set to grow by 3.8%% to reach more than 1.1 million jobs.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Although the future looks bright for the South African Travel & Tourism sector, the recovery this year will be slower than expected.

“Knee-jerk travel restrictions imposed over South Africa and other African destinations were impulsive and unjustified. Instead of punishing, these countries should have been praised for discovering the variant early.

“However, with GDP contribution and jobs on the rise, the long-term forecast looks very positive.”

In 2019, the South African Travel & Tourism sector’s contribution to GDP as a share of total economy was 6.4% (ZAR 405.2 billion), falling to just 3.1% (ZAR 180 billion) in 2020, which represented a staggering 55.6% loss.

The sector also supported more than 1.5 million jobs across the country, before suffering a 29.9% drop, falling to just over one million.

WTTC’s latest EIR report also reveals that 2021 saw the beginning of the recovery for South Africa’s Travel & Tourism sector.

Last year, its contribution to GDP climbed 8.4% year on year, to reach just over ZAR 195 billion.

The sector also saw a recovery of 20,000 Travel & Tourism jobs, representing a 1.9% rise to reach almost nearly 1.1 million.

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ATW Trend Report 2024

Just unveiled at #ILTMAfrica2024 – our highly anticipated ATW Trends Report for 2024!

This insightful report highlights why Africa is emerging as a must-visit destination this year. From the continent’s booming arrivals to the rise of unique experiential travel offerings like human rewilding, star bathing, and ultra-luxurious safari experiences, the report uncovers the key trends driving exploration in Africa.

Get an inside look at the compelling findings that have travel enthusiasts worldwide excited to discover Africa’s fresh, revitalized tourism scene.

Send download link to:

Key highlights

The number of inbound arrival trips to Africa has increased significantly over the last 10 years. According to Euromonitor International, growth has been steadily increasing, with an average yearly rise of  7% . Despite the effects of COVID-19 on travel, the number of inbound arrivals trips in the region increased from 56 million to  76 million  between 2014 and 2019.

Inbound arrivals exceeded 80% of pre-COVID levels by the end of 2023, totalling 63 million trips

According to Euromonitor, 2023 saw 2.3 million trips from China and India to Africa – a significant jump from 1.5 million a decade prior.

Over 70% of inbound tourist in Africa continue to be regional tourists, according to Euromonitor.

A sneak peek into the future

Projections indicate strong growth in inbound arrivals and spending. Between 2024 and 2027, average annual growth rates are expected to reach 8% for inbound arrivals and 6% for spending. Consequently, by 2027, inbound arrivals are anticipated to surpass 95 million trips, generating over US$90 billion in inbound receipts.

Overtourism

A lot of research is being done to assess an effect called ‘anthropause’ – essentially the effect on wildlife and habitats observed during the pandemic. Lockdowns contributed to less noise, traffic and tourism, with a positive effect on wildlife. Is it significant enough to drive change in tourism behaviour?

Human rewilding

Africa puts the ‘wild’ in human rewilding experiences, promising wide open spaces, limitless wildlife, savannahs, sprawling deserts, mountain ranges, busy farms, lush forests, and fruitful vineyards. In short, the opportunities for travellers to reconnect with nature are endless.  

Star bathing

Star bathing is lighting up the world of wellness travel in 2024, promising a return to our primal connection with the universe. Ultimately, it’s a nod to the modern traveller’s thirst for meaningful experiences.

The clearest skies offer the best canvases for star bathing, making Africa’s remote locations, such as game reserves and mountain escapes, galactic getaway go-tos.

Agritourism in Africa

Africa’s agricultural industry is as diverse as its landscapes, from thriving vineyards in South Africa to aromatic coffee plantations in Rwanda. As such, agritourism has been at the heart of many travel suppliers’ operations long before the trend really started taking off.

Limelight Gaycations

In an era marked by increased inclusivity, the LGBQT community is embracing on a unique form of tourism: limelight gaycations. These trips are inspired by locations featured in LGBQT+ friendly TV shows and films, reflecting a deeper connection between media representation and real-world exploration.

Recent years have seen a significant rise in the representation of LGBTQ+ characters and storylines in TV shows and films, including top grossing mainstream movies. According to Statista, the number of queer characters in mainstream films in the US increased by 190% between 2014 and 2019. Furthermore, in 2020 and 2021, 20.8% of regular characters on American primetime TV identified as LGBQT+

Culinary Tourism

There is one thing that stands out as common ground when you start digging around Africa’s food scene – the focus on sustainable, ethical, and healthy eating, and the people and their histories behind each ingredient and every meal.

The growing demand from across the globe for healthy, sustainable food is undeniable. People want to know where their food is coming from and how it’s affecting not only them but the planet. Africa is exceedingly well-positioned to meet these needs.

“In 2022, Africa hosted over 1,000 international events, drawing over two million business visitors who spent around US$3.5 billion. With that direct cash injection plus packed hotels, busy eateries and booked activity providers, the ripple impacts would be substantial,” says Glenton de Kock, CEO of The Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI).  

For 2022-2025, South Africa’s convention bureau secured 16 international events via 40 successful bids. These events should attract 16,500 delegates while injecting around US$16 million into the economy.     

Africa’s ultimate luxury

As luxury travel continues to evolve, a new trend is emerging in the African safari market: the rise of 7+ star experiences.

Virtuoso, a leading luxury travel network, reported a significant increase in bookings with hotel average daily rates soaring to nearly $1,700 USD per night, reflecting the growing demand for high-end experiences.

• Africa Travel Week

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Minister Patricia De Lille unveils latest tourism statistics for South Africa

Good day, goeie more, sanibonani

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to this exhilarating media briefing where we'll unveil the latest tourism statistics for South Africa, showcasing our country's resurgence in the international travel market!

Our data is sourced from reliable authorities such as the Department of Home Affairs, which collects information from all ports of entry on a monthly basis.

Stats SA refines this data in line with international standards and classifications to subset the tourists.

SA Tourism, the entity of the Department of Tourism, carries out a monthly survey involving departing foreigners at OR Tambo & Cape Town International Airports, and from 12 border posts with the most arrivals.

The arrivals data from StatsSA is used to weight the survey data for quantification of trip characteristics such as length of stay, spend, purpose of visit etc.

This enables us to estimate international tourism's contribution & value from a demand-side. In summary, the arrivals data we present is the same with Stats SA data.

The SA Tourism entity, under the Department of Tourism’s departure survey stands as the only official survey in the country capable of measuring these statistics.

This departure survey has undergone the Stats SA process of quality certification, the South African Statistical Quality Assessment Framework (SASQAF).

The pandemic undoubtedly left a dent in the tourism industry, but we're back, stronger than ever, and geared to catapult our inbound tourism numbers beyond pre-COVID levels.

Achieving this monumental goal requires a united front: government, private sector, and all tourism stakeholders joining forces to redefine the travel experience in our beloved country.

As the world reawakens, tourists are flocking back to South Africa, enticed by our unparalleled natural beauty and the warmth of our people.

We are broadcasting a clear message: South Africa is open for tourism, welcoming business, and eagerly awaiting travellers from across Africa and the globe.

2022 heralded a resurgence, with nearly 5.8 million visitors gracing our shores, including 4 million from Africa. This stunning 152.6% increase from 2021 is just the beginning.

We're not quite at the 10 million arrivals of 2019, but rest assured, our tireless collaboration with the private sector and Africa will take us there and beyond in no time.

Latest Statistics: Quarter 1: January to March 2023

Now, for the big reveal: international arrivals to South Africa for Q1 (January to March 2023).

An impressive 2.1 million visitors, a 102.5% increase compared to the same period in 2022. While still 21.5% lower than 2019 levels, we're gaining ground rapidly.

The African continent led the way again with 1.6 million arrivals, followed by Europe's 387 000 and the Americas' 104 000 visitors.

The world is rediscovering South Africa, and together, we'll not only reach, but surpass pre-COVID numbers.

Our determination and unity will light the way to a brighter future for South African tourism.

From a domestic perspective, we have seen an incredible resilience with Q1 2023 performance surpassing pre-pandemic levels and those of Q1 2022.

Foreign Spend and Tourism Impact

In the first quarter of 2023, foreign direct spend soared to an astounding R25.3 billion, marking a 143.9% increase compared to Q1 of 2022.

Tourists from Europe contributed the most spend of R10,8 billion, followed by Africa with a collective spend of R9,3 billion.

The overall foreign spend figure for quarter 1 this year is tantalizingly close to the R25.6 billion spent between January and March 2019 and showcases the industry's unwavering resilience.

We witnessed remarkable growth in spending from our Zimbabwean and Mozambican visitors, with Q1 2023 figures reaching R4.4 billion (50% above 2019 performance) and R1.1 billion (12% above 2019 performance) respectively.

However, spend from UK visitors dipped by 27% to R3.2 billion, while visitors from the USA contributed a robust R2.6 billion, surging 28% above 2019 performance.

A significant driver of these remarkable figures is as a result of lifting of travel restrictions and affordability.

After two years of restrictions and confinement, travellers are eager to explore wide-open spaces, and South Africa offers these in abundance.

Top Source Markets and Travel Trends

In Q1 (January to March 2023, Zimbabwe maintained its reign as South Africa's top source market, a trend consistent since 2019.

Over 500,000 Zimbabwean travellers journeyed to South Africa between January and March 2023, compared to 643 000 in the same period in 2019 and 173 000 in 2022.

Mozambique followed as the second-largest source market, boasting over 354 000 arrivals between January and March 2023.

Next in line were Lesotho and Eswatini, taking the third and fourth spots, respectively.

The United Kingdom claimed the fifth position, with more than 118 000 arrivals in South Africa between January and March 2023, a decrease from 135 000 in 2019.

Germany, USA, Botswana, Namibia, and the Netherlands round out the top 10 source markets for travellers to our country.

Across the board, we've seen a 102% surge in total arrivals from 2022 to 2023 during Q1, reflecting South Africa's attractiveness to international visitors.

The number of bed nights has also recovered in Q1 2023 but not to the Q1 2019 levels.

Total bed nights amounted to 28.4 million in Q1 of 2023, this being a 3% decline over Q1 2019 but a remarkable 124% increase over Q1 2022.

Another promising trend is the 11% increase in the average length of stay in Q1 2023 compared to 2022.

Visitors are spending more time exploring South Africa, with the average stay reaching 13 days in Q1 2023, surpassing the 11-day average in 2019.

These numbers showcase South Africa's undeniable magnetism and the vitality of our tourism industry as we continue to welcome travellers from around the globe with open arms.

Geographical Spread and Travel Destinations

South Africa offers a diverse range of captivating destinations for travellers, with Gauteng taking the lead in international arrivals, spend and bed nights.

International visitors tend to spend most of their nights in the Western Cape, followed by Gauteng. The Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, KZN, and the North West also draw tourists to their unique charms.

While smaller provinces currently see fewer visitors, we encourage tourists to explore these hidden gems, as they too boast unparalleled beauty and value.

South Africa's diverse landscape promises a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking adventure and discovery across our magnificent country.

South Africa vs. Other Long-Haul Destinations and Global Trends

South Africa's tourism industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, outshining other popular destinations like China, France, Italy, and Brazil.

Despite a 44.3% drop in arrivals in 2022 compared to 2019, our nation achieved an outstanding 141.9% increase compared to 2021.

The global landscape has posed challenges, including inflation, rising energy prices, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, leading to economic constraints worldwide.

As a result, we must market ourselves more aggressively and exploit all avenues to expand our reach in major source markets like Africa, Europe, China, the USA, the UK, and India.

South Africa offers travellers unparalleled beauty and affordability, making it an irresistible destination.

Embracing travellers from every region is essential, with a particular focus on Africa. Destination marketing trends emphasize eco-friendly activities and accommodations, as well as inclusivity for the LGBTQI+ community.

Collaboration with local businesses, cultural organizations, and community groups is key to creating accessible and diverse tourism experiences.

Air Access and New Routes

Air capacity has risen since last year, with a 56% increase in Q1 2023 compared to the same quarter in 2022. In 2023, we reached 1.8 million seats, and South Africa welcomed around 23 new routes.

New direct flights, such as Cape Town to New York and Washington by United Airlines, Air China's resumed direct flight to South Africa.

The upcoming LATAM flight from Brazil to OR Tambo International Airport, contribute to our nation's appeal. South African Airways' expansion into various African markets further boosts our attractiveness.

In terms of aviation supply, seats from the Americas doubled in Q1 2023, surpassing 2019 levels.

The Middle East has fully recovered in outbound travel, and Europe has introduced 5 new airlines and routes to South Africa.

Domestic Travel

January-March of 2023 saw domestic overnight trips exceed pre-pandemic levels as well as 2022 levels by 41,0%.

Overnight domestic spend was also up 24,4% compared to Q1 2022.

Average overnight spend was down 11,7% signifying that South Africans took more frequent trips and spent less.

The total number of nights spent away from home reached 27,9 million and this was a 32,9% increase over the same period in 2022.

The average length of stay per trip fell by 5,7% highlighting the global trend that travellers now opt to take shorter and more frequent trips than before.

Domestic holiday trips from January to March 2023 were up 40,5% compared to 2022 to reach 2,4 million. These holiday trips represented a 27,0% share of total overnight trips.

The expenditure from holiday trips in Q1 of 2023 was R9,5 billion compared to R7.9billion in 2022.

There was a 12,3% increase in MICE trips (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) taken during January and March 2023.

For the 2022/23 Financial Year, the South African National Conventions Bureau’s Sales team has won 40 of the bids submitted for the 2022/23 financial year.

These secured business pieces will contribute R338m to South Africa’s economy between 2022 -2025 and attract 16 505 international and regional delegates.

In addition, the SA National Convention Bureau invested R19.2m in bid submissions through its bid support programme to attract business events linked with the National Government’s development priorities.

The secured conferences will also contribute to the regional spread of business events.

The secured MIC events include the International Congress of African Phytomedicine Scientific Society, the Southern African Neurological Association Conference and the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) Global Congress.

The various MICE events will be hosted in Johannesburg, Tshwane, Hammanskraal, Cape Town, Bloemfontein, Durban, Mokgopong, Muldersdrift and Pietermaritzburg.

Returning to domestic numbers, day trips grew by 26,9% to reach 44,7 million in quarter 1 of 2023.

Domestic travellers travel mostly for visiting friends and relatives, followed by holiday.

The top three provinces visited were Gauteng, Limpopo, and Eastern Cape.

In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, our numbers are moving in the right direction.

With focused action on improving visa turnaround times, increasing air access, ensuring safety, and aggressive marketing, we are determined to surpass pre-COVID levels.

Working together with all stakeholders, we aim to boost tourism's contribution to the economy and job creation.

Thank you all for your time and support and coverage of the Africa Travel Indaba.

Enquiries: Zara Nicholson: Media Liaison Officer Cell: 079 416 5996. E-mail: [email protected]

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Lufthansa’s New Johannesburg-Munich Route: Expanding Horizons for South African Travelers

• September 14, 2024 September 14, 2024
• ENTERTAINMENT , LIFESTYLE

Lufthansa has officially launched its new nonstop flight connecting Johannesburg to Munich, Germany, marking a significant development in South African air travel. This route, reintroduced after a 19-year hiatus, coincides with South Africa’s Tourism Month, potentially boosting the country’s travel industry. The new service represents a substantial expansion of Lufthansa’s presence in South Africa, offering a 34% increase in seat capacity from Johannesburg.

Modern Aircraft and Enhanced Travel Options

The route is serviced by the Airbus A350, known for its comfort and efficiency. Flights operate on Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings, with a flight time of approximately 10 ½ hours. This new connection complements Lufthansa’s existing daily flights to Frankfurt, providing South African travelers with increased flexibility for European travel.

Innovative In-Flight Experience

Lufthansa is introducing its new Allegris product on this route, offering passengers an upgraded travel experience. In an interview, Lufthansa CEO Jens Ritter shared insights on the new features:

“Our new Allegris product represents a comprehensive redesign across all classes—Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First Class. In Business Class, we’re particularly proud to offer five distinct seating options, including our first-ever single and double suites. The new Airbus A350 aircraft will also debut our latest First Class Allegris, which we believe will significantly enhance the experience for our premium passengers.”

Strategic Focus on South African Market

When asked about potential expansion plans within Africa, Ritter emphasized Lufthansa’s current priorities:

“We’re pleased to have restored our services to pre-pandemic levels in South Africa, particularly in Cape Town and Johannesburg. Our partnership with local carriers like Airlink enables us to offer comprehensive coverage within South Africa. While we continually evaluate new route possibilities, our current focus is on strengthening our capacity in Johannesburg.”

Economic Impact and Tourism Growth

The new route is expected to have positive economic implications beyond just the aviation sector. Mpumi Mpofu, CEO of Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), highlighted the broader benefits:

“This route is instrumental in our efforts to restore traffic to pre-2019 levels. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted our operations, so the reestablishment of routes and increased frequencies by international airlines is crucial for South African tourism and trade. These wide-bodied aircraft enhance our cargo handling capabilities, facilitating increased trade. Additionally, we anticipate a rise in German tourism, with many visitors using O.R. Tambo as a gateway to various South African destinations. Our network of ten airports allows us to connect these travelers to different regions of the country, benefiting both the aviation industry and overall economic development.”

Accessible Pricing and Market Position

With return fares from Johannesburg to Munich starting at 14,517 ZAR, the route offers competitive pricing for both leisure and business travelers. This new service not only enhances direct connectivity between South Africa and Germany but also strengthens the economic and cultural ties between these two dynamic regions.

As Johannesburg and Munich become more closely linked, this route promises to serve as a vital connection, fostering increased tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between South Africa and Europe.

Article Written By Kojo Richman

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Tourism industry in South Africa

Statistics report about the tourism industry in South Africa

This report presents data on South Africa's tourism industry. The report provides information on the tourism sector's contribution to the economy as well as arrivals and departures figures. Furthermore, it displays tourism expenditures and receipts, and data on hotels and accommodation in South Africa.

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Table of contents.

• Basic Statistic Passport visa free score in Africa 2024, by country
• Premium Statistic Visa openness index in Africa 2021, by indicator
• Basic Statistic Number of countries with visa free access to South Africans 2010-2022
• Premium Forecast International tourist arrivals in Africa 2020, by country

Economic contribution

• Basic Statistic Contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in South Africa 2005-2021
• Basic Statistic Value added of travel and tourism to GDP in South Africa 2019-2021
• Basic Statistic Tourism direct gross value added in South Africa 2015-2021
• Basic Statistic Tourism direct gross value added in South Africa 2021, by industry
• Basic Statistic Total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in South Africa 2019-2021

Inbound and outbound tourists

• Premium Forecast Number of international tourist arrivals in South Africa 2014-2029
• Basic Statistic Number of tourists arriving in South Africa from 2011 to 2022, by mode of travel
• Basic Statistic Number of tourists arriving in South Africa from 2014-2022, by purpose of visit
• Basic Statistic Total traveler departures from South Africa 2014-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of foreign traveler departures from South Africa 2014-2022

Tourism expenditure

• Basic Statistic Foreign tourism visitor spending in South Africa 2009-2021
• Basic Statistic Foreign tourism visitor spending as a share of exports in South Africa 2009-2020
• Basic Statistic Share of domestic and international travel spending in South Africa 2019-2020
• Basic Statistic Tourism expenditure in South Africa 2019-2021, by type
• Premium Forecast Expenditure per capita on international tourism in South Africa 2001-2029
• Premium Forecast International tourism receipts per capita in South Africa 2001-2029

Hotels and accommodation

• Premium Statistic Monthly number of foreign overnight visitors in South Africa 2022
• Premium Statistic Available hotel rooms in South Africa 2000-2021
• Premium Statistic Occupancy rate of hotels in South Africa from 2000 to 2021
• Premium Statistic Income generated from tourist accommodation in South Africa 2016-2023
• Premium Statistic Monthly income from tourist accommodation in South Africa 2019-2023

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