The minister reaffirmed that tourism policy is economic policy, highlighting the sector’s contribution to employment, investment and inclusive economic development across South Africa.
Air connectivity and visitor growth
South Africa recorded a record 10.5 million international arrivals in 2025, supported by initiatives designed to improve accessibility and promote destinations across all nine provinces.
Among the latest developments is the launch of Air Europa’s new Madrid–Johannesburg route, which began operations with three weekly flights. The service supports the Cabinet-approved Tourism Route Development Marketing Plan, which aims to increase direct international connectivity while aligning with provincial route development strategies.
International visitors arriving at OR Tambo International Airport are also welcomed through the Smart Visitor Information Centre, a paperless digital platform that showcases tourism experiences from every province and promotes lesser-known destinations alongside South Africa’s established attractions.
Business events continue to generate economic value
The South African National Convention Bureau secured 66 international and regional conferences during the 2025/26 financial year. These events will take place in destinations including Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Tshwane, Sun City, Mbombela, Polokwane, Hermanus, Grabouw, Bela-Bela, Makhanda and Skukuza.
According to the Department of Tourism, the conferences are expected to contribute more than R1.2 billion to South Africa’s economy between 2025 and 2030 while supporting local businesses, employment and regional development.
Statistics South Africa’s Tourism Satellite Account shows that tourism sustained more than 954,000 direct jobs in 2024 and contributed 4.9% to the country’s GDP, outperforming sectors including agriculture, construction and utilities
Infrastructure investment accelerates
Government continues to invest in tourism infrastructure as part of its Tourism Growth Partnership Plan.
Projects scheduled for completion during the 2026/27 financial year include a R19 million upgrade of the Nyandeni Chalets in the Eastern Cape, a R20 million investment at the Lehurutse Trophy and Bird Hunting Camp in North West Province, and almost R30 million in improvements to the Isibhubhu event facility in KwaZulu-Natal.
The Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit, launched in 2025, has also begun delivering results. Three of the eight investment-ready projects presented during the inaugural event have already secured funding. A further 22 public and private sector projects have been submitted for this year’s summit, scheduled to take place in Gauteng on 30 September and 1 October.
Private sector investment continues to complement government initiatives. Next week, Club Med is expected to open its R2.5 billion Safari and Beach Resort in KwaZulu-Natal, representing one of the country’s largest recent tourism investments.
Domestic tourism and destination diversification
Domestic tourism continues to provide resilience for the sector. South Africans made 44.7 million overnight trips during 2025, generating R111.6 billion in tourism revenue.
Some of the country’s traditionally less-visited regions recorded the strongest growth. The Northern Cape posted a 58.4% increase to reach 1.9 million overnight trips, while North West Province recorded 34% growth, reaching 4.2 million overnight trips.
According to the minister, these results demonstrate the value of coordinated efforts between national government, provincial authorities, municipalities and the private sector to expand tourism beyond traditional destinations.
Short-term rentals and screen tourism
The Department of Tourism is also preparing a regulatory framework for South Africa’s expanding short-term rental sector. More than 6,700 public submissions have been received on the Draft Code of Good Practice for Short-Term Rentals, with the final code expected after the consultation process concludes.
De Lille also highlighted the growing role of film and television in destination marketing. Research cited during the Budget Vote indicates that audiences who watch South African productions are three times more likely to choose the country as a travel destination.
The minister said film productions not only promote South Africa internationally but also introduce global audiences to destinations that may otherwise remain undiscovered, strengthening the country’s long-term tourism appeal.
Tags: South Africa tourism
