economy
January 28, 2026
South Africa records surge in tourist arrivals
South Africa’s Tourism Ministry has reported that the country recorded 10.48 million visitors between January and December 2025
TL;DR
- South Africa recorded 10.48 million international visitors in 2025, a record high and a 17.6% increase from 2024.
- Tourism is recognized as a cornerstone of inclusive growth, investment, and job creation in South Africa.
- The country was named Best Destination: Africa 2025 by the Travel Weekly Reader’s Choice Awards.
- The Tourism Growth Partnership Plan aims to make travel easier with the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system planned for key markets.
- The ETA system is expected to create between 80,000 and 100,000 jobs.
- New air routes, including Qantas' Perth–Johannesburg flight and Air France's seasonal Cape Town service, are improving connectivity.
- Tourism currently supports approximately 1.8 million direct and indirect jobs.
- Eight major tourism infrastructure projects worth around R1 billion were launched, and a R2.5 billion Club Med development is underway in KwaZulu-Natal.
- South Africa secured 51 international conference and events bids, generating close to R900 million in economic impact.
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