South Africa’s tourism sector closed 2025 on a high note, breaking its own records and offering rare good news for an economy hungry for jobs and investment.
After several uneven years, the rebound has gathered pace, with foreign visitors returning in numbers not seen before.
Official figures show the country welcomed 10.48 million international visitors between January and December 2025, a 17.6% jump from 2024.
The increase reflects stronger air links, easier entry processes and sustained demand from long-haul markets, according to the government.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said the results point to steady policy work and closer cooperation between the public and private sectors.
Tourism, she said, is again proving its value as a reliable source of income, employment and regional development.
The global spotlight has followed. South Africa was named Best Destination: Africa 2025 at the Travel Weekly Reader’s Choice Awards, adding to a growing list of endorsements from international travel markets.
Easier access, stronger connections
A key driver has been improved access. The Department of Home Affairs has begun rolling out its Electronic Travel Authorisation system, initially covering markets such as India, China, Mexico and Indonesia. Once fully operational, the system is expected to support between 80,000 and 100,000 jobs.
Airlines have also added capacity. New and expanded routes include Qantas’ direct Perth–Johannesburg service, Air France’s seasonal daily flights to Cape Town, South African Airways’ Cape Town–Mauritius route and FlySafair’s Hoedspruit–Cape Town service.
Domestic gains and destination spending
Better coordination across national, provincial and local authorities has lifted performance on the ground.
KwaZulu-Natal recorded a strong festive season, with Durban drawing about 1.2 million visitors.
In the Free State, the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretive Centre at Golden Gate Highlands National Park has welcomed more than 80,000 visitors and generated over R1 million in revenue since opening.
Tourist safety has remained in focus. About 1,500 tourism monitors were deployed nationwide during peak travel periods, including support at border posts, as part of a broader effort led by the Tourism Safety Forum.
Investment, business travel and outlook
Investor interest is picking up. The first Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit in 2025 showcased projects worth about R1 billion, with several already funded.
Large developments, including the R2.5 billion Club Med resort in KwaZulu-Natal, underline growing confidence in the sector.
Business travel has also contributed, with 51 major events secured this financial year, adding an estimated R894.5 million to the economy.
“Tourism is working. Tourism is delivering,” De Lille said, thanking industry players and staff. With arrivals at a record high and pipelines filling, the sector enters 2026 on firmer ground than it has in years.
