South Africa's tourism sector already in its prime as the summer season approaches
South Africa's tourism sector is recovering very well from the health crisis. Since the beginning of the year, South Africa has welcomed a total of 3.3 million international visitors, an increase of 165% compared to the same period last year. The African and European continents remain the main sources of the Rainbow Nation's tourism windfall.
The figures are contained in a press release issued on Tuesday 25 October 2022 by the South African Tourism Board.
In August alone, international arrivals to South Africa totalled more than half a million (555 832), an increase of 199% year-on-year. Month-on-month, there was a 10% growth in international arrivals, compared to July 2022.
According to the profile breakdown, holidaymakers made up the majority of travellers to South Africa during August, followed by individuals travelling on business, then students and tourists travelling for medical treatment.
Africa and Europe have always been the main sources of arrivals to South Africa, so far since January: 2.5 million arrivals came from the continent, representing a 75% share compared to 15% for travellers from Europe.
Even in the domestic market, more and more South Africans are also responding to the government's call to explore their country. From January to August 2022, 21.3 million domestic trips were made. This is an increase of 140% compared to the same period in 2021. In this segment, the country is already at 92% of pre-pandemic levels.
"Our domestic tourism sector is the cornerstone of our industry, so we are delighted to see that domestic tourism is growing, not only in numbers but also in spending," said Mzilikazi Themba Khumalo, acting chief executive of the South Africa Tourism Board. Year-to-date, domestic spending has grown by an impressive 190% to R59.2 billion (US$3.27 billion), with the average domestic tourist spending R2 781 (US$157) per trip. South Africa Tourism also notes that the number of overnight stays has increased "which means that not only are people travelling, but they are spending more nights away from home". A travel culture to be commended, he argues.
"Our tourism figures continue to show a steady upward trajectory. We are delighted to be heading into the summer, which is our peak season, with such a strong performance and mood as a sector," says Khumalo. "It is also a good indication that the work our teams have been doing in the various markets has been effective and is paying off.
