South African Tourism has weighed in on the country’s latest tourism stats, underlining that the improving numbers show the sector is in a good position heading into the peak summer season. 

Year-to-date, South Africa has received a total of 3.3 million international arrivals, signalling a 165% increase compared with the same period in 2021.

“Our tourism numbers continue to show a steady upward trajectory. We’re excited to head into summer, which is our peak season, with such great performance and in high spirits as a sector. This is also a good indication that the work that our teams have been doing in the various markets has been effective and is paying off,” said Themba Khumalo, SA Tourism’s Acting CEO.

International arrivals into South Africa were over half a million (555 832) in August 2022, a 199% increase when compared with August 2021. Month-to-month, there was a 10% growth in international arrivals compared with July 2022.

According to the Stats SA insights, holidaymakers constituted the majority of travellers to South Africa during August, followed by individuals travelling for business, as well as students and tourists travelling for medical treatment. Africa (with 75% of arrivals) and Europe (15%) have consistently been the biggest sources of arrivals to South Africa.

Domestic tourism a cornerstone

From a domestic front, more South Africans are also heeding the call to explore their country. From January to August 2022, 21.3 million domestic trips were taken, growth of 92% over the 2019 pre-pandemic levels.

“Our domestic tourism sector is the cornerstone of our tourism sector, so we are pleased to see that domestic tourism is growing, not only in numbers but also in spend,” said Khumalo.

Year-to-date, domestic spend has seen growth of 190% over 2021 to reach R59.2 billion (€3.3bn), with the average domestic tourist spending R2 781 (€155) per trip.

“Interestingly, the number of bed nights increased, meaning people are not only travelling but are spending more nights away from home. This shows that, as South Africans, we are surely inculcating a culture of travel amongst ourselves.”

Khumalo encouraged South Africans to view summer holiday deals on the Sho’t Left website, to be able to book their festive season travel at affordable rates.