South Africa’s tourism sector has posted strong momentum, welcoming 1.108.222 more international visitors between January and September 2025 than in the same period last year, according to Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille.
September alone saw 846 367 arrivals, marking a 26.9 percent jump year-on-year. Minister de Lille described the performance as confirmation that the sector has not only rebounded but resumed its role as a key economic engine, driving investment, job creation and revitalisation across communities.
The Minister attributed the surge to coordinated efforts under the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan, which brings together government and industry leaders to enhance destination marketing and strengthen South Africa’s global travel brand. She noted that the rapid rebound reflects renewed international confidence in the country’s offerings, positioning South Africa firmly as a preferred tourism destination.
Looking ahead to the festive season, Minister de Lille affirmed the nation’s readiness to welcome travellers “with open arms, warm smiles, and world-class experiences.” She encouraged citizens across cities, coastal towns, villages and rural communities to embody the spirit of ubuntu. Regional visitor data reinforced the upward trend, with strong growth from Africa’s land and air markets, Europe, North America, and Asia and the Middle East, signalling broad-based recovery and sustained global appetite for South Africa’s tourism landscape.