The number of international tourist arrivals in South Africa was forecast to continuously increase between 2024 and 2029 by in total 2.8 million arrivals (+20.47 percent). After the ninth consecutive increasing year, the arrivals is estimated to reach 16.52 million arrivals and therefore a new peak in 2029. Depicted is the number of inbound international tourists. According to World Bank this refers to tourists travelling to a country which is not their usual residence, whereby the main purpose is not work related and the planned visitation period does not exceed 12 months. The forecast has been adjusted for the expected impact of COVID-19.The shown data are an excerpt of Statista's Key Market Indicators (KMI). The KMI are a collection of primary and secondary indicators on the macro-economic, demographic and technological environment in more than 150 countries and regions worldwide. All input data are sourced from international institutions, national statistical offices, and trade associations. All data has been are processed to generate comparable datasets (see supplementary notes under details for more information).Find more key insights for the number of international tourist arrivals in countries like Botswana and Lesotho.

The international tourism receipts per capita in South Africa were forecast to continuously increase between 2024 and 2029 by in total 469 U.S. dollars (+34.34 percent). According to this forecast, in 2029, the receipts per capita will have increased for the ninth consecutive year to 1,834.65 U.S. dollars. Receipts denote expenditures by inbound tourists from other countries. Domestic tourism expenditures are not included. The forecast has been adjusted for the expected impact of COVID-19. The shown data are an excerpt of Statista's Key Market Indicators (KMI). The KMI are a collection of primary and secondary indicators on the macro-economic, demographic and technological environment in more than 150 countries and regions worldwide. All input data are sourced from international institutions, national statistical offices, and trade associations. All data has been are processed to generate comparable datasets (see supplementary notes under details for more information).Find more key insights for the international tourism receipts per capita in countries like Botswana and Lesotho.

This statistic shows a ranking of the estimated international tourist arrivals in 2020 in Africa, differentiated by country. The forecast has been adjusted for the expected impact of COVID-19.The shown data are an excerpt of Statista's Key Market Indicators (KMI). The KMI are a collection of primary and secondary indicators on the macro-economic, demographic and technological environment in more than 150 countries and regions worldwide. All input data are sourced from international institutions, national statistical offices, and trade associations. All data has been are processed to generate comparable datasets (see supplementary notes under details for more information).

Key information about South Africa Tourism Revenue

• South Africa's Tourism Revenue reached 354 USD mn in Sep 2025, compared with 359 USD mn in the previous month
• South Africa's Tourism Revenue data is updated monthly, available from Sep 2004 to Sep 2025
• The data reached an all-time high of 556 USD mn in Jun 2010 and a record low of 4 USD mn in Apr 2020

The South African safari tourism industry is poised for significant growth. The market is expected to increase from USD 10.6 billion in 2025 to USD 26.6 billion by 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 9.6% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by the rising global demand for African wildlife experiences, improved accessibility to South Africa's prime safari destinations, and the increasing popularity of eco-conscious travel among international visitors.

The sports tourism in south africa is projected to grow from USD 4.3 billion in 2025 to USD 11.9 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 10.7%.

The size of the Hospitality Industry in South Africa market was valued at USD 1.36 Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 1.84 Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 4.43% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: In March 2022, Kasada announced the purchase of the Cap Grace Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa. Kasada's hotel acquisition marks the company's first foray into the South African hotel operator market. It also helps Kasada's strategy of expanding into all major cities in Sub-Saharan Africa., In May 2022, Millat Investments took over the iconic Winston Hotel in Rosebank, Johannesburg, South Africa, adding another key property to its rapidly expanding hospitality portfolio. The purchase of the Winston property comes on the heels of the successful Africa Travel Indaba in Durban, an event aimed at reviving tourism to South Africa and the continent following the global pandemic lockdown.. Key drivers for this market are: Rising Tourism in the United Arab Emirates Bolsters the Growth in Hospitality Sector, The Rise in the Mice Industry in the United Arab Emirates Drives the Hospitality Sector. Potential restraints include: High Rentals in the United Arab Emirates Pose a Restraint to the Hospitality Sector. Notable trends are: Growth in Tourism Sector in South Africa is Expected to Outpace Hospitality Industry.

The citizens of Seychelles had the most powerful passports in Africa as of May 2024. The country received a visa-free score of 156 points. Mauritius and South Africa followed with a score of 151 and 108, respectively. In contrast, Libyan and Somalian citizens had the weakest passports on the continent. Africa and visa-free travel In 2021, Seychelles, Benin, and The Gambia emerged as the Africa Visa Openness Index leaders by providing visa-free access to visitors from all African countries. These nations demonstrated the most inclusive policies within the continent. However, the most visited destinations among travelers did not necessarily equate to visa-free travel. Furthermore, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, and Tunisia were Africa's most popular travel destinations between 2019 and 2021. Most desirable passports based on visa-free travel Japan and Singapore held the top spots for the strongest passports in the world, providing visa-free entry to 192 countries. The official travel documents of German and South Korean citizens followed closely. However, based on a survey conducted in 2015 about the most sought-after additional nationalities, the British nationality held the top spot, with almost 20.4 percent of the respondents reporting that as a preference next to their own. Notably, the cost of passports does not directly reflect their ranking. The price of a passport doesn't always determine its power. While some of the world's most expensive passports are indeed powerful, there are weaker passports that can be more expensive in terms of the number of working hours required to afford them. For instance, in Mexico, a person needs to work 266 hours to be able to purchase a passport. 

The South Africa Casino Tourism Market is estimated to be valued at USD 3.5 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 6.1 billion by 2035, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% over the forecast period.

Discover the booming South African hospitality market! Our analysis reveals a 4.43% CAGR, driven by tourism growth and diverse hotel segments. Explore market size, key players (Marriott, Hilton, Accor), and future trends impacting budget, luxury, and independent hotels in this dynamic sector. Recent developments include: In March 2022, Kasada announced the purchase of the Cap Grace Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa. Kasada's hotel acquisition marks the company's first foray into the South African hotel operator market. It also helps Kasada's strategy of expanding into all major cities in Sub-Saharan Africa., In May 2022, Millat Investments took over the iconic Winston Hotel in Rosebank, Johannesburg, South Africa, adding another key property to its rapidly expanding hospitality portfolio. The purchase of the Winston property comes on the heels of the successful Africa Travel Indaba in Durban, an event aimed at reviving tourism to South Africa and the continent following the global pandemic lockdown.. Notable trends are: Growth in Tourism Sector in South Africa is Expected to Outpace Hospitality Industry.

South Africa Costa Rica Tourism Market is expected to grow during 2025-2031

The South Africa Hospitality Market is Segmented by Type (Chain Hotels, Independent Hotels), Accommodation Class (Luxury, Mid & Upper-Mid-Scale, Budget & Economy, Service Apartments), Booking Channel (Direct Digital, Otas, Corporate/MICE, Wholesale & Traditional Agents), and Geography (Gauteng, Western Cape, and Other). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (ZAR).

The size of the Africa Wellness Tourism Industry market was valued at USD 89.56 Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 5.00">> 5.00% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: August 2023: Africa’s leading conservation and ecotourism brand, Singita, partnered with the Prue Leith Culinary Institute, founded by the globally renowned culinary expert and television personality Dame Prue Leith. The goal is to build a more robust and internationally recognized qualification for students from nearby rural communities., March 2023: Healing Earth continues to expand its footprint on the continent with dedicated training, inspiration, and empowerment in East Africa. Healing Earth has started with their highly anticipated training program this year run by their highly professional and experienced Head of Wellness Operation.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing demand for healthy living, stress reduction, meditation and other activities. Potential restraints include: Government travel and tourism policies and regulations. Notable trends are: Increasing Number of Tourists in South Africa.

The majority of the tourists entering South Africa between 2021 and 2024 were from the African continent. In February 2023, the number of tourists from Africa amounted to almost 515,000 tourists. Europe and North America followed with roughly 146,000 and 30,000 visitors, respectively. During the period under review, the number of tourists in the country was lowest in 2021 due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdowns, which was first introduced in March 2020 and was officially lifted in April 2022.

South Africa Faith-Based Tourism Market is projected to reach USD 210.0 Million by 2034, up from USD 88.7 Million in 2024, at a CAGR of 9.0%

Statistics South Africa provides data on international tourism based on secondary data obtained from the South African Department of Home Affairs. The information from this data used by stakeholders to measure and understand international tourism in South Africa. Detailed information about national domestic tourism is limited, however and there was a need to collect more detailed information on domestic tourism in order to better understand and measure the contribution of the tourism industry towards the national economy. The Domestic Tourism Survey (DTS) is aimed at addressing this need by collecting accurate statistics on the travel behaviour and expenditure of South African residents travelling within and outside the borders of South Africa. Such information is crucial in determining the contribution of tourism to the South African economy as well as helping with planning, marketing, policy formulation and regulation of tourism-related activities.

This survey provides data on domestic tourism activity during the period January 2010 - December 2010. For, this in addition to the basic demographic information collected in the majority of household surveys conducted by Statistics South Africa, the DTS covers five areas specifically related to travel and expenditure patterns. These include trips taken by the household, domestic day trips by the respondent and/or other household members, domestic day trips by other household members (without the respondent), domestic overnight trips by the respondent and/or other household members, domestic overnight trips by other household members (without the respondent).

USD 215.74 Million in 2024; projected USD 382.85 Million by 2033; CAGR 6.63%.

Abstract

The DTS is a large-scale household survey aimed at collecting accurate statistics on the travel behavior and expenditure of South African residents travelling within the borders of the country. Such information is crucial when determining the contribution of tourism to the South African economy, as well as helping with planning, marketing, policy formulation, and the regulation of tourism-related activities.

Geographic coverage

National coverage

Analysis unit

Households and individuals

Universe

The target population of the survey consists of all private households in all nine provinces of South Africa and residents in workers’ hostels. The survey does not cover other collective living quarters such as students’ hostels, old age homes, hospitals, prisons and military barracks, and is therefore only representative of non-institutionalized and non-military persons or households in South Africa.

Kind of data

Sample survey data [ssd]

Sampling procedure

The sample design for the DTS 2019 was based on a Master Sample (MS) that has been designed for all household surveys conducted by Statistics South Africa.

The Master Sample used a two-staged, stratified design with probability-proportional-to-size (PPS) sampling of PSUs from within strata, and systematic sampling of dwelling units (DUs) from the sampled primary sampling units (PSUs). A self-weighting design at provincial level was used. Stratification was done in two stages: Primary stratification was defined by metropolitan and non-metropolitan geographic area type. During secondary stratification, the Census 2011 data were summarized at PSU level. The following variables were used for secondary stratification: household size, education, occupancy status, gender, industry and income.

Mode of data collection

Computer Assisted Personal Interview [capi]

Research instrument

Two questionnaires were administered to collect the survey data:

1. Cover page: includes household information, response details, result codes, field staff information and demographic information (name, sex, age, population group and marital status).
2. Questionnaire: includes education, tourism employment, domestic day trips, domestic night trips and household living conditions.

Snapshot img

Travel Market Size 2024-2028

The travel market size is forecast to increase by USD 2860.2 billion, at a CAGR of 11.1% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth, fueled by the increasing popularity of experiential travel and the surge in international tourist footfall. This trend is driven by consumers' shifting preferences towards unique and immersive travel experiences, offering opportunities for companies to differentiate their offerings and cater to this demand. However, the market faces challenges, including the growing threat from terrorism, which can deter travelers and negatively impact the industry. Companies must navigate these challenges by implementing robust security measures and fostering transparency to reassure customers. To capitalize on market opportunities, businesses should focus on delivering personalized, authentic experiences that cater to the evolving needs of travelers. By staying attuned to these trends and addressing the challenges, companies can effectively position themselves in the competitive the market landscape.

What will be the Size of the Travel Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2018-2022 and forecasts 2024-2028 - in the full report.
Request Free SampleIn the ever-evolving the market, various sectors continue to adapt and innovate to meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers. Business travelers seek convenience and efficiency with portable chargers, travel adaptors, and carry-on luggage, while solo travelers prioritize safety with GPS trackers and TSA locks. Sustainable tourism gains traction as eco-friendly options such as biodegradable products, carbon offsetting, and sustainable packaging become more prevalent. Medical tourism and food tourism cater to specific niches, offering unique experiences and specialized services. Travel data analytics and online booking platforms streamline the planning process, while tour guides and local experts provide valuable insights into destinations. Travel writing and journals allow travelers to document their experiences and share them with others. Luxury travel and adventure travel cater to diverse markets, with wheeled luggage, travel pillows, and hiking boots providing comfort and functionality. The marketing and social media platforms connect travelers with new experiences and destinations. Travel influencers and customer loyalty programs offer incentives and personalized recommendations. Tourism management and responsible travel initiatives prioritize the well-being of communities and the environment. Cultural tourism and destination marketing foster appreciation and understanding of diverse cultures. Rental cars and community tourism provide opportunities for authentic experiences and exploration. The market remains dynamic, with ongoing developments and trends shaping the industry. From travel accessories to travel technology, the market continues to evolve, offering new possibilities and experiences for travelers.

How is this Travel Industry segmented?

The travel industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments. SectorTransportationHotelTravel activitiesTypeLeisureBusinessTourCustomized & Private VacationsSafari & AdventureCruises, Yachting & Small Ship ExpeditionsCelebration JourneysCulinary Travel & ShoppingLuxury TrainsCustomized & Private VacationsSafari & AdventureCruises, Yachting & Small Ship ExpeditionsCelebration JourneysCulinary Travel & ShoppingLuxury TrainsAge21-30 Years31-40 Years41-60 Years60 And Above21-30 Years31-40 Years41-60 Years60 And AboveGeographyNorth AmericaUSEuropeFranceUKAPACChinaJapanRest of World (ROW)

By Sector Insights

The transportation segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.In the thriving business travel sector, various offerings cater to the diverse needs of modern tourists. First-aid kits and biodegradable products have become essential travel accessories, reflecting a growing emphasis on health and sustainability. Travel insurance policies ensure peace of mind for business travelers, while ear plugs, eye masks, and portable chargers enhance comfort during long flights. Passport holders and sustainable packaging promote organization and eco-consciousness. Carbon offsetting and packing cubes streamline the process of planning and packing for trips. Food tourism and insect repellent cater to the adventurous palate and the need for outdoor exploration. Group travel and duffel bags offer cost savings, while hiking boots and travel data analytics facilitate efficient and enjoyable exploration. Medical tourism and travel safety services ensure well-being during international journeys. Travel adaptors, tour guides,

Abstract

The DTS is a large-scale household survey aimed at collecting accurate statistics on the travel behaviour and expenditure of South African residents travelling within the borders of the country. Such information is crucial when determining the contribution of tourism to the South African economy, as well as helping with planning, marketing, policy formulation, and the regulation of tourism-related activities.

Geographic coverage

The survey had national coverage

Analysis unit

Households and individuals

Universe

The target population of the survey consists of all private households in all nine provinces of South Africa and residents in workers’ hostels. The survey does not cover other collective living quarters such as students’ hostels, oldage homes, hospitals, prisons and military barracks, and is therefore only representative of non-institutionalised and non-military persons or households in South Africa.

Kind of data

Sample survey data

Sampling procedure

The sample design for the DTS 2020 was based on a Master Sample (MS) that has been designed for all household surveys conducted by Statistics South Africa.

The Master Sample used a two-staged, stratified design with probability-proportional-to-size (PPS) sampling of PSUs from within strata, and systematic sampling of dwelling units (DUs) from the sampled primary sampling units (PSUs). A self-weighting design at provincial level was used. Stratification was done in two stages: Primary stratification was defined by metropolitan and non-metropolitan geographic area type. During secondary stratification, the Census 2011 data were summarised at PSU level. The following variables were used for secondary stratification: household size, education, occupancy status, gender, industry and income.

Mode of data collection

Computer Assisted Telephone Interview