International tourism boom signals strong growth for South Africa

South Africa is consistently drawing more and more international tourists, including a large number from SADC countries on the continent.

New figures released by the Department of Tourism show consecutive month-to-month increases in arrivals.

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In March 2026, 911 962 people from other countries chose South Africa as a destination.

This marks a 12,5% increase compared to the same period in 2025.

For the first three months of 2026, South Africa recorded a total of 2 910 029 inbound travellers.

• January 2026: 1 133 533 (12,4% increase compared to January 2025)
• February 2026: 864 534 (13,1% increase compared to February 2025)
• March 2026: 911 962 (12,5% increase compared to March 2025)

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille gives a breakdown of the profile of visitors that are entering the country, the bulk of them leisure travellers.

"We've got 97% coming for holiday - leisure, adventure and all the products that weve got to offer. Then about 2.5% come for business, and almost 1% for medical treatment. Some also come to study, and then there are what I call the swallows who come and work here from anywhere in the world."

De Lille highlights the effectiveness of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan (TGPP), designed when government came together with the private sector a year ago.

"It's where we hold each other accountable and we work together to implement this plan, that was also approved by Cabinet. Working together is really helping... instead of pointing fingers at each other."

She also draws attention to the Africa Travel Indaba taking place in Durban from 11-14 May, which will be opened by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Considering that almost 70% of our inbound visitors are from the continent, it is important that we host this far-reacing trade show, de Lille says.

"It's the biggest on continent. This year we're expecting at least 22 African countries to attend and, for the first time, we've got over 1,100 exhibitors."

More than 1,000 buyers from 71 countries around the world will also be attending the Indaba.

"We could also say our domestic market is the bedrock - we've got over 400 local buyers from SA, and that's where tour operators and traders showcase our products and make the deals."

Scroll up to the audio player to hear more from the Tourism Minister