South African tourism sees surging international arrivals in 2023

Saturday, December 23, 2023

Statistics South Africa recently released official international arrival figures for January to November 2023, showcasing a continued surge in the South African tourism sector.

During this period, international tourist arrivals reached 7.6 million, indicating an impressive 51.8% increase compared to the same period in 2022. Although this upward trend towards pre-COVID-19 levels is promising, it remains 17.6% lower than the same timeframe in 2019.

South Africa retains its allure for both domestic and international travelers, demonstrating the tourism sector’s success in driving travel to the country, fostering cultural exchanges, and contributing to inclusive economic growth.

Key Highlights by Region:

1. African Continent: South Africa welcomed 5.8 million visitors from other African nations, constituting 75.5% of all arrivals, showcasing a substantial increase compared to 2022. Zimbabwe and Kenya notably experienced remarkable growth, with Zimbabwe recording a 77.5% increase and Kenya a 94.2% surge in tourist arrivals.
2. The Americas: Tourist arrivals from the Americas totaled 411,254, marking a 44.1% growth, with the United States contributing significantly to this increase.
3. Europe: Europe contributed 1.1 million tourist arrivals, representing a 43.2% increase. The United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Russia showed notable growth in arrivals.
4. Asia: Asian markets displayed significant growth, with 182,497 arrivals, led by India and China, showcasing a surge of 46.3% and 215.7%, respectively.
5. Middle East: The Middle East witnessed a robust increase of 37.5% in arrivals, with notable growth from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Minister of Tourism, Patricia De Lille, expressed satisfaction with the growth, particularly highlighting successful strategies in simplifying visa regimes, effective marketing campaigns, and collaborative efforts. However, she emphasized the need for further policy revisions to unlock barriers such as visa regulations, safety concerns, and limited air access to propel more significant sector growth and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economy.

The Minister concluded by expressing gratitude to South Africans for their hospitality and extended a warm welcome to all visitors, anticipating continued tourism growth and South Africa’s sustained charm and attractiveness.

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