south africa tourism month

Tourism Month 2023

Tourism Month is celebrated annually in September, and provides a heightened month-long focus on the importance of the sector to the South African economy. It features themed activities that are aligned to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation’s (UNWTO) World Tourism Day celebrations.

This global observance day by The United Nations World Tourism Organisation aims to foster awareness of tourism’s social, cultural, political and economic value and the contribution that the sector can make towards reaching the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Tourism Month encourage South Africans to travel domestically to sustain jobs and support the recovery of tourism in line with the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan.

News articles

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De Lille invites comments on tourism Green Paper
Tourism, Airbnb sign MoU to grow sector
SA records more than 4 million tourist arrivals

South Africa

Check out this year's Best in Travel winners

Black-maned lions framed against desert dunes, powdery beaches lapped by two oceans, star-studded night skies, jagged mountains – South Africa is the place to go wild.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real South Africa. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Flowers in the Kirstenbosch Botanic Gardens below Table Mountain.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Location and unique flora combine to make these 5.28-sq-km botanical gardens among the most beautiful in the world. Gate 1, the main entrance at the…

Constitution Hill

Johannesburg

Do not leave Jo'burg without visiting Constitution Hill. One of South Africa's most important historical sites, the deeply moving and inspirational…

Cape of Good Hope

Simon's Town & Southern Peninsula

This 77.5-sq-km section of Table Mountain National Park includes awesome scenery, fantastic walks, great birdwatching and often-deserted beaches. The…

Kruger National Park

In terms of wildlife alone, Kruger is one of the world's greatest national parks. The diversity, density and sheer numbers of animals is almost…

Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum illustrates the rise and fall of South Africa’s era of segregation and oppression, and is an absolute must-see. It uses a broad…

A river flowing through a forest with dramatic mountain in the background at the Blyde Nature reserve.

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

Blyde River Canyon

This stunning 260-sq-km reserve centres on the 30km-long Blyde River Canyon, where epic rock formations tower above the forested slopes and eagle-eye…

Table Mountain

Around 600 million years old, and a canvas painted with the rich diversity of the Cape floral kingdom, Table Mountain is truly iconic. You can admire the…

Three Rondavels Viewpoint

The area's highlight, with a staggering view of these enormous rounds of rock, their pointed, grassy tops resembling giant huts carved into the side of…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 of the best things to do in south africa.

uShaka Beach

The somewhat sheltered beach at uShaka Marine World marks the southern end of the Golden Mile.

Robben Island

Green Point & Waterfront

Used as a prison from the early days of the VOC (Dutch East India Company) right up until 1996, this Unesco World Heritage site is preserved as a memorial…

Pot Luck Club

The sister restaurant to Test Kitchen is a more affordable Luke Dale-Roberts option. Sitting at the top of an old silo, it offers panoramic views of the…

South African Astronomical Observatory

Northern Cape

During the day you can take a guided tour of the huge research telescopes, including the Southern African Large Telescope, but it's the two-hour night…

Sterkfontein Caves

One of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, Sterkfontein Caves include a permanent hominid exhibit and a walkway down into the…

Exterior of the Hector Pieterson Memorial Museum in Soweto.

Hector Pieterson Museum

This powerful museum, named after the 12-year-old boy shot dead during the student protests in Soweto on 16 June 1976, illuminates the role of Sowetan…

Bay of Plenty Beach

At the heart of the beachfront along Durban's Golden Mile. Popular with sunbathers and beach-sports enthusiasts.

Blue Lagoon Beach

This playful beach once had a reputation for being dangerous, but after an extensive revamp it's now a haven for families. There are playgrounds, food…

Test Kitchen

Luke Dale-Roberts creates inspired dishes with top-quality local ingredients at his flagship restaurant – generally agreed to be the best in Africa…

Shortmarket Club

Star chef Luke Dale-Roberts' latest venture hides in plain sight on the street it is named after. It's a gorgeous attic space with a wall of paper…

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park in South Africa.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

The Elephant Coast

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is one of South Africa’s best-known, most evocative parks. Covering 960 sq km, it is best visited in the dry winter months (May to…

KwaZulu-Natal

Created as a set for the telemovie Shaka Zulu, the slightly Disney-fied Shakaland beats up a touristy blend of perma-grin performance and informative…

Boulders Penguin Colony

This picturesque area, with enormous boulders dividing small, sandy coves, is home to a colony of some 3000 delightful African penguins. A boardwalk runs…

Goegap Nature Reserve

This 150-sq-km semidesert reserve, 8km east of Springbok past the airstrip, supports some 600 indigenous plant species, 45 mammal species and 94 types of…

Addo Elephant National Park

Sunshine Coast

Located 70km north of Port Elizabeth, South Africa's third-largest national park protects the remnants of the huge elephant herds that once roamed the…

Namaqua National Park

Your experience at Namaqua National Park depends a lot on when you visit. From October to July it's an extremely quiet place to hike or spot birds against…

Mandela House Museum

Nelson Mandela lived with his first wife, Evelyn, and later with his second wife, Winnie, in this four-room house, just off Vilakazi St. The museum…

Partly housed in a building that looks like a giant grassy mound on one side and shiny modern steel on the other, Maropeng is an all-in-one information…

Dwesa Nature Reserve

The Wild Coast

One of South Africa's most remote and beautiful reserves, Dwesa Nature Reserve blends lush forests, winding rivers, open grassland and rugged coastline,…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From safari to wine tasting, experience the best of South Africa with these top things to do.

Things to Know

Get excited but also be prepared for adventure. Here's what you need to know prior to your first South African safari.

Transportation

South Africa is twice the size of Texas, which can make getting around a little tricky. But don't worry – we've got everything you need to know.

Visa Requirements

Don't spoil your trip to sensational South Africa by not having your travel documents in order. Here's what you need to know about visas for South Africa.

Money and Costs

No matter what your budget, get the most from your money while traveling in South Africa with these helpful tips.

Traveling with Kids

South Africa has plenty to offer families, from safari experiences to resort stays. Here are the best kid-friendly experiences.

Best Road Trips

South Africa is home to some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet – it's the perfect road-trip country. Here's our pick of the best.

Plan with a local

Experience the real South Africa

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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A country of astonishing diversity, South Africa will cater to you no matter what kind of traveler you are. Here are a few essential places to visit.

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South Africa and beyond

View of the beach and Twelve Apostles mountain in Camps Bay near Cape Town in South Africa.

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Best Time To Visit – South Africa

Philip lives in South Africa and has authored many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

Philip lives in South Africa and has authored many Africa guidebooks, including the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

Philip is the author of many Africa guidebooks, including the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

Philip is author of the Rough Guide to Game Parks of South Africa.

Kruger & Around

Lush scenery and great birding
Lovely warm evenings
Peak of the Wet season, hot and humid during the day
Wildlife viewing is not as good as in the Dry season
It can be crowded, especially during school holidays
Beautiful scenery
Excellent birding with migratory species present
Wildlife viewing is better in the Dry season
Wet season, hot and humid days, lovely evenings
Green environment
Great birding with many migrants present
Past the peak of the Wet season, rain diminishes
End of the Wet season, lovely mild weather
Stunning landscapes after the rains
Wildlife is still dispersed, more difficult to spot
Migratory birds leave
Good wildlife viewing
Little rain
Chilly nights and mornings
Morning game drives in open vehicles can be chilly
Excellent wildlife viewing
Dry conditions
Cold nights and mornings
Morning game drives in open vehicles are cold
Very dry conditions
Wildlife viewing is excellent
The bush gets drier as the winter progresses
Excellent wildlife viewing as the bush is dried out
The end of the Dry season brings lovely mild daytime weather
Evenings and early mornings are less cold than in mid-winter
Good wildlife viewing but animals start to spread out
Beginning of the Wet season, the first rains bring relief
It starts to heat up
Great birding
Wet season, it’s hot and humid
Wildlife viewing is better in the dry winter months
Wildlife viewing is less productive than in the Dry season
It gets hotter and more humid as the Wet season progresses

Cape Town & Around

Warm and dry weather
Lovely time on the beach
Wildlife viewing in the Cape Region parks is always good
It is high season and it can be crowded
Lovely warm and dry weather
Great time for beach activities and general sightseeing
Wildlife viewing in the Cape Region parks is good all year
Mild and dry weather
Excellent weather conditions for general sightseeing
Few visitors around except during Easter holidays
It cools down at the end of summer
Low season with few visitors around
Wildlife viewing in the Cape Region parks is good throughout the year
Cold conditions throughout the region
Regular rainfall in Cape Town
There are few visitors around
It is chilly throughout the region
Cape Town sees plenty of rainfall
Morning game drives in open vehicles are very cold
Low-season prices are available
Wildlife viewing in the Cape Region parks is excellent
The whole region is relatively cold
Cape Town sees regular rainfall
Morning game drives in open vehicles are bitterly cold
Wildlife viewing in the Cape Region parks is good
It rains regularly in Cape Town
Mild weather with occasional rain
Mild weather with little rain
Beginning of summer, but nights are still chilly
Lovely conditions to explore the beaches and other attractions
Lovely weather
Excellent time to enjoy the beaches and other attractions

The best time to visit South Africa for a wildlife safari is from May to September. During these winter months, the east of the country (where the main parks are located) experiences its Dry season. Wildlife is easier to spot during the Dry season because vegetation thins, and animals gather around waterholes and rivers. The ‘Kruger & Around’ sections below relate to the parks and reserves in Greater Kruger and in the KwaZulu-Natal Province .

Cape Town’s Dry and Wet seasons are opposite to those in Kruger. Therefore, the best time for visiting Cape Town and surrounds is during the dry summer months of November to March. The ‘Cape Town & Around’ sections below apply to the entire Western Cape and nearby parks .

Pros and Cons - Kruger & Around

May to September – Dry Season – Winter

Wildlife is easier to spot because there is less vegetation and animals gather around rivers and waterholes
Little to no rain and most days are sunny
Few mosquitoes
Low season and parks are not crowded, except for Kruger during school holidays
It gets cold at night and in the mornings

October to April – Wet Season – Summer

After the first rains, the scenery turns green and all looks fresh
Best time for bird watching, and migratory birds are present
Rains are mostly short afternoon showers and seldom interfere with your trip
Wildlife viewing can be quite slow since the bush is thicker and wildlife is more difficult to spot
It gets very hot in December, January and February, and parks get crowded during the main school holidays in December

Pros and Cons - Cape Town & Around

May to September – Wet Season – Winter

Although it is the Wet season, there are many sunny days
Wildlife viewing in the Cape Region parks is good year-round
It is cold for beach and general holiday activities
Game drives in open vehicles are bitterly cold

October to April – Dry Season – Summer

Pleasant warm weather with little rain
Best time to enjoy Cape Town and the Garden Route
It is less cold on game drives
It gets busy in high season

Wildlife Photos

Best Time To Go by Major Park

Most parks offer year-round wildlife viewing, but they are at their best during the Dry season when wildlife is easier to spot. Kgalagadi gets extremely hot during December to February and is best visited in cooler months.

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Kruger National Park Kruger National Park Fair "> Jan J Fair "> Feb F Good "> Mar M Good "> Apr A Excellent "> May M Excellent "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Good "> Oct O Fair "> Nov N Fair "> Dec D
MalaMala Private GR MalaMala Private Game Reserve Fair "> Jan J Fair "> Feb F Good "> Mar M Good "> Apr A Excellent "> May M Excellent "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Good "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Fair "> Dec D
Phinda Private GR Phinda Private Game Reserve Fair "> Jan J Fair "> Feb F Good "> Mar M Good "> Apr A Excellent "> May M Excellent "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Good "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Fair "> Dec D
Sabi Sand Private GR Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve Fair "> Jan J Fair "> Feb F Good "> Mar M Good "> Apr A Excellent "> May M Excellent "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Good "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Fair "> Dec D

Want To Visit South Africa?

802 South Africa Safaris

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Tour Operators for South Africa

Safari Tours to South Africa

4-Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

$974 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Wildlife Safaris

4.9 /5 – 259 Reviews

5-Day Luxury Kruger Park and Sabi Sand Safari

$2,921 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Chalet

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

4.7 /5 – 186 Reviews

11-Day South Africa & Mauritius Family Safari & Beach

$7,006 to $7,706 pp (USD)

South Africa & Mauritius: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Resort

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Madikwe GR, Bel Ombre (Town & Beach) , Mauritius (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.9 /5 – 149 Reviews

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Travel Tips

The Best Times to Visit South Africa, According to Locals

For wildlife and wine, coastline and culture, South Africa is the ultimate destination.

Best Time to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Best time to visit for lower prices.

Best Time to Visit for Good Weather
Best Time to Visit for a Wildlife Safari
Best Time to Visit for a Beach Holiday
Best Time to Visit for Festivals
Worst Time to Visit South Africa

In many ways, South Africa is a country of abundance. Nicknamed the “Rainbow Nation” by Archbishop Desmond Tutu after its first democratic election in 1994, South Africa is overflowing with iconic wildlife, truly epic environments and vistas, and world-renowned hotels and restaurants. Pre-pandemic, the country of warm, friendly people drew more than 10 million annual visitors; it’s now rebounding steadily, with four million people arriving in the first half of 2023.

“South Africa is an especially compelling nation, with many cultures, languages, and traditions to explore and enjoy,” says Cape Town local Simon Mandy, managing director of The Royal Portfolio , a South African family–owned collection of luxurious properties that include The Silo Hotel in Cape Town and Royal Malewane in Kruger National Park. “This is reflected in our cuisine, which draws on a wealth of fresh, seasonal, local ingredients and multiple influences to create unique flavor sensations.”

Rodger Shagam/Getty Images

What’s more, it’s a well-known fact that those spending U.S. dollars get amazing value for their money — all in a country where English is spoken and there are flawless beaches, endless savannas, and impressive mountains. Having visited South Africa’s coastline, wine country, Garden Route, and wildlife preserves over the years in January, February, October and December, I have experienced a variety of weather conditions, from extreme wind to fog to baking heat. Oftentimes, it feels like multiple seasons in one day, especially in Cape Town, so I always pack a lot of adaptable layers.

Roar Africa founder and CEO Deborah Calmeyer , a safari expert and part-time Cape Town resident, loves being there most in March, when “there are no crowds and perfect warm weather to enjoy all the beauty of Table Mountain and the emerald Winelands without the December rush of people.”

For her, the reasons to visit South Africa are as numerous as its healthy populations of zebras, lions, rhinos, and elephants: “the level of service; the restaurants, in both the cities and the bush; and the diversity of experience — the cosmopolitan culture of Cape Town , the beauty of the Winelands, the ochre dunes of the Kalahari Desert, and the abundance of pristine bush, teeming with wildlife.”

High Season: December through February
Shoulder Season: September to November; March to May
Low Season: June to August

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

If you don’t like crowds, avoid Cape Town during its busy holiday surge in December and January, says Calmeyer, who adds that the most thronged months for safari tend to be December and June through August. The rest of the year, adventurers are typically blessed with more intimate experiences for viewing wildlife plus fewer vehicles around exciting sightings. “There is so much beauty throughout the other months of the year and, provided you have the right gear, you’ll have a spectacular experience in this country of contrasts,” Calmeyer adds. According to Mandy, the quietest times to travel in South Africa are October, November, April, and May — the country as a whole receives fewer visitors during these months.

In Cape Town, travelers will typically find May through August “the lightest on the pocket,” says Mandy, adding that the best pricing on a full South Africa itinerary — one that includes a safari — can be found in the shoulder season of April and May, their autumn. September, which tends to be somewhat quiet, can also be more accessible price-wise, according to Calmeyer. Conversely, December is when prices hit their peak, and oftentimes hotels and lodges enforce minimum stay periods.

Michele Westmorland/Getty Images

Best Time to Visit for Good Weather

“South Africa has a very pleasant and favorable climate year-round,” says Mandy, who notes that spring and autumn offer the most balanced weather in the majority of the country. Mandy’s personal favorite season is spring, fromSeptember to November. “It offers beautiful displays of blooming gardens and wildflowers on safari,” he says. “The weather is perfect — neither too hot nor too cold.” Between October and May — essentially the shoulder seasons and summertime (a.k.a. high season) — Calmeyer says the weather on the Western Cape is her favorite. The same goes for safari destinations across the country. “The weather is brilliant,” she says. These are also the best months for hiking, in her opinion, as there's little rainfall (contrary to Johannesburg, where most of the rain occurs in their summer). One disclaimer: Because South Africa is so large, with lots of geographical diversity, there are plenty of climate quirks as you traverse different regions.

Best Time to Visit for a Wildlife Safari

In Calmeyer’s expert opinion, “anytime” can be the right time to take a wildlife safari — if you use the right local travel advisor with an intimate knowledge of the country’s parks and regions, which range from the Kalahari in the Northern Cape to the most famous Kruger National Park . “There are epic opportunities for wildlife viewing 12 months a year,” she says. Typically, the drier months (June to September) are considered excellent times because “animals gather around water sources in the absence of rain,” says Mandy, meaning they can be easier to spot. The vegetation also typically dies back during these months, making smaller creatures more visible. He adds, “If you’re an avid bird-watcher, the warmer months (November to February) see the arrival of migratory birds and a dramatic increase in volume of the dawn chorus.” That time of year is referred to as green season, when the weather tends to be rainy and warm in wildlife reserves and parks.

Best Time to Visit for a Beach Holiday

There’s no question that summer in South Africa (December to February) is the best time to sunbathe on one of the many spectacular beaches that wrap its long, 1,770-mile coastline. Still, don’t expect leisurely swims in the sea. “Don’t forget that it is the Atlantic Ocean, so you are unlikely to get in, as it’s cold,” says Calmeyer. “However, for those who enjoy colder water, Cape Town is fabulous in December and January, with white-sand beaches, abundant water activities, and incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities in the Great African Seaforest” — the giant bamboo kelp forest seen in the documentary "My Octopus Teacher." For wetsuit-clad surfers, summer tends to equal smaller waves — plus wind — while the peak surf season is March to September, when the water is at its most frigid (low 70s). Regardless of the season, Mandy adds, “Be warned: The African sun is harsh, so don’t forget your sunscreen.”

Best Time to Visit for Festivals

Between lively farmers markets in Cape Town and concert series in the Cape Winelands, the pervasive energy in South Africa is festive. The Cape Town Art Fair and Cape Town International Jazz Festival , which both occur each February, are great draws. And I can personally attest that the Summer Sunset Concerts that take place from November through April at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden are captivating affairs worthy of a bountiful BYO picnic. Mandy adds, “The popular concerts offer live music in a picturesque setting beneath Table Mountain.” Harvest season in the Winelands — Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl — spans February and March, and is an exciting and beautiful time to visit both storied iconic estates and up-and-coming young winemakers.

Worst Time to Visit South Africa

South Africa is one of those places that holds its appeal all year long. However, Mandy warns that some travelers could find the peak of summer a bit too hot — though it typically stays in the 70s and only rarely reaches the 90s — and winter temps in remote mountainous regions in the Northern Cape too cold.

Durban ready for Africa’s largest trade and tourism bonanza

T he 2024 edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba is expected to match or surpass last year’s contribution of a R1.2 billion injection into the economy.

This was the view of the Deputy Minister of Tourism Fish Mahlalela during his address at the launch of the event in Durban on Tuesday.

The Indaba is scheduled to take place from May 13 to 16.

The launch of the province’s premier tourism event was also attended by KZN Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (Edtea) MEC Siboniso Duma and Thembo Ntuli, chairperson of eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development Committee.

Mahlalela said that 990 exhibitors from 26 African countries are confirmed for next month’s Indaba, “including newcomers Burkina Faso, Eritrea and Guinea and over 1 000 buyers representing 36 countries.”

Mahlalela added that their post-event survey revealed that Africa’s Travel Indaba 2023 made a total economic contribution of R1.2 bn to South Africa’s economy.

“This was made up of a direct contribution of approximately R408.6 million to the South African economy, while an additional contribution of R776.4 million was either indirect or induced.”

Mahlalela said that the 2023 Indaba also created or sustained 2 295 jobs.

“These include 1 374 direct, 186 indirect and 735 induced jobs. Additionally, the event contributed R75 million to national government taxes. Despite the subdued economic environment, we are optimistic that the 2024 instalment will match or surpass these figures.”

Mahlalela added that the timing of the event in May was not coincidental.

“May holds special significance as Africa Month, a time when we celebrate our African identity and strive to foster unity among the people of our continent.”

Duma said they were excited to once again welcome Africa’s Travel Indaba to KwaZulu-Natal.

“We are exceptionally proud to be the host province for this world-class and internationally recognised travel trade fair. Africa’s Travel Indaba plays an important role in our tourism growth and has an enormous impact on our economy.”

Listing the success of the event, Duma said: “First, there was the direct economic impact of around R130 million last year. Second, it brings hundreds of members of the African tourism sector together at the Durban ICC. They get the opportunity to showcase their products and sell their destinations to global tour operators and travel buyers so that more international tourists visit our country and continent.”

Duma said South Africa’s international tourist numbers were growing rapidly, boosting international visitors to KZN.

“Over the past year, 646 234 international visitors came to KZN and projections from tourism insights are that the province will welcome over 800 000 international visitors in the coming year which will surpass the 2019 arrivals.”

Duma said more tourists meant more people spending money in KZN.

“This not only maintains the estimated 161 000 direct jobs in the KZN tourism sector, but leads to the expansion of tourism, creating more jobs for local people and opportunities for entrepreneurs to start their own tourism businesses.”

Ntuli said that eThekwini Municipality was excited to host one of the biggest tourism events on the African tourism calendar.

“We want to assure everyone that eThekwini will deliver a successful Indaba. This event positions eThekwini as a preferred tourist destination internationally. Last year, Indaba contributed R304 million to the eThekwini GDP and created 600 jobs.”

Ntuli added that they expected next month’s Indaba to generate more than R400 million for the city’s GDP and create more than 700 jobs.

“We also expect to have 95% hotel occupancy rate during Indaba.”

The Mercury

Durban ready for Africa’s largest trade and tourism bonanza

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Tourism in South Africa - statistics & facts

The effects of the covid-19 pandemic, a higher domestic tourist spending, increasing accommodation availability and dropping occupancy rate, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Absolute economic contribution of tourism in Tunisia 2014-2029

International tourist arrivals in Africa 2020, by country

Number of countries with visa free access to South Africans 2010-2022

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Current statistics on this topic.

Number of overnight tourists in South Africa from 2012 to 2021

Available hotel rooms in South Africa 2000-2021

Occupancy rate of hotels in South Africa by stars 2012-2022

Recommended statistics

Basic Statistic Passport visa free score in Africa 2023, by country
Premium Statistic Visa openness index in Africa 2021, by indicator
Basic Statistic Number of countries with visa free access to South Africans 2010-2022
Premium Statistic International tourist arrivals in Africa 2020, by country

Passport visa free score in Africa 2023, by country

African passports with visa free access to other countries as of January 2023

Visa openness index in Africa 2021, by indicator

Leading countries according to visa openness in Africa as of 2021, by indicator

Number of countries with visa free access to South Africans from 2010 to 2022

Ranking of the international tourist arrivals in Africa by country 2020 (in millions)

Economic contribution

Basic Statistic Contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in South Africa 2005-2021
Basic Statistic Value added of travel and tourism to GDP in South Africa 2019-2021
Basic Statistic Tourism direct gross value added in South Africa 2015-2021
Basic Statistic Tourism direct gross value added in South Africa 2021, by industry
Basic Statistic Total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in South Africa 2019-2021

Contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in South Africa 2005-2021

Contribution of travel and tourism to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in South Africa from 2005 to 2021

Value added of travel and tourism to GDP in South Africa 2019-2021

Contribution of travel and tourism to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in South Africa from 2019 to 2021 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Tourism direct gross value added in South Africa 2015-2021

Direct gross value added of the tourism industry in South Africa from 2015 to 2021 (in million South African rand)

Tourism direct gross value added in South Africa 2021, by industry

Tourism direct gross value added in South Africa in 2021, by industry (in million South African rand)

Total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in South Africa 2019-2021

Number of jobs in the travel and tourism sector in South Africa from 2019 to 2021 (in millions)

Inbound and outbound tourists

Premium Statistic Number of international tourist arrivals in South Africa 2014-2029
Basic Statistic Number of tourists arriving in South Africa from 2011 to 2022, by mode of travel
Basic Statistic Number of tourists arriving in South Africa from 2014-2022, by purpose of visit
Basic Statistic Total traveler departures from South Africa 2014-2022
Basic Statistic Number of foreign traveler departures from South Africa 2014-2022

Number of international tourist arrivals in South Africa 2014-2029

Number of international tourist arrivals in South Africa from 2014 to 2029 (in millions)

Number of tourists arriving in South Africa from 2011 to 2022, by mode of travel

Number of tourists arriving in South Africa from 2011 to 2022, by mode of travel (in 1,000s)

Number of tourists arriving in South Africa from 2014-2022, by purpose of visit

Number of tourists arriving in South Africa from 2014 to 2022, by purpose of visit (in 1,000s)

Total traveler departures from South Africa 2014-2022

Total number of traveler departures from South Africa from 2014 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of foreign traveler departures from South Africa 2014-2022

Number of foreign traveler departures from South Africa from 2014 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Tourism expenditure

Basic Statistic Foreign tourism visitor spending in South Africa 2009-2021
Basic Statistic Foreign tourism visitor spending as a share of exports in South Africa 2009-2020
Basic Statistic Share of domestic and international travel spending in South Africa 2019-2020
Basic Statistic Tourism expenditure in South Africa 2019-2021, by type
Premium Statistic Expenditure per capita on international tourism in South Africa 2001-2029
Premium Statistic International tourism receipts per capita in South Africa 2001-2029

Foreign tourism visitor spending in South Africa 2009-2021

International visitor spending in South Africa from 2009 to 2021 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Foreign tourism visitor spending as a share of exports in South Africa 2009-2020

International visitor spending as a share of total exports in South Africa from 2009 to 2020

Share of domestic and international travel spending in South Africa 2019-2020

Share of domestic and international expenditure in the sector of travel and tourism in South Africa in 2019 and 2020

Tourism expenditure in South Africa 2019-2021, by type

Distribution of tourism expenditure in South Africa in 2019 and 2021, by type

Expenditure per capita on international tourism in South Africa 2001-2029

Expenditure per capita on international tourism in South Africa from 2001 to 2029 (in U.S. dollars)

International tourism receipts per capita in South Africa 2001-2029

International tourism receipts per capita in South Africa from 2001 to 2029 (in U.S. dollars)

Hotels and accommodation

Premium Statistic Monthly number of foreign overnight visitors in South Africa 2022
Premium Statistic Available hotel rooms in South Africa 2000-2021
Premium Statistic Occupancy rate of hotels in South Africa from 2000 to 2021
Premium Statistic Income generated from tourist accommodation in South Africa 2016-2023
Premium Statistic Monthly income from tourist accommodation in South Africa 2019-2023

Monthly number of foreign overnight visitors in South Africa 2022

Monthly number of foreign overnight arrivals in South Africa from January to December 2022

Number of available hotel rooms in South Africa from 2000 to 2021

Occupancy rate of hotels in South Africa from 2000 to 2021

Occupancy rate of rooms in hotels and similar establishments in South Africa from 2000 to 2021

Income generated from tourist accommodation in South Africa 2016-2023

Total income generated from tourist accommodation in South Africa from 2016 to 2023 (in million South African rand)

Monthly income from tourist accommodation in South Africa 2019-2023

Monthly income generated from tourist accommodation in South Africa from January 2019 to December 2023 (in million South African rand)

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Press Releases

South African Tourism is the tourism marketing arm of the South African government. Simply put, our job is to promote the country domestically and internationally, whether for leisure, business or events tourism.

O O ur commitment

We are committed to meaningfully contributing to the government's objectives of inclusive economic growth, sustainable job creation, and redistribution and transformation of the industry through:

Increasing the number of tourists who visit our country
Increasing the geographic spread, length of stay and spend of all visitors
Improving seasonal arrival patterns
Working to transform the industry so that historically disadvantaged South Africans may benefit from the sector

Our footprint

The organisation has grown from a few offices around the world to having operations in 13 international markets, with a mandate to market and share all that is unique, warm, and beautiful about South Africa.

South Africa on social media

The BMW International Open has made us excited for the BMW Golf Cup World Final to be hosted in SA. We caught up wi… https://t.co/IDHsnwn33E

Always a pleasure partnering with local businesses to promote SA on the global stage. Warren Weitsz, Co-Founder of… https://t.co/doxJa4wVxf

To say the players are bringing their A-game is an under statement! Round 2 has given us many unforgettable moments… https://t.co/IA2Ki5qsWO

"...Patrons have been keen and interested in engaging on where the best fairways in SA are. Paired with some of our… https://t.co/9kNQbIl1J5

Our stand at the BMW International Open has been drawing a lot of attention – and rightfully so! “We are proud and… https://t.co/jYDjs6VRM2

Clear skies, rolling greens, supportive crowds – the conditions couldn’t be better for a day at Golfclub München Ei… https://t.co/Z7UnxSbbuP

What happens when an amateur and pro hit the fairway together? Find out in the Pro-Am Tournament, where 3 amateurs… https://t.co/Ee3hgR1Ggc

They are joined by Grand Pavios Event Organiser. They will visit Kwa-Zulu Natal, Cape Town, and Knysna showcasing S… https://t.co/066ntNJGr1

As the country of Honour at the 2023 event, South Africa represented by South AfricaTourism in collaboration with W… https://t.co/ie2E9ZqaCF

Hosted in La Rochelle, France, the Grand Pavios is a major annual event for sailing enthusiasts and an internationa… https://t.co/R2P0GYpVrQ

Ready to get into the swing of things? The Pro-Am Tournament of the 2023 BMW International Open starts today in Mü… https://t.co/3l9e4mPMSo

Don’t miss out on what happened in the world of South African tourism with our #TourismTuesday newsletter. Read ou… https://t.co/Gvg2rDCBiT

Continuation.. To all the fathers in tourism, we salute you for your hard work, passion, and dedication. Thank you… https://t.co/TcpxDeaKkM

Continuation... On this special day, we encourage everyone to take a moment to appreciate and celebrate the fathers… https://t.co/7atxViWyxd

Fathers ensure a safe environment in which everyone can enjoy our country's diversity and play a pivotal role in cr… https://t.co/T8vvGTCu7i

Continuation... Today, we want to celebrate and honour the remarkable dads who play a vital role in shaping the wor… https://t.co/qS9WYfXyE0

@sontondlovu, the ACEO/COO of SA Tourism, joins in celebrating Father's Day by sending warm wishes to all the fathe… https://t.co/7ZbeNsUYoy

In commemoration of Youth Day, let’s shine a spotlight on the Basic Quality Verification programme by @TGCSA_, that… https://t.co/TZ2FDTadcJ

We look forward to showcasing South Africa’s abundant tourism offerings to a global audience while reminding them a… https://t.co/8df5w5kyGL

A dynamic collaboration between SA Tourism and the iconic BMW Group is set to supercharge the country’s efforts tow… https://t.co/tB5xLgYjnq

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Tourism Tuesday

Tourism Month

1 - 30 September

Tourism Month is an annual celebration held in September to focus on the importance of tourism to the economy of South Africa.

The Department of Tourism leads the celebrations with a number of events.

A new domestic tourism marketing campaign: Nothing’s More Fun than a Sho’t Left that emphasises the fun of a domestic leisure getaway, and that encourages South Africans to take short breaks.

Tourism South Africa has more information on tourism in South Africa.

Tourism authorities in the provinces

The Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism Agency (ECPTA)
Free State Tourism
Gauteng Tourism Authority
Kingdom of the Zulu (KwaZulu-Natal Tourism Authority)
Limpopo Tourism and Parks
North West Province Parks and Tourism Board
Northern Cape Tourism
Western Cape Tourism

Government blogs

Relive, experience the history of South Africa , 11 September 2013

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South Africa Visa » South Africa Visa Types » Tourist Visa

South Africa Tourist Visa

Before planning to visit South Africa for a holiday, all foreign citizens should check whether they require a visa for tourism . The process of applying for this visa type varies depending on nationality.

While some foreign citizens must visit an embassy or consulate to submit a tourist visa application in person, a select number of nationalities are now able to apply for a South Africa e-Visa . This electronic tourist visa can be obtained exclusively online .

What is a South Africa tourist visa?

The tourist visa for South Africa, also known as the visit visa or visitor’s visa , is one of the types of visa for South Africa that foreign citizens must obtain before traveling.

In addition to purposes of tourism, visitors’ visas for South Africa may also be granted for the following motives:

Visiting family or friends
Business visits
Medical treatment
Scientific research
To take part in a conference, or charitable or voluntary activities
To take part in a sporting event
To undertake a study program with a maximum duration of 3 months
To join a spouse who is in South Africa on a work or study permit
To join parents who are in South Africa on work or study permits
To work on a TV/film production
To join a fiancée/ fiancé in South Africa, with the intention of marrying within 90 days.

A tourist visa for South Africa is usually granted for a maximum stay of 3 months in the country . To visit the country for longer periods, or a purpose other than those listed above, it may be necessary for the traveler to apply for a different type of visa for South Africa.

Who needs a tourist visa to enter South Africa?

At the moment, there are up to 50 nationalities who do not need a tourist visa for South Africa if they are planning a stay for tourism for up to 90 days.

These citizens are simply able to present a valid passport upon arrival in South Africa to gain a visa-free tourist stay in the country.

However, all other foreign nationalities must obtain a visa for South Africa , regardless of whether they intended to enjoy a tourist stay or visit for another purpose.

The introduction of the South Africa tourist eVisa has made the visa appliation process much easier for multiple eligible nationalities. Those not able to apply for the eVisa must continue to submit a tourist visa application at a South African embassy or consulate in the traveller’s country of residence.

South African tourist visa requirements

In order to meet the South Africa visa requirements and submit a tourist visa application, it is necessary to have the following supporting documents :

Passport valid for at least 1 month from the intended date of arrival in South Africa, containing at least 2 blank pages for entry/exit stamps
Statement and/or document confirming the travel purpose and length of the intended stay
Two colour photographs of the traveler, passport-style
Proof of a return or onward flight, if traveling by air
A certificate of vaccination against yellow fever (if applicable)
Payment method to process the tourist visa fee.

It is also necessary to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover the entirety of the intended stay in South Africa, which may take the form of:

Bank statements
Confirmation of a host guarantor in South Africa
Medical cover
Salary advance
Available cash (including credit cards and travelers’ cheques).

Additionally, those planning to travel to South Africa for tourism with family should be aware that it is necessary to provide proof of guardianship or custody while applying for a tourist visa for children, or, in the case of an unaccompanied minor, consent from the guardian of the child.

How to apply for a South Africa tourist visa

The application process has become much more streamlined with the introduction of the tourist eVisa for South Africa for multiple nationalities. Those eleigible for the eVisa can apply in minutes using the simplified online South Africa visa application form .

Those not eligible for the online tourist visa need to make an appointment at the relevant South African diplomatic mission and complete a B1-84 form to bring along to the consular interview alongside the necessary supporting documentation.

Once all the necessary documents have been presented at the consulate, it will be necessary to pay the tourist visa fee before the application can be processed . As it may take several weeks for an embassy visa to be successfully approved, applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended entry date.

FAQ about the tourist visa for South Africa

Do i need a tourist visa to visit south africa.

Whether a foreign citizen requires a visa for South Africa or not depends on both their nationality and the expected length of stay and purpose of travel.

While a number of nationalities are able to travel visa-free to South Africa for tourism for stays of between 30-90 days, other foreigners must obtain a South African tourist visa in advance either through the simple online eVIsa application or from an embassy or consulate.

How much is a South African tourist visa?

The government cost of a South African visitors’ visa varies depending on nationality, the exact purpose of the intended trip, and whether the applicant requires a single entry or multiple entry travel document. The price will be given in South African Rand (ZAR).

Those who use the South African tourist eVisa application are able to pay the fee securely online using a valid credit or debit card.

What are the documents required for a South Africa tourist visa?

In order to apply for a South Africa visit visa from an embassy, it is necessary to have a passport valid for at least 30 days from the intended date of arrival in the country and provide 2 colour passport photographs of the traveler.

Applicants are also required to have a document or statement and/or confirming their purpose of travel, proof of sufficient funds to cover the intended stay, proof of a return or onward flight booking, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate (if coming from a yellow fever country).

Is the South Africa tourist visa online multiple entry?

Most tourist visas for South Africa are granted as single-entry travel documents that allow a total stay of up to 90 days for tourism.

However, in some cases, a South Africa tourist visa may be granted as either a single or multiple entry visa.

This will depend on both the nationality of the applicant and their reason for visiting South Africa. Applicants need to indicate whether a single or multiple entry visa will best suit their needs when completing the electronic visa form.

Can I apply for a South African tourist visa online?

The government of South Africa has decided to expedite the process of obtaining a South African tourist visa by implementing a simple online application form to allow the visa to be issued exclusively online.

This eliminates the need to visit a South Africa embassy or consulate in person to apply for a tourist visa by presenting a range of supporting paper documentation. It is also expected to greatly reduce the processing times for a tourist visa.

The tourist eVisa application is currently available for 14 nationalities, and may also be rolled out to other nationalities in the future.

Can I extend my tourist visa in South Africa?

Yes, it is possible to request a South African visa extension for a tourist visa by visiting in person the nearest office of the South African Department of Home Affairs.

Philipstown, Northern Cape

Philipstown