South Africa's heritage-rich tourism industry shows strong recovery as international arrivals rise

South Africa's tourism industry is demonstrating positive signs of recovery and growth, with international arrivals reaching 8.9 million in 2024 – a 5.1% increase from 2023 – highlighting the country's growing appeal as a global travel destination.

The recovery comes as September marks Tourism Month in South Africa, with Statistics South Africa releasing new data showing the sector's resilience and economic contribution.

"With every journey taken, the footprint of tourism grows – reflected in visitor statistics, spending patterns, and livelihoods sustained across provinces," Statistics South Africa said in its latest research summary.

The country's tourism appeal is anchored by its 12 properties listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List, including the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng/Mpumalanga, the Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape in Limpopo, Robben Island in the Western Cape, ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape in the Northern Cape, and the Vredefort Dome in the Free State/North West.

Statistics South Africa's Tourism Satellite Account for 2022 shows tourism's direct contribution to Gross Domestic Product stood at 3.5%.

The accommodation sector, a cornerstone of the tourism industry, is showing significant recovery. Between 2020 and 2024, income from accommodation nearly tripled and surpassed the pre-pandemic high of R36.6 billion recorded in 2019.

However, hotel occupancy rates continue to lag behind pre-pandemic levels. South African hotels recorded an occupancy rate of 57.4% in February 2025, the highest since the start of the pandemic, but still below the 2019 peak of 64.4% recorded in November that year.

Recent data shows continued momentum.

Total income for the tourist accommodation industry increased by 11.1% in July 2025, compared with July 2024, based on 2019 prices. Income from accommodation rose 10.4% year-on-year in July 2025, with hotels being the main contributors to this growth.

This represents a reversal from the 2022 Accommodation Industry report, which showed a decline in stay units of 2.4% year-on-year.

The food and beverages sector proved particularly resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the 2022 report, income grew by 8.2% per year from 2018 through to 2022, while employment rose by over 22 000 jobs to 236 527.

Restaurants dominated the sector, contributing 51.8% of total income and 53.9% of employment.

Statistics South Africa noted that tourism in the country is measured as much in data as it is in experiences.

Its various data sources tracking international arrivals and domestic business travel create "a comprehensive statistical picture of tourism's footprint in the South African economy and society,” Statistics South Africa said.

"From bustling urban centres to rural gems, every corner of South Africa holds stories worth sharing and experiences worth preserving," the agency said.

As September marks Tourism Month, Statistics South Africa emphasised that "behind every trip is a number, and behind every number is a contribution to South Africa's economy".

"The combined trends across international arrivals, domestic travel, accommodation, and food services reflect a tourism industry that is recovering. Tourism's continued recovery highlights its importance as a driver of economic activity, community development, and cultural exchange," the agency noted.

IOL Business