Travel Trade News

South Africa unveils one of its most exciting cultural and scientific attractions yet - the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre. This state-of-the-art visitor experience is set in the breathtaking landscapes of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.

What if your first ‘grown-up’ adventure wasn’t across the ocean, but in your own beautiful country? What if joy wasn’t something you left to find far away, but something that’s waiting for you in the golden dunes of the Northern Cape, the hip streets of Maboneng, or the lush cliffs of the Wild Coast?

Africa’s inaugural Glamping Expo is set to revolutionise the outdoor tourism and hospitality industry. Taking place from 20-21 June 2025 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre (Nasrec), the pioneering event will bring together innovators, thought leaders and enthusiasts along the glamping value chain.

South African Tourism is proud to announce its double victory at the International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) for the recognition of its innovative "Live South Africa" campaign localized for a North Europe audience, aimed at attracting travellers from the Netherlands, Belgium and Sweden (North Europe) to experience and “live” South Africa through the eyes of locals. January to April 2025 arrival statistics recorded 80 787 arrivals from North Europe, reflecting a 5.8% increase in travellers from the region compared to the same period in 2024. The Netherlands, responsible for approximately 65% of the hub’s arrivals, has also achieved a 7% increase on 2019 arrivals, and is currently on 107% of 2019 arrivals. Notably, the Netherlands is also one of two international markets that have tourists who visited all nine provinces of South Africa in 2024.The other market being the USA, which was the top overseas market for arrivals in 2024.

The global LGBTQIA+ travel market has evolved into one of the most valuable and fast-growing segments in tourism, fostering not just social inclusion but serious economic opportunity. In 2025 LGBTQ+ travellers are expected to contribute more than USD 333.4 billion in global tourism spend, with projections reaching USD 521.6 billion by 2031, according to recent industry reports (For context, South Africa generated R91.6 billion (USD 5 billion) from international visitors and a further R136.4 billion (USD 7.5 billion) from domestic tourists in 2024). This growing cohort is reshaping travel trends, demanding inclusive experiences, and rewarding destinations that treat them with dignity and visibility.

The Minister of Tourism notes the recent update by the United States Department of State to its travel advisory for South Africa. We respect the sovereign right of all nations to provide guidance to their citizens travelling abroad. We also acknowledge the recent meeting between Presidents Ramaphosa and Trump and the subsequent media coverage that has followed.

South African Tourism, through the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB), proudly announces its participation at IMEX Frankfurt 2025, the premier global trade show for the business events industry. South Africa arrives in Frankfurt not only as a destination of choice for meetings and conferences but also as Africa’s top performer in the latest International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) 2024 rankings. IMEX Frankfurt is set to take place from 20 to 22 May in Frankfurt, Germany.

The South African Tourism Board is deeply saddened by the passing of Ms. Lungi Mnganga-Gcabashe, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Tourism. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and her colleagues across government and Parliament.

It is with great sadness that we, Minister Patricia de Lille and Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu, extend our deepest condolences on the passing of Ms. Lungi Annette Mnganga-Gcabashe.

Long before the term ‘Astro Tourism’ entered the global travel lexicon, African communities had been reading the stars, mapping the skies, and using celestial knowledge to guide agriculture, rituals, and movement. Today, that deep-rooted relationship between humanity and the cosmos is being reawakened, this time as a powerful lever for tourism, education, and sustainable economic growth.

South Africa’s youth make up the majority of the population, and the future of the country’s tourism sector. But for the country to realise its full potential as a travel destination and industry leader, young people must be engaged today not just as consumers, but as creators, contributors, and catalysts for growth.

16 May 2025, Durban, South Africa – The projected economic benefits spurred by Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025, from event infrastructure and logistics to accommodation, restaurants, and local transport services, has been significant. The direct economic impact of Africa’s Travel Indaba on Durban’s GDP is estimated at R574-million, with direct spending totalling more than R232-million, highlighting the substantial economic benefits. Additionally, the event created over 2,000 jobs, particularly for the youth and local communities, with an anticipated household income contribution exceeding R140 million.