Euromonitor sees 40% rise in visitors to South Africa
South Africa's tourism sector has experienced a remarkable recovery, with visitor numbers soaring by over 40% to surpass 8 million in 2023, according to Euromonitor International. The country is approaching 90% of its pre-Covid arrival figures and is projected to exceed 10 million inbound trips in 2024.
Christy Tawii, research manager at Euromonitor, attributes this growth to South Africa's reputation as a value-for-money destination and its weak currency. The nation has benefited from both traditional markets like Europe and the US, as well as emerging ones such as China and India.
Regional African travellers form a significant portion of inbound tourists, bolstered by initiatives like the visa-waiver scheme between South Africa and Ghana. The country's diverse offerings, including cultural heritage, adventure tourism, and eco-tourism, appeal to a wide range of international visitors.
Domestic tourism remains crucial, accounting for over 45% of total value sales. The industry is adapting to this trend by developing tailored packages for local travellers.
Looking ahead, the sector is embracing digital transformation, with 45% of companies already offering trip management apps. Artificial Intelligence is expected to revolutionise how consumers interact with travel services, driving future growth and innovation.
Source: Biz Community