South Africa Tourism survey shows majority of travellers visit one province
South African Tourism’s 2025 Departure Survey shows that 91% of international travellers to South Africa visit only one province, with just 9% visiting more than one. This concentration limits wider economic benefits, as multi‑province travellers stay longer – 20 days versus 14 – and spend significantly more, about R26,000 per trip compared with R8,800.
Provincial spread is strongest from South America (53% visit multiple provinces), followed by Australasia (37%) and North America (35%), with Brazil leading at 55.2%, Canada 41.6% and Australia 37%. African markets remain highly concentrated, particularly land arrivals (2.3% multi‑province vs 11% by air). Multi‑province trips are mainly holiday‑driven (55%), skew to older travellers (43% over 40) and couples or friends, and are more likely to include natural attractions (63%), wildlife experiences (59%) and inclusive packages (35% vs 21%) – pointing to opportunities for the trade to package seamless cross‑province itineraries and for destination marketers to strengthen content, connectivity and guidance.
Source: South African Tourism