Third Mega Lekker Escape showcases South Africa to Australia and New Zealand agents
South African Tourism concluded its third and most ambitious Mega Lekker Escape, sending 110 Australian and New Zealand travel agents and media on 11 simultaneous familiarisation trips across eight provinces, culminating in a two-day training event at Sun City in the Pilanesberg. Ten wholesalers led itineraries designed to broaden bookable product beyond headline attractions and rebuild destination knowledge across the trade.
The initiative emphasised sustainability, conservation and inclusive growth, connecting groups with 60 SMMEs and hosting nine SMMEs for speed marketing at Sun City, alongside partners including South African Airways, Qantas and FedAir. South African Tourism reports strong outcomes, with up to 90% of participating agents booking South Africa within a year, delivery estimated to inject ZAR12 million into the economy and a further ZAR5 million projected from year-one bookings; Australia recorded 121,361 arrivals in 2025, up 23.2% year on year, and New Zealand 23,324, up 15.8%, both above pre-Covid levels.
Source: Travel Monitor
