South Africa Tourism Aims to Surpass Pre-Pandemic Levels

South Africa is poised for a robust tourism recovery, aiming to exceed pre-pandemic visitor numbers as it capitalizes on increased air capacity and strategic market developments. Bronwen Auret, South African Tourism’s chief quality assurance officer, reported to Aviation Week that tourist arrivals reached 8.5 million in 2023, constituting 83% of the 2019 figures. This indicates a strong trajectory for continued growth in the sector.

The country has seen substantial recovery in its regional African markets, while North America has notably surpassed pre-COVID-19 arrival numbers. Europe is also on a gradual recovery path, with key markets like the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and France expected to return to 2019 levels within the next year.

Air connectivity has paralleled this tourism growth, with current air capacity recovery at 85% of the levels seen in 2019. The Middle East, particularly Dubai, remains a major hub for flights to South Africa, but routes from the Americas have fully recovered, according to Auret. Additionally, South African Airways has been expanding its reach with nonstop flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to São Paulo and the reinstatement of flights to Perth, which enhances connections with the Australian market.

New developments include Norse Atlantic beginning flights between London Gatwick and Cape Town, which will bolster connectivity from the UK—South Africa’s largest international source market. Improved regional connectivity with neighboring countries like Zimbabwe, Eswatini, and Tanzania also enhances the overall travel experience in the region.

Looking forward, South Africa targets strategic growth from more than 40 key markets. Core markets such as the UK, U.S., Germany, Netherlands, and France are expected to continue their upward trends. For markets without direct flights like India, Japan, and Canada, South Africa plans a strategic engagement with airlines to ensure travel convenience and value for money, essential for attracting tourists from these areas.

Additionally, with existing nonstop services like Air China’s flights between Shenzhen and Johannesburg, South Africa is keen on tapping into the growing traveler influx and business exchanges between the two countries.

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