South Africa’s tourism sector has emerged as a powerful driver of economic growth and job creation, with new data highlighting its recovery and expansion beyond pre-pandemic levels.
According to Statistics South Africa’s latest Tourism Satellite Account report, the sector supported 953 981 direct jobs in 2024 – accounting for 5.7% of the country’s labour force.
This translates to roughly one in every 18 South Africans being directly employed in tourism.
The sector’s contribution to the economy has also surged.
Tourism accounted for 4.9% of South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product in 2024, exceeding its 3.7% contribution in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, tourism outperformed traditional industries such as agriculture, utilities, and construction.
Tourism spending rebounded sharply, reaching a total of R779.2 billion. Domestic travellers contributed the bulk of this figure at R665.3 billion, while international visitors accounted for R113.9 billion.
“This once again reaffirms that domestic tourists are the bedrock of the sector in our country,” said Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille.
“They contribute significantly to the sector’s role in growing our economy and creating jobs, while international tourism continues to strengthen.”
The recovery is also evident in rising international arrivals.
South Africa recorded a milestone 10.5 million international visitors in 2025. Early figures for 2026 suggest continued momentum, with nearly 2 million arrivals recorded in the first two months of the year.
In January 2026, arrivals reached 1 133 533 – an increase of 12.4% compared to the same month in 2025. February followed with 864 534 arrivals, marking a 13.1% year-on-year rise.
“We expect further growth in international arrivals with the rollout of the Electronic Travellers Authorisation and our marketing strategy as we position South Africa as an affordable holiday and MICE destination of choice,” de Lille added.
The Minister attributed the sector’s strong performance to the implementation of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan, a collaborative initiative between government and the private sector aimed at accelerating recovery and long-term growth.
With domestic demand holding firm and international interest steadily increasing, tourism is once again cementing its role as a cornerstone of South Africa’s economic recovery.