South African tourism has been on a rapid rise, with the latest tourism stats underlining the improving numbers before heading into the peak summer season.
More South Africans are heeding the call to take a shotleft and explore their country. From January to August 2022, an excess of 21,3 million domestic trips were taken, which represented a growth of 92% over the 2019 pre-pandemic levels.
‘Our domestic tourism sector is the cornerstone of our country’s tourism, so we are pleased to see that domestic tourism is growing, not only in numbers but also in spend,’ said Themba Khumalo, SA Tourism’s Acting CEO.
Domestic spending has also seen a growth of 190% over 2021, reaching R59,2 billion, with the average domestic tourist spending R2 781 per trip.
‘Interestingly, the number of bed nights increased, meaning people are not only travelling but also spending more nights away from home. This shows that, as South Africans, we are surely perpetuating a culture of travel amongst ourselves.’
Year-to-date, South Africa has received a total of 3.3 million international arrivals, signalling a 165% increase compared to the same period in 2021.
‘With our tourism numbers continuing to show an upward trajectory. We’re excited to head into summer, which is our peak season, with such great performance and in high spirits as a sector.’
International arrivals into South Africa were over half a million, 555 832 to be exact, in August 2022, a 199% increase when compared with August 2021.
According to Stats SA insights, holidaymakers constituted the majority of travellers to South Africa during August, followed by individuals travelling for business, as well as students and tourists travelling for medical treatment.
Picture: Getaway Gallery
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