South Africa is renowned for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming communities, making it an ideal destination for travelers from around the world. With the Easter long weekend approaching, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has called on local and international tourists to explore the country’s breathtaking scenery, rich heritage, and thriving communities. Domestic Tourism: A Growing Market
Domestic tourism in South Africa continues to thrive, with travelers increasingly seeking unique and affordable experiences. Recent insights from the 2024 Sho’t Left Travel Week campaign highlighted key trends shaping local travel. These include:
- Affordability remains a priority: Travelers are looking for more budget-friendly accommodation and experiences, making initiatives like Sho’t Left vital in ensuring more South Africans can explore their own country.
- Lesser-known destinations are in demand: More South Africans are seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, opting for places with fewer crowds and deeper cultural experiences.
- Personalised travel experiences are key: Families, solo travelers, seniors, and adventure-seekers are all looking for tailored travel options, including accessible tourism and wellness retreats.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille emphasized the importance of supporting local tourism, stating, “Every night spent in a guesthouse, every meal at a local restaurant, and every souvenir bought from a market contributes to our economy. By supporting local tourism, we ensure that the benefits of travel extend beyond major cities, promoting inclusive economic growth.”
International Tourism on the Rise
International visitors remain a crucial part of South Africa’s tourism strategy. In the first two months of 2025, the country welcomed nearly 1.8 million international visitors, an increase of 4.7% compared to the same period last year. This growth demonstrates the enduring appeal of South Africa’s diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy!
South African Tourism recently launched its new global brand campaign, ‘South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy!’ This campaign encourages travelers – both local and international – to rediscover South Africa with the wonder and excitement of a first-time visitor. De Lille urged travelers to take advantage of the upcoming long weekends to explore, experience, and support local businesses. Call to Action
De Lille urged travelers to book their stays, discover new destinations, and support local businesses. She emphasized, “Take the trip. Book the stay. Discover the dorpie. Dance at the festival. Visit the market. Eat the magwinya. Support local. Make the memory. Take that Sho’t Left! Our country is calling. South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy!”
| Destination | Activity | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Twin Venture | Quad biking and sandboarding | Thrilling adventure experiences in breathtaking landscapes |
| Lesser-known towns | Exploration and cultural experiences | Immersive experiences in off-the-beaten-path destinations |
| Accommodation | Guesthouses and local restaurants | Authentic and affordable experiences |
Quote from Minister Patricia de Lille
“Every night spent in a guesthouse, every meal at a local restaurant, and every souvenir bought from a market contributes to our economy. By exploring the country’s diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant communities, travelers can contribute to the country’s inclusive economic growth. Take advantage of the upcoming long weekends to book your stays, discover new destinations, and support local businesses. South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy!
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