Hospitality sector rebound in Cape, mixed results in KZN

South Africa’s peak December tourism season for the hospitality sector showed signs of recovery, but conditions varied greatly by region.

This is according to a recent member survey by the hospitality association, FEDHASA. Data indicates that while the Western Cape saw strong demand in line with expectations, KwaZulu Natal showed unexpected resilience despite facing challenges threatening its key beach tourism assets.

The country’s hospitality results align with FEDHASA’s preliminary findings which it shared with Tourism Update earlier in January.

“The Western Cape once again proved itself as the country’s premier domestic and international tourism destination this past December,” said Rosemary Anderson, FEDHASA National Chairperson. “Occupancy rates, room rates, and visitor spending met or exceeded pre-pandemic levels in many areas.” 

However, the picture was more mixed in KwaZulu Natal. “Given the recent pollution issues that impacted popular swimming beaches, we…