The recent official release of international arrival figures by Statistics South Africa for January to December 2023 underscores the rising momentum of South Africa’s tourism sector.
International tourist arrivals from January to December 2023 totalled 8.5 million, representing a remarkable 48.9% increase when compared with same period in 2022.
Africa continues to lead the Way
South Africa welcomed 6.4 million visitors from the rest of the African continent between January and December 2023, marking a significant 75.6% of all arrivals.
Zimbabwe and Kenya stood out for their remarkable growth, with Zimbabwe experiencing a 70.8% increase in tourist arrivals to South Africa when compared to 2022, totalling 2.1 million arrivals, while Kenya recorded a 99% surge when compared to 2022, reaching 42,403 arrivals for January to December 2023.
Strong Momentum from the Americas
Tourist arrivals from the Americas registered at 455,901 reflecting a 39.8% growth compared to the same…