South Africa’s tourism industry is not just recovering; it is soaring to new heights, with new data showcasing how it has transformed into a robust engine of economic growth and job creation.

According to the latest Tourism Satellite Account for South Africa report, the sector flourished in 2024, recording an impressive 953,981 direct jobs, which equates to 5.7% of the country’s labour force.

Furthermore, the report indicates that tourism’s contribution to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rose to 4.9% in 2024.

Remarkably, the tourism sector has outperformed key sectors such as agriculture, utilities and construction, signifying its vital importance in the country’s economic framework.

The financial footprint of tourism has also seen a remarkable resurgence, with a total expenditure reaching R779.2 billion.

The momentum continues, as the country witnessed a record of 10.5 million international arrivals in 2025. Early 2026 has also seen a significant uptick, with nearly 2 million visitors welcomed in just the first two months.

Source: Capetown Etc