South Africa tourism arrivals reach 5.6 million in first half of 2026

South Africa’s tourism sector is showing significant momentum, with the South African Reserve Bank reporting that tourist arrivals reached approximately 5.6 million in the first half of 2026. This figure remains above pre-pandemic levels. Growth is being driven largely by visitors from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), with Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho identified as the largest contributors to the regional bloc's numbers.

In conjunction with this growth, the country is observing Tourism Month under the theme ‘Growing South Africa’s Tourism Sector in the Digital Era.’ Deputy Minister of Tourism Maggie Sotyu has called on citizens to support local economies by spending within their communities and specifically highlighted the importance of showcasing women-owned products and experiences. The initiative aims to ensure that local entrepreneurs and communities benefit directly from increased tourism activity.