From January to December 2023, there were 6.4 million visitors from other parts of the African continent, accounting for 75.6% of all visitors.
South Africa – Official release of recent international arrival numbers south africa statistics Statistics from January to December 2023 highlight the growing momentum in South Africa’s tourism sector.
A total of 8.5 million international tourists arrived from January to December 2023, a significant increase of 48.9% compared to the same period in 2022.
Africa continues to lead the way
- South Africa received 6.4 million visitors from other parts of the African continent between January and December 2023, accounting for 75.6% of all visitors.
- Zimbabwe and Kenya stand out for their significant growth, with Zimbabwe increasing by 70.8% in tourist arrivals to South Africa compared to 2022, reaching a total of 2.1 million, while Kenya increased by 70.8% compared to 2022. The number of arrivals in January reached 42,403, marking a 99% jump. Until December 2023.
Strong momentum from the Americas
- The number of tourist arrivals from the Americas reached 455,901, representing an increase of 39.8% compared to the same period in 2022.
- In the United States, 353,975 people arrived in South Africa, an increase of 35% compared to 2022.
Strengths in the European market
- From January to December 2023, South Africa received 1.2 million tourist arrivals from Europe, an increase of 38.2% compared to the same period in 2022.
- The UK remains Europe's top source market, with 356,160 tourists choosing South Africa, recording a growth of 25.8% compared to 2022.
- Germany saw a 41.6% increase in arrivals compared to 2022, reaching 245,259 tourists.
- This was followed by the Netherlands, with an increase of 45.5% compared to 2022, reaching 131,371 tourists from January to December 2023.
- Russia showed a dramatic growth of 74.7% compared to 2022, contributing 28,357 arrivals in 2023.
Notable growth from Asian markets
- The Asian market also showed significant growth, with a total of 199,308 arrivals from the region, representing an impressive 69.1% compared to the same period in 2022.
- It received 79,774 tourists from India, an increase of 43.7% compared to 2022.
- In particular, the number of arrivals from China was 37,164, a significant increase of 204.9% in 2023 compared to 2022.
Solid profits in the Middle East
The Middle East saw a significant increase in arrivals of 54,339 people from January to December 2023, an increase of 33.7% compared to the same period in 2022. South Africa received 16,351 arrivals from Saudi Arabia in 2023, registering a comparative increase of 42.6%. Until 2022
- In the United Arab Emirates, 6,511 people arrived in South Africa, an astonishing 110% increase compared to 2022.
Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille He expressed his delight at the impressive numbers from the African continent and highlighted the strategic decisions that have contributed to the growth of specific markets. She added: “Kenya’s impressive performance can be attributed to the government’s strategic decision to simplify the visa regime in 2023, as well as a targeted and effective insight-based marketing campaign.”
“This recovery can be attributed to our consistent efforts to present South Africa as a welcoming and responsible tourism destination, highlighting experiences that suit intrepid, green economy-minded travelers.” the minister said. Minister Delisle specifically mentioned the reopening of the Chinese market and the resumption of direct flights in 2023, underscoring South Africa's attractiveness and attractiveness as a tourist destination.
Looking ahead, Minister de Lille emphasized the need to remove barriers such as visa regulations and restrictions on air access and air transport for sustainable growth. The Minister expressed his determination to work with partners and government colleagues to facilitate policy and regulatory revisions.
In conclusion, Minister de Lille thanked all visitors who chose to visit South Africa and equally thanked the South African people for their continued hospitality and warm welcome to visitors, and thanked them for their continued attraction, attraction and , and expressed optimism for continued tourism growth.
Theodore is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of the TravelDailyNews media network. His responsibilities include business development and long-term opportunity planning for TravelDailyNews.
