Travel Trade News

South African Tourism (SA Tourism) notes with concern the article published by City Press on Sunday, 6 July 2025, under the headline “SA Tourism tender irregularities and attempted cover-up exposed in court”. The article contains several factual inaccuracies and claims that are neither truthful, accurate nor fair.

Tourism minister Patricia De Lille’s budget speech vote 38: Tourism budget for the 2025/26 financial year

The Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, and the South African Tourism Board, are pleased to officially announce the 2026 dates for the two South African Tourism-owned and African continent’s leading trade shows, Meetings Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba .

In a world where travellers are looking for more than just picture-perfect moments, South Africa is emerging as a global leader in adventure tourism — offering experiences that are rich in meaning, culture, and connection to nature. And this is where South Africa rises above the noise — it’s also why backpacking is booming because, South Africa’s not just a stop on the map; we’re a living, breathing invitation to discover what ‘Come Find Your Joy!’ really means.

The inaugural Glamping Expo 2025, held from 20-21 June at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, marked a pivotal moment for the country’s tourism and hospitality sector. The event brought together the entire glamping value chain - from tent manufacturers and eco-conscious designers to government officials, investors, and influencers - to solidify South Africa’s position as a culturally rich glamping destination.

A new generation of youth entrepreneurs is reshaping South Africa’s tourism scene with fresh ideas and unique experiences, from thrilling dune adventures to wellness hikes and cultural escapes. Their innovative work was recently celebrated at the 2025 Top 16 Youth-Owned Brand Awards (YOBAs) in Johannesburg, where four businesses—Twin Venture, Hikeobics, NBGS Travel, and Asambeni Getaway—were shortlisted in the Travel & Tourism category.

South Africa officially opened the doors to its world-class cultural and scientific attraction the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre in the Golden Gate Highlands Park in the Free State Province.

Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille has officially welcomed the staging of the first-ever Glamping Expo in Johannesburg, applauding the initiative as a timely and innovative leap forward for South Africa’s tourism landscape.

China is South Africa’s 13th largest overseas source market (and 22nd overall) for tourism in 2024 and the third most lucrative from Asia and Australasia in terms of revenue behind Australia and India, and there remains room for improvement. Recognising this, the South African tourism industry aspires to grow its footprint in this market. "Arrivals in 2025 are at 13,976 for the period since January to April, and although they are improved, they remain below half the 2019 levels. This is why this new fiscal year we’ve [South African Tourism China] increased our investment in the China market for the 2025/26 fiscal year because we see clear growth potential. Success in this space requires deep cultural understanding, a strong digital presence, and tailored experiences that speak to the evolving needs of Chinese travellers. " Gcobani Mancotywa, Regional General Manager, Asia, Australasia and Middle East. Chinese tourists bring significant economic benefits, and South African Tourism (SA Tourism) focuses on enhancing their experience, building brand awareness, and ensuring repeat visits.

South Africa unveils one of its most exciting cultural and scientific attractions yet - the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre. This state-of-the-art visitor experience is set in the breathtaking landscapes of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.

What if your first ‘grown-up’ adventure wasn’t across the ocean, but in your own beautiful country? What if joy wasn’t something you left to find far away, but something that’s waiting for you in the golden dunes of the Northern Cape, the hip streets of Maboneng, or the lush cliffs of the Wild Coast?

Africa’s inaugural Glamping Expo is set to revolutionise the outdoor tourism and hospitality industry. Taking place from 20-21 June 2025 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre (Nasrec), the pioneering event will bring together innovators, thought leaders and enthusiasts along the glamping value chain.