South Africa welcomed more than 6.5 million international tourists during the first seven months of 2026, strengthening tourism’s contribution to economic growth and employment.
International tourist arrivals reached 991,696 in July 2026, representing a 12.5% increase compared with July last year.
Between January and July, the country recorded 6,576,169 international tourist arrivals, up 12.4% compared with the same period in 2025.
Growth was recorded from both African and overseas markets.
Arrivals from elsewhere in Africa increased by 14.3% year-on-year during the seven-month period, while overseas arrivals grew by 5.7%.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said the figures also indicate that tourism growth is becoming more geographically diversified.
“The data reveals that the growth is becoming geographically diversified, which has been one of our strategic priorities,” De Lille said.
“Together with the private sector and stakeholders we’ll continue to build on this momentum through the recently launched digital visa, the Electronic Travel Authorisation system.”
The continued increase in international arrivals comes as government positions tourism as one of the sectors capable of contributing to greater economic growth and employment.
President Cyril Ramaphosa recently identified tourism as one of four key sectors expected to drive inclusive economic growth, job creation and confidence under phase three of the Government-Business Partnership and Operation Vulindlela.
The sector already represents a significant part of the South African economy.
In 2024, tourism supported 954,000 direct jobs and contributed 4.9% to the country’s gross domestic product.
The latest arrival figures suggest the sector is continuing to rebuild its international visitor base while broadening the markets contributing to that growth.
With almost one million international tourists arriving in July alone, continued growth could strengthen opportunities across accommodation, hospitality, transport, attractions and other businesses connected to South Africa’s tourism economy.
