South Africa’s Western Cape province pulled in nearly R26 billion from 1.5 million international visitors in 2025, accounting for a quarter of the country’s total international tourism revenue, as the region cements its position as Africa’s premier travel destination.
New data from South African Tourism shows international arrivals to the province grew by 11.1% last year, pointing to sustained global demand even as economic pressures weigh on travellers worldwide.
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism Ivan Meyer said the numbers reflect a sector that is not only growing but delivering real benefits to communities. 
“The Western Cape’s tourism performance in 2025 confirms that our province remains a top choice for both international and domestic travellers,” Meyer said. “We are building a tourism economy that continues to create jobs, supports communities, and protects our natural heritage.”
Meyer tied the tourism boom directly to employment, pointing to the province’s standing as having the lowest unemployment rate in South Africa. “When tourism grows, jobs are created,” he said, describing the Western Cape as “the land of opportunity.”
The United Kingdom and Germany remained the province’s biggest international source markets in 2025, signalling strong appetite from long-haul travellers.
Domestic tourism also bounced back sharply, with approximately four million overnight trips recorded, a 15.4% increase. The province achieved the highest average domestic spend per overnight trip in the country at R3,172.
“These figures demonstrate the Western Cape’s ability to attract higher-value visitors and to support a wide range of tourism businesses, even in a constrained economic environment,” Meyer said.
The province’s tourism credentials received further recognition at the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2026, where several Western Cape organisations took home honours. The V&A Waterfront Academy and Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company both secured Gold Awards for excellence in skills development, environmental management and inclusive economic impact. Unexplored Cape Town received a Silver Award for community-based tourism, while the Cape Tourist Guides Association was named “One to Watch.” Stellenbosch-based Township and Village was also praised for its community-driven model.
“These award winners show what is possible when tourism is designed to benefit local people as much as visitors,” Meyer said. “They set an example for the sector not only in the Western Cape, but across Africa.”
Despite rising domestic travel volumes nationally, spending per trip remains under pressure. The provincial government is responding by refining its tourism strategy to promote value-for-money offerings, expand travel beyond major hotspots and support responsible tourism practices that grow small businesses.
“Our approach is clear,” Meyer said. “Tourism must work for the people of the Western Cape. By combining strong demand, responsible leadership, and targeted support, we are ensuring that tourism growth translates into real and lasting value for our communities.”
