Western Cape tourism surges as 1.5 million international visitors spend R26 billion.
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The Western Cape’s tourism sector delivered a major economic boost in 2025, with 1.5 million international visitors spending nearly R26 billion in the province, according to newly released data from South African Tourism.
The figures account for roughly a quarter of South Africa’s total international tourism revenue for the year, underscoring the province’s position as a leading destination on the continent. International arrivals to the Western Cape also grew by 11.1%, signalling a strong post-pandemic recovery and sustained global demand.
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Ivan Meyer, said the results reflect both growth and strategic intent within the sector.
“The Western Cape’s tourism performance in 2025 confirms that our province remains a top choice for both international and domestic travellers. We are building a tourism economy that continues to create jobs, supports communities, and protects our natural heritage.”
The province’s tourism appeal continues to draw high-value long-haul travellers, with the United Kingdom and Germany maintaining their status as the top source markets.
Domestic tourism also showed strong gains, with approximately four million overnight trips recorded in 2025, a 15.4% increase. The Western Cape further achieved the highest average domestic spend per overnight trip in the country, at R3,172.
Meyer said this trend highlights the province’s resilience despite economic constraints.
“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.”
The sector’s growth was also matched by recognition on the continental stage during World Travel Market Africa, where several Western Cape organisations were honoured at the 2026 Responsible Tourism Awards.
Among the top achievers were the V&A Waterfront Academy and the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company, both receiving Gold Awards for excellence in skills development and environmental management.
Unexplored Cape Town earned a Silver Award for community-based tourism, while the Cape Tourist Guides Association was named “One to Watch.”
Township & Village, a Stellenbosch-based initiative, was also recognised for promoting community-driven tourism that keeps economic benefits within local areas.
Meyer said the awards highlight a shift towards inclusive tourism models.
“These award winners show what is possible when tourism is designed to benefit local people as much as visitors. They set an example for the sector not only in the Western Cape, but across Africa.”
Despite the strong performance, the provincial government acknowledged ongoing pressure on domestic travel spending nationally. In response, authorities plan to refine tourism strategies to strengthen resilience and broaden economic impact.
Key priorities include promoting value-for-money travel, expanding tourism beyond major hubs, and supporting responsible tourism practices that create jobs and protect cultural and environmental assets.
Meyer emphasised that future growth must translate into tangible benefits for residents.
“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.”
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