BY INDER RAJ AHLUWALIA
NEW DELHI | 14 FEBRUARY 2026
Legacy to the fact that India is fast emerging as a major tourist market for South Africa, the South African Tourism road show recently held in Delhi was a major event, with 42 exhibitors that included hoteliers, agents, tour operators, game parks and transporters. Interacting with them were some 300 local agents.
With 69,680 tourist arrivals from India in 2025-with 45 percent being MICE and Business-South Africa is surging ahead to further increase India origin business. I the year 2026, South Africa tourism has set a target of one lakhs footfall of Indian Tourists.
According to Mitalee Karmarkar, of South African Tourism, India is the 7th largest market for South Africa, with the top markets being the U.K.,U.S.A., Germany, The Netherlands, and Australia.
South Africa has just about everything tourists would desire, and they are in close proximity to one another. Game parks, beaches, mountains, sports, are all relatively easily accessible.
They have also addressed the very important issue of the perception that the country is unsafe. The position is better now, with remedial measures such as police vans being stationed in tourist sites.
While a sprinkling of Indian business comes from various regions, the main source centre is Mumbai, followed by Delhi, which is strong on VFR, MICE, business, leisure and shopping.
Most Indians go for wildlife and adventure, but other offers like wine tours, are gaining popularity. Currently, the most popular destinations for Indians are Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg. The average length of stay for Indians is 14 days, while some stay for 7 days.
Karmarkar stated that, tourism being very important for South Africa, they are extensively marketing their products and attractions in India. To facilitate MICE and Corporates, they are doing ‘think tanks’. Indian weddings have now become a trend, with wedding venues being beaches, parks and the countryside. They are working to further promote this segment.
Current focus is to promote regions like the Eastern Cape and part of Kruger National Park.
While South Africa is basically an all-season destination, the period April through June is relatively quieter, and the best time for good deals.
( THE WRITER IS AN INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED , MULTIPLE AWARD – WINNING TRAVEL JOURNALIST AND AUTHOR)
Advertisement:
Add Comment