Indian travel demand for South Africa continues to grow, with family, adventure, and luxury segments leading the way
With 15% new products, Chennai roadshow welcomed over 300 Indian travel trade agents in the city
Chennai, 19th March 2025: Building on the growing enthusiasm for travel, South African Tourism launched the 21st edition of its Annual India Roadshow in Chennai. Led by Mr. Gcobani Mancotywa, Regional General Manager for Asia, Australia, and Middle East, South African Tourism, the roadshow served as a strategic platform to strengthen business relationships, address evolving traveller preferences, and unlock new growth opportunities.
With 40 exhibitors showcasing their offerings, the roadshow attracted participation from over 300 Indian travel trade agents in the city. Strengthening its engagement with the Indian market, the multi-city roadshow will now travel to Mumbai on March 20th 2025 fostering deeper trade partnerships and driving outbound tourism to South Africa.
Commenting during the roadshow, Mr. Mancotywa stated, тАЬIndia has always been a high-priority market for South African Tourism, with strong demand from family travellers, adventure seekers, and luxury tourists. While family travel remains a steady segment, we are now witnessing a significant rise in travelers above the age of 40 exploring South Africa. At the same time, the younger demographic presents a promising opportunity, and tapping into this segment will be a key focus for us moving forward.тАЭ
He continued, тАЬIn 2024, out of the 75,541 Indian tourists who visited South Africa, 3.1% were from Chennai, reaffirming the cityтАЩs strong outbound potential. Bollywood and cricketтАФtwo of IndiaтАЩs greatest passionsтАФcontinue to be at the core of our strategic outreach. From hosting film productions to leveraging cricketтАЩs deep-rooted influence, we aim to create stronger cultural connections that inspire more Indian travelers to experience the magic of South Africa. We remain committed to deepening these ties and welcoming more visitors from India to the Rainbow NationтАЭ
Chennai continues to be a key source market for South African Tourism, with its travellers displaying strong preferences for both retail experiences and nature-driven adventures. In 2024, 22% of Chennai-based travelers to South Africa expressed a strong inclination towards shopping, while 15% were drawn to natural attractions and wildlife experiences. This underscores a dual demand for leisure and exploration among ChennaiтАЩs outbound travellers. To tap into this evolving market, South African Tourism is actively engaging ChennaiтАЩs travel trade community, ensuring that the destinationтАЩs diverse offerings resonate with the cityтАЩs travel aspirations.
As part of ongoing efforts to streamline travel, South AfricaтАЩs new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system and the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) are set to significantly enhance visa processing for Indian tourists. Additionally, discussions are progressing on establishing direct flight routes between the two nations, a move expected to further boost visitor numbers. Highlighting this, Mr. Mancotywa noted, тАЬTravel convenience is a key factor in destination preference, and we are actively working with stakeholders to improve connectivity and simplify entry requirements for Indian travellers.тАЭ
With South Africa set to assume the G20 Presidency in 2025, tourism plays a pivotal role in fostering global travel partnerships and driving sustainable growth. Looking ahead, the tourism board remains committed to deepening its presence in India through sustained trade engagement, consumer awareness initiatives, and innovative marketing strategies.
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