South African Tourism has intensified its engagement with the Indian travel trade through a multi-city roadshow covering Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Delhi. Each city witnessed participation from over 250 travel trade partners, along with participation at OTM in Mumbai. , reflecting a strong interest in the destination across key source markets.
In an interaction with Travel Mail, Ms Mitalee Karmarkar, Marketing and Communications Manager (MEISEA), South African Tourism, shared that the organisation is targeting a return to pre-pandemic Indian visitor numbers — exceeding 1 lakh arrivals — by 2026.
A central pillar of South Africa’s India strategy is visa simplification. Processing timelines for sticker visas have been significantly reduced from 15–20 working days to approximately 5–7 working days, addressing a key friction point for Indian travellers.
Further strengthening accessibility, 35 tour operators have been appointed as visa facilitators under the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), enabling smoother processing for organised travel groups. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), initially launched as a pilot project, is now live and allows Indian travellers to apply online and receive digital approval, streamlining the application process.
These measures are expected to enhance conversion rates and build confidence among Indian outbound travellers.
Mumbai and Delhi continue to remain the top departure markets for South Africa from India. Discussions regarding the launch of direct flight connectivity are underway, with confirmation expected following consultations with relevant authorities. Direct air access is anticipated to significantly strengthen demand, particularly across business, MICE and premium leisure segments.
MICE and corporate travel remain among the strongest growth drivers from India. South African Tourism has been conducting dedicated MICE think tanks to educate Indian planners on destination infrastructure, incentive offerings and logistical support available within South Africa.
Leisure travel is also witnessing strong momentum, particularly during India’s peak outbound summer months of April, May and June. The global campaign “Come Find Your Joy” has been localised for the Indian audience, highlighting vegetarian-friendly culinary options, adventure experiences, scenic road trips, wildlife safaris and family-oriented itineraries.
The upcoming 2027 Cricket World Cup presents a significant tourism opportunity. South African Tourism is working closely with travel trade partners to develop match-linked itineraries that combine cricket viewing experiences with destination exploration. Engagements with cricket associations, media representatives, influencers and trade partners are also being explored to maximise tourism potential around the tournament.
While Cape Town and Mpumalanga — gateway to the iconic Kruger National Park — remain popular among Indian travellers, South African Tourism is actively promoting lesser-known regions to encourage repeat visitation and wider geographic dispersion.
Limpopo Province, which encompasses nearly 55 per cent of Kruger National Park, offers fewer crowds, competitive accommodation options and expansive safari experiences that enhance wildlife sighting opportunities. The Eastern Cape, including destinations such as Coffee Bay, presents a diverse landscape of beaches, mountains and rugged coastlines that remain relatively untapped in the Indian market. Diamond tourism experiences and heritage circuits are also being positioned for stronger visibility.
Through improved visa processes, expanded trade engagement, potential direct connectivity and strategic event-driven travel initiatives, South Africa is positioning itself as a compelling, year-round destination for Indian travellers across segments.
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