## How Many People Travel to South Africa?
South Africa is a popular tourist destination, with millions of people visiting the country each year. In 2019, South Africa received a record-breaking 10.5 million foreign tourists, a 1.8% increase from the previous year. This number is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, as South Africa becomes an increasingly popular destination for both leisure and business travel.
### Who Visits South Africa?
The majority of foreign tourists who visit South Africa come from neighboring African countries, such as Lesotho, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe. However, there is also a significant number of visitors from Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
* **Top 10 countries of origin for foreign tourists to South Africa in 2019:**
* Lesotho
* Swaziland
* Zimbabwe
* United Kingdom
* Germany
* United States
* Netherlands
* France
* China
* India
### Why Do People Visit South Africa?
There are many reasons why people choose to visit South Africa. Some of the most popular attractions include:
* **Natural beauty:** South Africa is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, including mountains, beaches, deserts, and forests.
* **Wildlife:** South Africa is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and hippos.
* **Culture:** South Africa is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from African, European, and Asian cultures.
* **History:** South Africa has a rich history, which includes the apartheid era and the struggle for freedom.
### How Long Do People Stay in South Africa?
The average length of stay for foreign tourists in South Africa is 10 days. However, this varies depending on the purpose of the visit. For example, business travelers typically stay for a shorter period of time than leisure travelers.
### Economic Impact of Tourism
Tourism is a major contributor to the South African economy. In 2019, tourism generated R151.1 billion (US$10.3 billion) in revenue and created 728,000 jobs.
### Future of Tourism in South Africa
The future of tourism in South Africa is bright. The country is expected to continue to attract more visitors in the coming years, as it becomes an increasingly popular destination for both leisure and business travel.
Here are some of the factors that are expected to contribute to the growth of tourism in South Africa:
* **Increased investment in infrastructure:** The South African government is investing in infrastructure projects that will improve the tourism experience, such as new airports and roads.
* **Marketing campaigns:** The South African Tourism Board is launching marketing campaigns to promote South Africa as a tourist destination.
* **Visa reforms:** The South African government is making it easier for foreign tourists to obtain visas.
With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and fascinating history, South Africa is a country that has something to offer everyone. As the country continues to develop its tourism infrastructure and promote itself as a tourist destination, it is expected to attract even more visitors in the years to come.