The United Kingdom and Zimbabwe are leading the way in South Africa’s impressive 30.2% surge in international tourism between January and August 2025. This rise in visitor numbers highlights the growing appeal of South Africa as a top global travel destination. With key players like British Airways expanding flight routes and major hotel chains increasing their presence, the country is witnessing a thriving tourism industry. Whether it’s the scenic beauty of Cape Town, the wildlife experiences of Kruger National Park, or the vibrant culture of Johannesburg, South Africa is ready to welcome more international tourists than ever before. With its enhanced connectivity and world-class hospitality, the country is positioning itself as an increasingly accessible and desirable destination for travelers from the UK, Zimbabwe, and beyond.

Zimbabwe and the UK Drive South Africa’s 30.2% Increase in Visits

The South African tourism sector is doing well, as we have seen an increase in international tourists of 30.2% from January to August 2025. A big part of this increase comes from the UK and Zimbabwe, two of South Africa’s biggest markets. The increase in visitors shows how important airlines and the hospitality industry are to travel, from international flights to the hotels. The whole travel system is ready for a busy 2025 to be successful, and 2025 will keep us busy.

This article looks at South African tourism’s growth and the increase in British Airways flight routes. We will discuss the hospitality industry’s adaptation to demand and how the UK and Zimbabwe are moving customers. We have prepared expert travel tips and the necessary information to support you in your travel to South Africa in 2025.

South Africa’s Tourism Growth is Led by the UK

For South Africa, the United Kingdom is very important for the country’s tourism international markets. South Africa’s tourism grew because there were more UK travelers. In 2025, 12.3% more British travelers came to South Africa compared to the previous year. South Africa is becoming more popular for people from the UK because it has great adventures, fantastic wildlife, and a rich culture.

The connection between the UK and South Africa is very strong. This is because of their history and frequent flights. British Airways has a big impact on this. British Airways has expanded their services to South Africa and increased the frequency of certain flights. They also have direct flights from London to Johannesburg and Cape Town. They also have dual daily flights to Johannesburg on the A380, which is expected to increase the flow of British travelers significantly.

Zimbabwe: A Growing Source of Visitors

Zimbabwe, one of South Africa’s neighboring countries, has also seen impressive growth in ouboud tourism. Zimbabwean visitors have long been an essential part of the South African tourism market, and the trend is showing no signs of slowing down. Proximity, as well as strong cultural and familial ties, explains this growth. Zimbabwe’s tourism to South Africa significantly contributes to the 30.2% increase in international visitors this year.

Zimbabwe has encountered multiple challenges politically and economically, yet the travel and tourism industry has been steadily growing. More Zimbabweans are choosing South Africa as a travel destination for leisure, business, and family visitation. Because of easily accessible flights from Zimbabwe’s major cities, Harare and Bulawayo, to Johannesburg, South Africa is an even more natural choice for short-haul international travel.

British Airways Grows Routes Due to Demand

With an increase in international visitors, airlines are growing to meet the demand. British Airways, a frontrunner on the UK-South Africa route, has reached new heights in its operations. British Airways has been stepping up to the demand, as the UK makes up a large portion of the international tourism market to South Africa, by increasing the number of flights and services. British Airways also started double daily A380 service to Johannesburg. British Airways also relaxed flight restrictions to Cape Town, and has responded to interest in both cities.

British Airways has also been expanding their premium product. The airline has been particularly integrating more premium pieces in the airline as well as route to South Africa, offering more comfort and service to the travelers. First class guests are entitled an extraordinary service, complete with impressive world-class service and newly integrated exclusive airport lounges and caters to their needs as much as the destination is remembered.

If you are thinking about a trip to South Africa, booking with British Airways can offer a dependable, stress-free experience. Their timetable prepares for a flexible range of South African departures from the United Kingdom, meaning potential South African holidaymakers can plan their holiday to South Africa around their timetable. Finally, British Airways takes pride in offering fine quality services, meaning any customer, whether a holidaymaker to South Africa or a businessman, can anticipate a memorable experience in the air.

Hospitality Industry Respond to Increased Tourism

There is a surge in international tourism, and South Africa’s hospitality industry is taking every opportunity presented. With the influx of international guests at 30.2% increase, the country’s hotels, lodges, and resorts are gearing up for a busier time to come. Major hotel chains like Hilton, Marriott and Accor are building new hotels in our country’s biggest cities and in our country’s biggest tourist hotspots, which are intended to offer their services.

Marriott, a globally respected hospitality leader, is also working with the country’s tourism industry and is due to expand its portfolio to 50 new locations, which include South Africa, by 2027. Their expansion focuses on servicing holidaymakers and accommodating the business people whose work takes them to South Africa. Hilton is also focusing on building new hotels, with the aim of increase their portfolio on the African continent by 300%. Much of the new hotels are expected to open in South Africa.

There’s more variety in the range of accommodation, personalized service, and immersive experiences where you will be more one on one with the staff and the owner of the establishment. Did you know that there are brand new and shiny boutique hotels in Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg?

Tips for Tourists in 2025

There’s a lot more to consider for tourists regarding the beauty, culture, and history that South Africa has to offer. Here are a few suggestions to ease the planning for 2025:

1. Visas: Tourists from almost all countries, including Zimbabwe and the UK, will need a visa to travel to South Africa. Make sure to check the current visa specifications on the South African Government website or contact a government official, and do this well before you travel.
2. Travel Insurance: Travel insurance that covers all emergencies is strongly suggested before making a trip to South Africa, to cover the unexpected medical, flight, or bag loss emergencies that may occur.
3. Currency and Payment: The official currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards can be used at most establishments, especially in the cities, but it is wise to carry some cash for small purchases or if there is a problem with your card.
4. Health and Safety: Despite being a major tourist destination, South Africa has some crime. In urban centers, visually survey the environment for any potential threats. Be mindful of your belongings. Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces are potentially deadly due to the prevalence of Malaria. Speak to your doctor about Malaria Prophylactics or Vaccines for those areas along with Kruger National Park.
5. Flights and Travel Time: From Europe and the UK, it typically takes about 10 to 12 hours to get to South Africa. For tourists looking to avoid connecting flights, it is great to know that British Airways has direct flights to Johannesburg from London Heathrow .
6. Local Etiquette South Africa has many languages and cultures to learn about. Everywhere you go, some people are able to speak English. However, each tourist area has English. It would be better to learn some basic Zulu, Xhosa, or Afrikaans.

How to Get Around in South Africa

Transport networks are developed and connected to each city in South Africa. For tourists, you can get from place to place by taking a flight. They offer the fastest service and it is useful to go to Cape Town. For safe remote traveling, think about renting a car. Be considerate and check local driving rules. It is a good idea to be extra careful during country side trips.

Transport can be different by city. Cape Town has a MyCiTi bus service and for Johannesburg there are trains. People who want an easy and safe way to go around the country can get a private car. Most people offer guided service in each city.

The United Kingdom and Zimbabwe are driving South Africa’s 30.2% tourism growth in 2025, as British Airways expands its routes. This surge reflects South Africa’s rising appeal, bolstered by enhanced connectivity and a thriving hospitality sector.

Key Takeaways

Between January and August 2025, the number of international visitors to South Africa increased by 30.2%. The tourism sector in South Africa is very strong and growing. This growth is greatly influenced by the new train and increased number of travelers from the UK and Zimbabwe. The hospitality and tourist accommodation industries are growing and expanding, providing more options for visitors to each of the new hotels, resorts, and tourist boutiques.

2025 will have South Africa offerings to visitors which will include safaris and other activities with natural views and exceptional and urban city living. South Africa has diverse tourist offerings and is open to visitors with direct flights from well-known airlines like British Airways.

Tourists growth is targeted with activities to do and places to visit like Kruger National Park safaris, enjoy city views in Cape Town and the warm beaches of Durban. Now is the time to visit this beautiful country, South Africa!