- South African Tourism commissions research on Indian market
- Indian arrivals reach 29,525 from January to July 2026
- Five priority segments identified for South Africa
- Middle to high-income travellers account for 35pc of Indian market
- Direct air connection absence remains a hurdle
South African Tourism has commissioned research revealing that Indian travellers are seeking the right experiences and South Africa is positioned to compete for them. The findings indicate that Indian travellers are evolving and South African tourism businesses must adapt their products, marketing and sales approach. The continued absence of a direct air connection remains a hurdle, with Indian arrivals to South Africa from January to July 2026 tracking below the same period in 2025.
South Africa has seen 6.6m arrivals from January to July 2026, up 12.4pc over the same period in 2025, while Indian arrivals have reached 29,525 in the same period. Five priority segments have emerged from the research including Seasoned Explorers, Family Adventures, Aspirational Explorers, Scenic Adventurers and Jetsetters. These middle to high-income long-haul travellers account for 35pc of the Indian travel market and are most inclined to choose South Africa for its scenery, food, adventure and quality of experience.
Indian travellers are increasingly seeking meaningful experiences over traditional sightseeing, with wildlife encounters, nature, food, culture, local communities and immersive experiences becoming key drivers of destination choice. The research highlights growing interest among Indian travellers in African destinations. Safari holidays remain sought after, but travellers are increasingly looking beyond wildlife to authentic culture, local cuisine, luxury accommodation, wellness experiences and family-friendly itineraries.
Ismail Dockrat, COO at South African Tourism, shared: “While Indian arrivals for January to July 2026 are below the same period in 2025, the long-term outlook for the market remains positive, underpinned by positive forward bookings, strong outbound travel growth, increasing consumer confidence and sustained interest in long-haul travel.”
