March 19, 2025 | Press Release

With Indian travellers showing an increasing affinity for adventure, luxury, and family experiences, South African Tourism kicked off its 21st Annual India Roadshow in New Delhi. The event, attended by over 500 travel trade agents, served as a vital platform for industry collaboration and market expansion. The roadshow, led by Gcobani Mancotywa, Regional General Manager for Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, aimed to fortify business relationships and cater to the evolving travel preferences of Indian tourists.

The New Delhi leg saw participation from 40 exhibitors, each showcasing a range of travel products, including 15% new offerings designed to attract Indian travellers. As the roadshow moves to Chennai and Mumbai on March 19 and 20, South African Tourism continues to deepen trade ties and foster stronger connections with the Indian market.

A High-Priority Market with Evolving Travel Preferences
India has long been a crucial market for South African Tourism, with steady demand from family vacationers, adventure seekers, and luxury travellers. Mancotywa highlighted a noticeable shift in traveler demographics, with a growing number of visitors over the age of 40 exploring South Africa. Meanwhile, younger Indian travellers represent a promising opportunity for the destination, one that the tourism board intends to tap into more aggressively in the coming years.

“Out of the 75,541 Indian tourists who visited South Africa in 2024, an impressive 22.6% were from New Delhi, reaffirming the capital’s strong outbound potential,” Mancotywa stated. “Bollywood and cricket—two of India’s greatest passions—remain at the core of our strategic outreach. From hosting film productions to leveraging cricket’s deep-rooted influence, we aim to build stronger cultural connections that inspire Indian travellers to experience South Africa.”

What’s Driving New Delhi’s Interest in South Africa?
New Delhi remains one of India’s most dynamic travel markets, with travellers seeking a blend of high-end shopping and adrenaline-fueled adventures. In 2024, 77% of visitors from New Delhi to South Africa showed strong interest in shopping, while 21% were drawn to adventure experiences. Recognizing these evolving preferences, South African Tourism is engaging with Delhi’s travel trade community to promote tailored offerings that align with these interests.

Enhancing Travel Convenience for Indian Tourists
To streamline travel and enhance visitor convenience, South Africa has introduced the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system and the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), both of which are expected to significantly improve visa processing for Indian tourists. Additionally, discussions are ongoing regarding direct flight routes between India and South Africa, which could further boost travel numbers in the future.

“Travel 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,” Mancotywa added.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening India-South Africa Travel Relations
With South Africa set to assume the G20 Presidency in 2025, tourism is expected to play a crucial role in fostering global travel partnerships and sustainable growth. The tourism board remains committed to strengthening its presence in India through ongoing trade engagement, consumer awareness initiatives, and innovative marketing campaigns.

As the 21st edition of the roadshow unfolds across key Indian cities, South African Tourism is poised to further cement its position in one of its most important markets, offering Indian travellers more reasons than ever to explore the Rainbow Nation.