JOHANNESBURG – South Africa recorded more than one million foreign visitors in June, with the bulk coming from neighbouring countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), according to new data released by Statistics South Africa.
The report, based on entries and exits through the country’s borders, revealed that 2.7 million movements were recorded for the month, including arrivals, departures, and transit travellers. Of these, 1.04 million were foreign nationals entering South Africa — a 19.7% increase compared to the same period last year.
The data shows that 79% of all international arrivals came from SADC countries. Zimbabwe and Mozambique each recorded over 160,000 inbound travellers, while Lesotho also surpassed the 100,000 mark.
Visitors from outside the SADC bloc accounted for just 2% of the June total. Roughly 7,000 came from Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria combined. The United States sent the highest number of overseas tourists at just over 41,000, followed by the United Kingdom and Australia.
Stats SA noted that nearly all international tourists—about 97%—entered South Africa for holiday purposes.
The report also pointed to a gender disparity among travellers, with 59.3% being male and 40.7% female.
In the first half of 2025 alone, 3.7 million SADC nationals have crossed into South Africa, continuing a pattern seen last year when the figure reached 6.6 million.
Southern Africa Tourism Services Association CEO David Frost said the country’s natural appeal remains strong, but cautioned that the tourism sector must evolve to remain competitive. Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa Chairperson Rosemary Anderson said industry players are beginning to act on collaborative ideas, calling it a turning point for South African tourism.
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