Between January and May 2026, South Africa experienced a significant surge in international tourism, welcoming over 4.2 million visitors. This represents a 12.8% increase compared to the same period the previous year, according to the South African government. 

This growth was particularly fueled by travelers from South America and other African nations. Arrivals from Brazil saw the most dramatic spike, jumping 40.6% from 4,700 to 6,600 visitors, a trend expected to be further bolstered by a newly launched direct flight connecting São Paulo and Cape Town three times a week. Similarly, the number of visitors from within the African continent rose by a solid 14.7%.

South Africa's Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, attributed this positive momentum to deliberate government efforts. She noted that investments in tourism infrastructure, expanding direct international flights, and diversifying the country's offerings are clearly paying off. De Lille emphasized that every new air link creates fresh opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment, aligning perfectly with the government's strategy to tap into new global markets. 

According to TV BRICS, she ultimately credited South Africa's success to its powerful combination of natural beauty, rich heritage, welcoming people, and world-class infrastructure.