South Africa has established itself as one of the most prominent tourism destinations in Africa, bolstered by government-driven initiatives to enhance infrastructure, connectivity, and investment opportunities.
In 2024, the country recorded over 8.9 million international arrivals, marking a strong recovery towards pre-pandemic levels, alongside 46.8 million domestic trips. Both segments show strong growth projections for 2025 and beyond.
The inaugural Tourism Investment Summit, held in September 2025, marked the release of the Tourism Investment Guidelines, developed in partnership with the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
Click here to view the Guidelines
The Summit also saw the release of bankable tourism investment opportunities, representing nearly R1 billion in potential investment. The projects are:
| Project | Background | Project Owner | Video |
Hole in the Hole in the Wall (Eastern Cape) | - Greenfield development of 100 room 4-star hotel, Conference and day facilities at the iconic Hole in the Wall
- Equity and Debt Partnership
- Investment required 40% of the project cost – R 141,5 million ($7.9 million)
| Incopho Coastal Developments |  |
Water World Fun Park (Eastern Cape) | - Commercial PPP, Equity and Debt Partnership
- Investment required: 41% of project cost – R 80 million ($ 4.2 million)
| Buffalo City Metropolitan Development Agency | 
|
Tokai Manor Table Mountain National Park (Western Cape) | - A concession opportunity for the refurbishment and operation of this multi-use ecotourism facility.
- Commercial PPP, Equity and Debt Partnership
- Investment required: R69 million ($ 3.9 million)
| South African National Park |  |
Eye of Menlyn (Gauteng) | - An observation wheel with 30 luxury cabins
- Specialised VIP cabins offer a unique venue for special events
- Debt/Equity Partnership
- Investment required: R25 million ($1.4million)
| Project Owner SA Corp Group |  |
Gods Window Skywalk (Mpumalanga) | - A cantilevered glass deck offers spectacular panoramic views across the lowveld and the 900m drop
- Commercial PPP, Equity and Debt Partnership
- Investment required: 40% of project cost – R 200 million ($ 10.4 million)
| Motsamayi Tourism Group
|  |
Orpen Kruger Lodge (Mpumalanga) | - Expansion of a resort just outside the Orpen Gate of the iconic Kruger National Park
- Debt/Equity Partnership
- Investment required: 40% of project cost – R 38 million ($ 2.1 million)
| MontDor Clarens | 
|
Click here to see more information on these investment projects