Western Cape’s Tourism Industry: Beyond Recovery and Towards Growth

by
1 min read
tourism industry western cape

Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) achieved a significant milestone in April 2023 as the airport’s share of overseas tourists reached full recovery compared to its pre-pandemic levels in April 2019. During the month, CTIA recorded a total of 67,747 tourist arrivals via air, with 87% coming from overseas markets and the remaining 13% from the African continent, according to the monthly tourism report from Wesgro, the Western Cape Government’s trade, investment, and tourism promotion agency.

Shifting to Growth

Mireille Wenger, Western Cape Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, expressed her satisfaction with this accomplishment and emphasized the importance of shifting from recovery to growth in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Increased tourism would mean more jobs for local residents. Wenger also celebrated recent developments such as the inauguration of a direct flight from Eswatini to Cape Town.

Key Statistics

The monthly report highlighted several key statistics, including a 39% year-on-year growth in international two-way passengers in April 2023, reaching 218,325 passengers. Additionally, over 574,528 domestic two-way passengers traveled through CTIA during this period, registering a 7% increase compared to April 2022 and an 80% recovery compared to April 2019.

Top Source Markets

The United Kingdom was the leading source market for air travel to Cape Town between January and April 2023, followed by Germany, the United States, the Netherlands, and France. Europe remained the most significant contributor to tourist arrivals, accounting for seven of the top ten source markets.

Recovery from Top Source Markets

Cumulatively, tourist arrivals between January and April 2023 demonstrated full recovery from six of the top ten source markets compared to the same period in 2019. These markets included the United Kingdom, Germany, the United States, the Netherlands, Canada, and Zimbabwe. Additionally, Belgium and Italy are rapidly approaching a complete recovery.

Attractions and Vineyards

Visitor numbers to 24 participating attractions across the Western Cape increased by 50% in April 2023 compared to the previous year, reaching 573,262 visitors. This figure represents 91% of the visitor numbers recorded in April 2019. The top five highest year-on-year growth rates for April 2023 were observed at Stony Point, Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, Table Mountain National Park: Cape of Good Hope, Cango Caves, and Table Mountain National Park.

Minister Wenger congratulated Boschendal wine estate for being named the world’s most Instagrammed vineyard, surpassing competitors in the United States, Australia, France, and Spain. Three other Western Cape vineyards also ranked among the top 30 most beautiful vineyards globally: Tokara, Waterkloof, and Spier.

Inviting Residents to Explore

As the region enters its winter season, Wenger encourages residents to explore and share their favorite spots on social media. This invitation serves as a testament to the Western Cape’s resilience and the potential for further growth in the tourism industry, as it continues to rebound from the challenges of the pandemic.

Tags:

You might be interested in

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

renewable energy tax incentives
Previous Story

Western Cape Embraces Renewable Energy Tax Incentives

cold front load-shedding
Next Story

Overcoming Electricity Challenges during Cold Fronts and Load-Shedding

Latest from Blog

democracy south africa

The Evolution of Democracy in South Africa

The evolution of democracy in South Africa began in 1994 with the collapse of the apartheid era and the birth of a new period. The national Constitution represents the ambitions of a nation battling for democratic norms, social justice, and basic human rights. Over the years, Parliament has improved the lives of millions through its legislative functions, but South Africa still struggles with societal problems like poverty, corruption, crime, violence, unemployment, genderbased violence, and disparity. Despite these challenges, the country’s progress towards democracy and freedom is a narrative of hope and resilience.

pop culture comic con cape town

Comic Con Cape Town: A Pop Culture Paradise

Comic Con Cape Town was a spectacular event celebrating pop culture at the Cape Town International Convention Center 2, with over 200 stalls and celebrity guests. The event catered to every facet of pop culture, including video games, comics, anime, and cosplay, and had an estimated attendance of 30,000 to 40,000 enthusiasts. The venue was divided into several unique zones, offering an array of experiences for attendees, including a Red Bull Kumite tournament, food and beverage stalls, and an outdoor area for unwinding.

khayelitsha music academy south africa

The Heartbeat of Hope: Khayelitsha Music Academy, South Africa

The Khayelitsha Music Academy in South Africa provides free music lessons to youth in an area with many challenges. Founded in 2006 by Ongx Mona and Wara Zintwana, the Academy now teaches a range of musical instruments to 19 students and hopes to provide employment opportunities for them while contributing to the community’s socioeconomic progression. Despite funding challenges and the risk of theft, the Academy remains a beacon of hope and stability for its students, showcasing the transformative potential of art to reshape lives and communities.

pet safety public spaces

AWS SA’s Urgent Advisory to Pet Owners Amid Rising Safety Concerns

The Animal Welfare Society of South Africa (AWS SA) warns pet owners to be vigilant while walking their pets in public spaces due to numerous reports of dogs being poisoned by drugcontaminated substances littered in city parks. Homeless individuals battling drug addiction and lacking basic sanitation facilities have increased the threat to pet safety. The organization urges pet owners to seek immediate veterinary intervention if their pet shows signs of poisoning. The objective is to decrease the risk this pattern poses to South Africa’s cherished pet population through heightened awareness and prompt action.

child pornography south african police service

Recent Arrests in South Africa’s Child Pornography Fight

South Africa’s fight against child pornography continues with the recent arrests of two individuals in KwaZuluNatal. The suspects were charged with possession and production of sexually explicit materials involving children, adding to the total number of apprehended suspects which now stands at 13. The South African Police Service, in partnership with the USA Department of Homeland Security, is taking a committed approach to confront this issue headon and safeguard the vulnerable. Each arrest marks a significant stride in the ongoing battle to protect children from exploitation.