South African Tourism Showcases Diverse Offerings At OTM 2026

Strengthening South Africa–India Connection

South African Tourism concluded its participation at Outbound Travel Market (OTM) 2026, highlighting India’s importance as a priority source market for the destination. Hosted at the Jio World Convention Centre, the event served as an opportunity for the tourism board to promote South Africa and strengthen ties with India’s travel trade community.

Participating with 22 exhibitors, South African Tourism showcased a wide range of travel experiences tailored for Indian visitors, including leisure travel, premium accommodations, adventure and wildlife tourism, as well as meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) facilities. Key regions such as Gauteng, Western Cape, and Mpumalanga continue to see strong demand from Indian travellers.

Mitalee Karmarkar, Marketing and Communications Manager (MEISEA), South African Tourism, said, "India’s travel landscape continues to evolve rapidly. South Africa is seeing growing interest from experience-driven travellers who are well-informed and adventurous. Beyond traditional leisure and family travel, we are witnessing stronger engagement from business, MICE, and blended bleisure segments, reinforcing South Africa’s relevance for the next generation of corporate travellers."

In 2025, India ranked as South Africa’s 7th largest overseas source market and 15th overall international market. Indian travellers contributed three per cent of total international arrivals, reflecting the market’s growing importance. The Indian market recorded a 73 per cent recovery compared to pre-pandemic levels, demonstrating sustained rebound momentum.

OTM 2026 provided an opportunity to strengthen existing business partnerships between Indian buyers and South African suppliers while fostering new collaborations. Platforms like OTM are critical in enhancing destination knowledge within the Indian trade ecosystem and boosting confidence in long-haul travel planning.

Travel demand from India to South Africa in 2025 shows a well-balanced mix, led by business travel at 24.5 per cent, followed by visits to friends and relatives at 22.5 per cent, business meetings and MICE at 21.5 per cent, and holiday travel at 20.9 per cent. This spread highlights the broadening nature of outbound travel from India, extending beyond traditional leisure segments.

Karmarkar added, "This momentum is further strengthened through South African Tourism’s targeted initiatives, including the Corporate Think Tank series, the Learn South Africa training program, and continuous engagement via the Annual India Roadshow. Together, these efforts are designed to deepen destination knowledge and accelerate corporate and MICE travel from India."

Following OTM Mumbai, South African Tourism continues the Annual India Roadshow 2026 across Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Delhi, expanding its in-market outreach. With forecasted Indian outbound travel to South Africa expected to reach pre-covid numbers in 2026, the tourism board remains optimistic about India’s trajectory as one of its fastest-growing source markets.