Tourism Month 2025: Celebrating South Africa’s Rich Heritage and Sustainable Growth
Table of contents
- What is Tourism Month?
- Theme for Tourism Month 2025: Tourism and Sustainable Transformation
- Launch of Tourism Month 2025
- Importance of Domestic Travel
- Key Events During Tourism Month
- Roles of Provincial Tourism Authorities
- Gauteng Tourism Month 2025 Events:
- Sustainable Tourism Practices
- Economic Benefits of Tourism
- Tips for Tourists During Tourism Month
- Future of Tourism in South Africa
- How to Join Tourism Month 2025
What is Tourism Month?
Tourism Month in South Africa happens every September. It highlights tourism’s value to the country’s economy, culture, and communities. It raises awareness of tourism’s role in job creation and cultural exchange. South Africa’s Tourism Month coincides with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation’s World Tourism Day on 27 September. In 2025, Tourism Month runs from 1 to 30 September, showcasing local attractions and encouraging responsible travel.
RELEVANT ARTICLE: Gauteng Tourism Month 2025: What to Expect from South Africa’s Visitor Hub
Theme for Tourism Month 2025: Tourism and Sustainable Transformation
The 2025 theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, focuses on growing tourism in a way that benefits everyone. It stresses protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting fair economic progress. The theme calls for inclusive growth and responsible tourism that respects people and planet.
Launch of Tourism Month 2025
Minister Patricia de Lille launched Tourism Month 2025 on 13 August in Johannesburg at Sakhumzi Restaurant. She highlighted tourism’s power to boost the economy and encouraged South Africans to explore their country. The launch showcased support for local tourism businesses and reflected the theme’s message of inclusive, sustainable growth.
Importance of Domestic Travel
Minister de Lille urged citizens to travel within South Africa, saying, “Our own country, it’s yours—the most beautiful country in the world. It’s yours, so you must enjoy it.” Domestic tourism sustains many businesses and jobs, helping the economy recover after recent global challenges.
Key Events During Tourism Month
World Tourism Day Celebration
On 27 September, South Africa will celebrate World Tourism Day in the Eastern Cape at the Nelson Mandela Museum in Qunu. The event honours heritage and community tourism, supporting local economies in the region where Tourism Month began in 2007.
Tourism Business Council Conference
From 17 to 19 September 2025, the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) holds its annual leadership conference at Sun City Resort, North West. The conference focuses on growth, policy, and people, aiming for sustainable and inclusive tourism development nationwide.
G20 Tourism Innovation Hackathon
From May to September 2025, South African students have competed in the G20 Tourism Hackathon, developing AI solutions to improve tourism in rural communities. Final presentations will take place in Mpumalanga in September, showcasing youth-led innovation supporting tourism and sustainability.
Roles of Provincial Tourism Authorities
Provincial bodies like Gauteng Tourism Authority and KwaZulu-Natal Tourism Authority organise events and campaigns to highlight local attractions during Tourism Month. They support community tourism projects that benefit residents and visitors alike.
Gauteng Tourism Month 2025 Events:
| Event | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| The Spring Show | 27 August – 3 September | Tshwane Events Centre |
| Getaway Show | 31 August – 2 September | The Dome, Northgate |
| My Street Challenge Launch | 30 August | Soweto Theatre |
| Moretele Tribute Concert and GeePee sign-up | 1 September | Moretele Park, Tshwane |
| Gauteng Tourist Route Map Launch | 20 September | Gauteng – To Be Confirmed (TBC) |
| Responsible Award Ceremony (Fair Trade Certification) | September | Dinokeng |
| Ekurhuleni Tourism Business Council Summit | To Be Confirmed | Ekurhuleni |
| Kiddies Spring Carnival | 8 September | Ekurhuleni |
| Cradle Festival (with Cycle Challenge, Fun Walk) | 22 – 23 September | Maropeng |
| Cradle Picnic | 24 September | Maropeng |
| Sustainable Tourism Public Lectures (University of Tshwane, University of Johannesburg, Vaal University of Technology) | To Be Confirmed | Gauteng |
| Gauteng Convention & Events Bureau Launch | To Be Confirmed | Gauteng |
| Gauteng Tourism Facilities EduTour (targets disadvantaged learners to tourism sites/attractions) | To Be Confirmed | Gauteng |
| The Gauteng Marathon | 2 September | Mogale City |
| AmaGeePee Re-loaded Activations (Attraction of the Day, New Cards Promo, sign-up, GeePee Picnic with Metro FM, GeePee by Nite) | 1 – 30 September | Gauteng Regions |
| Magical Mystery Tour (with Kaya FM) | 1 – 30 September | Around Gauteng Regions |
| Vaal Birding Route Launch and Regional Tourism Awards & Sedibeng Regional Tourism Association Launch | 28 September | Sedibeng |
| Dinokeng Buffalo Release & Offering Showcase (with Dinokeng Experience and TNA Morning Live Breakfast) | September | Tshwane |
| Toeka Festival | 1 – 2 September | Dries Niemand Park, Kempton Park |
| Johannesburg Arts Alive Festival | September (dates TBC) | Johannesburg |
| Pale Ya Rona Carnival | 7 – 9 September | Gauteng |
| Johannesburg Shopping Festival | 1 – 30 September | Johannesburg |
| Pick and Pay Taste of Joburg | 27 – 30 September | Montecasino |
| Robertson Wine Valley Festival | 15 – 16 September | Kloofzicht Lodge, Muldersdrift, West Rand |
| Soweto Festival | 21 – 24 September | Joburg Expo Centre, Nasrec |
| Good Food and Wine Show | 21 – 24 September | Coca Cola Dome, Johannesburg |
Sustainable Tourism Practices
Sustainability is central to Tourism Month 2025. The sector focuses on protecting South Africa’s unique wildlife and landscapes. It promotes social inclusion, responsible travel, and support for local entrepreneurs. Sustainable tourism ensures the industry can keep growing without harming people or the planet.
Economic Benefits of Tourism
Tourism:
- Creates jobs in accommodation, transport, guides, and hospitality.
- Supports small businesses and entrepreneurs.
- Promotes South African culture and pride.
- Brings foreign exchange through international visitors.
- Drives infrastructure improvements in many areas.
Tips for Tourists During Tourism Month
Visitors should:
- Respect local cultures and the environment.
- Choose eco-friendly accommodation and tours.
- Support local artisans and businesses.
- Follow safety guidelines and travel responsibly.
- Share positive experiences to promote South African tourism.
Future of Tourism in South Africa
Tourism is vital for South Africa’s economic recovery. Goals include:
- Restoring tourist numbers to pre-pandemic levels.
- Aligning with the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan.
- Reaching 15.6 million tourist arrivals by 2030.
- Strengthening partnerships between government, business, and communities.
How to Join Tourism Month 2025
Explore new locations in Gauteng and across South Africa. Take part in provincial events and celebrate World Tourism Day. Use social media to share your travel stories and support sustainable tourism practices.
