SA Tourism’s 21st India Roadshow Hits Chennai with New Offer
- Indian travel demand for South Africa continues to rise, with strong interest in family, adventure, and luxury tourism.
- The Chennai roadshow, featuring 15% new products, welcomed over 300 Indian travel trade agents.
Chennai event attracts over 300 travel trade agents as South Africa strengthens ties with India
Chennai, March 19, 2025: South African Tourism launched the 21st edition of its Annual India Roadshow in Chennai, reinforcing its commitment to the Indian market. The event, led by Gcobani Mancotywa, Regional General Manager for Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, served as a strategic platform to enhance trade partnerships, cater to evolving traveler preferences, and unlock new opportunities.
With 40 exhibitors showcasing their offerings, the roadshow drew over 300 Indian travel trade agents in Chennai. Expanding its outreach, the multi-city roadshow will now move to Mumbai on March 20, 2025, further boosting outbound tourism to South Africa.
India’s Growing Interest in South Africa
India remains a priority market for South African Tourism, with a surge in interest across family, adventure, and luxury travel segments. Speaking at the event, Mr. Mancotywa noted:
"Family travel continues to be a stronghold, but we are also seeing a growing number of travelers over 40 exploring South Africa. Meanwhile, the younger demographic presents a significant opportunity, and engaging this segment will be a key focus moving forward."
He also highlighted Chennai’s strong outbound potential, revealing that 3.1% of the 75,541 Indian tourists who visited South Africa in 2024 were from Chennai.
"Bollywood and cricket—two of India’s greatest passions—are at the heart of our engagement strategy. By hosting film productions and leveraging cricket’s influence, we aim to create stronger cultural connections that inspire more Indian travelers to experience South Africa," Mancotywa added.
Chennai: A Key Market for South African Tourism
Chennai continues to be a major contributor to South Africa’s tourism inflow, with 22% of Chennai-based travelers expressing a preference for shopping experiences and 15% drawn to nature and wildlife attractions. Recognizing this dual demand for leisure and exploration, South African Tourism is working closely with Chennai’s travel trade community to align offerings with local traveler interests.
Easing Travel with Visa Reforms & Direct Flight Discussions
To simplify travel for Indian visitors, South Africa has introduced the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system and the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) to streamline visa processing. Additionally, discussions are underway to establish direct flight routes between India and South Africa—an initiative expected to further boost tourism.
"Travel convenience is a key factor in destination preference, and we are working with stakeholders to improve connectivity and ease entry processes for Indian travelers," Mancotywa emphasized.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening India-South Africa Tourism Ties
As South Africa prepares to assume the G20 Presidency in 2025, tourism will play a vital role in fostering global travel partnerships and sustainable growth. South African Tourism remains committed to expanding its presence in India through ongoing trade engagement, consumer awareness initiatives, and innovative marketing strategies.
With growing interest from Indian travelers, strategic partnerships, and improved accessibility, South Africa is poised to become a top travel destination for Indian tourists in the years ahead.