NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 8 -South Africa remains one of Africa’s most visited destinations—trailing only Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia and Algeria.
Last year it welcomed 8.92 million arrivals, about 80% of whom were African visitors.
Following the 2023 relaxation of visa requirements between Kenya and South Africa, the country is stepping up outreach to Kenyan travellers, spotlighting experiences across Western Cape, Northern Cape, North West, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Gauteng (and beyond).
As one of the world’s leading wine producers, South Africa is also promoting wine routes and cellar tours to international visitors, including Kenyans.
Through Wesgro—the official tourism, trade and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape—South Africa is actively marketing the region in Kenya. Wesgro recently exhibited at the Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, showcasing Western Cape highlights for Kenyan travellers.
Zintle Mtsi of Wesgro said visitors can explore Table Mountain, the Cape of Good Hope, pristine beaches and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.
“We are here as part of Destination South Africa to promote travel from East Africa to South Africa. That’s why we’re attending Magical Kenya—because we see great value in this market. We wanted to connect with the local industry here as well as international buyers since Magical Kenya is quite an international show that attracts buyers from all over the world. So, it’s been quite valuable also connecting with the rest of the world here in Kenya,” Mtsi told Capital FM.
Mtsi downplayed the perception that Cape Town is expensive, noting the city caters to a range of budgets. “There’s a perception that Cape Town is very expensive, but actually there’s a market for everybody—not just high-end luxury. We’ve got mid-range to budget accommodation, a wide range of guest houses, Airbnbs, and backpackers,” she said.
She added that new airline options—such as Airlink on the Nairobi–Johannesburg–Cape Town route—are helping lower travel costs. “We are super enthusiastic about growing the number of Kenyans visiting South Africa. With the direct flights and the visa waiver, I know the numbers will continue to grow. We’ll remain visible in the Kenyan market and look forward to partnerships,” she said.
Robben Island
Kenyans can also visit Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and museum that once served as a maximum-security prison for South Africa’s anti-apartheid heroes, including Nelson Mandela. “I’m sure every Kenyan or every African has heard of Robben Island Museum in our history books. That is where our political prisoners were imprisoned during the apartheid regime, including Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, and Robert Sobukwe,” said Siphuxolo Mazwi, Acting Marketing and Tourism Head of Robben Island Museum. “If Kenyans would like to visit, they can go to our website and book tickets to the Island Museum.”
Mazwi added that international visitors currently pay R600 to access Robben Island, and the museum is considering a Pan-African pricing model to attract more African tourists.
“The best time to visit Robben Island is spring into summer—September and October, and also January to March,” she said. “June and July are not ideal because it’s winter in South Africa and we’re in the Atlantic Ocean. Cold fronts create high swells and adverse weather that can halt travel to the island.”
South African Tourism
The event also featured Sakhile Ndhlovu from the South Africa National Convention Bureau, the division promoting South Africa as a meetings and business events destination. “We offer financial and non-financial support to corporates or DMCs planning meetings in South Africa. We’re at Magical Kenya to engage partners interested in bringing business events to South Africa,” Ndhlovu said.
Ndhlovu noted that spring, beginning in September, is the best time to visit South Africa thanks to the favourable weather. He added that visitors can also savour local cuisine—from a variety of roasted meats to pap (ugali), a staple familiar to many Kenyans.
KwaZulu-Natal Province
A team from KwaZulu-Natal also showcased the province’s tourism and film potential. Renowned for the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and the pristine beaches of the Dolphin Coast, the province offers an unrivalled tourism experience that stretches from the majestic Drakensberg Mountains to world-famous game reserves. Adding to its allure are vibrant cultural landscapes, historic battlefields, and authentic Zulu traditions.
