Top 5 Highlights from Africa's Travel Indaba 2025

 

By Fred Felton | Apr. 16, 2025

Africa’s Travel Indaba has just wrapped up in Durban and there have been some wonderful highlights during the show.

Here are just some of them:

BONDay (Business Opportunity Networking Day)

The day which was hosted by South African Tourism set the tone for the week ahead and was filled with strategic dialogue, future-forward thinking, and lots of networking.

‘’BONDay is where Africa’s tourism thinkers meet its doers. It’s a place to connect, collaborate and co-create the future of tourism on our continent,’’ said Darryl Erasmus Chief Operations Officer at South African Tourism.

Opening Day

Bell ringing ceremony for the official opening of Africa's Travel Indaba 2025. | Photo: South African Tourism. 

Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025, the premier travel and tourism trade show on the African continent, opened on Wednesday, 14^th May 2025 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. Under the theme ‘’Unlimited Africa’’, the event was officially opened by South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile and South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

Over 1,300 exhibitors from 27 African nations, including for the first time participants from Chad, St Helena, and Burkina Faso met with more than 1,200 international buyers from 55 source markets at the event in Durban.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered the opening address and he was joined on stage by South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille; Mayor of eThekwini Municipality, Councillor Cyril Xaba; KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Reverend Musa Zondi; and Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Arthur Thamsanqa Ntuli.

‘’This is an Africa where intra-continental trade, investment, and tourism are no longer mere aspirations but rather everyday realities. Tourism is a significant economic engine, a catalyst for social change, and a cornerstone of inclusive growth. Let us demonstrate to the world that Africa is ready for business. With these words, I would like to officially declare the Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 open!’’

The Deputy President also highlighted that travel and tourism contributed 6.8% to Africa’s GDP in 2023, with projections indicating a rise to 10.4% by 2030. He also noted that South Africa’s G20 Presidency, with over 200 related meetings hosted, is a prime opportunity to spotlight African perspectives on global economic and development issues.

‘’Africa’s Travel Indaba is a catalyst for inclusive growth, job creation, and sustainable development, not only in South Africa but throughout Africa. Tourism remains a powerful economic driver,’’ said South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

The welcoming ceremony finished with the traditional ringing of the bell, a symbolic gesture that resonated through the halls of the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC, officially marking the start of business and three days of intensive networking, deal-making, and showcasing the very best of ‘’Unlimited Africa’’.

Events

Africa's Travel Indaba 2025 African Tourism Ministers' Roundtable. | Photo: South African Tourism.

Tourism leaders convened for the much anticipated African Ministers’ Roundtable at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025. This event was hosted by South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, the panel featured a distinguished lineup including Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel, Angola’s Minister of Tourism; Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, Eswatini’s Minister Tinkhundla Administration and Development; Fredson Bacar, Mozambique’s Secretary of State of Tourism; and Rodney Sikumba, Zambia’s Minister of Tourism.

The spirit of collaboration was a common theme at the roundtable. ‘’We are not here to compete, we are here to collaborate,’’ remarked Minister Sikhumbuzo Dlamini of Eswatini.

There was a call for a united Africa.

‘’As African tourism ministers, we have a singular resolve to work as a team, there must be cohesion and strength in numbers. We’ve also expanded Zambia’s visa-free access from 42 to 167 countries and believe it’s time to open the skies so people can travel more freely across the continent,’’ noted Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba.

Fredson Bacar, Mozambique’s Secretary of State for Tourism, reinforced the importance of regional partnerships, citing the ZIMOZA Transfrontier Park, a collaboration between Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Angola’s Minister of Tourism, Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel called for the implementation of long discussed programmes like the open skies policy and free visa policies.

Minister de Lille confirmed that pressure is being applied through the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement to open the skies.

Africa’s Travel Indaba proved that it is more than just a trade show; it is an incubator of ideas, crucial for partnerships and a powerful symbol of Africa’s commitment to shaping its own tomorrow, through connections today.

Elsewhere at Africa’s Travel Indaba the eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba welcomed Africa’s Travel Indaba at the Durban-KZN Business Breakfast.

The eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba delivering a keynote at the Durban-KZN Business Breakfast at Africa's Travel Indaba 2025. | Photo: Supplied. 

The breakfast was a pivotal engagement to connect, reflect and chart the course forward with key stakeholders.

‘’This gathering is far more than a mere discussion forum – it serves as the driving force behind Africa’s tourism aspirations. It is a dynamic continental platform that stimulates investment, facilitates trade opportunities, and highlights the rich diversity and excellence of African destinations. This year we seek to position our city not just as a destination – but as a dynamic, investable ecosystem where culture, commerce, and community converge,’’ said eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba.

Speed Marketing

Africa’s Travel Indaba also provides a wonderful platform for tourism products to market their business to a host of buyers at various Speed Marketing sessions which are held over 3 days. The product representative had 4 minutes to pitch their business before a loud noise signalled for them to leave the stage.

At Africa's Travel Indaba there was plenty of music to entertain delegates. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Products included St Francis Tourism which has a Calamari festival, uShaka Marine World Theme Park which has a Village Walk shopping centre, Aquarium and Wet n’ Wild with a DJ. Other highlights included Timamoon Lodge which features 7 magnificent villas, a hidden gem;  Goldfields Game Ranch have guides than can speak Mandarin to cater for Chinese tourists.

The Stats

The wrap-up media conference at the end of Africa's Travel Indaba 2025. | Photo: South African Tourism.

At the wrap-up media conference at the end of Africa’s Travel Indaba, Thembisile Sehlolo, Chief Marketing Officer of South African Tourism, together with Sibusiso Gumbi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority; Winile Mntungwa, Deputy Head of Durban Tourism and Sandile Makhanya, Acting Marketing & Communications Executive of Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC), addressed the media.

‘’We are exceptionally proud to have once again delivered the premier showcase of the African continent’s diverse tourism products and experiences,’’ said Sehlolo.

Mntungwa said:  ‘’The economic ripple effect was felt far beyond the city centre, benefitting township and rural tourism enterprises – both formal & informal.’’

‘’I am pleased to say that KwaZulu-Natal has hosted another very successful Africa’s Travel Indaba with a record number of delegates, international buyers and airlines attending this year,’’ noted Gumbi.

The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority also signed MOUs with eSwatini Tourism and Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier conservation Area Joint Marketing Agreement.

Current figures (still to be audited) indicate that Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 hosted more than 9,990 attendees, marking an impressive 7.7% increase compared to 9,280 delegates that attended in 2024 with over 24 500 quality meetings held. The event attracted 1,348 exhibitors and 1037 buyers, with both exhibitors and international buyer numbers being the highest recorded in the past four years. A total of 27 African countries participated, including newcomers Chad, St Helena and Burkina Faso.

Makhanya at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre noted that ‘’Africa’s Travel Indaba is undeniably our premier event. As the ICC, we are deeply committed to ensuring that this trade event showcases Africa to the world and contributes significantly and sustainably to our local economy.’’

For more information visit: www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

Almost Time for Africa's Travel Indaba

 

By Fred Felton | May 6, 2025

The media launch for the much anticipated Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 was recently held at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. This event was led by the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, senior representatives from the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and Tourism Authority, South African Tourism and key stakeholders.

Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille speaking at the media launch for Africa's Travel Indaba 2025.  Photo: Fiona Wainwright. 

The theme for Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 is ‘’Unlimited Africa,’’ which is a bold declaration of the continent’s spirit and ambition. Minister de Lille delivered her keynote describing Indaba as: ‘’Not just a trade show – it is a platform to reshape narratives, forge powerful connections, and unlock shared value across our continent.’’

Africa’s Travel Indaba is the perfect place for buyers where they can discover and source a wide range of African tourism products and experiences. There will be 297 unique offerings, 1 200 exhibitors from across 26 African countries and 908 vetted international buyers representing 55 global markets, this event is ideal for networking opportunities and meetings for B2B. Buyers gain access to curated, diverse, authentic and emerging travel products for their clients.

The exhibitors benefit from top exposure to global tourism decision-makers. The exhibition floor is sold-out and the Return on Investment (ROI) is high for launching new products, forming strategic partnerships and exploring new markets.

At Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 there were over 24,000 business meetings that turned into deals and revenue. The platform also empowers SMMEs through mentorship, visibility and access to global buyers.

The travel and trade show is also a rich tapestry for media where they can find plenty of content for articles around travel, tourism and interview key stakeholders.

The economic impact of Indaba in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal is huge:

R226 million in direct economic activity generated in Durban in 2024, with an additional R333 million across the KZN province. More than 1 000 jobs created through the event. Empowerment of 120 tourism SMMEs to engage global buyers and media made possible through funding from Department of Tourism’s Market Access Support Programme.

‘’We are even more excited about this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba as it comes soon after we launched our new Global Campaign: ‘South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy!’ – a celebration of the country’s boundless energy, rich culture and extraordinary experiences,’’ said Minister de Lille at the media launch.

‘’After hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) for more than 30 years, we are delighted to be the host province for ATI 2025. We remain hopeful to host the event for the next few decades and make KwaZulu-Natal Africa’s Travel Indaba’s permanent home,’’ noted KZN Tourism and Film Authority, Board Chairperson Dr Sibusiso Ndebele.

Highlights to look out for at ATI 2025 include:

BONDay (Business Opportunity Networking Day)

AI & Tech-Focused Sessions

Cross-Border Tourism Collaboration Forums

12 Independent Airlines & an Airline Pavilion.

‘’Durban stands ready to showcase our hospitality and commitment to excellence in the global tourism sector. Together, let us make this event a momentous occasion that reflects our pride and potential,’’ said Councillor Nkosenhle Madlala, Chairperson of Governance and Human Capital in the eThekwini Metro.

As the G20 Summit is being hosted in South Africa, ATI sets the stage for positioning the continent as a leading player in global tourism dialogue and hosting big events.

‘’Tourism is not a side act in our economic story – it is centre stage. We invite all delegates to come experience the might of the African continent’s tourism sector while enjoying South Africa’s hospitality in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa awaits - Come find your joy,’’ concluded Minister de Lille.

The 'Best Ever' Africa Travel Indaba Planned

 

By Fred Felton | Feb. 20, 2025

The plans for the 2025 Africa Travel Indaba have been unveiled by Durban Tourism with a bold vision for the success of Africa’s largest trade and tourism event.

Africa's Travel Indaba happens from 12 to 15 May this year. | Photo: Fred Felton

The proposed programme for the event was presented by Durban Tourism Regional Marketing Manager Melusi Khumalo to the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee for their recommendation.

During the presentation she highlighted that preparations are already in full swing for this flagship event. Africa’s Travel Indaba happens from 12 to 15 May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

At the committee meeting which was held on 13 February, Khumalo noted that 2025 marks the City’s final contractual year hosting the Indaba, taking note of the importance of this event to secure future bids.

‘’We aim to pull out all the stops to host the best-ever Indaba to ensure Durban becomes the permanent home of this prestigious event,’’ said Khumalo.

The Africa Travel Indaba is a crucial platform for showcasing Africa’s tourism offerings and engaging with the global trade, while also boosting local tourism.

Khumalo also shared last year’s impressive statistics which included 1 200 exhibitors, 9 217 delegates, 1 737 buyers and participants from 75 countries.

Exhibitor registrations are now open for exhibitors who would like to showcase their products and network with those in the tourism industry.

For registration and more info, please visit www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

Register for Sho't Left Travel Week at Africa's Travel Indaba

 

By Fred Felton | May 15, 2024

Africa’s Travel Indaba started with a hive of activity and included the revival of the Sho’t Left Travel Week campaign. This great initiative connects local tourist destinations with the growing domestic travel market and leads up to the Great South African Sale.

Register for Sho't Left Travel Week at Africa's Travel Indaba. | Photo: South African Tourism. 

Part of Sho’t Left Travel Week is the Sho’t Left Partners Platform, which is a dynamic digital hub for businesses to showcase their best deals. The platform now also offers an easy registration process for any size tourism business. The partner platform https://profile.shotleft.co.za will track bookings through Google Analytics integration; you can also update deals and get to understand local travellers’ preferences. This is a wonderful opportunity for businesses to tap into the growing domestic travel market.

To register find the Sho’t Left Travel Week team wearing branded T-shirts. You can find them at the ICC during Indaba and they can help with information and how to register your local tourism business. You can also visit their stand at G01 at the DEC to register.

Thanks to South African Tourism’s strong marketing support your deals will be seen by millions of eager travellers each year, helping to get your business increased visibility.

Your business can offer discounts of up to 50% off on bookings; this not only fuels growth but also fosters cultural appreciation.

Sho’t Left Travel Week is perfect for any travel business be it a hotel, airline, tourist attraction, restaurant, event organiser, car rental company or tour operator this is the perfect platform to attract more domestic tourists.

Registration is free for all trade members; this allows you to showcase multiple deals for both seasoned and aspiring local travellers. Bookings are available from September 2^nd to September 8^th, 2024 with travel dates later, subject to your business’s terms and conditions.

‘’Travel businesses should register for Sho’t Left Travel Week because it presents a unique opportunity to connect with South Africa’s growing domestic travel market. By participating in this initiative, businesses can showcase their enticing travel deals on the dynamic Sho’t Left Partners Platform, reaching millions of eager travellers each year,’’ said Mashoto Mokgethi, Head: Domestic Tourism at South African Tourism.

For more information, email shortleft@southafrica.net and visit www.shotleft.co.za

Join the conversation using #ShotLeftTravelWeek

Top 5 Highlights from Africa's Travel Indaba 2023

 

By Fred Felton | May 17, 2023.

Africa’s Travel Indaba 2023 started off with much fanfare and networking in Durban, South Africa from 8^th May 2023. Here are just five of the highlights from the travel and trade show.

BONDay

The event kicked off with the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) which featured a great deal of networking and some of the top speakers in the travel industry.

Tourism for Africa

Richard Quest in discussion with the South African Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille at Indaba. | Photo: Fred Felton 

On the next day Africa’s Travel Indaba was officially opened by South Africa’s Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille. The Minister of Tourism noted that South Africa was rolling out an e-visa system for several African countries including Kenya, Nigeria and Egypt. The goal was to expand the e-visa system to 20 more countries. ‘’Our people across the continent of Africa are our greatest asset,’’ said South Africa’s Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille.

The eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda noted that it was an honour for Durban to host Africa’s Travel Indaba this year.

The Durban Tourism stand was a hive of activity during Indaba. | Photo: Fiona Wainwright

Speed Marketing

The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa hosted three speed marketing events at Africa’s Travel Indaba. Each event covered different topics such as Scenic Beauty, Township and Nightlife and Wildlife and Safari tourism offerings. Each session allowed for a short amount of time to market each tourism product featured. If a speaker took too long to finish their speech they were quickly cut off with sounds such as the noise a Hadeda bird makes or the sound a minibus taxi hooter makes.

There were a variety of speakers at these events and they shared the highlights of their tourism products and offerings. James McCulloch from Big Skies near Kosi Bay told us about the lodge he works for and the various offerings in the area. They offer a relaxing place where you can unwind and switch off from technology. Activities include beach walks, scuba diving and the lodge even offers vegetarian meals only.

USA Market

There were a variety of talks and workshops at Indaba including a workshop on how tourism companies from South Africa can target the USA market. Shelby Johnson, VP Partner Strategy at UM Worldwide shared some statistics that could help SA tourism leverage the USA tourism market. ‘‘6 in 10 adults believe it’s vital to learn about the culture of the place they travel to,’’ said Shelby Johnson. She also suggested that those in tourism identify relevant trends in the industry and draw from inspiration.

Stephanie M. Jones, Founder & CEO of Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance, Inc. shared with the audience deeper insights into how African-Americans travel. ‘’Black travellers spent $109.4 billion on travel in 2019,’’ said Stephanie M. Jones.

 She also revealed why African-Americans like to travel to South Africa. There are a variety of reasons which include shared values, rich cultural heritage, the opportunity of a lifetime and diverse experiences. Stephanie M. Jones advised South African tourism companies to interact with African-American travellers.  ‘’Speak our language, join our spaces, leverage local marketing networks, join the Black Travel Movement on Facebook,’’ said Ms. Jones.

The Stats

Africa’s Travel Indaba 2023 attracted a wide variety of visitors from all around the world. These included 1000 international buyers, around 1000 exhibitors, 350 products, 123 small businesses and there were visitors from 21 African countries. There were many meetings held over the event and much discussion was had about tourism and travel offerings.

The LN Watches stand at the Sustainability Village captured the eye of many a visitor with their eye catching watch designs. | Photo: Fiona Wainwright 

The event contributed significantly to the Durban Gross Domestic Product which was estimated at R130 million and spending amounting to R78 million which resulted in the creation of 250 job opportunities.

For more information visit: www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

 

Africa's Travel Indaba Opens Soon

 

By Fred Felton | Apr 20, 2023

The travel and trade show for those in the tourism industry returns to the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) from 8 to 11 May.

The launch of Africa's Travel Indaba held at Durban ICC recently. | Photo: Fred Felton

With just a few weeks to go there is not much time left to register if you would like to attend the show. Recently the Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille together with provincial and City leaders launched the trade show on 28 March at the Durban ICC.

‘’We are excited to be back in Durban,’’ said Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille. The eThekwini Municipality is also excited for the return of the event. ‘’We anticipate a hotel occupancy rate of 90 percent which will be a major boost for the hospitality sector,’’ noted eThekwini Deputy Chairperson for the Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Phili Mbatha-Ndlovu.

There are expected to be around 120 SMME’s at the Hidden Gems Pavilion at Indaba this year. Indaba will also have plenty of networking events for delegates to attend including the popular speed networking events which will happen throughout Indaba.

Durban is expected to be packed to capacity as the South African Tourism Services Association (SATSA) will be hosting their conference in Durban just before Indaba.

Buyers from around the world have been invited to Africa’s Travel Indaba this year and the event promises to be the biggest one yet for South Africa.

‘’KwaZulu-Natal has more than 20 years’ experience in hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba,’’ said Acting CEO of Tourism KZN Nhlanhla Khumalo.

The trade show in the tourism and travel sector has always proved popular through the years. ‘’Every time we have hosted Indaba it has been successful,’’ noted Acting CEO of Tourism KZN Nhlanhla Khumalo.

To register for Africa’s Travel Indaba visit http://www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

Coming to Africa's Travel Indaba? Download the App

It is one of the largest tourism marketing events in the world. Thousands of people visit it daily. You are certainly going to need something to navigate around and decide where to go, what to see, whom to meet. It all happens from 2 – 4 May 2019 at the ICC in Durban, South Africa.

Image: Africa's Travel Indaba

Luckily for you the folks from Africa’s Travel Indaba have an App just for you. It’s going to become your best friend along the way.

Some of the things you can find on the App include:

·         Programme of events

·         Sponsors/Exhibitors/Media partners

·         Images and Videos

·         Floor plan

There is so much more you will discover on the App.

It’s available for Android and Apple devices.

You can download it on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

For more info visit: www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

This edition by Fred Felton | Twitter @fredfelton