KwaZulu-Natal is preparing for a strong winter tourism season, with close to a million travellers expected to descend on the province.

The province projects domestic arrivals to reach 857 107, while international arrivals are forecast at 63 213. Visitor spending is projected to increase from R1.8b in 2025 to R1.9b this year.

Poised as South Africa’s leading winter holiday destination, KZN is supported by its warmer climate, diverse tourism offering and a calendar of events that continues to attract visitors from across the country and abroad.

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KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, said the forecast demonstrates both the resilience of the tourism sector and the continued appeal of KZN as a destination of choice.

“Despite ongoing economic pressures, travellers continue to prioritise experiences, and our province offers exceptional value through its unique combination of coastline, nature, culture, entertainment, heritage and hospitality.”

The winter season follows the successful Comrades Marathon. The momentum continues with major events, including the Hollywoodbets Durban July, Ballito Pro, Durban International Film Festival, concerts, cultural festivals and sporting events across the province.

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The hospitality sector has welcomed the positive outlook. Brett Tungay, national chairperson of the Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (FEDHASA), said, “Accommodation establishments across KwaZulu-Natal are reporting encouraging booking trends.. Occupancy levels are tracking well, particularly in key tourism nodes such as Durban, the North Coast, the Drakensberg and the Midlands.”

Southern Sun’s operations director for KZN, Samantha Croft, noted that many leisure travellers are booking closer to departure dates than in previous years. She said major events continue to drive hotel demand, while Durban’s mild winter climate and warm Indian Ocean waters remain key attractions for visitors.

South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise reports growing interest from domestic and regional travellers, supported by the annual Sardine Run, school holidays and a calendar of sporting, cultural and community events.

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The North Coast is similarly anticipating a busy season. Enterprise iLembe reports encouraging booking trends and growing visitor interest from key domestic source markets, particularly families and leisure travellers seeking coastal experiences.

Beyond the coastline, inland destinations continue to play an important role in KZN’s winter tourism offering.

Tegan Peacock, general manager of the Midlands Meander Association, said, “Travellers are moving away from passive sightseeing and seeking something more meaningful – real connections with people, places and culture.”

The Drakensberg is also expecting a positive winter season.

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