Cape Town is on the cusp of an exciting transformation as it recognises the immense potential lying in one of the world’s fastest-growing tourism markets: India.
The city’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, James Vos, led a high-profile delegation to key Indian cities, aiming to cement relationships and encourage more Indian tourists to explore the wonders of Cape Town.
Janus Schoeman, General Manager of The Capital's 15 on Orange hotel, notes that with an expanding middle class, increasing disposable income, and a burgeoning appetite for international travel, Indian visitors are increasingly becoming the preferred demographic for global tourism hotspots.
“We're thrilled to see that visitors from across the world are continuing to be introduced to the wonders of our city.
"We've definitely seen an uptick in visitors from the subcontinent, and to make our guests feel more welcome, we have taken steps to ensure that their stay with us feels like a home away from home," said Schoeman.
The Indian tourism boom and Cape Town’s opportunity
According to McKinsey & Company, India’s outbound tourism is projected to reach a staggering 80 million travellers by 2040. While South Africa once welcomed over 95,000 Indian tourists annually before the Covid-19 pandemic, those numbers saw a downward trend in the years that followed.
However, 2024 marks a strong rebound with 75,541 arrivals, amounting to a 79% recovery compared to pre-pandemic levels. Industry leaders, anticipating a 16% rise in 2025, are keen to harness this renewed interest and pent-up demand.
Schoeman highlights that for Cape Town, this presenting growth acts as a critical opportunity to expand its international visitor base.
"The city boasts breathtaking landscapes, a diversity of cultural experiences, and luxurious tourism offerings that mirror the inclinations of Indian tourists.
From the tranquil Cape Winelands to the lively V&A Waterfront and the awe-inspiring Table Mountain, Cape Town stands primed to become a must-visit destination for Indian travellers," he notes.
Direct flights and visa facilitation: key to growth
However, Schoeman notes that the path forward is not without challenges. He stated that one significant hurdle is connectivity, with no direct flights currently operating between India and South Africa, complicating travel plans for Indian tourists.
The expert says that addressing this connectivity issue is a priority for the delegation visiting India, as securing direct flights would streamline travel and significantly bolster arrival numbers.
The visa process also presents obstacles. Simplifying visa restrictions or implementing streamlined application processes could enhance South Africa's attractiveness for Indian tourists, positioning Cape Town in direct competition with other popular destinations such as Dubai, Thailand, and Mauritius.
A new era for Cape Town tourism
Timing is on Cape Town’s side, with the uptick in visitors from India coinciding with the city's slower tourism season. Schoeman believes this influx presents a unique opportunity not just for a temporary surge in numbers but for sustaining tourism well into quieter times.
“So we are hoping that this is not a short-term marketing blitz. That will make the slow season sustainable for all,” he added.
For Indian tourists, Cape Town promises a blend of renowned attractions and cultural familiarity. “They have the iconic sites to explore, but also a diverse culinary scene that complements their own, particularly Cape Malay cuisine,” Schoeman explains.
Looking ahead
With strategic efforts underway to secure direct flights, streamline visa processes, and create tailored offerings for Indian tourists, Cape Town is poised to rise as a top contender for this lucrative market.
The success of The Capital and the broader hospitality sector hinges on this opportunity.
Schoeman emphasises the importance of guest interaction and cultural exchange: “I absolutely love learning about different cultures. We hope that this initiative isn’t just about numbers, but about making Cape Town a welcoming home for Indian travellers for years to come.”
As Indian tourism continues to elevate, Cape Town's businesses, hotels, and tourism operators must be prepared to embrace and cater to this growing market.
By doing so, the city can not only magnify its presence on the global tourism stage but also cultivate an environment that nurtures long-term economic growth and cultural exchange.