World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day History

World Tourism Day is an annual observance that aims to raise awareness of tourism's social, cultural, political, and economic values. It stresses the importance of fostering international collaboration to ensure that global tourism is sustainable, inclusive, and accessible. This observance showcases tourism's role in promoting intercultural dialogue, mutual understanding, and global cooperation.

World Tourism Day has been celebrated since 1980, after adopting the Statutes of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1970. South Africa, with its rich cultural heritage, breath-taking landscapes, and diverse attractions, embraces the values and goals promoted by World Tourism Day. The country is renowned for its wildlife, scenic beauty, adventure tourism options, and efforts in sustainable tourism practices. Moreover, South Africa has invested in infrastructure, job creation, and skills development to increase its tourism potential and contribute to its socio-economic growth.

In South Africa, World Tourism Day is observed through various activities, including cultural festivals, exhibitions, and workshops, to foster dialogue among different stakeholders, promote tourism offerings, and highlight sustainable tourism practices. Community-based initiatives and educational activities are organized to engage the public and tourists alike in understanding the importance of responsible tourism in preserving the country's natural and cultural resources. World Tourism Day is celebrated globally every year on September 27, also observed by South Africa, providing an opportunity for the country to join the international community in advocating for responsible tourism and intercultural exchange.

World Tourism Day facts

• The theme for World Tourism Day in 2025 was Tourism and Sustainable Transformation. In 2024 the theme was Tourism, Justice, and Peace: Bridging Barriers and Amplifying the Voices of the Unheard. In 2023 the theme was Tourism and Green Investments.
• Globally, travel and tourism’s direct contribution to GDP was approximately 5.8 billion U.S. dollars in 2021.
• France continues to be the most visited country in the world with nearly 90 million tourists every year.
• South Africa is famous for its wildlife safaris, especially in the Kruger National Park, where tourists can spot the "Big Five" game animals - the African elephant, African lion, African leopard, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceros.
• South Africa is an ideal destination for adventure tourism, with activities like shark cage diving, abseiling, white-water rafting, skydiving, and bungee jumping on offer.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for World Tourism Day

Top things to do in South Africa for World Tourism Day

• The Kruger National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves, is a must-see destination for wildlife enthusiasts on World Tourism Day. Experience the thrill of spotting the Big Five animals as you navigate through the park on a guided tour or self-drive safari.
• South Africa's vineyards produce some of the world's finest wines. Head to the Cape Winelands to visit wine estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, and enjoy wine tastings and stunning landscapes.