The South Africa faith-based tourism market is estimated to reach ~USD 86.5 million in the year 2024. The market is forecast to reach a valuation of ~USD 193.8 million by the year 2034 with a CAGR of ~8.4% from the years 2024 to 2034. The target industry revenue in 2023 is USD 79.9 million.
The industry is expected to record an annual growth of (Y-o-Y) of 8.2% in 2024. The market value share of the faith-based tourism industry in its parent market (tourism market) is approximately 2%-4%.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| South Africa Faith-Based Tourism Market Size (2023A) | USD 79.9 million |
| South Africa Faith-Based Tourism Market Estimated Size (2024E) | ~USD 86.5 million |
| South Africa Faith-Based Tourism Market Forecasted Size (2034F) | ~USD 193.8 million |
| Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) | ~8.4% |
Key Points Covered in South Africa Faith-Based Tourism Industry Survey
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The demand in the South African faith-based tourism market is forecast to increase at a robust ~8.4% CAGR over the forecast period, in comparison to the CAGR of 8.0% registered between 2019 to 2023.
Tourism is a major industry in South Africa and plays a large role in the economy of the country. Culturally and religiously, South Africa is a diverse nation with a wealth of cultural and religious practices. South Africa offers a variety of faith-based experiences across different religions, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, and indigenous African spiritual traditions.
The existence of several African-initiated churches such as Zion Christian church and Nazareth Baptist church attracts several travellers during religious journeys attracting travellers to South Africa.
Over the past few years, religious tourism is one of the tourist niche markets, has experienced significant development in the last few years. According to UN Tourism, religious tourism is all forms of tourism that are motivated by religious faith or have the primary purpose of visiting places of worship, participating in religious ceremonies, or witnessing religious events. The growth of religious tourism is attributed to several factors, including increased religious affiliation, the search for spiritual fulfillment, and the desire to experience different cultures.
Religious tourism is steadily becoming popular and South Africa is among the fastest-growing destinations for it. Millennials and young adults across the globe are not only interested in the serene beauty of South Africa, but they are also eager to explore cultural heritage sites, hidden temples, and other wellness-based spots to relax.
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Halal tourism in South Africa presents significant opportunities for stakeholders in the faith-based tourist industry to diversify their clientele. In South Africa and throughout the world, halal tourism is emerging.
Muslim culture is a significant part of South Africa's national legacy, making it essential to the country's tourist business. Additionally, the nation is collaborating with Dnata World Travel to promote halal tourism in Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC), particularly in Cape Town.
Easter is the busiest time of year for religious travel in South Africa. For instance, many individuals have made visits to Buffalo City in the EC with the intention of bringing the community spiritual healing, inspiration, and renewal.
India remains a core market for South African Tourism globally and holds considerable opportunities in the target market. In the previous year, South Africa welcomed more than 50,000 Indian travellers to the Rainbow Nation. India is the sixth largest international source market and remains one of the top three focus markets for South African tourism globally.
The South African government has acknowledged the immense potential for economic growth and job creation within the faith-based tourism industry. The recognition is demonstrated by the establishment of a dedicated National Department of Tourism and the expansion of the tourism portfolio, underscoring their commitment to promoting the target market.
The Ministry of Tourism is also concentrating on broadening the product base to ensure industry competitiveness. The creation of policies, encouragement and the execution of initiatives to promote high-quality, cost-effective tourist goods have been given top attention in order to boost the competitiveness of the nation's tourism industry.
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Religious pilgrimages in South Africa create significant positive spin-offs by boosting local economies, promoting cultural exchange, and fostering community development. Pilgrims visit sacred sites and spend on accommodations, food, transportation, and souvenirs, which support local businesses and create jobs.
Additionally, these pilgrimages help promote cultural diversity and acceptance as people from different cultures come together to celebrate their heritage. The increased visitor traffic also leads to better infrastructure and the protection of religious and cultural landmarks, benefiting both locals and tourists.
Religious and Heritage Tours Are Gaining Popularity Among Young Adults
| Tourism Type | Religious and Heritage Tours |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 27.9% |
Based on tourism type, religious and heritage tours are expected to emerge as the most lucrative segment in the South Africa faith-based tourism market. Religious and heritage tours have become increasingly popular among young adults in South Africa, driven by a growing interest in cultural exploration and spiritual experiences.
The demographic is drawn not only to the scenic beauty of locations like Cape Town but also to the opportunity to engage with diverse cultural and religious practices. The rise of customized tours and the promotion of halal tourism further cater to this trend, highlighting the economic significance of religious tourism in the region.
Sales of Packaged Tours Will Continue to Increase
| Tour Type | Package Travellers |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2034) | 46.1% |
Packaged tours are preferred by tourists due to the convenience and comprehensive nature of offerings. Tour operators provide a range of customizable packages including transportation, accommodations, guided visits to religious sites, and other amenities, making travel planning easier and more efficient for pilgrims.
Packages often cater to specific religious needs such as halal food options and prayer facilities, enhancing the overall travel experience. The structured nature of packaged tours also ensures that tourists can focus on their spiritual journey.
Tourists are Preferring Online Booking for Hassle-free Experience
| Booking Channel | Online Booking |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2034) | 41.3% |
In terms of booking channels, the online booking channel is the most preferred by the faith-based tourist. Due to its convenience, accessibility, and the ability to customize travel plans. Digital platforms allow travelers to easily compare packages, read reviews, and book accommodations, transportation, and guided tours tailored to their religious needs.
Supported by the integration of technology in the tourism sector, enhances the overall travel experience by providing seamless and efficient planning options. As a result, online booking has become a popular choice for spiritual travellers.
The competitive landscape of faith-based tourism in South Africa is characterized by a diverse array of stakeholders, including religious institutions, tour operators, accommodations, and local communities. These entities collaborate to offer comprehensive and cohesive faith-based tourism experiences, catering to various religious groups and their specific needs.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Forecast Period | 2024 to 2034 |
| Historical Data Available for | 2019 to 2023 |
| Market Analysis | USD Million for Value |
| Key Country Covered | South Africa |
| Key Segments Covered | Tourism Type, Booking Channel, Tourist Type, Tour Type, Customer Orientation, Age Group |
| Key Companies Profiled | XL Turners Travel- Cape Town; Summer Place; Wanderer Cape Town Tours & Travel- Private Capes Town Tours; Club Traveler; ILIOS Travel (Pty) Ltd; Kabura Travel & Tour; Hotspots2c; The Cape Town Tour Guide Company; Nomad Africa Adventure Tours; Springbok Atlas; Giltedge Travel Group; Earthstompers Adventures; Halal Tourism Africa |
| Report Coverage | Market Forecast, Company Share Analysis, Competition Intelligence, DROT Analysis, Market Dynamics and Challenges, and Strategic Growth Initiatives |
| Customization & Pricing | Available upon Request |
The present valuation of South Africa faith-based tourism industry is at USD 79.9 million in 2023.
The growing popularity of diving places, new tour launches, customized tours, and increasing mergers and acquisitions, etc. are the key trends driving sales in the market.
Leading players operating in the South Africa faith-based tourism market are XL Turners Travel- Cape Town, Summer Place, Wanderer Cape Town Tours & Travel- Private Capes Town Tours, Club Traveler, ILIOS Travel (Pty) Ltd, Kabura Travel & Tours, Hotspots2c, The Cape Town Tour Guide Company, Nomad Africa Adventure Tours, Springbok Atlas, Giltedge Travel Group, Earthstompers Adventures, Halal Tourism Africa, etc. are among others.
Leading players in the South African faith-based tourism market are estimated to account for approximately 3%-8% of the total market share.
The South Africa faith-based tourism industry has expanded at a CAGR of 8.0% over the historic period.
1. Executive Summary
2. Growth Parameters
3. Supply to Demand: Today’s Travel Distribution Network
3.1. Direct v/s Indirect Distribution
3.2. Travel Gross Revenues, by Channel, 2023
3.2.1. Supplier Direct
3.2.2. TMC
3.2.3. Tour Operator
3.2.4. OTA
4. Direct Suppliers
4.1. Total Supplier Market, Share by Segment (%), 2023
5. Indirect Suppliers
5.1. OTA (Online Travel Agency)
5.2. Traditional Travel Agencies
5.3. TMC's (Travel Management Companies)
5.4. Corporate Buyers
5.5. Aggregators
6. Number of Bookings, 2023
6.1. By Tourism Type
6.1.1. Day Trips & Local Gateways
6.1.2. Museums
6.1.3. Pilgrimages
6.1.4. Religious and Heritage Tours
6.1.5. Others
6.2. By Booking Channel
6.2.1. Phone Booking
6.2.2. Online Booking
6.2.3. In-Person Booking
6.3. By Tourist Type
6.3.1. Domestic
6.3.2. International
6.4. By Tour Type
6.4.1. Independent Traveller
6.4.2. Tour Group
6.4.3. Package Traveller
6.5. By Consumer Orientation
6.5.1. Men
6.5.2. Women
6.6. By Age Group
6.6.1. 15-25 Years
6.6.2. 26-35 Years
6.6.3. 36-45 Years
6.6.4. 46-55 Years
6.6.5. 56-65 Years
6.6.6. 66-75 Years
7. Country Shift, Key Country in Focus, 2023
8. Gross Revenue
8.1. Gross Revenue (USD Million) and Forecast (2024 to 2034)
8.2. Number of Bookings and Forecast (2024 to 2034)
8.3. Total Spending Y-o-Y Growth Projections (2024 to 2034)
8.4. Number of Tourists Y-o-Y Growth Projections
9. Challenges & Looking Forward
9.1. Success Stories: Case Studies
9.2. FMI Recommendations
10. Market Stakeholders Landscape - Key Direct Suppliers
10.1. Tour Operators
10.2. Government Bodies
11. Social Media Sentimental Analysis
11.1. Travel Influencers: A New Phenomenon in the World of Tourism
11.2. Social Media Platforms Preferred
11.3. Trending #Hashtags
11.4. Social Media Platform Mentions (% of Total Mentions)
11.5. Trending Subject Titles
12. Assumptions and Acronyms Used
13. Research Methodology
Travel and Tourism
May 2024
REP-GB-15355
306 pages
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South Africa Faith-Based Tourism Market
