The US Embassy has released the figures of the top overseas visitors to South Africa in 2025 – with American tourists snagging top place!
According to government statistics, around nine million international tourists arrived in the country last year.
TOP OVERSEAS VISITORS TO SOUTH AFRICA IN NUMBERS
In a Facebook post, the US Embassy revealed the Top 3 overseas visitors to South Africa for 2025.
They are:
US – 358 333
UK – 356 080
Germany – 256 878
🥊 And the top overseas visitors to South Africa in 2025 are…
🇺🇸 United States – 358,333
🇬🇧 United Kingdom – 356,080…Posted by US Embassy South Africa on Thursday 15 January 2026
‘EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION’
Reports that the US records the highest number of visitors to South Africa come after the Department of State issued a travel alert warning Americans to “exercise extreme caution” when visiting the country.
The advisory warned that SA had elevated levels of violent crime, kidnappings, and terrorist attacks. It also cited political unrest as a concern.
The travel alert claimed that US officials living and working in South Africa were required to travel in “armoured vehicles” when conducting missions in informal settlements.
The Department of State encouraged those who travelled to SA to adhere to the following recommendations.
- Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
- Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
- Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
- Drive with doors locked and windows closed.
- Follow local authority instructions.
- Always carry a copy of your US passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
- Avoid visiting informal settlements (townships) unless you are with someone familiar with the area.
- Avoid driving outside metropolitan areas at night due to road hazards such as animals, broken-down vehicles, and the risk of becoming a crime victim.
- Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Stay alert in tourist spots.
