India’s outbound growth continues to command focused engagement from long-haul destinations. South African Tourism has concluded the 22ⁿᵈ edition of its annual India roadshow, reinforcing trade partnerships across key metros and positioning India as a priority source market ahead of its 2026 recovery and growth targets.
South African Tourism successfully completed the 22ⁿᵈ edition of its Annual India Roadshow from 09–12 February 2026, covering Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Delhi. The initiative followed its kick-off engagement at OTM Mumbai and forms part of the tourism board’s largest trade outreach programme in India.
Led by Mitalee Karmarkar, Marketing and Communications Manager (MEISEA), South African Tourism, the roadshow featured over 40 exhibitors from South Africa, showcasing destination offerings across leisure, corporate, and MICE segments.
The Bengaluru leg engaged over 300 Indian travel trade partners, while the Delhi event drew participation from more than 255 agents. A press briefing was held at ITC Maurya on Thursday, 12 February 2026, followed by a networking lunch aimed at strengthening engagement with media and trade stakeholders.
India remains a priority growth market
Sharing her perspective, Mitalee Karmarkar, Marketing and Communications Manager (MEISEA), South African Tourism, said, “India continues to be a priority growth market for South African Tourism, driven by strong interest across family travel, experiential holidays, and premium travel. Indian travellers today are also planning differently, using AI-powered tools to research and customise their trips, travelling more occasionally, and showing a growing willingness to explore destinations beyond traditional favourites.”
She added, “Delhi remains one of South Africa’s most important source markets in India, with travellers from the city showing strong intent for diverse, premium, and experience-led travel. These travellers are well-informed, globally exposed, and increasingly confident in exploring long-haul destinations that offer a mix of culture, wildlife, and leisure.”
According to South African Tourism, Delhi continues to play a pivotal role in driving demand for luxury leisure and wildlife experiences, with travellers seeking curated journeys that combine iconic attractions with immersive and lesser-known regions.
Focus on recovery and long-term growth
South Africa is targeting a return to pre-Covid Indian traveller volumes in 2026 and remains committed to fostering long-term partnerships with Indian trade stakeholders. The tourism board aims to unlock new itineraries, drive higher-quality conversions, and sustain growth from this influential source market.
Looking ahead, South Africa is also set to host the 2027 ODI World Cup, presenting an opportunity to showcase the country’s tourism offerings to global audiences.
Through continued trade engagement, targeted consumer outreach, and market-specific initiatives, South African Tourism is reinforcing India’s strategic importance within its Asia growth framework.
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.
