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South Africa Shines Globally: Ranked Fourth Best Travel Destination

Travel

Business Honor
28 July, 2025

Over 20,000 readers celebrate South Africa's beauty, culture, and experiences, with Johannesburg boosting appeal.

South Africa earned a highly sought-after position as the world's fourth-best in the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards, highlighting its mind-bending appeal to international tourists. The country was voted for by more than 20,000 readers of The Telegraph, acknowledging the country's stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural landscape, and unparalleled experiences.

It's not all about nice views. Tourism is an important driver of South Africa's economy. In 2024, almost 9 million overseas visitors arrived in South Africa, with tourism accounting for a notable 3.3% of the nation's GDP and employing over 1.8 million citizens. Vibrant cities such as Johannesburg underpin this growth. Johannesburg, the economic and cultural hub, is at the forefront of South Africa's future global significance. The cosmopolitan city provides a true modern African lifestyle experience, from Maboneng's vibrant street art murals to trendy shops at 44 Stanley and rooftop restaurants in the lively Braamfontein.

Culturally, Johannesburg is blessed with some significant icons including the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, and the Market Theatre. All these attractions offer valuable insights into South African history and its transformative experiences, making them a must-visit for learning and inspiration. Apart from tourism, Johannesburg is a significant business and international travel hub, with the Sandton Convention Centre and O.R. Tambo International Airport supporting international conferences and facilitating connections. There are also tranquil green oases such as Delta Park and the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens to escape to, even if there is so much dynamism in the city.

South Africa's stunning fourth-place ranking is a recommendation in itself to its outstanding virtues, and Johannesburg proudly sits at the center of all this glory. Whether it's for discovering, being innovative, bringing people together, or just getting its rhythm into your system, Joburg invites you to one of the world's best places.