Durban’s summer season campaign was officially launched on October 16 to showcase the city’s readiness to welcome an anticipated 1.3 million visitors over the festive season.
Plans to ensure the safety of residents and visitors as well as countless tourism offerings were highlighted during the launch.
The scenic Isithumba Village, nestled in the Valley of a Thousand Hills, provided the perfect backdrop for the summer season campaign launch – showcasing the rich, natural beauty of the city.
The launch was held under the theme “Visit Durban: Endless Waves of Tranquillity” showcasing that Durban will be pulling out all the stops to ensure an unforgettable summertime – further positioning the city as a premier holiday destination.
Delivering the keynote address at the launch, Chairperson of the city’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli said the summer season campaign invites the world to experience Durban.
“We are expecting about 1.3 million visitors in the city this festive season – a powerful boost for the local economy. Their spending is projected to inject over R341 million (US$19.7 million) in direct impact and a total of R845 million (US$48.8 million) into the city’s GDP. This influx will help create more than 15 000 jobs and generate over R630 million (US$36.4 million) in taxes, which is clear proof of how tourism drives growth and opportunity for residents,” said Councillor Ntuli.
Beyond the numbers, the summer campaign is about sharing the story of Durban, which is one of resilience, creativity and warmth, he added.
The city continues to attract local and international visitors with strong recovery figures from earlier this year indicating 186 000 new international arrivals in Durban and 2.8 million domestic trips contributing nearly R5 billion (US$288.7 million) to the economy.
These results reaffirm that Durban remains one of the most desirable destinations in South Africa.
Key catalytic projects continue to take shape and play a vital role in sustaining tourism and driving long-term economic growth – expanding the city’s capacity to host visitors, investors and world-class events.
Councillor Ntuli welcomed the renewal of Durban’s hosting rights for Africa’s Travel Indaba until 2030, saying this is one of the key events that cements the city’s position as a leading tourism and business events destination on the continent.
Outlining the summer season plans, Councillor Ntuli said Metro Police are working closely with the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to heighten safety and security, particularly over the festive season.
There will be increased police visibility in tourism precinct areas with more lifeguards deployed at municipal beaches and pools and trained child minders along the beachfront.
The rollout of smart policing technology – including CCTV monitoring, bodycams and dashcams – will help ensure visitors enjoy a safe and peaceful holiday.
The city encourages visitors to venture beyond the beachfront and discover the beauty of Durban’s western region.
The Valley of a Thousand Hills offers hiking trails, river adventures, village tours and local craft experiences that blend nature with authentic Zulu culture.
Attractions such as Phezulu Safari Park, Isithumba Adventure, the Inanda Heritage Route and Westown destination mall showcase the depth of experiences awaiting travellers who seek a more tranquil and connected escape.
During the summer campaign launch, the city also announced an exciting line-up of events across eThekwini.
Festival and music lovers can look forward to the Dubane Summer Break, INK Kasi Experience, Gagasi FM Beach Fest and Durban Fact Rocks while families can enjoy the Botanic Gardens Trail of Lights and many other events.
The 2025/26 cruise season will officially kick off in November when an impressive line-up of vessels, such as the MSC Opera and Ryndam Europa, will dock in the city.
A diverse number of international tourists will have the opportunity to experience Durban and all it has to offer.
Durban Tourism will host a series of roadshows across the country.
Through these national roadshows, the city will unpack Durban’s summer activities and holiday packages.
There will also be tourism engagements in the UK and US – seeking to position Durban as a destination of choice and ensuring the story of tranquillity and diversity reaches far and wide.
