The 2025 SATSA Conference will use Johannesburg as its stage to showcase Gauteng’s cultural and tourism offerings while tackling the pressing challenges facing the industry.
The conference will take place from September 9-11 with “Spread the Love” as its theme.
“Too often, the city is overlooked as a tourism destination yet it embodies the energy, creativity and resilience that define South Africa. By hosting our conference here, we aim to showcase Johannesburg’s depth of experiences and affirm its rightful place on the tourism map,” said SATSA CEO David Frost.
In addition to discussions on resilience, market shifts and tourism trends, the conference will feature an interactive showcase of the hundreds of products that reflect Johannesburg’s cultural vibrancy and depth of experiences. Delegates will embark on a host of curated city experiences and fam tours – led by passionate local guides – before, during and after the conference.
The tours will include:
- Curiocity – The Evolution of Maboneng
- Dlala Nje – Ponte Experience Tour and This is Hillbrow Walking Tour
- Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers – Half-Day Soweto Tour
- Local Places – Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour
- Makers Valley Partnership – Change in the Making
- Toura Travel Therapy – Jozi Triangle Graffiti Tour
Sthembiso Dlamini, CEO of hosting partner the Gauteng Tourism Authority, said the conference reflects the province’s commitment to regional tourism promotion.
“This event highlights Gauteng as a dynamic destination ready to welcome and inspire tourism stakeholders across the region. We hope to leverage the event to educate various stakeholders about Gauteng’s unique value proposition as well as some of the hidden gems ready to be packaged and sold to potential travellers,” said Dlamini.
The conference theme is directly connected to SATSA’s goal to drive the geographic spread of tourism beyond traditional icons such as Cape Town and the Kruger National Park.
“Iconic destinations cannot grow indefinitely. To remain competitive and spread economic benefits, we must include destinations like Johannesburg and greater Gauteng in itineraries. If we fail to do so, we risk losing ground to competitors as established destinations reach capacity, particularly during peak seasons,” said Frost.
Click here to view the full programme for SATSA Conference 2025.
