South African Tourism has successfully launched the 11th edition of its 'Learn South Africa' workshop series in Kolkata, engaging over 60 travel trade partners. The event, which began on 16 January 2026, aims to showcase South Africa's diverse tourism offerings, particularly focusing on regions beyond the popular hubs of Cape Town and Johannesburg. This initiative aligns with Kolkata's increasing demand for customised and experience-led travel.
The workshop series is part of a multi-city initiative that will conclude in Lucknow on 27 February 2026. It is designed to provide travel trade partners with deeper insights into South Africa's tourism experiences, from cultural routes and adventure offerings to emerging regions. The workshops equip partners with the knowledge and tools to craft personalised itineraries, addressing the rising demand from non-metro travellers seeking curated and immersive journeys.
Gcobani Mancotywa, Regional General Manager for Asia, Australasia, and the Middle East at South African Tourism, commented on the event's success, noting that Kolkata's travellers are increasingly inclined towards meaningful, experience-rich holidays. "South Africa’s diverse offerings across landscapes, experiences, and city stays resonate strongly with these evolving preferences," he said.
The workshop series is central to South African Tourism's strategy to strengthen its engagement with the Indian travel trade community, particularly in tier-2 cities like Kolkata. This approach aims to capitalise on the growing demand for South Africa as a preferred leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination. The favourable exchange rate, where 1 South African Rand equals approximately 5.21 Indian Rupees, further supports the appeal of long-haul travel to South Africa for Indian tourists.
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