South Africa's tourism sector is gaining momentum as the upcoming Club Med South Africa Beach and Safari Resort on the northern coast of KwaZulu-Natal signals growing investor confidence, growing global demand and expanding capacity.
Source: Supply | From left to right: Olivier Perillat-Piratoin, MD Club Med SA, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille and Chris du Toit, project director of Collins Residential.
Government and industry leaders visited the site ahead of Africa's Travel Indaba this week, and hailed the development as a driver of tourism growth, job creation, skills development and international visibility for South Africa.
Government supports tourism development
South Africa's Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, said the project reflects strong collaboration between government and the private sector and reinforces tourism as a key economic driver.
“Tourism investment is not just about the creation of new products,” said Minister De Lille. “It is also about maintaining and enhancing our existing attractions while diversifying the experiences available to passengers.”
He said South Africa welcomed a record 10.5 million international tourists in 2025, with 2.9 million arrivals already recorded in the first quarter of 2026.
Jobs and construction scale
The development has created over 2,300 direct and indirect jobs during construction, with 600 to 650 permanent roles expected once operational.
Skills development initiatives include hospitality scholarships for young South Africans.
Chris du Toit, project director of Collins Residential, said the project proves that large-scale tourism development is possible at a local scale. “This project proves that development of this scale can be successfully carried out in South Africa,” Du Toit said.
“Many believed that a greenfield tourism project of this magnitude could not be achieved locally, but this development demonstrates what is possible through collaboration, innovation and trust in the South African market.”
The project was funded entirely through South African investment, including local banks and suppliers. At peak construction, 1,850 workers were on site per day, contributing 4.5 million man-hours with zero lost time.
About 4,000 indigenous trees were planted as part of environmental restoration efforts.
16 year vision
Club Med South Africa managing director Olivier Perillat-Piratoin said the resort represents the result of a 16-year development journey. We do not take the success of this property lightly,” he said, “It has been an extraordinary human journey involving expertise, talent and collaboration from across South Africa and the world.”
He said the concept combines South Africa's beach and safari experiences into one offering. “The beach and the bush are an extraordinary combination for today's global traveller,” he said. “South Africa offers a travel and hospitality experience unlike anywhere else in the world.”
strong global demand
Club Med's “Destination South Africa” campaign has generated strong international interest, targeting over two million customers worldwide.
South Africa was one of the top three most sought-after destinations in Club Med's global portfolio at the time of launch, with bookings from over 40 countries.
“With direct air access, remarkable experiences and a stable tourism offer, South Africa is fast establishing itself as a highly attractive destination for international travellers,” Perillat-Piratoin said.
Initial bookings were led by Europe, followed by strong domestic demand.
MICE AND DOMESTIC DEVELOPMENT,/h2>
Demand from the leisure and MICE sectors is strong, positioning the resort as a new premium option for corporate travel and events.
“We already have thousands of leisure guests booked before the resort officially opens,” Perillat-Piratoin said. “At the same time, major South African and international companies have already secured conference and incentive bookings.”
Minister De Lille also highlighted efforts to improve visa access through digital systems for markets including India, China, Indonesia and Mexico.
mass tourism impact
Stakeholders say the development is expected to generate long-term economic impact in KwaZulu-Natal through supplier development, infrastructure development and tourism expansion.
“This is a world-class product that demonstrates the diversity and quality of South Africa’s tourism offering,” Minister De Lille said. “We are proud to support and promote it as part of our international tourism marketing efforts.”
The so-called “Club Med effect” is expected to mirror tourism expansion patterns seen in destinations such as Cancún and the Dominican Republic.
Industry leaders believe the project can help establish KwaZulu-Natal as a globally competitive tourism destination as international demand continues to grow.