Western cape tourism report

WESTERN CAPE TOURISM BAROMETER:
Your Provincial Tourism Intelligence Source

Volume 4, Issue 1

October - December 2009

Produced by Cape Town Routes Unlimited

INTRODUCTION

This barometer is a synopsis of the travel patterns of tourists (domestic and international) for the
period October 2009 - December 2009 in Cape Town and the Western Cape. It provides a
snapshot of the industry’s performance - a provincial tourism intelligence source for stakeholders
including all critical performance indicators and all regions of the Western Cape Province.

The United Nations World Tourism Organisation expects a growth in international arrivals of
between 3% and 4% this year. The International Monetary Fund has echoed these sentiments,
stating that its assessment of the global economy indicates faster recovery from the economic
crisis than expected.

International arrivals to South Africa are looking positive, with 2,655,199 tourists visiting the
country in Q4 2009. This shows growth of 1.8% when compared to the same period of 2008.

Despite the impact of the worst economic recession in 60 years, the Cape Town and Western
Cape tourism industry has still performed on par over the holiday season (December 2009 –
January 2010) in comparison with December 2008 – January 2009. This is according to the
Western Cape Trends survey conducted by CTRU.

The survey reveals that over the past holiday season the Western Cape received more domestic
visitors (60%) than overseas visitors (35.8%). However, the latter shows that the province retains
its popularity amongst overseas visitors. The previous holiday period shows little variance with
59.8% domestic visitors and 36.9% international tourists visiting the province. The fact that the
Western Cape tourism industry was able to maintain its foothold despite the economic climate,
proves yet again the importance of the industry to the province’s economy. It is therefore
imperative that we continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure sustainable growth
beyond 2010.

We trust that this barometer, which contains an interesting case study on Food Tourism, will
prove to be a useful tool with your decision-making and planning for the quarters ahead.

Yours in tourism for development

Calvyn Gilfellan
Chief Executive Officer

2

IN THIS ISSUE

Global Trends

National Trends
• Visitors to South Africa
• National Lodging Statistics

Provincial Trends
• Performance Indicators
• ACSA Arrivals: International, regional & domestic
• Attraction Visitation Data
o Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
o Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
o TMNP: Boulders
o TMNP: Cape of Good Hope
o V&A Waterfront
o Cango Caves
o Worcester Living Open-air Museum
o Capri Tours & Helicopters
o Cape Agulhas Visitation
De Hoop Nature Reserve
Cape Agulhas Lighthouse
Shipwreck Museum
o South African National Parks
Cape Agulhas National Park
Bontebok National Park
Wilderness National Park
Tsitsikamma National Park
Karoo National Park
West Coast National Park

Regional Visitor Trends
• Western Cape visitor trends and patterns
• Cape Town region visitor patterns and lodging statistics
• Cape Winelands region visitor patterns
• Cape Garden Route & Klein Karoo region visitor patterns
• Cape Overberg region visitor patterns
• Cape Central Karoo region visitor patterns
• Cape West Coast region visitor patterns

Niche Market: Food Tourism

3

GLOBAL TRENDS

According to World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO 2010), the international visitor arrivals are
estimated to have declined worldwide by 4% in 2009 to 880 million. Growth has however returned
to international tourism in the last quarter of 2009, after 14 months of negative outcomes,
contributing to a better expected full-year result. The 2% increase registered in the last quarter of
2009 contrasted with the declines of 10%, 7% and 2% felt in the first three quarters each
respectively.

Figure 1: World Inbound Tourism International Tourist Arrivals

1000
901 920 880
900 847
802
800 762
682 682 702 691
700
610 632
567 593
Million

600 534
500
400
300
200
100
0
1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009*

*=provisional figure or data
(Source: UNWTO 2010)

The full year results show that growth was negative in all regions except for Africa, which
hammered the global trend. Europe ended 2009 down 6% after a very complicated first half (-
10%). Destinations in Central, Eastern and Northern Europe were badly affected, while results in
Western, Southern and Mediterranean Europe were relatively better. Asia and the Pacific (-2%)
showed an extraordinary change in trends, while arrivals declined by 7% between January and
June, the second half of 2009 experienced 3% growth reflecting enhanced regional economic
results and forecasts.

In the Americas (-5%), the Caribbean restored growth during the last four months of 2009. The
performance was down in other sub-regions; with the A (H1N1) influenza pandemic aggravating
the burden of the economic crisis.

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The Middle East (-6%), though still far from the growth levels of the previous years, had a good
second half in 2009. Africa (+5%) flourished with Sub-Saharan destinations doing predominantly
well.

Regardless of the general decline, several destinations worldwide reported positive growth in
2009 in terms of international visitor arrivals. These include Morocco, Kenya, Rwanda, South
Africa, Swaziland, Cuba, Curaçao, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Chile,
Colombia, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Cambodia,
Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, several Pacific Islands, Iran, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Iceland, Sweden,
Hungary, FYR of Macedonia, Italy, Montenegro, Serbia, Turkey, Bahrain, Jordon, Lebanon and
Syria.

Tourism receipts normally follow the trend in arrivals rather closely, even if they suffer somewhat
more in difficult times. Based on the trends through the first three quarters, receipts for 2009 are
estimated to have declined by approximately 6%. While this is a discouraging result for an
industry familiar with continuous growth, it can also be translated as a sign of competitive
resilience. Given the extremely difficult economic environment, this becomes more evident when
contrasted with the estimated 12% slump in overall exports as a result of the global crisis
(UNWTO 2010).

Prospects for 2010

Against the backdrop of both the rise in international tourism figures and overall economic
indicators in recent months, UNWTO forecasts a growth in international visitor arrivals of between
3% and 4% in 2010. Another positive aspect is that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has
stated that global improvement is occurring faster than expected, when compared with its October
assessment which already calculated a return of economic growth in 2010 of 3.1% worldwide,
with stronger performance for emerging economies at 5.1% alongside a slower growth at 1.3% for
advanced economies.

By region, Asia is expected to continue showing the strongest recovery, while Europe and the
Americas are expected to recover at a steadier rate. Growth is expected to return to the Middle
East, while Africa will continue its positive trend benefiting from the extra boost provided by the
2010 FIFA World Cup TM in South Africa.

These improved forecasts are confirmed by the steep increase in the UNWTO Panel of Experts’
Confidence Index for 2010. The experts who moderated prospects for 2010 as ‘better’ or ‘much
better than would reasonably be expected’ (61%), clearly outnumber those rating it as ‘the same’

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(32%) or ‘worse’ (7%). The average score for 2010 (131) is well above neutral 100 and close to
the level of the boom years 2004-2007.

2010 provides numerous opportunities, while not eliminating the risks. On the optimistic side, the
economy is recovering faster than expected and both business and consumer confidence have
picked up. Interest rates and inflation are expected to increase only moderately in the short term.
In the tourism sector, the restricted demand that generally follows a slump creates several
opportunities and there is the possibility for a rebound among source markets which were
negatively affected in 2009, such as UK or the Russian Federation. Another factor that will
enhance 2010 is that there will be ample events to attract potential visitors from the Winter
Olympics in Vancouver in February to the FIFA World CupTM in June in South Africa and the
Shanghai World Expo from May through to October.

A drawback of 2010 is unemployment which will remain a challenge. The job calamity is not over
yet, predominantly in major advanced economies and many valuable human resources are still at
risk. On the economic front, recovery in major tourism source markets, especially Europe and the
USA, is still frail and households and company budgets may face additional strain from the steady
withdrawal of incentive measures as well as from possible increases in taxation as an effect of
growing public deficits. Oil prices are expected to remain unstable through 2010 and security
threats as well as potential of increased related hassle and costs for travellers are still a
challenge. In conclusion, although the overall impact of the A (H1N1) virus was milder than
anticipated, experience from previous pandemics show that the situation could once again
become testing. 2010 will be characterised by a rough business environment for the tourism
sector as revenues and yields are expected to improve at a measured pace than travel volumes.

Although projections are positive, 2010 will be a challenging year. “Many countries were quick in
reacting to the crisis and actively implemented measures to mitigate its impact and stimulate
recovery. Although we expect growth to return in 2010, a premature withdrawal of these stimulus
measures and the temptation to impose extra taxes may jeopardise the pace of rebound in
tourism. As highlighted in the UNWTO Roadmap to Recovery, the sector can make a vital
contribution to economic recovery, particularly as a primary vehicle for job creation and the
transformation to the Green Economy. But to do so we need serious global policies that are
supportive of tourism.” said Mr. Rifai, the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organisation
UNWTO.

6

Table 1: International Tourists Arrivals by (Sub) region
(Sub) region 2009* 09/08

(million) %
World 880 -4.3
Europe 459.7 -5.6
Northern Europe 52.6 -7.7
Western Europe 145.8 -4.3
Central/Eastern Europe 91.6 -8.2
Southern/Mediterean Europe 169.6 -4.7

Asia and the Pacific 180.5 -1.9

North-East Asia 97.6 -3.4
South-East Asia 62.0 0.4
Oceania 10.9 -1.8
South Asia 10.0 -2.7
Americas 139.6 -5.1
North America 91.9 -6.0
Caribbean 19.7 -2.4
Central America 7.8 -5.7
South America 20.1 -3.3
Africa 48.1 5.1
North Africa 17.7 2.9
Sub-Saharan Africa 30.4 6.4
Middle East 52.5 -5.6
*=provisional figure or data
(Source: UNWTO 2010)

7

Global Lodging Statistics

In the table below, the RevPar (revenue per available room) for international hotels is being
illustrated based on the data provided by STR Global (2010). According to the table, hotel RevPar
of all regions experienced an increase in December 2009.

Table 2: International Hotel Performance for year-on-year December 2009
Region Occupancy (%) Average daily rate ($) RevPar ($)
Americas 44.60 96.68 43.12
Asia/Pacific 62.10 129.03 80.13
Europe 52.60 129.98 67.98
Middle East 52.80 166.53 87.93
(Source: HotelBenchmark by STR Global 2010)

8

NATIONAL TRENDS

South Africa received 2,655,199 international arrivals in Q4 2009which was a 1.8% increase from
Q4 2008. Growth was experienced in October (5.8%) and in November (4.3%) and a decline in
December (-3.7%) from the same months of the previous year.

Figure 2: Q4 2007-2009 international arrivals to South Africa by month

3,000,000 8.0%
Number of international arrivals

2,500,000 6.0%

4.0%

08/09 % change
2,000,000
2.0%
1,500,000
0.0%
1,000,000
‐2.0%
500,000 ‐4.0%

0 ‐6.0%
October November December TOTAL
Q4 2007 792,913 795,122 881,126 2,469,161
Q4 2008 827,186 816,039 964,190 2,607,415
Q4 2009 875,313 850,896 928,990 2,655,199
08/09 % change 5.8% 4.3% ‐3.7% 1.8%

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Across the regions, South Africa received the most visitors from Africa and the Middle East with
2,030,711 arrivals, followed by Europe (418,715), the Americas (99,813) and Asia & Australasia
(87,054).

Figure 3: Q4 2007-2009 International arrivals to South Africa by region of origin
Number of international arrivals

3,000,000 10.0%

2,500,000 8.0%

08/09 % change
2,000,000 6.0%

1,500,000 4.0%

1,000,000 2.0%

500,000 0.0%

0 ‐2.0%
Africa and Asia &
Americas Europe TOTAL
Middle East Australasia
Q4 2007 1,804,571 70,560 93,858 458,291 2,469,161
Q4 2008 1,996,724 96,810 79,702 419,406 2,607,415
Q4 2009 2,030,711 99,813 87,054 418,715 2,655,199
08/09 % change 1.7% 3.1% 9.2% ‐0.2% 1.8%

The United Kingdom (142,449) was the top overseas source market to South Africa, followed by
Germany (73,050), the USA (65,545), the Netherlands (42,948) and France (33,202).

Figure 4: Q4 2009 Top overseas source markets for South Africa

160,000
140,000
Number of overseas visitors

120,000
100,000
80,000
60,000
40,000
20,000
0
October November December TOTAL
UK 44,160 43,323 54,966 142,449
Germany 24,684 26,665 21,701 73,050
USA 22,115 18,859 24,571 65,545
The Netherlands 16,362 14,342 12,244 42,948
France 13,070 10,997 9,135 33,202

10

According to Statssa 2009, the majority (97.1%) of visitors were in South Africa for holiday in
October 2009. This is a large disparity compared with those who have come to study (1.2%) and
those on businesses (1.6%). Visitors from Australia (97.9%), Europe (97.7%), North America
(97.5%), Central and South America (96.7%), Middle East (92.6%) and Asia (92%) were in South
Africa for holiday. Visitors from Middle East and Asia were more diverse in their purpose. Middle
East and Asia had 5.8% and 6.2% respectively of their visitors to South Africa for business.
Additionally, students made up 1.5% and 1.4% of Middle East and Asia visitors respectively.

Although the majority (97.3%) of African visitors came to South Africa for the holidays, there is
distinction between visitors from SADC countries and ‘other’ African countries, namely:
• While 97.5% of visitors from the SADC countries were on holiday, 92.6% of the visitors
from ‘other’ African countries were on holiday. 87.4% of the visitors on holiday came from
North Africa and 9.9% of the visitors came for business.
• North Africa, East and Central Africa as well as West Africa had 9.9%, 4.5% and 3.4%
respectively of their visitors in South Africa for business; compared with only 1.2% of
business persons among the visitors from SADC countries.
• Furthermore, 3.4%, 2.6% and 1.9% of visitors from East and Central Africa, North Africa
and West Africa respectively were students; compared with only 1.2% among visitors
from SADC countries.

11

PROVINCIAL TOURISM PERFORMANCE
KEY INDICATORS

ACSA Cape Town International Airport Arrivals

Figure 5: Q4 2006-2009 International Arrivals through Cape Town International Airport

250,000 0

‐2
International Arrivals

200,000

08/09 % Change
‐4
150,000
‐6
100,000
‐8
50,000 ‐10

0 ‐12
October November December Total
2006 48,729 69,035 76,022 193,786
2007 52,202 72,060 77,712 201,974
2008 61,957 68,338 78,090 208,385
2009 55,101 67,020 77,474 199,595
08/09 % Change -11.1 -1.9 -0.8 -4.2

(Source: ACSA, 2009)

In Q4 2009, a total of 199,595 international arrivals were received at the Cape Town International
Airport, which reflected a 4.2% decline compared to Q4 2008. Declines were experienced across
all three months of the quarter: October (-11.1%), November (-1.9%) and December (-0.8%).

12

Figure 6: Q4 2006-2009 Regional arrivals1 at Cape Town International Airport
25,000 0
‐2
20,000
Regional Arrivals

‐4

08/09 % Change
15,000 ‐6
‐8
10,000 ‐10
‐12
5,000
‐14
0 ‐16
2006 7,271 6,608 6,599 20,478
2007 7,017 6,518 6,165 19,700
2008 6,842 6,208 6,248 19,298
2009 5,896 5,709 5,422 17,027
08/09 % Change -13.8 -8 -13.2 -11.8


In Q4 2009, the Cape Town International Airport received 17,027 regional arrivals, which was an
overall decline of 11.8%. Declines were also experienced across the months of October (-13.8%),
November (-8%) and December (-13.2%).

Figure 7: Q4 2006-2009 Domestic arrivals2 at Cape Town International Airport
1,000,000 6
900,000
800,000 5
700,000
Domestic Arrivals

4
600,000 08/09 % Change
500,000 3
400,000
300,000 2
200,000 1
100,000
0 0
2006 263,858 260,835 302,218 826,911
2007 306,992 298,558 309,902 915,452
2008 284,787 260,434 291,498 836,719
2009 292,557 267,403 306,468 866,428
08/09 % Change 2.7 2.7 5.1 3.6


1
Regional arrivals are defined by the Government Gazette as the landing charge in respect of an aircraft which lands at
a company airport that has been engaged in a flight where the airport of departure of that aircraft is in Botswana, Lesotho,
Namibia or Swaziland.
2
Domestic arrivals are defined by the Government Gazette as the landing charge in respect of an aircraft which lands at
a company airport that has been engaged in a flight where the airport of departure of that aircraft is in South Africa.

13

Cape Town International Airport received 866, 428 domestic arrivals in Q4 2009, with an overall
increase of 3.6% from the same period of the previous year. Across all three months in the
quarter, increases were experienced: October (2.7%), November (2.7%) and December (5.1%).

ATTRACTIONS

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens received 195, 024 visitors in Q4 2009, with an overall 1.6%
increase in comparison with Q4 2008. November (-9.2%) was the only month that experienced a
drop in visitor numbers in Q4 2008, while October (4.5%) and December (9%) experienced
growth from the same period of the previous year.

Figure 8: Q4 2006-2009 Visitation to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

250,000 10.0

200,000 5.0
Number of visitors

08/09 % Change
150,000 0.0

100,000 -5.0

50,000 -10.0

0 -15.0
2006 66,465 68,060 74,166 208,691
2007 64,016 66,224 72,275 202,515
2008 62,006 62,181 67,675 191,862
2009 64,786 56,479 73,759 195,024
08/09 % Change 4.5 -9.2 9.0 1.6

(Source: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, 2009)

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway

Compared to Q4 2008, visitation to Table Mountain via the Aerial Cableway experienced an
overall decrease of 5.8% for Q4 2009. October (-17.9%) and November (-17.1%) have
experienced declines when compared to the same period of the previous year, while December
(13.7%) experienced an increase.

14

Figure 9: Q4 2007-2009 Visitation to Table Mountain Aerial Cableway

300,000 20.0
13.7
15.0
250,000
Number of visitors

10.0
200,000

08/09 % Change
5.0
150,000 0.0
-5.8
‐5.0
100,000
‐10.0
50,000 -17.9 -17.1 ‐15.0
0 ‐20.0

2007 2008 2009 08/09 % Change

(Source: Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, 2009)

Table Mountain National Park: Boulders
The Table Mountain National Park: Boulders received 170, 465 visitors in Q4 2009, compared to
182, 260 visitors in Q4 2008 which was a 6.5% year-on year decline. Across all three months of
the quarter, declines were experienced in October (-4.7%), November (-10.7%) and December (-
4.2%).

Figure 10: Q4 2006-2009 Visitation to Table Mountain: Boulders

250,000 0.00
Number of visitors

200,000 ‐2.00
08/09 % Change

‐4.00
150,000
‐6.00
100,000
‐8.00
50,000 ‐10.00
0 ‐12.00
2006 63,872 71,311 69,320 204,503
2007 62,965 66,592 87,471 217,028
2008 56,109 59,909 66,242 182,260
2009 53,463 53,522 63,480 170,465
08/09 % Change ‐4.72 ‐10.66 ‐4.17 ‐6.47

(Source: Table Mountain National Park, 2009)
15

Table Mountain National Park: Cape of Good Hope
The Table Mountain National Park: Cape of Good Hope received 253,498 visitors in Q4 2009
compared to 249, 596 visitors in Q4 2008, with 1.6% year-on-year increase. October (0.16%) and
December (6.5%) enjoyed growth from the same period of the previous year, while November (-
3.1%) experienced a decline.

Figure 11: Q4 2006-2009 Visitation to Table Mountain National Park: Cape of Good Hope

300,000 8.00
250,000 6.00
Number of visitors

08/09 % Change
200,000 4.00
150,000 2.00
100,000 0.00
50,000 ‐2.00
0 ‐4.00
2006 78,933 90,954 108,391 278,278
2007 78,759 74,433 111,293 264,485
2008 75,429 78,768 95,399 249,596
2009 75,550 76,321 101,627 253,498
08/09 % Change 0.16 ‐3.11 6.53 1.56

(Source: Table Mountain National Park, 2009)

V&A Waterfront
In Q4 2009 the V&A Waterfront received a total of 5,727,840 visitors with 5% decline in
comparison to Q4 2008. Accross all three months in the quarter declines in visitation were
experienced with October (-3.5%), November (-4.1%) and December (-6.8%).

16

Figure 12: Q4 2006-2009 Visitation to the V&A Waterfront
7,000,000 0.0
6,000,000 ‐1.0
Number of visitors

‐2.0

08/09 % Change
5,000,000
‐3.0
4,000,000
‐4.0
3,000,000
‐5.0
2,000,000 ‐6.0
1,000,000 ‐7.0
0 ‐8.0
2006 1,747,012 1,865,378 2,321,142 5,933,532
2007 1,769,739 1,924,345 2,270,199 5,964,283
2008 1,834,999 1,870,908 2,322,213 6,028,120
2009 1,770,526 1,793,333 2,163,981 5,727,840
08/09 % Change -3.5 -4.1 -6.8 -5.0

(Source: V&A Waterfront, 2009)

Cango Caves
The Cango Caves received a total of 66,453 visitors in Q4 2009 with an overall decline of 3.2% on
Q4 2008. Both October (-7.2%) and November (-6.8%) experienced a year-on-year decrease,
while December (1.8%) enjoyed growth in 2009 as in Q4 2008.

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Figure 13: Q4 2006-2009 Visitation to the Cango Caves

90,000 3
80,000 2
1
70,000
0
Number of visitors

60,000

08/09 % Change
‐1
50,000 ‐2
40,000 ‐3
30,000 ‐4
‐5
20,000
‐6
10,000 ‐7
0 ‐8
2006 20,391 24,041 33,266 77,698
2007 20,800 22,321 32,957 76,078
2008 19,852 19,004 29,786 68,642
2009 18,418 17,703 30,332 66,453
08/09 % Change -7.2 -6.8 1.8 -3.2

(Source: Cango Caves, 2009)

The Cango Caves received 31, 751 foreign visitors in Q4 2009 which was a 2.9% decrease from
the 32,711 foreign visitors received in Q4 2008. October (-15.1%) and November (-2.7%)
received a drop in visitor numbers, while December (18.5%) enjoyed growth in Q4 2008.

Figure 14: Q4 2006-2009 Total foreign visits to the Cango Caves

45,000 25
Number of foreign visitors

40,000 20
35,000 15
08/09 % Change

30,000 10
25,000 5
20,000 0
15,000 ‐5
10,000 ‐10
5,000 ‐15
0 ‐20
2006 13,862 18,271 8,994 41,127
2007 13,906 16,891 9,454 40,251
2008 12,667 13,005 7,039 32,711
2009 10,758 12,654 8,339 31,751
08/09 % Change ‐15.1 ‐2.7 18.5 ‐2.9


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The figure below illustrates the source markets of the Cango Caves received in Q4 2009 by
month. Most visitors to the Cango Caves were from South Africa (34,702), followed by Germany
(9,246), UK (5,619), the Netherlands (3,986), France (1,194) and USA (625). All visitors across
the top source markets experienced a drop in visitor numbers on Q4 2008; France (-36%),
Germany (-7.5%), the Netherlands (-12.4%), USA (-8.8%), UK (-9.5%) and South Africa (-3.4%).

Figure 15: Q4 2009 Cango Caves’ Core Source Markets
40,000 0
35,000 -5
Number of visitors

08/09 % Change
30,000 -10
25,000 -15
20,000 -20
15,000 -25
10,000 -30
5,000 -35
0 -40
France Germany Netherlands USA UK SA
October 687 3,113 1,648 190 1,943 7,660
November 456 4,341 1,547 237 2,522 5,049
December 51 1,792 791 198 1,154 21,993
Total 1,194 9,246 3,986 625 5,619 34,702
08/09 % Change -36 -7.5 -12.4 -8.8 -9.5 -3.4


Worcester Living Open-Air Museum

The Worcester Living Open–Air Museum received a total of 9,216 visitors in Q4 2009, with an
overall decline of 6.6% when compared to Q4 of 2008. October (-12.1%) and December (-8.8%)
experienced a decline but November (2.6%) achieved growth when compared to the same period
in the previous year.

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Figure 16: Q4 2006-2009 Visitation to Worcester Living Open – Air Museum
12,000 4.0
2.0
10,000
0.0
8,000 ‐2.0
Number of visitors

08/09 % Change
‐4.0
6,000
‐6.0
4,000 ‐8.0
‐10.0
2,000
‐12.0
0 ‐14.0
2006 2,201 2,300 3,502 8,003
2007 2,605 2,854 3,546 9,005
2008 3,250 2,859 3,758 9,867
2009 2,856 2,934 3,426 9,216
08/09 % Change -12.1 2.6 -8.8 -6.6

(Source: Worcester Living Open – Air Museum, 2009)

Capri Tours & Helicopters
In Q4 2009 Cape Tours & Helicopters in George received a total of 601 passengers. December
(339) welcomed the majority of passengers, followed by October (146) and November (116). A
total of 126 flights were achieved in December, over a total of 24 days.

Figure 17: Q4 2009 Visitation to Capri Tours & Helicopters
700

600
Number of visitors

500

400

300

200

100

0
Total days flown Total passengers Total flights
October 18 146 30
November 18 116 44
December 24 339 126
Total 60 601 200

(Source: Capri Tours & Helicopters, 2009)

20

CAPE AGULHAS ATTRACTIONS

Illustrated below are the Q4 2009 statistics of visitors to the main attractions within the Cape
Agulhas town, located within the Cape Overberg region. Illustrated attractions include De Hoop
Nature Reserve, Cape Agulhas Lighthouse and the Shipwreck Museum.

De Hoop Nature Reserve

De Hoop Nature Reserve received 7,103 visitors for Q4 2009 and achieved a growth rate of
38.8%, when compared to Q4 2008. Across the months of November (295.7%) and December
(17.6%), growth was achieved in Q4 2009 against visitor numbers in Q4 2008. In November 2008
the Cape Overberg region experienced severe floods which affected De Hoop Nature reserve as
well, thus explaining the enormous growth in visitor numbers for November. For weeks some of
the roads leading to the reserve were closed off and the management of the reserve had to
evacuate all hikers that were already on the trail and cancel other bookings since the conditions
were too dangerous.

Figure 18: Q4 2006-2009 Visitation to De Hoop Nature Reserve
8,000 350.00
7,000 300.00
Number of visitors

6,000 250.00

08/09 % Change
5,000 200.00
4,000 150.00
3,000 100.00
2,000 50.00
1,000 0.00
0 ‐50.00
2006 1,311 1,560 1,980 4,851
2007 1,149 1,697 2,087 4,933
2008 2,625 627 1,866 5,118
2009 2,427 2,481 2,195 7,103
08/09 % Change ‐7.54 295.69 17.63 38.78
(Source: Cape Agulhas Tourism, 2009)

Cape Agulhas Lighthouse

The Cape Agulhas Lighthouse received 8,035 visitors for Q4 2009 with an overall growth of
25.6% when compared with Q4 2008. Growth was achieved across two months, November (354.
61%) and December (7.46%), while October experienced a decline (-5.78%), when compared to
the same period of the previous year. The significant increase in November 2009 was due to
renovations taking place at the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse in November 2008.
21

Figure 19: Q4 2006-2009 Visitation to Cape Agulhas Lighthouse
12,000 400.00
350.00
10,000
Number of visitors

300.00
8,000 250.00

08/09 % Change
200.00
6,000
150.00
4,000 100.00
50.00
2,000
0.00
0 ‐50.00
2006 2,306 2,542 5,390 10,238
2007 2,018 2,148 5,137 9,303
2008 1,729 401 4,265 6,395
2009 1,629 1,823 4,583 8,035
08/09 % Change ‐5.78 354.61 7.46 25.65

Shipwreck Museum

The Shipwreck Museum received a total of 2,440 visitations for Q4 2009 and experienced a
decline of 13.4%. November (1.16%) was the only month that recorded growth while October (-
12.1%) and December (-19.7%) experienced a decline in visitors when compared to the same
period of 2008.

Figure 20: Q4 2006-2009 Visitation to Shipwreck Museum
3,500 5.00
3,000 0.00
Number of visitors

2,500
‐5.00
08/09 % Change

2,000
‐10.00
1,500
‐15.00
1,000
500 ‐20.00

0 ‐25.00
2006 720 800 1,160 2,680
2007 862 828 1,265 2,955
2008 694 603 1,520 2,817
2009 610 610 1,220 2,440
08/09 % Change ‐12.10 1.16 ‐19.74 ‐13.38

22

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL PARKS

A total of 153 806 travellers visited the South African National Parks across the Western Cape in
Q4 2009. Listed below is the total number of visitors received at each National Park:
• West Coast National Park (60,252)
• Tsitsikamma National Park (56,614)
• Karoo National Park (11,891)
• Wilderness National Park (11,888)
• Agulhas National Park (3,035)
• Bontebok National Park (5,096)

Figure 21: Q4 2006-2009 Visit to the South African National Parks in the Western Cape

Agulhas National
Bontebok National
West Coast Park, 8,035
Park, 5,096
National Park, Wilderness
60,282 National Park,
11,888

Tsitsikamma
National Park,
Karoo National
56,614
Park, 11,891

Lodging statistics for South African National Parks

The Tsitsikamma National Park achieved the highest (6,657) number of unit nights sold in Q4
2009 and achieved a growth of 5.95% compared to Q4 2008. While growth in the number of unit
nights sold was achieved in the West Coast National Park (6.6%) and Bontebok National Park
(20.9%), a decline was experienced in both the Karoo National Park (-4.9%) and the Wilderness
National Park (-8.4%). The Tsitsikamma National Park (2.9%) achieved growth in the number of
bed nights sold. On the other hand, the Bontebok National Park (-2.8%), Karoo National Park (-
5.5%), Wilderness National Park (-9.3%) and West Coast National Park (-15.5%) experienced

23

declines in their number of bed nights sold. Camping nights sold in the Bontebok National Park
(88.5%) recorded the highest growth, followed by Tsitsikamma National Park (0.7%) and Karoo
National Park (0.6%). The Wilderness National Park (-0.8%) experienced a decline in camping
bed nights sold.

Table 3: Q4 2008/2009 Lodging Statistics for South African National Parks
Accommodation Q4 2009 Karoo Wilderness Tsitsikamma West Coast Bontebok

Unit nights sold 2008 2,692 2,768 6,283 183 536

Unit nights sold 2009 2,559 2,534 6,657 195 648

08/09%Change -4.94 -8.45 5.95 6.56 20.90

Bed nights sold 2008 6,598 6,653 15,196 698 1,506

Bed nights sold 2009 6,234 6,037 15,632 591 1,464

08/09%Change -5.52 -9.26 2.87 -15.53 -2.79

Camping nights sold 2008 1,372 3,029 4,953 - 753

Camping nights sold 2009 1,383 3,004 4,985 - 1,419

08/09%Change 0.58 -0.83 0.65 - 88.45

(Source: South African National Park, 2009)

The Agulhas National Park received a total of 8,035 visitors in Q4 2009 with an overall growth of
31.3% when compared to Q4 2008. October (11.9%), November (354.6%) and December (7.4%)
increases were experienced when compared to the same period in the previous year.

24

Figure 22: Q4 2007-2009 Visits to Agulhas National Park

Agulhas National Park
10,000 400.00
9,000
Number of visitors

350.00

08/09 % Change
8,000
300.00
7,000
6,000 250.00

5,000 200.00
4,000 150.00
3,000
100.00
2,000
1,000 50.00

0 0.00
2007 2,018 2,148 5,137 9,303
2008 1,456 401 4,265 6,122
2009 1,629 1,823 4,583 8,035
08/09 % Change 11.88 354.61 7.46 31.25


The Bontebok National Park received a total of 5, 096 visitors in Q4 2009, with an overall increase
of 21.1% when compared to Q4 2008. October (0.3%), November (60.8%) as well as December
(13.5%) recorded growth when compared to the same period of the previous year.

Figure 23: Q4 2007-2009 Visits to Bontebok National Park

Bontebok National Park
6,000 70.00

5,000 60.00
Number of visitors

08/09 % Change

50.00
4,000
40.00
3,000
30.00
2,000
20.00
1,000 10.00

0 0.00
2007 1,050 1,362 1,924 4,336
2008 1,300 1,037 1,872 4,209
2009 1,304 1,667 2,125 5,096
08/09 % Change 0.31 60.75 13.51 21.07
25

Figure 24: Q4 2007-2009 Visits to Wilderness National Park

Wilderness National Park
14,000 50.00
12,000 40.00
Number of visitors

08/09 % Change
10,000 30.00
20.00
8,000
10.00
6,000
0.00
4,000 ‐10.00
2,000 ‐20.00
0 ‐30.00
2007 1,696 1,481 844 4,021
2008 3,575 2,861 4,224 10,660
2009 2,698 3,321 5,869 11,888
08/09 % Change ‐24.53 16.08 38.94 11.52
The Wilderness National Park received 11,888 visitors in Q4 2009 with an overall growth of
11.5% when compared to Q4 2008. December (38.9%) had the highest growth followed by
November (16.1%). October experienced a decline of 24.5% compared to the same period in the
previous year.

Figure 25: Q4 2007-2009 Visits to Tsitsikamma National Park

Tsitsikamma National Park
70,000 6.00

60,000 5.00
Number of visitors

4.00
50,000
08/09 % Change

3.00
40,000
2.00
30,000
1.00
20,000
0.00
10,000 -1.00

0 -2.00
2007 17,502 19,407 21,344 58,253
2008 15,656 16,406 23,226 55,288
2009 15,508 17,330 23,776 56,614
08/09 % Change -0.95 5.63 2.37 2.40

26

The Tsitsikamma National Park received a total of 56,614 visitors with an overall increase of 2.4%
when compared to Q4 2008. Growth were achieved in November (5.6%) and December (2.4%),
while October (-0.95%) experienced a decline in comparison with Q4 2008.

The Karoo National Park received 11,981 visitors in Q4 2009 with an overall growth of 9.9% when
compared to Q4 2008: October (14.1%), November (17.15%) and December (9.94%).

Figure 25: Q4 2007-2009 Visits to Karoo National Park

Karoo National Park
14,000 20.00
18.00
Number of visitors

12,000
16.00

08/09 % Change
10,000 14.00
8,000 12.00
10.00
6,000 8.00
4,000 6.00
4.00
2,000
2.00
0 0.00
2007 1,795 2,467 5,464 9,726
2008 2,530 2,391 5,895 10,816
2009 2,887 2,801 6,203 11,891
08/09 % Change 14.11 17.15 5.22 9.94

The West Coast National Park experienced a total of 60,282 visitors in Q4 2009 with an overall
decline of 15.4%. Increases were achieved in October (1.9%) and November (51.3%), while
December (-37.9%) had a decrease when compared to the same period in the previous year.

27

Figure 27: Q4 2007-2009 Visits to West Coast National Park

West Coast National Park
80,000 60.00
70,000 50.00
Number of visitors

40.00
60,000

08/09 % Change
30.00
50,000 20.00
10.00
40,000
0.00
30,000 ‐10.00
20,000 ‐20.00
‐30.00
10,000 ‐40.00
0 ‐50.00
2007 12,172 10,716 16,671 39,559
2008 11,056 13,026 47,167 71,249
2009 11,260 19,706 29,316 60,282
08/09 % Change 1.85 51.28 ‐37.85 ‐15.39

28

Q4 2009 WESTERN CAPE TRENDS

This section covers the analysis for the Western Cape travel and tourism trends, as well as
patterns for each region. This issue includes all six regions of the Western Cape: Cape Town,
Cape Garden Route & Klein Karoo, Cape Winelands, Cape West Coast, Cape Karoo and Cape
Overberg. A total of 5,885 responses were received from the six regions over the months of
October (2,368), November (1,572) and December (1,945) in Q4 2009.

Origin of visitors

In Q4 2009 the Western Cape received 60% domestic visitors, 35.8% from overseas and 1% who
originated from Africa (excluding domestic). Of the overseas visitors, 10.6% originated from the
UK, followed by Germany (8.4%), the Netherlands (4.4%), USA (1.7%), Switzerland (1.4%),
France (1.3%), Belgium (1.2%). 3.2% of visitors did not indicate their country of origin.

Figure 28: Q4 2009 Origin of overseas visitors

12.0%
10.6%
10.0%
% of Overseas Visitors

8.4%
8.0%

6.0%
4.4%
4.0% 3.2%
1.7%
2.0% 1.4% 1.3% 1.2%

0.0%

29

Of the domestic visitors, the majority (27.5%) were from the Western Cape, followed by Gauteng
(8%), KwaZulu-Natal (1.8%), Eastern Cape (1.3%), Mpumalanga (1%), Free State (0.9%),
Northern Cape (0.8%), North West (0.6%) and Limpopo (0.4%).

Figure 29: Q4 2009 Domestic visitors’ province of origin

30.0%
27.5%
25.0%
% of Domestic Visitors

20.0%

15.0%

10.0% 8.0%

5.0%
1.8% 1.3% 0.9%
1.0% 0.8% 0.6% 0.4%
0.0%

The table below illustrates the origin of visitors to each region within the Western Cape in Q4
2009. Cape Town and Cape Winelands were the only two regions that received more overseas
visitors than domestic. Cape Town received the most (85.3%) overseas visitors amongst the
regions, followed by Cape Winelands (53.2%). The domestic visitors dominated across the
remainder of the regions, the Cape Garden Route & Klein Karoo received the most (79%)
domestic visitors, followed by the Cape Overberg (78.8%) and Cape West Coast (74.1%). The
Cape West Coast received the most (1.4%) visitors originating from Africa (excluding domestic),
followed by Cape Town (1.3%).

Table 4: Q4 2009 Distribution of visitors by region
Region Overseas (%) Domestic (%) Africa (excluding
domestic) (%)
Cape Town 85.3 8.6 1.3

Cape Garden Route & Klein Karoo 8.7 79.0 0.2

Cape Winelands 53.2 44.1 1.2

Cape West Coast 23.6 74.1 1.4

Cape Karoo 25.4 72.5 1.2

Cape Overberg 20.4 78.8 0.2

30

Travel group size and length of stay

The overall average travel group size to the Western Cape in Q4 2009 was three and the most
common was two. The majority (48.9%) of visitors travelled in pairs, followed by 22% who
travelled alone, 10.3% travelled in fours and 9.3% in threes.

Of the overseas visitors, the overall average travel group size was three and the most common
was two. Most (63.4%) of the overseas visitors travelled in pairs, followed by 11.2% who travelled
alone, 9.1% travelled in fours and 8.9% in threes.

The overall average as well as most common travel group of the domestic visitors was two.
Likewise to the overseas visitors, the majority (40.2%) of the overseas visitors travelled in pairs,
followed by 28.7% who travelled alone, 11% travelled in fours and 9.6% in threes.

Figure 30: Q4 2009 Travel group size

Fours, 10.3%
Alone, 22.0%
Threes, 9.3%

Twos, 48.9%

The overall average length of stay of visitors to the Western Cape was four nights and the most
common was one night. 58.9% of visitors indicated that they stayed overnight within the
respective regions. 29.6% of visitors stayed for one night, followed by 10.6% who stayed for two
nights, 4.4% for three nights, 3.3% for four nights and 2.7% stayed for five nights.

74.1% of overseas visitors indicated that they stayed overnight. The overall average length of stay
amongst the overseas visitors was five nights and the most common was one night. 30.1% of the
overseas visitors stayed for one night, followed by 16.2% who stayed for two nights, 6% for three
nights, 4.9% for four nights and 4.6% for five nights.

31

Figure 31: Q4 2009 Length of stay

5 nights 2.7%

4 nights 3.3%

3 nights 4.4%

2 nights 10.6%

1 night 29.6%

0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0% 30.0% 35.0%

The overall average length of stay amongst the domestic visitors was three nights and the most
common was one night. 48.9% of domestic visitors stayed overnight, 27.6% stayed for one night,
7.6% for two nights, 3.5% for three nights, 2.2% for four nights and 1.6% for five nights.

Table 5: Q4 2009 Average group size and length of stay by region
Region Average Group size Average length of stay

Cape Town 2.3 9.8

Cape Garden Route & Klein Karoo 2.4 1.9

Cape Winelands 2.9 3.3

Cape West Coast 2.6 4.0

Cape Karoo 2.6 2.2

Cape Overberg 1.8 4.7

The table above illustrates the average group size and the average length of stay by region within
the Western Cape. The Cape Winelands, Cape West Coast and Cape Karoo regions received the
highest average group size. Cape Town enjoyed the highest (ten nights) average length of stay,
followed by the Cape Overberg (five nights), Cape West Coast (four nights) and Cape Winelands
(three nights).

32

Main purpose of visit and mode of transport

Most (71.2%) visitors to the Western Cape travelled for holiday, followed by 4% who visited
friends and relatives, 3.1% travelled for business, 2.7% were residents and 1.7% travelled to
experience the food & wines.

Amongst the overseas visitors, almost all (81.3%) travelled for holiday, followed by 2.4% who
visited friends and relatives (VFR), 2% travelled for business and 1.9% for the food & wines.
64.7% of domestic visitors travelled for holiday, 5% visited friends and relatives,4.4% were
residents who travelled about, 3.9% travelled for business and 1.5% for food & wines.

Figure 32: Q4 2009 Main purpose of visit

Holiday, 71.2% Business, 3.1%

VFR, 4.0%

Resident, 2.7%

Food & Wines,
1.7%

67.6% of visitors to the Western Cape used a car as their main mode of transport and 3.8%
utilised the public transport services. 75.6% of overseas visitors travelled by car, 10.1% used
public transport, 1.6% travelled by bus and 1.3% by taxi. 65.2% of domestic visitors used a car as
their main mode of transport.

General comments about the Western Cape

Most (14.8%) visitors said the Western Cape as a great destination, followed by 9.9% who
complimented the helpful and friendly services obtained, 5.5% provided good comments on the
tourism products and 4.3% described the destination as excellent and wonderful.

33

Q4 2009 CAPE TOWN REGIONAL TRENDS

A total of 546 responses were obtained from the Cape Town region in Q4 2009, across the
months of October (45%), November (34%) and December (20.8%). The responses were
received from the following Visitor Information Centres (VICs):
• Waterfront Gateway (51.7%)
• Somerset West (2.6%)
• Muizenberg/Simonstown (23.8%)
• VIC International Terminal (3.7%)
• VIC Domestic Terminal (3.5%)
• Kirstenbosch (3.5%)
• Hout Bay (11.2%)

Origin of visitors

Almost all (85.2%) visitors to the Cape Town region in Q4 2009 were from overseas, followed by
8.6% who were domestic and 1.3% who originated from Africa (excluding domestic). Of the
overseas visitors, 27.1% were from the UK, followed by Germany (12.6%), the Netherlands
(6.9%), USA (6%), Switzerland (4.8%), France (3.1%), Australia (2.9%), Sweden (2.4%) and
Belgium (2%).

Figure 33: Q4 2009 Origin of Overseas Visitors
30.0%
27.1%
25.0%
% of Overseas Visitors

20.0%

15.0%
12.6%
10.0%
6.9% 6.0%
5.0% 4.8%
3.1% 2.9% 2.4% 2.0%
0.0%

Of the domestic visitors, 1.3% were from Gauteng, 0.7% from KwaZulu-Natal and 0.4% each
respectively from the Western Cape and Free State.

34

Figure 34: Q4 2009 Domestic visitors’ province of origin

1.4%
1.3%
1.2%
% of Domestic Visitors

1.0%

0.8%
0.7%

0.6%
0.4% 0.4%
0.4%

0.2%

0.0%
Gauteng KwaZulu-Natal Western Cape Free State

Travel group size and length of stay

The overall average as well as most common travel group size to the Cape Town region was two.
17.2% of visitors travelled alone, 61.2% travelled in pairs, 8.2% in threes and 7.1% in fours.

The overall average as well as most common travel group size amongst the overseas visitors was
two. 16.3% of overseas visitors travelled alone, 64.4% in pairs, 7.9% in threes and 6.4% in fours.

Figure 35: Q4 2009 Travel group size by origin region
70.0%
64.4%
60.0%

50.0%
% of Visitors

40.0% 36.2%
30.0% 27.7%

20.0% 16.3%
12.8% 12.8%
7.9%
10.0% 6.4%

0.0%
Overseas Domestic

Alone Twos Threes Fours

Likewise to the overseas visitors, the overall as well as most common travel group size amongst
the domestic visitors was two. 36.2% of the overseas visitors travelled in pairs, followed by 27.7%
who travelled alone and 12.8% each respectively travelled in groups of threes and fours.
35

Figure 36: Q4 2009 Length of stay by origin region
30.0%

25.0%

20.0%
% of visitors

15.0%

10.0%

5.0%

0.0%
Overseas Domestic
1 night 9.9% 19.1%
2 nights 12.2% 25.5%
3 nights 8.4% 14.9%
4 nights 11.8% 14.9%
5 nights 12.2% 4.3%

Almost all (92.9%) visitors to the Cape Town region indicated that they stayed overnight. The
overall average length of stay was ten nights and the most common was two nights. 12.1% of
visitors stayed for one night, 13% for two nights, 9.1% for three nights, 11.9% for four nights and
11% stayed for five nights.

Of the overseas visitors, the overall average length of stay was eleven nights and the most
common was two nights. 94.4% of overseas visitors stayed overnight, 9.9% stayed for one night,
8.4% for three nights, 11.8% for four nights and 12.2% each respectively stayed for two and five
nights.

Amongst the domestic visitors, the overall average length of stay was four nights and the most
common was two nights. 91.5% of domestic visitors stayed overnight, 19.1% stayed for one night,
25.5% for two nights, 14.9% for three nights and four nights (each respectively) and 4.3% stayed
for five nights.

Main purpose of visit and mode of transport

The main purpose of visit amongst visitors to Cape Town was for holiday (81.2%), followed by
business (7.1%), honeymoon (1.5%) and 1.1% travelled for education.

36

Of the overseas visitors, most (86.3%) travelled for holiday, followed by 6% who travelled for
business and 1.5% for honeymoon. 51.1% of domestic visitors travelled for holiday and 21.3% for
business.

Figure 37: Q4 2009 Main purpose of visit

Holiday, 81.2%

Business, 7.1%

Honeymoon,
Education, 1.1% 1.5%

43.5% visitors used a car as their main mode of transport, followed by public transport (39.9%),
and 3.3% each respectively used taxi and shuttle services.

44.8% of overseas visitors utilised public transport services, followed by 41.6% who travelled by
car, 3.4% by taxi and 3% used shuttle services. Amongst the domestic visitors, 68.1% travelled by
car, 10.6% used public transport, 4.3% used shuttle services and 2.1% travelled by taxi.

Information sources and average daily budget

27.6% visitors heard of the destination from friends and relatives, 8.8% obtained information
online, 4.9% from the media, 3.1% from the Visitor Information Centres, 1.6% have visited the
destination on a previous occasion, 0.7% were residents who travelled about and 0.5% each
respectively heard of the destination from schools and travel books.

The average daily budget of visitors to the Cape Town region was R1 321.13 and the most
common was R1 000.00.

37

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