Western Cape prepares for a busy Easter weekend despite rising fuel prices

Despite big increases in the fuel and diesel prices, the Western Cape and Cape Town in particular  are gearing up for a bumper Easter weekend.

Western Cape Provincial Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) on yesterday said that they are preparing for a busy Easter weekend, with early indications pointing to strong domestic travel to the province’s most popular destinations, supported by favourable weather outlook.

“Local accommodation providers and attractions are expecting solid demand from South African travellers taking advantage of the combined public holidays and school break, particularly in established hotspots such as Cape Town and key coastal towns,” the DEDAT said.

“The alignment of school holidays, the traditional appeal of Easter as a family travel period, and positive summer‑into‑autumn conditions are all underpinning a healthy domestic outlook for the Western Cape.”

The DEDAT said that they remain cautious about the broader outlook for both international and domestic tourism over the coming months.

“Industry feedback shows that global uncertainty and the conflict in the Middle East are starting to weigh on long‑haul travel demand to Southern Africa, with inbound operators reporting rising booking hesitation, postponements, and some cancellations, as well as higher airfares linked to route disruptions and fuel costs.”

It also noted that there are concerns about rising fuel prices and the impact of global supply dynamics on travel costs.

“We note the Western Cape Government’s assurance that there is sufficient fuel supply in the province to meet demand over this period. Provincial authorities, working with industry partners and disaster management structures, are closely monitoring fuel availability, with the Premier affirming that there is “no cause for concern” and that there is “more than enough fuel in reserve,” it said.

“This should give motorists confidence to proceed with their Easter travel plans. While isolated instances of fuel rationing have been reported in parts of the agricultural sector, particularly in the Garden Route and West Coast districts, these are being actively addressed with suppliers and have not affected broader tourism‑related fuel supply.” 

The DEDAT said it is working closely with provincial and national partners, destination marketing organisations, and industry bodies to monitor forward bookings, support affected businesses, and continue promoting the Western Cape as a safe, high‑quality destination for both South African and international visitors.

“Our immediate focus is to maximise the opportunities presented by strong domestic interest over Easter, while remaining vigilant about the evolving international environment and its implications for jobs and investment in the Western Cape tourism economy.”

A recent Cape Town Tourism (CTT) travel survey for April 2026 showed that while global uncertainty affects sentiment, South Africans are still travelling, with a clear preference for domestic trips and value-focused choices.

The survey said that over half of respondents plan to travel this April, with 94% choosing domestic travel.

“Only 6% are going abroad. Cost remains the main factor influencing travel choices. More than half of respondents (51%) cite personal financial pressure as a key constraint, while 49% mention rising living costs and 45% cite fuel costs. This pressure has now intensified, with South Africa’s April 2026 fuel price adjustment.”

Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism, said that even under pressure, the desire to travel has not gone away.

“What’s changed is how people define value. It’s no longer just about cost, but about experiences that feel meaningful, restorative, and easy to access. That’s where the industry needs to respond, by making travel more attainable, flexible, and relevant to how South Africans are choosing to explore right now.”

City of Cape Town’s MMC for Economic Growth and Tourism, Alderman James Vos, said that as more South Africans choose domestic travel, the city is well-placed to meet that demand.

“Visitors can enjoy a wide range of experiences, from beaches and nature to culture and cuisine, without travelling far, making it easier to maximise both time and budget,” Vos said.

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