South Africa Tourism Now Struggles with Water Restrictions: Tips for Travelers During the Holidays

Published on December 16, 2025

As South Africa’s Western Cape grapples with the onset of the hot and dry summer months, provincial authorities have imposed a series of water restrictions to address concerns over water shortages. These measures are particularly important during the festive season, when tourism and domestic travel reach their peak. The decision to enforce water restrictions comes as several towns in the region face increasing pressures on local water supplies. These restrictions will have significant implications for both residents and tourists visiting the area during the busy holiday season.

The Western Cape Department of Local Government has categorized areas at high risk of water insecurity, introducing tiered restrictions across the region. In particular, Dysselsdorp and De Rust in the Klein Karoo have been subject to level six restrictions, reflecting the severity of water stress in these areas. Other towns, including Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Kurland Village, Nature’s Valley, Witsand, Calitzdorp, Van Wyksdorp, Ladismith, and Zoar, are now facing level four restrictions. These measures vary by location, with some areas facing level one to level three restrictions based on local water availability and consumption patterns.

For tourists planning to visit the Western Cape during this period, authorities are urging them to familiarize themselves with the specific water restrictions in place for their destinations. Travelers will need to adapt to these measures, especially when it comes to water usage, to help mitigate shortages and ensure the sustainability of the region’s vital resources.

Tourism Impact and Visitor Awareness

The Western Cape has long been a premier tourism destination, known for its Cape Winelands, Garden Route, and vibrant cities like Cape Town. The imposition of water restrictions presents an additional layer of complexity for tourism professionals, who must now ensure that visitors are informed about the measures in place. From conserving water in accommodations and public facilities to adhering to local restrictions, tourism operators need to provide clear communication and guidance to enhance the visitor experience while promoting responsible tourism practices.

The Cape Winelands and Garden Route—two of the Western Cape’s most beloved destinations—are among the most affected by these water shortages. With tourism numbers expected to rise significantly during the festive season, tourism businesses in these regions need to manage water usage effectively. Many vineyards, lodges, and resorts have implemented water-saving initiatives and are prepared to provide guests with alternatives, such as bottled water or water tankers for use during the restrictions.

For tourists, these water conservation measures may affect their stay. Some regions might have limited access to water or altered hotel services, especially in areas under the highest restrictions. Additionally, destinations offering outdoor activities such as hiking, safari experiences, or wildlife tours may need to adapt to water-saving practices in their operations to minimize impact on the environment.

Johannesburg Faces Temporary Water Supply Disruptions

In addition to the water restrictions in the Western Cape, Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa, is also facing temporary water supply disruptions. The disruptions stem from planned maintenance work on the Zuikerbosch system by Johannesburg Water. The maintenance is being carried out by bulk water supplier Rand Water and is expected to affect various areas in Johannesburg, including neighborhoods such as Lenasia, Randburg, and Doornkop.

The planned upgrade, which will occur in three phases between mid-December 2025 and early January 2026, is anticipated to cause low water pressure and intermittent supply issues, particularly in high-lying areas. Water tankers will be deployed to support affected communities, and local authorities have advised residents and tourists to prepare for these disruptions.

For travelers planning to visit Johannesburg during this period, it is crucial to check with local accommodations and service providers regarding potential water supply interruptions. Hotels and guesthouses are likely to implement measures to ensure that guests are not inconvenienced by the temporary disruptions, such as providing bottled water or offering alternative arrangements for necessary services.

Travel and Safety Tips for Tourists

As water-related disruptions and restrictions impact key tourism areas in South Africa, visitors should follow a few key travel tips to ensure a smooth holiday experience:

1. Check Local Conditions: Before traveling to popular tourist destinations in the Western Cape or Johannesburg, check with your accommodation and local authorities for updates on water restrictions or maintenance schedules.
2. Be Water-Wise: Adhere to local water conservation guidelines by using water efficiently in your accommodation and reducing your consumption during your stay.
3. Prepare for Possible Disruptions: Tourists visiting Johannesburg or the Western Cape should be aware of potential service disruptions and adjust their travel expectations accordingly.
4. Stay Informed: Follow local news and updates from tourism bodies, municipalities, or hotel staff about any changes to services or restrictions that may affect your travel experience.

The Role of Collaboration in Addressing Challenges

The challenges posed by water shortages in South Africa during the festive season highlight the need for collaboration between tourism operators, local governments, and visitors. By working together to implement water-saving measures and by educating tourists on sustainable travel practices, South Africa can continue to attract visitors while ensuring the long-term sustainability of its tourism sector.

The success of these efforts will depend on the tourism industry’s ability to adapt to environmental challenges, promote responsible tourism, and balance visitor demands with conservation needs. As South Africa moves forward, the coordination between stakeholders will be crucial in ensuring that the country remains an attractive destination for tourists, even amid such challenges.

Conclusion

The water restrictions in the Western Cape and water supply disruptions in Johannesburg present significant challenges to the South African tourism sector, particularly during the high-demand festive season. However, through proactive measures, clear communication, and collaboration between the tourism sector and local authorities, these issues can be mitigated, ensuring that visitors can still enjoy a memorable holiday experience in South Africa. By embracing sustainable tourism practices and being mindful of resource management, South Africa can continue to thrive as a top destination for travelers.