7 South African travel influencers who sparked serious wanderlust in 2025
Adventurous travel vlogger, Popi Sibiya, takes a picture with a giraffe in Kenya.
Image: Instagram
As we close off 2025, the world of travel content creation is more vibrant than ever, filled with dynamic influencers inspiring adventure and exploration.
These seven travel influencers have not only captured our imaginations but have also inspired us to embark on adventures of our own. Their personal journeys, steeped in authenticity, empowerment, and creativity, reflect the diverse opportunities within the travel landscape.
As we navigate our travel dreams in 2026, their stories remind us of the beauty that awaits when we embrace the explorer within us.
Here are seven remarkable travel creators who captivated audiences and gifted us with an undeniable sense of wanderlust and lessons this year.
Siphelele 'Popi' Sibiya: From corporate life to travel sensation
At just 30 years old, Siphelele "Popi" Sibiya has transformed her life from a structured corporate career to a full-fledged travel vlogger.
Originally from eQonce in the Eastern Cape, Sibiya turned her childhood yearning for freedom into reality through her captivating storytelling.
Her journey took a pivotal turn during a road trip from South Africa to Kenya in 2019, igniting her passion for sharing adventures online.
With the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 prompting her to leave a teaching position in China, Sibiya dedicated herself to travel vlogging.
With a growing platform, she noticed a strong demand for local content, especially focusing on South African destinations.
"Indeed, they are hooked," she says, reflecting on her audience's engagement.
Sibiya's authenticity and willingness to tackle the realities of solo travel resonate with many, marking her as a significant voice in the travel community.
Josh and Ruth Betts have spent many years backpacking and eventually started van life in 2021.
Image: Supplied
Josh and Ruthie Betts: Figures behind the success of "Life of Betts"
Travel content creators Josh and Ruthie Betts have proven that chasing your dreams can lead to astonishing success.
Known for their page "Life of Betts", the duo revealed in 2025 that they made R1.19 million during the year.
The Betts began their full-time travel journey in 2019 but were quickly swept into van life due to the pandemic.
With 326 000 followers, their authentic content showcasing both budget and luxury accommodations across their self-built van, Ivy, resonates with followers eager to discover more of South Africa's hidden gems.
Priscilla Nkoane (26) is Bloemfontein born influencer carving a name for herself finding the best that Durban has to offer in food and travel.
Image: Instagram
Priscilla Nkoane: The heart of Durban
Durban's vibrant lifestyle is well depicted through Priscilla Nkoane's content.
A 26-year-old creator from Bloemfontein, Nkoane embodies the beauty in small moments, bringing her audience along on her culinary and travel adventures.
Emerging as a strong voice for young women, Nkoane encourages authenticity and community support, founded on the belief that sharing leads to empowerment.
Nikkieta Chetty enjoys a ride on a tuk tuk ride in Zanzibar.
Image: Supplied
Nikki Chetty: The TikTok star turning heads
Marrying ambition with creativity, Nikkieta "Nikki" Chetty shines on TikTok, where she has amassed over 174 000 followers.
Beginning her journey in 2019 with dance videos, Chetty expanded her content to include cooking and travel, visiting seven countries, including Turkey and Thailand.
Through her collaborations with local businesses, her videos highlight the rich culinary landscapes, encouraging her audience to savour cultures and experiences with each adventure.
Chetty’s positive outlook inspires aspiring creators to start their journeys with confidence.
Zam 'Zammy' Semuyaba enjoys a gondola ride as she explores Durban's hidden gems.
Image: Supplied
Zam Semuyaba: Moving to a new city and falling in love with Durban
Zammy's vlogging series, "90 Days to Falling in Love with Durban", reflects her personal journey and rediscovery in a new city.
Originally from Pretoria, Zammy harnesses her media background to create compelling narratives that engage her audience.
Her style captures the magic of simplicity and the beauty found in new experiences.
With aspirations to inspire others, Zammy's insight into the importance of local exploration resonates strongly, urging viewers to appreciate the diverse beauty within South Africa.
Karabo Matlala, a wildlife photographer and safari enthusiast, captured searching for the perfect shot at Ezemvelo Nature Reserve in Gauteng.
Image: Supplied
Karabo Matlala: Capturing nature’s wonders
Karabo Matlala, a wildlife and travel photographer from Gauteng, embodies the spirit of exploration through her lens.
With a focus on capturing the beauty of nature, her passion shines in her favourite locations, such as the Kruger National Park and Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park.
Matlala’s determination to break barriers in a male-dominated industry serves as a rallying cry for aspiring female photographers, making each adventure an opportunity to inspire and empower.
Farirai Sanyika chasing waterfalls in South Africa.
Image: Instagram.
Farirai "Fari" Sanyika: Empowering women through solo travel
As the voice of solo travel for women, Farirai Sanyika, known as Gophari, embodies empowerment.
With her captivating narrative and heartfelt tips, she encourages women to travel alone joyfully.
Sanyika's experiences reflect her mission to foster confidence in solo adventures, sharing her love for natural beauty in destinations like Mpumalanga and Jamaica.
Her revelatory journey serves as a powerful reminder that self-discovery is intertwined with travel.