A tour operator business typically combines tour and travel components to create a package holiday. These businesses often own vehicles to transport tourists and the owners of these enterprises often accompany tour parties. There are three kinds of tour operators in South Africa:
- In-bound tour operators: They provide services mainly to foreign visitors to South Africa.
- Local tour operators: They provide services to domestic clients for tours within South Africa.
- Out-bound tour operators: They provide services to clients in South Africa wishing to travel to destinations outside of the country.