Tourists and football fans have streamed into Port Elizabeth in "unprecedented" numbers since the start of the World Cup, Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism (NMBT) said.

"Particularly on the day of a match played in the city, and on the day before and after, most establishments have been fully booked," NMBT spokesperson Titus Chuene told Sapa.

Tallies were still being made and official figures would only be available towards the end of the month, "but it appears visitors have come here in unprecedented numbers", he said.

The city had been fortunate to host several "high profile" matches, including teams such as Germany, England, Brazil and the Netherlands.

"We are expecting the influx of supporters for these teams will translate into high rand figures. The World Cup has been very good for us," Chuene said.

Port Elizabeth's Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Percci) said many of its retail and tourism sector members had reported an increase in turnover.

"We are very proud of the overall organisation and management of the World Cup event, and the fact that so many foreigners have visited and enjoyed their stay in our city," Percci chief executive Kevin Hustler said in an e-mail sent to Sapa.

"Some of our members within the retail, tourism and accommodation industries have reported an increase in turnover, with many hotels and guesthouses having to source extra accommodation for unexpected arrivals."

He said the event had provided "great brand exposure" for the city.

Chuene said air traffic at Port Elizabeth Airport was a good indication of the increase in visitor numbers.

"We've had up to 180 movements a day - flights in and out - compared to a normal 80 to 90."

He declined to put a figure on the number of extra visitors to the metropole during the World Cup.

"I can't help you – we're busy with the research," Chuene said. - Sapa