At a Glance
- Morocco led Africa with 17.4 million international tourist arrivals in 2024.
- Egypt and Tunisia follow with strong visitor growth driven by culture and coastal tourism.
- Sub-Saharan nations gain traction through safaris, heritage, and ecotourism experiences.
Tourism remains a powerful growth driver for Africa, significantly bolstering economies and creating jobs across sectors like transport, hospitality, and culture.
In 2024, the industry contributed 7.1 percent to the continent’s GDP and supported millions of livelihoods—making it a key pillar in Africa’s economic diversification efforts.
The continent welcomed over 74 million international tourists in 2024, fully rebounding to pre-pandemic levels, according to the UN World Tourism Organization.
This resurgence reflects improved air connectivity, streamlined visa policies, strategic destination marketing, and rising global demand for authentic experiences—from Morocco’s imperial cities and Egypt’s ancient sites to Kenya’s beaches and South Africa’s wildlife safaris.
North African countries such as Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia continue to top the charts, thanks to their historical appeal and strong infrastructure. At the same time, sub-Saharan destinations like Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa are gaining traction with nature-based tourism and a growing global curiosity about African heritage and landscapes.
As international arrivals surge, Africa’s tourism sector stands as a dynamic force—unlocking investment, earning foreign exchange, and positioning the continent as a leading global travel destination.
Shore Africa highlights the top ten countries attracting the highest number of international visitors—shedding light on the sector’s vast, untapped potential for inclusive and sustainable development.
1. Morocco
International arrivals: 17.4 million in 2024
Brief details:
Morocco led the continent with a record 17.4 million arrivals in 2024, up 20 percent from the previous year. Nearly half of these were Moroccans living abroad, according to the tourism ministry. Tourism contributes about 7 percent to Morocco’s GDP and remains a vital source of jobs and foreign currency.
2. Egypt
International arrivals: 15.7 million in 2024
Brief details:
Egypt remains one of Africa’s most visited destinations, thanks to its historical landmarks and coastal resorts. With 15.7 million tourists recorded in 2024, the country is aiming for 30 million by 2031. Tourism contributes over 9 percent to GDP and is central to the government’s economic diversification efforts.
3. Tunisia
International arrivals: 10.25 million in 2024
Brief details:
Tunisia welcomed 10.25 million international visitors in 2024, marking a strong rebound for its tourism industry. The Mediterranean country’s cultural heritage, beaches, and desert landscapes continue to attract European and regional tourists. Tourism contributes around 14 percent to GDP and supports thousands of jobs.
4. South Africa
International arrivals: 8.92 million in 2024
Brief details:
South Africa saw 8.92 million arrivals in 2024, recovering strongly from pandemic-era lows. Tourists are drawn to its diverse offerings—from Cape Town and Kruger National Park to wine tours and coastal cities. Tourism is a key driver of employment and foreign exchange earnings, contributing about 3.7 percent to GDP.
5. Kenya
International arrivals: 3.50 million in 2024
Brief details:
Kenya attracted 3.5 million visitors in 2024, driven by its renowned safari circuit, coastal destinations, and business travel. The United States remained the top source market. Tourism accounts for roughly 10.4 percent of Kenya’s GDP, making it a major economic pillar.
6. Tanzania
International arrivals: 2.40 million in 2024
Brief details:
Tanzania hosted 2.4 million visitors in 2024, fueled by interest in Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti, and Zanzibar. The country’s diverse natural attractions and growing investment in infrastructure continue to boost its tourism appeal. Tourism contributes about 5 percent to GDP and supports hundreds of thousands of livelihoods.
7. Zimbabwe
International arrivals: 2.14 million in 2024
Brief details:
Zimbabwe received 2.14 million tourists in 2024, with Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and Great Zimbabwe as top draws. The tourism sector is a significant employer and foreign currency earner, despite past challenges. Recovery has been aided by regional travel and targeted marketing efforts.
8. Mauritius
International arrivals: 1.40 million in 2024
Brief details:
Mauritius attracted 1.4 million tourists in 2024, a 7.69 percent rise from 1.3 million in 2023, generating a record $1.89 billion in revenue—edging closer to pre-pandemic levels. The island’s luxury resorts, beaches, and multicultural charm continue to attract European and Asian travelers. Tourism contributes about 20 percent to the island nation’s GDP and is a cornerstone of its economy. Mauritius recorded 120,157 stopover arrivals in April 2025, a 13.8 percent increase over the 105,619 visitors posted in April 2024, according to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development.
9. Ethiopia
International arrivals: 1.20 million in 2024
Brief details:
Ethiopia recorded 1.2 million international visitors in 2024, supported by historical sites, nature reserves, and conference tourism. Addis Ababa’s role as a diplomatic hub also fuels business travel. The government is pushing ecotourism and heritage circuits as part of its economic reform agenda.
10. Uganda
International arrivals: 1.10 million in 2024
Brief details:
Uganda attracted 1.1 million international tourists in 2024, capitalizing on its gorilla trekking, diverse wildlife, and adventure offerings. Tourism contributes roughly 7.7 percent to GDP and plays a growing role in rural development and foreign exchange inflows.
