After the difficult years brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Africa’s tourism sector is experiencing a significant rebound, with countries like Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa leading the charge. These nations are not only welcoming millions of visitors but are also reinforcing the crucial role tourism plays in their economic development.
In 2024, Morocco emerged as the top African destination, attracting a record-breaking 17.4 million visitors. This marks a notable increase from the 14.5 million tourists in 2023, bringing the kingdom just shy of its annual target of 17.5 million. This surge highlights the success of Morocco’s sustained efforts to revitalize its tourism sector post-pandemic.
A blend of aggressive marketing campaigns, major investments in infrastructure, and an impressive mix of cultural and natural attractions have made Morocco an increasingly popular destination for travelers. From the bustling markets of Marrakech to the majestic Atlas Mountains, the country’s appeal is undeniable. Tourism in Morocco contributes around 7% to the country’s GDP, and by November 2024, the sector generated 104 billion dirhams (roughly $10.3 billion) in revenue.
Not far behind, Egypt drew 15.7 million visitors in 2024, up from 14.9 million in 2023. The country’s legendary historical landmarks, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor, continue to attract travelers from across the globe. However, the political unrest in neighboring Gaza has slightly hindered growth, creating some uncertainty in the market.
Despite these challenges, Egypt remains a leading tourist destination in Africa, and the government has taken active steps to secure its place as a tourism powerhouse. Efforts include diversifying the country’s offerings beyond traditional historical sites, investing in modern infrastructure, and promoting new tourist attractions, such as eco-tourism and luxury resorts along the Red Sea coast.
South Africa, one of the continent’s most iconic tourist hubs, is also seeing a strong recovery. Although exact figures for 2024 have yet to be finalized, the country is expected to reach approximately 10 million visitors, with 7.2 million recorded between January and October. Known for its vibrant cities, rich wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes—from the vast savannahs of Kruger National Park to the stunning beaches of Cape Town South Africa continues to captivate visitors seeking a diverse travel experience.
Tourism is a major contributor to South Africa’s economy, with the sector’s growth being a key part of the government’s long-term strategy to boost employment and economic development. The country aims to attract 15 million visitors annually by 2030, highlighting its commitment to nurturing the tourism industry as a vital economic driver.
The success of Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa illustrates the broader potential of Africa as a top global tourism destination. These countries’ strategic investments in infrastructure, marketing, and diversification of tourism offerings have proven essential in not only recovering from the pandemic but also positioning themselves as major players in the global tourism market.
Tourism is not just about attracting visitors; it also stimulates growth in several sectors, including hospitality, transport, and local crafts, creating jobs and contributing to broader economic development. In Morocco, the sector’s contribution to GDP and the record-breaking tourism revenue demonstrate how tourism can drive long-term prosperity.
As the tourism landscape continues to evolve, these countries serve as models for others in Africa, showing that with a clear vision and targeted investment, the continent can continue to grow as a leading global tourism destination.
