The African tourism sector has made a remarkable comeback, with 2024 figures showing a 7% increase in arrivals compared to 2019, according to the latest World Tourism Barometer by the United Nations (UN) Tourism.
Globally, international tourist arrivals reached 1.4 billion in 2024, marking an 11% increase from the previous year and signaling a robust recovery from the pandemic.
In North Africa, the resurgence was even more pronounced. The region recorded a 22% rise in international arrivals compared to pre-pandemic levels, with Morocco leading the charge.
The country achieved a 35% increase since 2019, welcoming a record 17.4 million visitors in 2024, surpassing Egypt. This success is credited to targeted investments in the tourism sector and strategic mobilization by professionals. Morocco’s momentum is expected to continue, particularly as the nation gears up to host the 2025 African Cup of Nations.
Other countries also showed impressive growth. Egypt saw a 23% increase in arrivals compared to 2019, followed by Kenya and Tunisia, both with 9% growth.
However, not all destinations experienced the same trajectory. The Seychelles and South Africa recorded declines of 8% and 13%, respectively.
Now, the African travel and tourism market is projected to generate $25.16 billion in revenue by 2025, according to Statista. Despite this positive outlook, challenges such as rising transport and accommodation costs, economic pressures, and geopolitical risks remain key concerns for the sector.
With tourism’s global economic contribution expected to hit $11.1 trillion in 2024, the industry is poised for a record-breaking year.
This recovery emphasizes the sector’s crucial role in driving socio-economic development and highlights the need for continued efforts to balance growth with sustainability, ensuring both people and the planet remain at the core of tourism’s evolution.
