Top 10 African countries tourists visited in 2024
The historic sites in Marrakesh, is popular due to the year-on-year growth of Africa’s diversity that makes travel more accessible and appealing to global visitors.
Image: File picture
Tourism across Africa is experiencing a steady upswing as more people from around the world seek out the continent’s mix of nature, history, and culture.
Whether it’s exploring the pyramids of Egypt, shopping in Moroccan souks, or going on safari in Kenya, Africa is firmly back on the global travel map.
The latest figures for 2024 show notable growth in international arrivals, with several countries reporting sharp increases compared to the previous year.
This growth points to a positive shift for the continent, supported by better infrastructure, stronger digital connections, and targeted efforts to promote local destinations.
A rising interest in authentic travel experiences, whether cultural, ecological, or adventurous, is also helping to drive numbers up.
North Africa continues to lead the pack, with countries like Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia drawing large crowds. Their location near Europe, combined with a rich mix of historical and coastal attractions, keeps them popular with international visitors.
Meanwhile, East and Southern African countries remain key players for nature and wildlife tourism, offering safari experiences and natural beauty that continue to appeal.
Here’s the list of the African countries that welcomed the most international tourists in 2024
Morocco – 17.4 million visitors. Morocco led the rankings, with travellers drawn to its cities, historical sites, and mountain and desert landscapes.
Egypt – 15.7 million visitors. Famous for its ancient sites and river cruises, Egypt stayed near the top of the list.
Tunisia – 10.25 million visitors. Its Mediterranean coast and well-preserved archeological sites continued to attract holidaymakers.
South Africa – 8.92 million visitors. South Africa’s mix of wildlife, urban tourism, and wine country drew in the millions.
Algeria – 3.5 million visitors. A growing number of tourists explored Algeria’s deserts and historic towns.
Kenya – 2.4 million visitors. Known for safaris and coastal areas, Kenya remained a strong destination.
Zimbabwe – 1.55 million visitors. With Victoria Falls and national parks, Zimbabwe kept its spot on the tourism map.
Mauritius – 1.382 million visitors. The island’s beaches and resorts made it a favourite among travellers.
Uganda – 1.372 million visitors. Eco-tourism and gorilla trekking helped Uganda secure its position.
Cape Verde – 1.2 million visitors. The island offers a mix of music, beaches, and volcanic scenery.
With tourism rebounding strongly, Africa is showing its potential as a travel destination with something for everyone, from those chasing adventure to those seeking relaxation or heritage.
IOL Travel