African Tourism Rebounds Strongly Despite Challenges

In a promising turn, Africa’s major tourist destinations and source markets are poised to exceed pre-pandemic values by the end of 2023, according to a recent report by WTM Global Travel in collaboration with Tourism Economics. Despite a 13% decrease in the number of international visitors compared to 2019, the value of these trips has soared by an impressive 103%.

Egypt, a frontrunner in the market, is slightly ahead with a 101% increase in value, showcasing its resilience. Morocco has made a robust recovery, ending the year 130% ahead of pre-pandemic levels. However, South Africa, the third-largest inbound market, is taking longer to bounce back, reaching only 71% of 2019 figures.

Domestic tourism across the region paints a positive picture, with all top ten domestic markets, except Nigeria, surpassing 2019 values in terms of worth. South Africa, the largest domestic market, leads with a 104% increase. Egypt and Algeria follow closely, with gains of 111% and 134%, respectively. Morocco rounds up the top five with a 110% boost. Nigeria, at 93% of 2019, maintains a strong position despite not crossing the 100% mark.

Looking forward, the report anticipates continued recovery throughout the region in the post-pandemic era. While South African inbound tourism might fall short of 2019 numbers next year, the long-term outlook is positive. By 2033, the report forecasts a substantial 143% increase in inbound leisure travel to South Africa compared to 2024.

Additionally, the study identifies Mozambique, Mali, and Madagascar as high-growth markets, projecting remarkable increases of 161%, 167%, and 162%, respectively, in the value of inbound leisure travel by 2033.

Juliette Losardo, Exhibition Director of World Travel Market London, emphasized Africa’s potential as a thriving tourist destination, both domestically and internationally. She highlighted the importance of tourism in the region’s economic growth and reaffirmed WTM London’s commitment to supporting Africa’s tourism industry, emphasizing the global positive impact of responsible tourism.