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African tourism reaches a new scale

 

 

Published the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Travel & Tourism Economic Impact Research (EIR) 2026 – Africa analyses the contribution of travel and tourism to African economies, as well as growth projections through 2036.

 

The WTTC study confirms a structural trend: African tourism has become an economic engine that now extends far beyond simply welcoming visitors. The sector generates wide-ranging economic benefits across accommodation, food services, transport, leisure and related industries.

 

The tourism sector in Africa has grown by 7.1% since last year (from 228.2 billion dollars in 2025 to 240.5 billion in 2026), the number of tourists has increased by 5.6% (from 31.2 million tourists in 2025 to 31.5 million tourists in 2026). According to WTTC forecasts, the tourism growth trend will continue, and in 2036 the industry will bring 333.2 billion dollars to the continent, and the number of tourists will reach 40.9 million people.

 

Africa’s tourism industry is not driven solely by international visitors. Travel undertaken by African residents themselves represents a fundamental component of the market. Thus, the share of foreign tourists visiting African countries in 2025 was 39.2%, while the share of African tourists was 60.8%.

 

France (9%), Great Britain (4%), Zimbabwe (4%), Germany (4%) and South Africa (3%) accounted for the most tourists visiting Africa. The most popular destinations for African travelers in 2025 were South Africa (16%), Saudi Arabia (11%), Tunisia (10%), France (5%) and Zimbabwe (3%).

 

According to the organisation, the future growth of African tourism will depend in particular on countries’ ability to improve air connectivity, facilitate travel, develop infrastructure and strengthen the skills required by the sector.

 

WTTC