Africa Unlocks New Tourism Opportunities as Lagos Event Targets Regional Travel Expansion

Stronger connections within Africa’s tourism industry are developing. Leaders from the industry, including government and aviation, recently met at the 22nd edition of the Akwaaba African Travel Market in Lagos to find ways to increase inter-African air travel. The market focuses on improving and facilitating travel within Africa through the establishment of regional air and land connections, as well as improving the ease of travel within countries. This year’s event also stressed the development of local or intracountry tourism.

Held from September 13 to 15, 2026, at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, the travel market brought together tourism businesses, aviation professionals, hospitality companies and policymakers to explore solutions for creating a more connected African travel ecosystem.

The discussions highlighted the importance of reducing barriers that currently limit movement between African countries. Stakeholders focused on improving transport links, lowering travel costs, increasing visa accessibility and encouraging Africans to explore destinations within their own continent.

Africa Targets Stronger Regional Tourism Connectivity

A major theme of the event was the need to expand travel opportunities between African nations. Industry stakeholders discussed how improved regional connectivity could support tourism growth, strengthen business relationships and create new economic opportunities.

Many African destinations continue to depend heavily on international visitors from outside the continent. The discussions at the Lagos event highlighted the potential of domestic and regional tourism as a major source of future growth.

Better transport networks, stronger airline cooperation and easier border procedures were identified as important factors for encouraging more Africans to travel across neighbouring countries.

The event also examined challenges affecting tourism expansion, including high travel costs, limited direct connections between African cities and complex entry requirements. Addressing these issues was seen as essential to building a more competitive tourism environment.

Aviation Becomes Key Driver for African Tourism Growth

Aviation played a central role during the discussions, with stakeholders highlighting the connection between air transport development and tourism expansion.

The high cost of aviation fuel and operational expenses were identified as factors contributing to expensive air tickets across the continent. Higher fares can reduce demand and make regional travel less accessible for many travellers.

The discussions encouraged African countries to strengthen cooperation between airlines and support policies that allow easier movement between markets.

The Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) was highlighted as an important framework for improving air connectivity across Africa. Greater implementation of open aviation policies could help reduce market restrictions, increase flight options and create stronger links between tourism destinations.

Examples of successful African airline networks were discussed as models showing how aviation can support tourism development and regional economic connections.

Visa Facilitation Could Transform Intra African Travel

Simplifying visa processes was another major focus at the Lagos tourism market. Easier entry procedures were identified as one of the most important steps for encouraging more Africans to visit other countries within the continent.

Visa-free travel arrangements were highlighted as examples of how policy changes can support tourism growth. Easier access can encourage more leisure trips, business travel and cultural exchanges between African nations.

Stakeholders called for more countries to introduce similar measures under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.

Improved visa cooperation could help create a more connected African tourism market where travellers can move more easily between destinations while supporting local businesses, hotels, attractions and transport providers.

Domestic Tourism Gains Greater Attention

The event also placed strong emphasis on domestic tourism development. African countries were encouraged to invest in local tourism products and promote travel within their own borders.

Domestic tourism can provide more stable visitor demand while reducing dependence on international arrivals. Developing local attractions, improving infrastructure and creating better travel experiences were discussed as important strategies for long-term tourism growth.

The discussions also explored emerging tourism sectors, including medical tourism, sports tourism and digital travel services.

Payment solutions and travel content creation were also included among the topics shaping the future of African tourism. Digital platforms and technology were recognised as important tools for helping travellers discover destinations and access tourism services.

Lagos Strengthens Role as African Tourism Gateway

Lagos was positioned as an important gateway for tourism, business and cultural connections across Africa. The city’s growing hospitality, entertainment and investment sectors were highlighted as part of its wider tourism development strategy.

The event showcased initiatives designed to improve access to tourism information and promote destinations across Nigeria. Digital tools were presented as valuable resources for helping visitors discover local attractions, tourism hubs and travel opportunities.

Regional cultural initiatives were also highlighted as examples of how food, traditions and local experiences can strengthen tourism connections between African communities.

Akwaaba Market Supports Future Tourism Development

The 22nd Akwaaba African Travel Market featured tourism exhibitions, business-to-business meetings and industry discussions focused on aviation, hospitality and destination development.

The event included specialised programmes covering aviation cargo, youth tourism, medical tourism and Nigerian tourism experiences. These platforms connected tourism businesses with partners from different regions while creating opportunities for collaboration.

The market reflected growing efforts across Africa to develop a stronger internal tourism network. By improving connectivity, reducing travel barriers and encouraging regional exploration, African destinations aim to unlock new opportunities for travellers and businesses.

The Akwaaba African Travel Market recently held in Lagos brings together travel and aviation stakeholders to map out travel and aviation pathways to facilitate free movement across Africa.

Participants also had the opportunity to brainstorm air connectivity and facilitate issuance of visas for African citizens.

A major focus was placed on improvement of intra-Africa travel and tourism. With this, the transformation of Africa’s travel and tourism sector will significantly benefit the rest of the world.

The discussions in Lagos highlighted that the future of African tourism depends on cooperation between governments, airlines, tourism organisations and private sector companies. Stronger regional links could help create a more accessible, competitive and connected tourism industry across the continent.