Morocco Joins South Africa And Egypt At The Top Of Africa’s Most Visited Destinations In Tourism 2025, Driving Record Growth And Economic Impact Across The Region

Published on December 30, 2025

Morocco has solidified its position as one of Africa’s most sought-after destinations in 2025, joining South Africa and Egypt at the top of the continent’s tourism rankings. This surge in popularity is driving a record-breaking growth in visitor numbers, significantly boosting the country’s economy. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, Morocco has captivated travelers from around the globe, contributing to a broader regional tourism boom that is benefiting local economies and expanding tourism infrastructure across North Africa.

By 2025, South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt are set to dominate the African tourism sector, surpassing Kenya and Tanzania, which continue to solidify their positions as leading safari destinations. Along with these giants, countries like Tunisia, Algeria, Nigeria, Ghana, and Ethiopia will round out the Top 10, seeing increased visitor numbers and a growing economic impact on their national economies. The African continent is undergoing a significant transformation in tourism, with countries across the region benefiting from improved infrastructure, visa facilitation, and targeted marketing campaigns.

Africa’s tourism sector has been steadily increasing its international arrivals, a trend fueled by the growth of air travel, better road networks, and more accessible visa policies. As more countries focus on streamlining the entry process, attracting tourists from Europe, North America, and Asia has become a major priority. The continent is not only famous for its safaris but also for its rich cultural heritage, scenic beaches, and bustling urban centers. The rise in international tourism has generated significant foreign exchange, providing a boost to the economies of many African nations while also creating thousands of jobs in the tourism, hospitality, and service industries.

Leading the charge, South Africa remains the most visited African destination, with over 10 million tourists annually. Famous for its dynamic cities, such as Cape Town and Johannesburg, and its iconic wildlife parks like Kruger National Park, South Africa offers a broad range of tourism experiences. The country has become a top choice for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and nature. Its diverse offerings include vibrant urban experiences, historical landmarks, and world-class beaches, which have cemented its status as the leading African tourism hub. By 2024, South Africa is expected to generate nearly $9 billion in tourism revenue, driven by its increasing popularity among international tourists.

Morocco follows closely behind South Africa, attracting over 8 million visitors annually. The country draws tourists with its rich history, ancient cities like Marrakech and Fez, and its breathtaking landscapes, from the Sahara Desert to the Atlas Mountains. Morocco’s unique blend of Arab, Berber, and French influences makes it an exciting destination for those interested in history, culture, and architecture. The country’s bustling souks, palaces, and medinas are complemented by luxurious resorts and desert tours, appealing to a wide range of travelers. By 2025, Morocco is expected to continue its growth in visitor numbers, with significant investments in infrastructure and hospitality to cater to a diverse array of tourists.

Egypt remains one of Africa’s most iconic destinations, attracting approximately 7.8 million visitors annually. The ancient history of Egypt, embodied in its world-renowned monuments like the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, and the temples of Luxor, has captivated travelers for centuries. In addition to its historical and archaeological treasures, Egypt boasts a thriving coastal tourism sector, particularly in destinations like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada. The country continues to strengthen its tourism offerings with improved facilities and accessibility, making it a top choice for history enthusiasts, beach lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Tourism revenue for Egypt is expected to reach nearly $8 billion annually by 2025.

In East Africa, Kenya has established itself as a key player in the continent’s tourism scene. The country attracts over 2 million visitors annually, drawn to its world-famous wildlife safaris in places like the Maasai Mara, where the Great Migration takes place. Kenya is also renowned for its pristine beaches along the Indian Ocean, particularly in Mombasa and Diani. Kenya’s tourism sector plays a vital role in its economy, contributing around 10% to its national GDP. With its remarkable natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and expanding luxury tourism offerings, Kenya is poised to remain one of Africa’s top tourism destinations.

Tanzania, another East African tourism powerhouse, draws 1.8 million tourists annually, with major attractions like Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Zanzibar Archipelago. Tanzania’s tourism sector is thriving, driven by its well-preserved natural landscapes and high-end safari offerings. The Serengeti and Kilimanjaro are globally recognized, making Tanzania a top choice for adventure travelers and wildlife enthusiasts. Luxury safaris alone generate over $2.6 billion in revenue annually, adding significantly to the country’s tourism income.

North Africa is also experiencing growth in tourism, with Tunisia seeing around 1.5 million visitors annually. Tourists flock to Tunisia to explore the ruins of Carthage, the coastal resorts of Hammamet, and the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said. Tunisia’s tourism sector has been expanding since 2024, with a focus on enhancing its offerings for international visitors. Similarly, Algeria attracts nearly 1.2 million tourists annually, who come to visit its Roman ruins, including those in Timgad and Djemila, and to experience the vast Sahara Desert. Algeria’s historical sites and desert landscapes offer a unique appeal, contributing hundreds of millions of dollars to its economy.

West Africa’s tourism sector is also growing, with Nigeria and Ghana both surpassing the one-million mark in annual arrivals. Nigeria’s tourism industry is driven by business travelers, cultural festivals, and urban tourism, particularly in Lagos and Abuja. Ghana, with its vibrant cultural heritage, attracts visitors for its lively festivals, beaches, and historic sites such as the Cape Coast Castle. Ethiopia, known for its ancient history and religious heritage, completes the Top 10 with around 900,000 annual visitors. Ethiopia’s rich cultural offerings, including the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the Timkat festival, contribute to its growing tourism sector, which generates up to $700 million annually.

Morocco has emerged as a top tourism destination in 2025, joining South Africa and Egypt, driven by its rich culture, history, and diverse landscapes, fueling record growth and economic impact across North Africa.

The African tourism landscape in 2025 is expected to reflect both a growing interest in established destinations and a surge in emerging markets. With diverse attractions ranging from safaris and historical sites to beach resorts and business tourism, the continent is becoming an increasingly attractive option for travelers from around the world.