Top 10 most visited countries in Africa

Africa continues to attract millions of visitors each year, with travellers arriving for wildlife, history, culture, business and natural landmarks. From the deserts of North Africa to the wildlife reserves of East Africa and the urban centres of the continent’s largest economies, tourism remains an important source of revenue and employment.

The latest figures show that a handful of countries account for a large share of international arrivals, supported by established tourism infrastructure, cultural attractions and global recognition.

According to a list compiled by Jaynevy Tours, here is a look at the 10 most visited countries in Africa.

South Africa remains the continent’s most visited destination, welcoming more than 10 million visitors annually. Travellers are drawn to Cape Town, wildlife reserves such as Kruger National Park and historical sites including Robben Island.

Tourism contributed about $9 billion to the economy in 2024, with around 70% of visitors arriving from Europe and North America. Attractions such as Table Mountain and the Garden Route continue to play a major role in attracting international tourists.

Morocco recorded 8.5 million visitors, making it one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations. The country attracts travellers to the medinas of Marrakech, historical sites in Fez and the Sahara Desert.

Tourism growth reached 6% in 2024, supported by cultural events including the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music. Many visitors are drawn to the country’s mix of Arab, Berber and French influences, which shape its architecture, cuisine and traditions.

Egypt welcomed 7.8 million visitors, driven largely by interest in its ancient heritage. The Pyramids of Giza, the temples of Luxor and Nile River cruises remain among the country’s biggest attractions.

The opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum helped increase tourist arrivals, while bookings for Nile cruises rose by 10% in 2024. Tourism generates about $8 billion annually, making it a major contributor to the national economy.

Kenya attracted 2.1 million visitors, with the Maasai Mara remaining one of its strongest tourism assets. The reserve hosts the Great Migration, during which around 1.5 million wildebeest move across the ecosystem each year.

Beyond wildlife tourism, visitors also explore coastal destinations such as Diani and take part in cultural experiences in Nairobi. Tourism accounted for 10% of Kenya’s GDP and generated about $1.5 billion in 2024.

Tanzania welcomed 1.8 million tourists, supported by destinations such as Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.

Safari tourism generated approximately $2.6 billion in 2024, highlighting the sector’s importance to the economy. Around 60% of visitors came from the United States and Europe, reflecting Tanzania’s strong international appeal.

Tunisia received 1.5 million visitors, many of whom travelled to see the ruins of Carthage, the streets of Sidi Bou Said and the country’s Mediterranean coastline.

Tourism activity increased by 8% in 2024. Cultural events, including the Carthage Film Festival, continued to attract international attention and support visitor numbers.

Algeria recorded 1.2 million visitors. The country is known for historical landmarks such as Timgad and the Casbah of Algiers, as well as its vast desert landscapes.

Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, experienced a 5% increase in visitors during 2024. Tourism contributed around $500 million to the national economy.

Nigeria welcomed 1.1 million visitors, driven by business travel, cultural tourism and entertainment activities. Lagos remains a key destination for international visitors, while festivals such as Durbar continue to attract interest.

Natural attractions, including Yankari National Park, also contribute to the country’s tourism sector. Revenue from tourism reached approximately $1 billion in 2024.

Ghana attracted one million visitors, many of whom visited historical sites linked to the transatlantic slave trade, including Cape Coast Castle.

The country’s “Year of Return” initiative continued to support tourism growth, helping increase arrivals by 10% in 2024. Tourism generated an estimated $800 million and remained an important part of the economy.

Ethiopia rounded out the list with 900,000 visitors. Travellers continue to visit the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the Simien Mountains, both recognised internationally for their significance.

Cultural tourism, including the Timkat festival, grew by 7% in 2024. The sector contributed about $700 million to the economy and continues to support jobs and local businesses across the country.