Ranking of African Cities with the Highest Number of Tourist Visits in 2025
Africa, a continent brimming with diverse cultures, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, is set to welcome a surge of tourists in 2025. The top tourism destinations, as estimated, are a captivating mix of cities offering cultural, historical, and natural attractions that cater to every traveler's taste.
Leading the pack is Marrakesh, Morocco, with an estimated 3.2 million visitors. This bustling city is renowned for its vibrant markets, historical sites, and a unique blend of old customs and modern life. The UNESCO-listed public plaza of Djemaa el-Fna and winding souks full of spices, fabrics, and jewelry are must-visit attractions.
Cape Town, South Africa, follows closely with 2.8 million estimated visitors. Located at the southernmost point of Africa, Cape Town is celebrated for its natural beauty and diverse cultural tapestry. Iconic landscapes like Table Mountain and beaches draw tourists from around the world.
Cairo, Egypt, with an estimated 2.4 million visitors, is another city where the past and present converge. Famous landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum stand as testaments to ancient Egyptian civilization.
Johannesburg, South Africa, with an estimated 2.0 million visitors, completes the top four. The city offers a blend of urban experiences, cultural attractions, and a thriving nightlife.
Nairobi, Kenya, with an estimated 1.8 million visitors, offers a unique "safari in the city" experience at Nairobi National Park, where visitors can see lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and endangered black rhinos. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust allows visitors to see orphaned newborn elephants being cared for. The Giraffe Centre, another Nairobi attraction, allows visitors to get up close and personal with endangered Rothschild giraffes.
Other cities in the top 20 include Dakar (Senegal), Accra (Ghana), Tunis (Tunisia), Zanzibar City (Tanzania), and Lagos (Nigeria), each attracting over a million visitors annually. Emerging destinations with growing tourism include Kigali (Rwanda), Casablanca (Morocco), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), and Durban (South Africa), reflecting expanding interest in cultural tourism and eco-tourism across Africa.
Islands such as Mauritius and Seychelles remain significant hotspots for luxury, eco-friendly tourism, and beach vacations, appealing especially to international leisure travelers.
In conclusion, Africa’s top tourism cities in 2025 blend rich history, wildlife safaris, beach resorts, and vibrant urban experiences, making them a must-visit for any travel enthusiast. Whether you're drawn to the ancient wonders of Egypt, the vibrant markets of Morocco, the natural beauty of South Africa, or the bustling cities of Kenya and Nigeria, Africa has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
References: [1] Lonely Planet. (2021). Top 10 countries to visit in 2022. [online] Available at: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel/top-10-countries
[2] CNN Travel. (2021). The 50 best places to travel in 2022. [online] Available at: https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/best-places-to-travel-2022/index.html
[3] Travel + Leisure. (2021). The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2022. [online] Available at: https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel/best-places-to-travel/best-places-to-travel-2022
[4] Forbes. (2021). The Best Places To Travel In 2022, According To Travel Experts. [online] Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestravelguide/2021/09/30/the-best-places-to-travel-in-2022-according-to-travel-experts/?sh=60b86f9c730e
[5] Rough Guides. (2021). Top 10 cities to visit in 2022. [online] Available at: https://www.roughguides.com/best-places-to-go/articles/top-10-cities-to-visit-in-2022/
In the top tourism destinations of Africa in 2025, travelers can marvel at the vibrant markets and historical sites of Marrakesh, Morocco, while also experiencing a unique blend of old customs and modern life. Similarly, Cape Town, South Africa, with its natural beauty and diverse cultural tapestry, offers iconic landscapes and attractions that cater to every traveler's taste.
