most visited cities in africa by tourists 2025 ranking

Most Visited Cities in Africa by Tourists (2025 Ranking)

Africa remains as one of the best destinations in the world as tourists flock in its cities in search of adventure, culture and nature. The 2025 list of the top attractions in African cities reflects the locations that combine both heritage-related attractions and modern locations and attractions with natural marvels and wonders. These cities prove to be global hot spots whether it is the manicured streets of Marrakech to the mini-utopian beauty of Cape Town. The continent has become increasingly attractive due to factors that include better infrastructure, electronic tourism promotions and loosening of the visa policies. This is a closer view of the African cities that are leading tourism lists in the year 2025.

Top African Cities Drawing Global Tourists

The African cities experienced unprecedented tourist influx in the year. The North African cities such as Cairo and Marrakech are the perennial favourites and the sub-Saharan cities such as Cape Town and Nairobi are gradually taking the ranking upwards because of improved accessibility and experience. Johannesburg also registered good growth that was driven by business tourism and cultural festivals.

Rank (2025)CityCountryEstimated Tourists (Million)
1MarrakechMorocco12.1
2CairoEgypt10.8
3Cape TownSouth Africa9.5
4NairobiKenya8.3
5JohannesburgSouth Africa7.9
6Zanzibar CityTanzania6.7
7LagosNigeria6.2
8TunisTunisia5.6
9AccraGhana4.9
10Sharm El SheikhEgypt4.3

Tourism Trends Driving Africa’s Popularity

Researchers observe that Africa has become a more competitive tourist destination due to its different products that include luxury resorts, eco-adventures, among others. Repeat and first-time visitors are being attracted by digital marketing, enhanced safety and sustainable traveling programs. As African cities continue investing in the airports and other tourism infrastructure, they are bound to experience even more growth in the next few years.

David Njoroge

David Njoroge is a sports journalist who covers African football leagues, athletics, and major continental tournaments. He shares inspiring stories of athletes and the growing sports culture across Africa.

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