Djibouti, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Mauritania, Madagascar, Angola, Nigeria, and Ghana Powering Africa’s Tourism Surge: What You Need to Know
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Somewhere In Africa.
Madagascar: Biodiversity Hotspot Driving Island Tourism
Madagascar.
Madagascar, with its unique wildlife, lush rainforests, and famous baobab trees, offers tourists an unmatched island experience. The island’s biodiversity is unrivaled, making it a paradise for eco-tourism and adventure travel. From whale-watching to rainforest treks, Madagascar’s natural wonders are a magnet for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
The island nation recorded 259,850 tourist arrivals in 2023, reflecting strong growth from 130,000 visitors in 2022. The government projects that arrivals will increase to 876,000 by 2028. Tourism contributes 13% to Madagascar’s GDP, and receipts are forecast to grow from $357 million in 2023 to $407 million by 2028. Eco-tourism and sustainable travel initiatives remain key pillars of the country’s tourism development strategy.
Djibouti: A Strategic Tourism Gateway in East Africa
Djibouti.
Djibouti, strategically located on the Horn of Africa, is a vital maritime trading hub and a rising star in East Africa’s tourism sector. Known for its unique volcanic landscapes, stunning salt lakes, and coral-rich seas, Djibouti is slowly positioning itself as a hub for leisure and adventure tourism. With its rich cultural heritage and strategic location along the Red Sea, the country has the potential to become a key travel destination in East Africa. The government aims to attract 500,000 tourists annually by 2035, underscoring its long-term commitment to tourism development.
Djibouti received approximately 114,000 tourists in 2021, a significant increase from 63,000 in 2013. Visitor spending also saw remarkable growth, rising from $32 million in 2017 to $57 million in 2018. While business travelers currently account for 98% of total arrivals, the country is actively seeking to diversify its tourism base by promoting adventure tourism and ecotourism.
Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport, the country’s primary international gateway, connects the nation to Ethiopia, France, Turkey, and other key global destinations. Plans are underway to boost air connectivity by constructing two new international airports near Djibouti City and the Seven Brother Islands, further enhancing the country’s position as a major regional air transport hub.
Namibia: Adventure Awaits in the Desert Wonderland
Amazing Namibia.
Namibia is famous for its surreal red dunes, expansive deserts, and vibrant wildlife. Visitors are drawn to Namibia’s stunning landscapes, which include the towering dunes of Sossusvlei and the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park. The country’s commitment to conservation tourism makes it one of Africa’s most sustainable destinations.
Namibia recorded 863,872 tourist arrivals in 2023, an 87.4% increase from the previous year. Although these numbers remain 46% below 2019 levels, the recovery signals a bright future for Namibia’s tourism industry. Tourism revenue reached N$54.2 million, and the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism predicts continued growth as Namibia positions itself as a top destination for adventure and nature tourism.
Namibia Offers Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Entry to 31 Countries
Namibia has simplified entry for travelers from 31 countries, granting visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to promote tourism, facilitate trade, and strengthen global connectivity. This move is part of Namibia’s strategy to attract more international tourists and foster regional and global cooperation. Citizens from Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, and 20 other European countries can now enter Namibia without needing a visa. Additionally, travelers from key Asian countries like Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand benefit from visa-on-arrival access, creating new opportunities for tourism and business from the rapidly growing Asian market.
Namibia also extends its visa-free policy to visitors from the United States and Canada, two of the world’s largest tourism markets. By removing entry barriers, Namibia aims to boost the influx of international tourists to its iconic attractions like the red sand dunes of Sossusvlei, Etosha National Park, and the Skeleton Coast. The relaxed visa policy is expected to increase tourist arrivals, create more jobs in the tourism sector, and support local businesses that rely on the travel economy. This strategy positions Namibia as a more accessible African destination, helping it compete with regional tourism giants like South Africa and Botswana.
Read more at travelandtourworld.com
Source: Travel and Tour World.