Morocco overtakes South Africa and Egypt to become Africa’s top tourism hotspot
A new report by Travel and Tour World has surfaced, revealing that in the first quarter of 2026, Morocco recorded the highest tourism growth in Africa. The North African nation outperformed regional giants, such as South Africa and Egypt.
Black News 
A new report by Travel and Tour World has surfaced, revealing that in the first quarter of 2026, Morocco recorded the highest tourism growth in Africa. The North African nation outperformed regional giants, such as South Africa and Egypt.
- Morocco recorded the highest tourism growth in Africa in the first quarter of 2026, welcoming over 4.3 million international visitors.
- Despite global inflation and increased jet fuel prices, Morocco's tourism surged, outpacing regional leaders like South Africa and Egypt.
- The country's proximity to Europe and significant investments in tourism infrastructure have contributed to its success.
- Preparations for co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup have led to further development and increased international appeal.
Between January and March 2026, the country reportedly welcomed over 4.3 million international visitors.
This is especially noteworthy considering the high inflation impacting several global economies in recent times. Even the sharp increase in jet fuel prices wasn't enough to deter these travelers.
This success is largely attributed to Morocco’s intentional investment in its tourism sector, alongside its proximity to Europe, separated only by the Mediterranean Sea.
Furthermore, as the country prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, its commitment to infrastructure development has significantly increased.
While the capital city of Rabat remains an attractive destination, a massive influx of visitors from the UK, France, Spain, and Germany has been recorded in other major hubs like Marrakech, Agadir, and Casablanca.
South Africa, Egypt share tourism gains
Meanwhile, South Africa, which has been a premier destination due to its rich biodiversity, conservation efforts, and iconic safari parks is finally nearing its pre-pandemic performance levels after a prolonged post-COVID-19 slowdown.
Egypt, on the other hand, has maintained steady growth thanks to its popular Red Sea resorts and unparalleled heritage tourism. However, its close proximity to war impacted countries has subjected its tourism sector to severe operational complexities and flight rerouting.
The report indicates that global tourists are actively trying to circumvent traditional Middle Eastern transit hubs, choosing shorter, more direct, and less risky routes instead. Morocco has capitalized perfectly on this trend, emerging as the continent's most attractive travel destination.
Victor Awogbemila
