According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (WTO), the agency that is responsible for the promotion of sustainable and universally accessible tourism, there were 55.7 million international tourist arrivals to Africa in 2013. It is an increase of 5.4% over 2012.
With several countries around the continent seeking to diversify their economies now seeing the marketability of their tourism potentials, the WTO figure is expected to increase exponentially over the next five years.
Number 1 : Morocco
The country that received the highest international tourist arrivals in 2013 is Morocco. The country welcomed about 10 million tourists. Tourism in Morocco is well developed, with a strong tourist industry focused on the country’s coast, culture, and history. The tourist attractions in Morocco include, the Atlas mountain, Sand dunes in Morocco, Malabata Coast in Tangier, Bou Inania Madrasa in Fes, and the country Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines.
Number 2 : South Africa
South Africa hosted 9.5 million tourists in 2013. The country is a popular tourist destination with many tourist attractions. Among the main attractions are the diverse and picturesque culture, the game reserves and the highly regarded wines.
Number 3 : Egypt
Egypt is the third tourist destination with 9.1 million tourists in 2013. Tourism is one of the most important sectors in Egypt’s economy. Among the celebrated tourist attractions in Egypt are the Pyramids and Great Spinx at Giza, the Abu Simbel temples, Karnak Temple and valley of the Kings.
Number 4 : Tunisia
There were 6.2 million international tourist arrivals in Tunisia in 2013. Tunisia is the northernmost and the smallest in the Maghreb region of Northern Africa. The main attraction in the country are its beautiful beaches as the country is bordered by the Mediterranean on its two sides. The rich Roman and Arab culture in Tunisia are also great tourist attractions and the others include, the Sahara dunes, mammoth ancient ruins and the exotic cities.
Number 5 : Algeria
Another Northern African country on the list is Algeria, with 2.7 million international tourist arrivals in 2013. The country is currently expanding its tourism industry and offers a lot of amazing experiences. The main tourist attractions are Cirta, the capital city of the Kingdom of Numidia, Hamman Guergour, Tipasa, and the Kasbah of Algiers.
Number 6 : Mozambique
Mozambique has excellent tourist assets. The country’s natural beauty, wildlife, and historic heritage provide excellent opportunities for beach, cultural and eco-tourism. The country received 2.1 million international tourists in 2012. Popular tourist destinations in Mozambique include, Ponta de Ouro where tourists can swim with the Dolphins and engage in scuba diving. Others places of attraction are Gaza, Inhambane and Vilanculos.
Number 7 : Zimbabwe
The beautiful southern African country welcomed 1.8 million international tourists in 2013. Zimbabwe has several natural tourist attractions like the Victoria Falls, which is known as one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.
Number 8 : Kenya
Kenya is known for its classic Savanna safaris. The main tourist attractions are photo safaris through the 19 national parks and game reserves. Other attractions include the mosques at Mombasa, the renowned scenery of the Great Rift Valley, a view of Mt. Kilimanjaro, across the border into Tanzania, and its beaches along the Indian Ocean.
Number 9 : Uganda
Uganda hosted 1.2 million international tourists in 2013. Tourism in Uganda is focused on Uganda’s landscape and wildlife and it has a very diverse culture, landscape, flora, and fauna. The tourist attractions in Uganda include, game and bird viewing, boating and water sports and hiking and mountain climbing.
Number 10 : Swaziland
Despite being the smallest country in the Southern hemisphere, this African country makes up its lack of size with a hugely diverse range of attractions and activities. As one of the few remaining executive Monarchies in Africa, culture and heritage are deeply engrained in all aspects of Swazi life, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all who visits. The country hosted 1 million international tourist in 2012.
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Afroscandic – Celebrating and Connecting Africa and Scandinavia.
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