Africa, with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife, is witnessing a surge in tourism from China. From the ancient pyramids of Egypt to the vast savannahs of Kenya, Chinese travelers are increasingly choosing Africa as their vacation destination.
The continent’s allure spans various interests. History buffs are drawn to the ancient ruins of Egypt, while nature enthusiasts flock to Kenya’s national parks for wildlife safaris. The unique charm of Morocco, with its blend of Arabic, Berber, and French influences, also captures the attention of many Chinese tourists seeking culturally diverse experiences.
Data reveals a significant increase in Chinese tourist interest in Africa. Trip.com reports a 1.2-fold increase in bookings to Africa from February to August compared to the previous year. Travel platform Fliggy also observes a nearly doubled growth in flight bookings to Africa this year, with Egypt and Kenya experiencing the highest growth rates at 236% and 167%, respectively.
Major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, and Chengdu serve as key sources of tourists traveling to Africa. These urban centers, known for their high population density and affluence, contribute significantly to the surge in travel bookings to African destinations.
Egypt, with its iconic pyramids and historical significance, remains a top destination for Chinese travelers seeking a connection with the ancient world. The allure of ancient ruins, including the Giza pyramids and the Valley of the Kings, combined with rich historical narratives, makes Egypt a captivating destination.
Kenya’s wildlife, particularly the great migration of wildebeest and other animals across the Maasai Mara, attracts a growing number of Chinese tourists eager to witness one of nature’s grand spectacles. This phenomenon, peaking during the summer and the September-October period, has contributed to the steady rise in bookings.
The rise in tourism to Africa is facilitated by Chinese travel platforms like Trip.com and Fliggy, which provide a range of services, from flight bookings to guided tours, making it easier for Chinese tourists to plan and book trips to African destinations.
Tongcheng Travel reports a 200% increase in the average number of tourists traveling to Egypt between January and August compared to last year, highlighting the effectiveness of online travel platforms in bridging the gap between China and Africa.
Mengran Li, Media and Public Relations Manager at Utour Travel Group, notes that the peak season for African wildlife experiences coincides with the summer and September-October period, resulting in year-on-year booking increases of 30% to 35%.
Africa’s appeal to Chinese tourists lies in its unique offerings. For those interested in history and archaeology, Egypt serves as a gateway to the ancient world. Kenya, on the other hand, is a dream destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking to capture the grandeur of wildlife in its natural habitat.
Africa also provides opportunities for more authentic travel experiences. Unlike more commercialized travel destinations, African countries often offer a more genuine and immersive experience, allowing tourists to interact with local communities and cultures. For many Chinese travelers, the opportunity to escape the hustle of city life and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of Africa’s landscapes and wildlife is an attractive proposition.
The growing popularity of Morocco, with its blend of Arabic, Berber, and French influences, exemplifies this desire for more culturally diverse experiences.
The steady rise in the number of Chinese tourists choosing Africa suggests that the trend will continue in the years to come. With more travel agencies offering tailored packages for Chinese tourists, and African countries improving infrastructure and services, the connection between China and Africa is likely to strengthen.
Moreover, with the global tourism industry gradually recovering from the impact of the pandemic, Africa stands to benefit significantly from the influx of Chinese tourists eager to explore new and exciting destinations. As travel restrictions ease and international flights resume, more Chinese tourists are expected to make Africa a top choice for their vacations.
Africa’s rise as a favored destination for Chinese tourists is an exciting development for both continents. As more Chinese travelers discover the rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife of Africa, the tourism sector will continue to flourish. With Egypt and Kenya leading the charge, and the added appeal of Morocco and other African nations, Africa is set to become a key player in Chinese outbound tourism.
