A new ranking of Africa’s most visited tourist cities has placed Cape Town, Marrakech, and Cairo at the top, reaffirming their status as leading global travel destinations.

The ranking, compiled from international travel data and tourism board statistics, highlights the cities attracting millions of visitors annually due to their blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern hospitality infrastructure.

Cape Town’s scenic landscapes, including Table Mountain and its famed wine routes, secured its position as the continent’s top destination. Marrakech followed closely, drawing global travelers with its vibrant souks, historic medinas, and luxury resorts. Cairo ranked third, boosted by its timeless landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.

Other cities featured in the top tier include Johannesburg, Lagos, Nairobi, Accra, and Zanzibar, each recognized for unique attractions ranging from wildlife safaris to bustling nightlife and cultural festivals.

Tourism experts say the ranking reflects Africa’s growing profile as a competitive global destination, though challenges such as infrastructure gaps, visa restrictions, and political instability in some regions continue to limit growth.

Industry stakeholders believe that with targeted investment and policy reforms, Africa’s top cities could rival leading destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Americas in the coming years.