Tourists may be putting parts of Europe (something like Spain and Greece challenges everywhere) on their cold shoulders, but beyond Mediterranean waters, the country is rolling out red carpets for larger slices of tourist pie.
Africa welcomed 74 million visitors last year, according to UN tourism data. It has increased by 7% since 2019 and 12% since 2023. The North Africa sub-regions were leading the continent's recovery.
Egypt, Tunisia and Morocco are at the forefront of this tourism surge. The best part? Antoinette Turner, general manager of South Africa's flight centres, each destination offers a unique blend of history, culture and stunning landscapes.
“These countries are riding on tourism waves to help Morocco and Egypt abdicate Egypt in 2024, as Morocco and Egypt become Africa's top tourist destinations. They abdicate Egypt for tourists, and South Africa's currency is relatively strong against the people of North Africa.
Here are some things you need to know about traveling to countries:
Egypt:
Visa: E-Visas is available to South African passport holders via https://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg. A single input tourist visa for a maximum of 30 days is $25 USD, while multiple input visas are $60 USD. Currency: 1 Egyptian pound is equivalent to 0,36 South African rands (as of March 17th). Credit cards are accepted in major cities, but carry local currency. Best Time to Visit: The most enjoyable time to visit Egypt is in the cool months between November and March. Summer can be brutal, especially in the south where morning temperatures exceed 30°C. The hottest temperature recorded was 50.9°C in Aswan. Chip: Chip is customary in Egypt, and visitors are often openly asked for “Baksheesh.” Approximately 10-20 EGP is a custom. Local customs and etiquette: Egypt is a Muslim country, so wear modest clothes, especially when visiting religious places. In temples and mosques, it is recommended to cover the shoulders and knees. Language: Arabic, English, and French Must-see: Giza Pyramids. The Egyptian Museum in Cairo features a wealth of ancient collections. Luxor and Valley of Kings. Built by Abu Simbel Temple, Ramses II. Nile River Cruise. The Red Sea Resort is popular for diving and snorkeling. Siwa Oasis; Citadel offers panoramic views of the Cairo.
Morocco:
Visa: South Africans must apply for a visa through the Moroccan Embassy (and must book). Alternatively, if you own a valid UK, US, Australia, Ireland, Schengen, New Zealand or Japanese visa, you can apply for an e-visa to visit Morocco via https://www.acces-maroc.ma. Currency: 1 Moroccan Dirham equals 1,88 South African Rand (as of March 17th). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but you should carry cash. Best time to visit: go in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) and it's calm and comfortable. Chip: Chip is customary. Local customs and etiquette: Morocco is a Muslim country, so wear modest clothes, especially when visiting religious places. Languages: Must-see in Arabic, English and French: Marrakech, its souks, historic palace, Jemmer Elfna, the glorious Majorrel Garden. The Atlas Mountains, home to the indigenous Berbers, and Mount Tubukal, the highest peak in North Africa. FES is famous for its preserved medieval medina, ancient cities and palaces. The Sahara Desert is where tourists can take camel treks, camp under the stars and enjoy the vast dunes. Mountain Town Chev Chauen is famous for its cobalt blue building. and Benhadoo, a fortified mountain village famously serving as a backdrop for Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
“Of course, travelers are drawn to Marrakech's history, but Moroccan coastal towns like Essauila, Safi and Uardia offer picturesque fishing ports, whitewashed homes and fresh seafood, offering glimpses of authentic Moroccan life,” Turner says.
Tunisia
Visa: No visa required for a maximum of 90 days. Currency: 1 Tunisian dinar equals 5,95 South African rands (as of March 17th). Carry cash with you. Best time: Spring and fall, the weather is pleasant and the country is less crowded. Tip: Tips are conventional, with small hints of about 5-10 TND common. Local customs and etiquette: Tunisia is a Muslim country. Language: Arabic, English, French. Must see: Highlights include the city of Carthage in ancient Phoenician, Antoninus, the Carthage Museum, and the Roman theatre. The Bardo Museum houses a Tunis medina, a maze of narrow streets, historic mosques, souks and one of the world's finest collections of Roman mosaics. According to Sidi Bou, the picturesque coastal town known for its blue and white architecture. The Sahara Desert also hosts the residence of Matmata Underground Troglodyte. Ergem, one of the most preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. The sacred city of Cairouan. Hammamet is the town of Vibey Beach Resort.
Turner is no wonder these countries are experiencing a tourism boom.
“The area has a rich history, exceptional cuisine, stunning desert landscapes, tranquil beaches, ancient cities, vibrant souks, Berber, Arab and Mediterranean influences.
“They are also determined to attract more tourists than ever before. All three countries are delving into the future by providing tourists, building luxury resorts and developing a world-class cultural hub.”
With direct flights between Johannesburg and Cairo and single stops in Doha or Dubai, Morocco and Tunisia, North Africa is gradually becoming more accessible to South African travelers.
Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa
Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) SA is part of Flight Centre Travel Group, an Australia-based international travel agency listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, and as of March 25, 2025, it has a market capitalization of $3.26 billion and a current stock price of $14.68. FCTG SA is fully owned and recognized as one of Deloitte's best companies
