In 2023, Tanzania’s tourism sector recorded a remarkable recovery, welcoming 1,809,205 tourists, a 24.3% increase from 1,456,192 in 2022. Tourism earnings surged to USD 3.37 billion, up by 33.2% from USD 2.53 billion the previous year. The United States, France, Germany, the UK, and Italy remained the top source markets. Zanzibar continued to be a major destination, attracting 548,503 tourists, primarily from Europe. These figures highlight tourism’s critical role as a leading contributor to foreign exchange, economic growth, and employment in Tanzania.

Tanzania’s Tourism Sector: A Robust Recovery and Economic Driver

Tourist Arrivals

• In 2023, Tanzania received a total of 1,809,205 tourists, marking an increase of 24.3% compared to 1,456,192 tourists in 2022.
• This growth reflects a strong rebound in the sector following global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tourism Earnings

• Earnings from tourism rose significantly to USD 3,368.7 million in 2023, up from USD 2,527.8 million in 2022.
• This represents a 33.2% increase, reinforcing tourism as one of Tanzania’s top sources of foreign exchange.

Source Markets

• The majority of tourists in 2023 came from:
  • United States (largest source market)
  • France
  • Germany
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
• Tanzania's diverse attractions, including wildlife safaris, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar beaches, and cultural heritage, continue to attract international visitors.

Zanzibar's Role

• Zanzibar alone welcomed 548,503 tourists in 2023, contributing significantly to the overall national total.
• Tourists to Zanzibar primarily came from Europe (65.9%), led by Italy, France, and Germany.

💡 What This Tells Us

The data shows that Tanzania’s tourism sector is on a strong growth path, recovering well post-pandemic. With a 24.3% increase in arrivals and a 33.2% rise in earnings, tourism is playing a critical role in economic growth, job creation, and foreign exchange inflow. The government’s efforts in marketing, infrastructure development, and service improvements are bearing fruit, though continued investment in sustainability and security will be key to long-term success.

✨ What It Tells Us

1. Tourism Is Rebounding Strongly
   Tanzania saw 1.81 million tourist arrivals in 2023, a 24.3% increase from 2022. This confirms that the sector is recovering fast from the COVID-19 slump and is regaining global attention as a top destination.
2. Significant Increase in Tourism Revenue
   The country earned USD 3.37 billion from tourism in 2023, up from USD 2.53 billion in 2022. That’s a 33.2% increase, showing that not only are more tourists visiting, but they’re also spending more, boosting foreign exchange earnings.
3. Top Source Countries Reflect Global Confidence
   The United States, France, Germany, UK, and Italy were leading tourist sources—highlighting Tanzania’s strong presence in high-value markets. This shows growing international confidence in Tanzania's safety, hospitality, and attractions.
4. Zanzibar Is a Key Contributor
   With 548,503 arrivals, Zanzibar accounts for about 30% of all tourists. European tourists dominate this segment, emphasizing the island’s appeal as a premium destination.
5. Tourism Is Driving the Economy
   As tourism revenue rises, it plays a central role in foreign exchange generation, employment, and supporting local businesses in transport, hospitality, and culture.

📌 Bottom Line:

Tourism in Tanzania is not just recovering—it's accelerating. With strong earnings and increasing arrivals, the sector is a pillar of economic growth and holds great potential for even greater impact with the right investment and policy support.