Africa’s outbound travel market set for rapid growth, new report finds

Africa’s outbound travel market is expected to expand rapidly over the next decade, according to editor notes on the new Skift Advisory report, "Africa in Motion: The Next Great Traveller", presented by Millat Group at WTM London. The report projects outbound trips from Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa will rise from 13.3 million in 2025 to 19.4 million by 2035, with outbound travel spending reaching \$30.4 billion by 2030—a 61% increase in five years.

The findings highlight Nigeria’s unique position: while it ranks seventh among eight markets for outbound departures, it leads in outbound spending at \$7.7 billion. The report also notes that only 19% of intra-African routes are served by direct flights, despite intra-African travel accounting for 40% of international arrivals. Hotel investment remains focused on luxury, with just 14 of 168 new branded hotels in the economy or midscale segments.

For the African travel trade, these trends signal new opportunities and challenges in outbound sales, regional connectivity, and product development. Agencies should watch for further details as the full report becomes available.

Sources: editor November 2026.