Tourists might be getting the cold shoulder in parts of Europe (with the likes of Spain and Greece addressing overtourism challenges), but across the waters of the Mediterranean Sea, countries are rolling out the red carpet for a bigger slice of the tourism pie.
UN Tourism data shows Africa welcomed 74 million visitors last year – up 7% from 2019 and 12% more than in 2023. Leading the continent’s recovery was the North Africa subregion, which saw a 22% spike in tourism compared to pre-pandemic figures.
Egypt, Tunisia and Morocco are at the forefront of this tourism surge. The best part? Each destination offers their own unique blend of history, culture and stunning landscapes, says Antoinette Turner, general manager for Flight Centre South Africa.
“These countries are riding a tourism wave, with Morocco and Egypt in a head-to-head race to become Africa’s top tourist destination – with Morocco dethroning Egypt in 2024. They’re well-geared for tourists and with the South African currency relatively strong against those in North Africa, our rands go much further than they would against the dollar, pound or euro,” says Turner.
Here’s what you should know about travelling to each country:
Egypt:
- Visa: E-visas are available for South Africa passport holders via https://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg. A single-entry tourist visa for stays of up to 30 days costs US$25, while multiple-entry visas are $60.
- Currency: 1 Egyptian Pound equals 0,36 South African Rand (as of 17 March). While credit cards are accepted in major cities, carry local currency.
- Best time to visit: The most pleasant time to visit Egypt is in the cool months, between November and March. Summers can be brutal, especially in the south, where the morning temperatures exceed 30°C. The hottest temperature recorded was 50.9°C, in Aswan.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary in Egypt and visitors are often openly asked for “baksheesh”. About 10-20 EGP is customary.
- Local customs and etiquette: Egypt is a Muslim country, so dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Covering shoulders and knees is recommended in temples and mosques.
- Languages: Arabic, English and French
- Must-sees: The Pyramids of Giza; the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, home to an extensive collection of antiquities; Luxor and the Valley of the Kings; Abu Simbel Temples, built by Ramses II; a Nile River cruise; the Red Sea resorts, popular for diving and snorkelling; Siwa Oasis; and the Citadel, which offers panoramic views of Cairo.
Morocco:
- Visa: South Africans need to apply for a visa through the Moroccan Embassy (and must make an appointment). Alternatively, if you are in possession of a valid UK, US, Australian, Rep. of 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 17 March). While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, carry cash.
- Best time to visit: Go during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when it’s mild and pleasant.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary.
- Local customs and etiquette: Morocco is a Muslim country, so dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Languages: Arabic, English and French
- Must-sees: Marrakech, known for its souks, historical palaces, Jemaa el-Fnaa and the glorious Majorelle Garden; the Atlas Mountains, home to the indigenous Berber people and Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak; Fes, renowned for its well-preserved medieval medina, ancient streets and palaces; the Sahara Desert, where tourists can take camel treks, camp under the stars, and enjoy vast dunes; the mountain town of Chefchaouen, famous for its cobalt-blue buildings; and Aït Benhaddou, a fortified mountain village, famous for serving as the backdrop for Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
“Of course, travellers are drawn to the history of Marrakech but Morocco’s coastal towns, including Essaouira, Safi and Oualidia, offer picturesque fishing ports, white-washed houses, the freshest seafood – and a glimpse into authentic Moroccan life,” says Turner.
Tunisia
- Visa: No visa required for a maximum stay of 90 days.
- Currency: 1 Tunisian Dinar equals 5,95 South African Rand (as of 17 March). Carry cash.
- Best time: Spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant, and the country is less crowded.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary, and small tips of around 5-10 TND are common.
- Local customs and etiquette: Tunisia is a Muslim country.
- Languages: Arabic, English and French.
- Must-sees: The ancient Phoenician city of Carthage, with highlights including The Baths of Antoninus, the Carthage Museum, and the Roman Theatre; the Medina of Tunis, a maze of narrow streets, historic mosques, souks, and the Bardo Museum, which houses one of the world’s finest collections of Roman mosaics; Sidi Bou Said, a picturesque coastal town known for its blue-and-white architecture; the Sahara Desert which also hosts the Matmata underground troglodyte dwellings; El Djem, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world; the holy city of Kairouan; and Hammamet, a vibey beach resort town.
It’s little wonder then that these countries are experiencing a tourism boom, says Turner.
“The region has it all: rich history, exceptional cuisine, stunning desert landscapes, tranquil beaches, ancient cities, vibrant souks, and a fusion of Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean influences.
“They’re also determined to attract more tourists than ever before. All three countries are stepping into the future by refining their tourist offerings, building luxury resorts, and developing world-class cultural hubs.”
With direct eight-hour flights between Johannesburg and Cairo, and single stops in Doha or Dubai for Morocco and Tunisia, North Africa is slowly becoming more accessible for South African travellers.
FLIGHT CENTRE TRAVEL GROUP SOUTH AFRICA
Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) SA is part of Flight Centre Travel Group, an Australia-based international travel company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, with a market cap of AU$3.26 billion and a current share price of AU$14.68 as of 25 March 2025. FCTG with three leading brands: Flight Centre, Corporate Traveller and FCM, of which Corporate Traveller and FCM are proud level 1 BBBEE Contributors. FCTG SA is wholly owned and has been recognised as one of Deloitte’s Best Companies to Work for in