The number of international tourist arrivals to Africa is at its highest recorded with a total of 67 million tourists in 2018. That’s a 7% increase from 63 million arrivals in 2017 and 58 million in 2016 and that number is expected to grow, according to a recent report by Jumia Travel.
This growth record placed the continent as the second-fastest growing tourism region in the world.
Despite the increase, people are sticking to well-known destinations, including Kenya, Seychelles, Morocco, and Mauritius, therefore missing out on what Africa has to offer.
Here’s a list of the 5 least visited countries in Africa and why you should visit:
Comoros
Situated between the beautiful countries of Madagascar and Mozambique is the hidden gem known as Comoros.
With an average of 28,000 tourists a year, Comoros is the least visited destination in Africa.
While everyone chooses other island destinations in the region, including Mauritius, Seychelles, and Madagascar, Comoros is one of those destinations that’s on unspoiled terrain.
The tiny village of Itsamia on Moheli is a sea turtle nesting site where visitors have the unique opportunity to participate in the ecotourism volunteer opportunities.
Beyond ecotourism, the beaches are breathtaking in Comoros. Bouni Beach, a favorite among locals and tourists alike, features crystal clear blue water, black lava, and a forest of green palm trees.
São Tomé and Príncipe
Located in the Gulf of Guinea, the two-island nation São Tomé and Príncipe
is Africa’s second-smallest that often gets looked over by tourists.
Known as one of Africa’s “Best Kept Secret,” the island offers the best of both worlds when it comes to scenery. You can explore the endless beaches or visit Obo Park where you will find the island’s primary rainforests and exotic wildlife.
Djibouti
Located on the northeast coast, and often referred to as the “Horn of Africa,” is Djibouti.
Djibouti City is the capital and if you’re looking for the hustle and bustle that comes with a big city, this is where you want to be.
Blvd de Bender is where you will find the popular Les Caisses Market to purchase Djibouti goods, including food, woodcarvings and famous garments futa.
Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone’s troubled history of civil war and Ebola have deterred tourists despite the fact that the war is over and the country has been declared Ebola-free.
Sierra Leone boasts some of the world’s rarest wildlife, including, pygmy hippos and at least 135 species of birds.
Like many countries in West Africa, Sierra Leone has a rich food culture and it’s the perfect place for seafood lovers to enjoy whole tilapia, lobster, crabs, oysters, and fried plantains served with pancakes.
Guinea
Guinea had approximately 60,000 international tourist arrivals in 2016.
This beautiful West African country has more than two dozen ethnic groups that you can learn more about at the Sandervalia National Museum.
Guinea is the richest country in terms of its natural features. It has rich biodiversity with significant aesthetic, diverse natural beauty composed of parks, aquariums and natural hot springs, unique animal species, mountainous terrains and more.
