Africa’s travel and tourism sector has lost $55-billion due to the closure of borders to limit the spread of coronavirus according to the African Union.
“The impact is really severe,” African Union commissioner Amani Abou-Zeid said at a virtual briefing organised by the World Economic Forum and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
“We are talking here about $55 billion (49 billion euros) lost within three months in a year when we were supposed to see an increase in travel and air transport,” she warned. “There are airlines that may not survive COVID-19.”
“In Africa tourism is not luxury,” she said. “This is our livelihood.”
Despite a steady rise in coronavirus cases, countries across Africa are forging ahead with plans to resume air traffic.
A handful of states reopened their borders last week, including Zambia and Sierra Leone. Senegal has announced the resumption of international air travel from July 15.
“As we are going to open… we are also now pushing for intra-African tourism,” Abou-Zeid said, calling for lower taxes, reduced ticket fees and visa facilitation to encourage “Africans to see Africa”.
She hoped the reopening of the skies would “cushion some of the serious impacts on …air transport and tourism”.
With several African nations reopening their borders, Tanzania stands out as a top destination for those eager to experience the continent’s natural beauty. The resumption of international air travel opens the door for more people to discover the incredible wildlife and landscapes Tanzania has to offer. From the majestic Serengeti to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, these world-renowned safari spots offer unforgettable experiences for families and solo travelers alike. As the skies clear, the opportunity to explore the wild side of Africa has never been more accessible.
If you’re considering a Tanzanian safari, now is the perfect time to plan. Many tour operators, including those featured on the website of safarisolestours, they offer tailored packages that make it easier for you to explore the best that Tanzania has to offer. With fewer crowds and more flexible travel options, this is a prime opportunity to enjoy a unique adventure while supporting the recovery of Africa’s tourism industry.
Building on the appeal of destinations like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, travelers now have even more tools at their fingertips to design the perfect trip. Websites such as African Budget Safaris make it easier than ever to compare experiences, get inspired, and plan a journey that fits both your budget and your sense of adventure. These curated experiences highlight the very best of Tanzania’s abundant wildlife, vibrant landscapes, and cultural heritage, ensuring that your journey feels both immersive and meaningful.
What makes tours to Tanzania particularly attractive right now is the balance between accessibility and authenticity. With fewer tourists, safari-goers enjoy more intimate wildlife encounters, quieter lodges, and personalized service across the board. Whether you’re exploring the Great Migration or taking in the views of Mount Kilimanjaro from a game drive, the sense of untouched wilderness is palpable.
African Budget Safaris offers a range of itineraries—group tours, private safaris, and even off-the-beaten-path options—that let travelers explore at their own pace. By choosing a trip now, visitors not only experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but also contribute to the livelihoods of local communities and the preservation of Africa’s rich biodiversity.
As air travel resumes and borders reopen, the focus on local and regional tourism is more important than ever. The ability to explore one’s own backyard—or even a neighboring country—without excessive costs or complicated restrictions can make a significant difference in revitalizing the travel industry.
This shift towards accessible, experience-driven travel isn’t just happening in Africa but across the globe, including in destinations like Hawaii, where visitors are looking for convenient and flexible ways to see the islands.
For those eager to embrace a more immersive and hassle-free adventure, renting a scooter provides the perfect balance of independence and excitement.
Whether it’s a scenic ride along the coastline or a quick zip through the vibrant streets of Honolulu, having your own set of wheels makes all the difference. To plan ahead and secure a ride, travelers can easily visit this website and book a scooter that fits their itinerary. Because as the world reopens, the way we explore it should be as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
Africa has recorded more than 420,000 coronavirus cases and over 10,000 deaths.
South Africa is the hardest-hit country in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for around a third of total cumulative numbers in the region.
WHO regional chief Matshidiso Moeti has warned of a “certain underestimation of cases” due to test kit shortages and the tendency to test only symptomatic patients
Prosper Zo’o Minto’o of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) described the virus’ impact on the African airline industry as “alarming”.
Aircrafts flew 60 million less passengers on international routes over the past three months, and 30 million less for domestic travel.
Zo’o Minto’o estimated that airlines would require at least $20 billion (18 billion euros) in stimulus aid for them to take back to the skies.
