Africa, a continent renowned for its breathtaking beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes, is home to many countries that remain off the beaten path for tourists.
Despite their unique attractions and untapped potential, these nations struggle to attract visitors due to various reasons.
Based on data from the World Bank on foreign visitors’ overnight stays, we have compiled a list of the 10 least visited countries in Africa, showcasing their hidden treasures and the challenges they face in attracting tourists.
*1. Equatorial Guinea
With a mere 6,000 international visitors annually, Equatorial Guinea takes the top spot as the least visited country in Africa. Despite its stunning beaches, lush forests, and vibrant culture, the nation has failed to draw tourists, even after relaxing visa requirements for US and American Samoan citizens. The country’s unique geography, divided into two sections – the island of Bioko and the mainland – adds to its allure.
*2. São Tomé & Principe
These tiny islands, located south of Nigeria and west of Gabon, have been dependent on cocoa exports since gaining independence from Portugal in 1975. The difficulty in obtaining a visa, which requires advance application, has added to the complexity of visiting this tropical paradise.
*3. Comoros
This island nation, situated north of Madagascar, is one of the poorest countries in the world, with only 21,000 visitors annually. Its exclusion from the tourist map is largely due to the lack of amenities and opportunities in the area.
*4. Mauritania
Despite its rich history and fascinating culture, Mauritania remains an unpopular travel destination, with few attractions and limited infrastructure.
*5. Guinea-Bissau
This former Portuguese territory, nestled between Senegal and Guinea, boasts 20 tropical islands, hippos, and turtles, yet receives only 30,000 international visitors annually. The country is positioning itself as an eco-tourism destination, leveraging its natural beauty and unique attractions.
*6. Guinea
The most visited of the three Guineas, with 56,000 visitors yearly, Guinea offers stunning beaches, local house stays, and an abundance of natural resources. However, its lack of infrastructure makes it challenging for tourists to explore.
*7. Djibouti
As one of the driest places on earth, Djibouti attracts only 63,000 foreign visitors annually. Its harsh climate and limited attractions make it a less desirable destination.
*8. Central African Republic
With 71,000 foreign visitors yearly, the Central African Republic is one of the least visited countries in Africa, largely due to the ongoing civil war, which has destabilized the nation.
*9. Sierra Leone
Despite its breathtaking beaches, Sierra Leone fails to attract a significant number of international visitors, with only a few thousand tourists annually.
*10. Libya
Since the overthrow of Gaddafi, Libya has been plagued by instability, deterring tourists from visiting the country, which was once known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
These hidden gems offer a unique opportunity for intrepid travelers to explore uncharted territories, experience diverse cultures, and discover the beauty of Africa’s lesser-known nations.
