HARARE – Zimbabwe’s tourism export receipts grew 14% to US$251 million in the first quarter of 2026, up from US$221 million in the same period last year, driven by higher international and domestic spending, official data shows.
The rise in receipts came as international tourist arrivals increased 11% to 384,515 between January and March, compared to 347,555 in Q1 2025. African source markets rose 9% to 287,062 visitors, while overseas arrivals grew 16% to 97,453.
Domestic tourism also strengthened, with an estimated 2.62 million trips recorded, a 35% jump from 1.94 million in Q1 2025. The increase was supported by more travel for visiting friends and relatives, religious tourism, and study-related trips.
Average hotel room occupancy edged up to 38% from 37% a year earlier. Regional performance was mixed: Manicaland and Mashonaland East recorded recoveries, while Mashonaland Central and Matabeleland South posted declines. Harare and Bulawayo remained above the national average but lost ground compared to 2025.
Tourism investment surged 438% to US$67.8 million from US$12.6 million in Q1 2025. The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority said a registration blitz regularized facilities that were previously operating outside the formal system.
The sector’s Q1 performance was boosted by improved air connectivity, expanded domestic and regional flight networks, and cluster-based tourism development. Zimbabwe was named one of the top destinations for 2025 by Forbes and won the “Natural Wonders of the Year” award at ITB Berlin 2026.
Risks remain for the rest of 2026. Route disruptions and rising fuel costs linked to the Iran war cut inbound tourism by 12% in March, with overseas markets bearing the brunt. If disruptions persist, overseas arrivals may stagnate, though regional African traffic could partially offset losses due to lower exposure to long-haul routes.
The report recommends reducing reliance on long-haul markets by promoting regional African tourism and developing shock-resilient packages such as all-inclusive overland or rail-based itineraries to cushion volatile airfares and fuel costs.
Despite near-term volatility, the medium-term outlook remains positive. The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) cites the strong Q1 start, renewed international reputation, and improved connectivity as a platform for recovery once geopolitical tensions ease, with domestic tourism expected to anchor growth.
