Zimbabwe has been named the top travel destination for 2025 by Forbes, following a sharp rise in interest from international travelers and growing recognition of the country’s tourism offerings.

The ranking was influenced by significant increases in flight search volumes on Kayak, with a 56 percent surge for Harare and over 80 percent for Bulawayo, indicating renewed global attention.

Forbes cited major attractions such as Victoria Falls, the UNESCO-listed Great Zimbabwe ruins, and the Eastern Highlands as key drivers of interest.

The publication also highlighted Zimbabwe’s affordability, simplified visa regime, and infrastructure upgrades as reasons for its growing appeal.

According to Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) figures, the country recorded a 22 percent increase in tourism receipts in 2023, reaching $1.1 billion.

Officials attributed the growth to investment in airports, roads, and hospitality infrastructure, including new hotels and resort renovations around major tourist sites.

Zimbabwe’s tourism sector has rebounded strongly after the COVID-19 downturn, with arrivals surpassing 1.5 million in 2023, up from just under 1 million in 2022. The government has also implemented a “Visit Zimbabwe” campaign and expanded e-visa access to more than 60 countries.

Despite ongoing economic challenges and continued high emigration, tourism is emerging as a key pillar of Zimbabwe’s economic recovery strategy.

Authorities expect international arrivals to keep rising in 2025, supported by increased marketing efforts and regional partnerships.

The Forbes ranking places Zimbabwe ahead of traditional travel hotspots, underlining its growing competitiveness in Africa’s tourism landscape.