Uganda’s tourism soared in 2024 with record-breaking international arrivals, rising revenues, and strong domestic travel fueled by global and regional demand.
Uganda’s tourism sector is witnessing a powerful revival, with fresh figures highlighting a substantial upswing in international arrivals and sector-wide growth in 2024.
The Tourism Trends and Statistics Report 2025 shows the nation’s tourism industry gained strong momentum last year, building on post-pandemic recovery with impressive gains across international, domestic, and outbound travel segments. Both stability and sustained interest from global markets helped propel this upward trend.
According to the report, international tourist arrivals jumped by 7.7%, climbing from 1,274,210 in 2023 to a remarkable 1,371,895 visitors in 2024. The surge reflects growing global appeal, with the United States, India, and China maintaining their top-tier positions. Additionally, emerging markets such as Canada and Bangladesh registered notable growth, underscoring Uganda’s expanding long-haul travel reach.
Tourism revenues soared by 26%, generating USD 1.28 billion, driven by longer visitor stays averaging 8.7 nights and increased tourist spending, with leisure travelers spending approximately $2,114 per trip and $125 per night.
Hotel occupancy rates averaged 53.2% nationwide, with Kampala setting the benchmark at 68.3%. Domestic tourism also flourished, with nearly 1 million visits recorded across Uganda’s national parks, the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), and heritage sites.
Outbound travel skyrocketed by 97%, with 7,657,059 Ugandans traveling internationally. Leisure-based inbound tourism accounted for 19.2% of arrivals—an impressive rise attributed to aggressive promotional campaigns such as Explore Uganda — The Pearl of Africa.
Tourism’s economic footprint deepened in 2024, contributing 6.6% to Uganda’s GDP and generating 7.2% of national employment. More than 800,000 jobs were supported across key sectors including hospitality, transportation, and food services. Direct tourism contributions amounted to 3.2% of GDP (UGX 6.06 trillion), according to Basil Ajer, Director of Tourism.
Uganda’s performance in 2024 confirms its rising stature as a compelling destination for global travelers, with the sector poised for even greater strides in the years ahead.
Source : Travel and Tour World
