Zimbabwe Tourism Targets 1.87 Million Visitors in Bold 2026 Global Expansion Plan

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Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is gearing up for a significant expansion in 2026, with government projections forecasting 3.1% growth, fuelled by a strategic pivot toward new international markets and digital innovation.

According to Travelnews.africa, during the 2026 National Budget presentation, Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister, Mthuli Ncube, on December 12, unveiled an ambitious roadmap for the industry. The government anticipates international tourist arrivals will climb to 1.87 million in 2026, a notable increase from the 1.79 million expected in 2025.

To support this upward trajectory, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry has been allocated ZiG339 million. This funding is earmarked to enhance the visibility of iconic destinations such as Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and the Eastern Highlands while supporting a multifaceted destination marketing strategy.

In a move to diversify beyond traditional source markets, Zimbabwe is aggressively expanding its diplomatic tourism reach. The government announced plans to deploy tourism attachés to six high-potential markets: Russia, Brazil, Canada, Nigeria, Turkey, and Australia.

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The goal of this expansion is to lessen dependence on established markets and explore emerging regions, thereby building a visitor base that is both resilient and diverse.

A cornerstone of the 2026 strategy is a doubled effort in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) segment. The National Convention Bureau is tasked with bidding for major international conferences to position Zimbabwe as a premier business tourism hub.

Furthermore, the sector is currently experiencing a digital transformation. Investment is being prioritised for digital marketing infrastructure, specifically Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enable data-driven decision-making and real-time engagement with tech-savvy global travellers.

Recent success serves as the foundation for the optimistic 2026 outlook. Between 2024 and 2025, Zimbabwe welcomed over 1.6 million visitors, driven by improved air connectivity and a renewed interest in ecotourism and safari adventures.

“The expansion into emerging markets, the focus on MICE tourism, and the adoption of cutting-edge digital tools point to a sector that is not only recovering but actively reinventing itself for the future,” industry analysts note.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the projected growth rate for Zimbabwe’s tourism sector in 2026? 

The sector is projected to grow by 3.1% in 2026.

How many international tourists does Zimbabwe expect in 2026? 

The government forecasts 1.87 million international arrivals, up from 1.79 million in 2025.

Which new markets is Zimbabwe targeting for tourism? 

Zimbabwe plans to deploy tourism attachés to six new markets: Russia, Brazil, Canada, Nigeria, Turkey, and Australia.

How much funding has been allocated to the Ministry of Tourism for 2026? 

A budget of ZiG339 million has been allocated to support strategic initiatives and marketing.

What is the “MICE” strategy mentioned in the article? 

MICE stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions. Zimbabwe is focusing on attracting high-profile international business events to boost sector revenue and diversify visitor types.

How is technology being used to boost tourism? 

The government is investing in digital marketing infrastructure with a specific emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to run targeted campaigns and improve engagement with potential visitors.