From Safaris to Destinations Yet to Be Explored: How Spaniards Are Rediscovering Africa

Spanish travellers have become more international and discerning. After regaining their rhythm of travel following the pandemic, they are no longer satisfied with short breaks in the Mediterranean or around Europe: more and more are looking further afield, seeking nature, culture, and authentic experiences. And in this trend, Africa continues to consolidate its position as a strong destination for Spain’s outbound tourism. 

The Spanish Tourist: More Trips and Higher Spending Abroad
In 2024, residents in Spain made 184.4 million trips, of which 21.6 million were international (+12.1% compared to 2023). Although they represented only about 12% of the total, these trips accounted for 35% of all tourism expenditure, with an average daily spend of €123 per person—almost double the €64 spent on domestic trips.
According to the National Outbound Tourism Observatory (ObservaTUR), the forecasted average spend per person for summer 2025 will reach a historic high of €739, with travellers over 65 surpassing even €900. Increasingly, Spanish travellers are willing to invest in quality trips, even financing them, which reinforces the potential of African destinations as “big experience” journeys. 

When and How Do Spaniards Book and Travel?
Spanish travellers are becoming more forward-planning, particularly for international trips. By summer 2025, almost half of Spaniards had already booked part of their holidays before June. Young adults aged 18–34 were the most organised: 58% had already secured transport or accommodation by that point. 

Travel agencies (both physical and online) continue to play a key role, especially for long-haul destinations where logistical complexity and the need for expert advice matter more. In fact, agencies score an average of 8.6 out of 10, valued for their personalisation and guarantees. 

Africa on the Radar of Spanish Travellers
Africa already accounts for 3% of Spanish travellers’ international destination preferences, on par with Asia and Central America. In addition, the “big trips” segment is one of the most dynamic and optimistic, showing strong growth in 2025.
Young people under 35 stand out as the most likely to choose destinations outside Europe (51%), followed by couples without children—a public that fits especially well with Africa’s profile: journeys of adventure, nature, culture, and authenticity. 

Sub-Saharan Africa: Diversity and New Motivations
Africa’s appeal for Spanish travellers lies in the huge variety of experiences it offers. From safaris across the savannahs of Kenya or Tanzania to Namibia’s desert landscapes, Ethiopia’s cultural intensity, or South Africa’s sophisticated wine scene, the continent presents a wide array of possibilities that go far beyond traditional sun-and-beach tourism.
Added to this richness is a change in the way Spaniards want to travel: they now seek authentic, sustainable, and transformative experiences, and Africa provides the perfect setting. Photographic safaris in small groups, trekking routes, encounters with local communities, and eco-tourism programmes are increasingly in demand. The consolidation of these types of travel shows that Africa is no passing trend but a long-term travel scenario, able to cater both to those looking for adventure and to those prioritising comfort and exclusivity.
 

As evidence of this real demand, South Africa welcomed 31,166 Spanish tourists in 2024 and expects growth in 2025, confirming a rising interest from Spain. In East Africa, Tanzania ranks Spain among its top 15 source markets, according to its 2024 International Visitors’ Exit Survey, while Kenya closed 2024 with 2.39 million total international arrivals, with Europe as the main driver of growth. These are clear signals that the continent is gaining ground in the minds of European travellers—including Spaniards. 

Angola: The New Horizon
Angola is emerging as the next big surprise for Spanish travellers. With landscapes such as the Kalandula Falls, the Tundavala Gorge, or the unspoilt beaches of the Atlantic, and a unique cultural diversity, the country is now opening up strongly to tourism.
Since 2023, Spaniards have been able to travel to Angola without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, which significantly lowers barriers to entry. In addition, the country has launched its new tourism brand, “Visit Angola – The Rhythm of Life,” and will participate for the first time with its own stand at FITUR 2026 in Madrid—clear evidence that Spain is considered a priority market.
Angola is still an emerging destination, but its commitment to sustainable tourism and direct promotion in Spain position it as a country set to become the next reference point for Spanish travellers who have already experienced the great safari classics of Africa. 

Conclusion: Spain Opens New Chapters in Africa
Africa has long been part of Spanish travel preferences—but today it is expanding, diversifying, and offering new horizons, with countries like Angola stepping into the spotlight. 

KLEBER GROUP Insights:By promoting destinations with purpose and creativity, we help them grow sustainably, making a positive impact for local communities and travellers alike. 

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Copyright: Crefit_ Ministry of Tourism of Angola @ Kleber Group_Credit_Robert Haidinger