Zambia Passes Two Million Tourist Arrivals as 2026 Target Nears

Zambia has recorded more than two million international tourist arrivals in 2026 and expects to reach its 2.5 million target by the end of the year, according to the Ministry of Tourism.

Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga said the Government is implementing measures to expand the sector, with Zambia targeting five million international visitors and more than US$1 billion in tourism revenue by 2031.

Tourist numbers have faced some disruption from the conflict in the Gulf, which affected international flights through major travel hubs including Doha and Dubai.

The Government is seeking to support further growth through investment in tourism infrastructure and improved international air connectivity. Road infrastructure in Livingstone and airport facilities in Kasama are among areas receiving attention.

Other measures include wildlife translocation into national parks, partnerships with conservation organisations and incentives intended to encourage private investment in hotels and conference facilities.

The Ministry is also working through the Airline Access Committee to attract additional airlines and improve Zambia’s connections with international tourism markets.