ZIMBABWE’S tourism sector is facing potential headwinds as geopolitical tensions threaten to slow the momentum gained at the start of 2026.
Despite these risks, the sector recorded strong performance in the first quarter of the year, reflecting rising competitiveness, global recognition and sustained demand.
According to Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) performance highlights for Q1 2026, international tourist arrivals increased by 11%, rising from 347 555 in 2025 to 384 515.
Domestic tourism also strengthened, with trips rising to an estimated 2,62 million from 1,94 million.
“This performance is reinforced by Zimbabwe’s growing global profile, including recognition by Forbes as one of the World’s destinations in 2025 and further distinction at ITB Berlin 2026, where the country was awarded Destination of the Year,” the authority said.
The sector also recorded strong financial growth, with total tourism revenue increasing by 14% to US$251 million, up from US$221 million in the previous year.
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International spending contributed US$166 million, while domestic spending rose to US$85 million. Tourism investment surged by 438% to US$67,8 million, driven largely by a ZTA registration blitz to regularise unregistered facilities.
The surge in domestic travel was driven mainly by social visits, religious gatherings and educational tourism.
“Domestic tourism trips are estimated to have increased to 2,62 million, up from 1,94 million, on the back of increased visitations for social travel [visiting friends and relatives VFR], religious tourism and study tourism across the country,” the report said.
National hotel occupancy saw a marginal increase to 38%, although performance varied by province. Manicaland recorded 42%, while Mashonaland East stood at 19%. Harare and Bulawayo registered slight declines compared to 2025.
However, the outlook for the sector has been affected by what ZTA refers to as the “Iran war effect,” which has contributed to rising fuel costs and flight disruptions, leading to a 12% drop in arrivals in March.
To mitigate risks from global geopolitical shocks, ZTA is urging a strategic pivot towards African tourism, which has proven more stable than long-haul markets.
The authority is also encouraging industry players to develop “shock-resilient” tourism packages, including overland and rail-based itineraries, to reduce exposure to volatile airfares and fuel costs.
Africa remains the dominant source market, accounting for 75% of arrivals. Within the region, Mozambique and South Africa continue to be major contributors, although markets such as Namibia and Angola recorded declines.
Despite strong overall growth in overseas markets earlier in the quarter, the March slowdown underscored the sector’s vulnerability to global instability.