Zimbabwe’s tourist arrivals decline 17% in the first quarter

ZIMBABWE’s tourist arrivals plummeted by 17% in the first quarter of 2026 with the segment’s revenues recording a 34% decline largely attributed to disturbances triggered by geopolitical tensions, latest Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) statistics have revealed.

The data shows that tourist receipts declined by 34% to US$251 million in the first quarter of 2026 from US$382 million in the fourth quarter of 2025, directly corresponding with the observed decline in tourist arrivals during the quarter.

“The decline in arrivals was largely attributed to seasonal fluctuations and adverse spillover effects of geopolitical tensions, which disrupted international travel, increased uncertainty and dampened demand from key source markets,” the central bank report said.

Arrivals from Africa dominated the market driving growth with a 74.66% share of all the arrivals, followed by Europe with 9.84%.

America and Asia also accounted for 6.85% and 6.59%. Oceania and Middle East had the lowest contributions of 1.87% and 0.21 % respectively.

On an industry basis, the average hotel room occupancy rate slumped from 53% in the fourth quarter of 2025 to 38% in the first quarter of 2026, largely reflecting the seasonal slowdown in corporate travel and tourism activity following the festive season.

“Despite the quarter-on-quarter decline, year-on-year comparison shows a modest improvement, with the average hotel room occupancy rising to 38% in the first quarter of 2026 from 36% recorded in the corresponding period of 2025,” said the RBZ.

Tourism serves as a premier cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s socio-economic landscape, traditionally operating alongside mining and agriculture.

In recent years, it has transformed into a primary driver of national economic growth, bringing substantial foreign currency, international investment, and community empowerment to the country.

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