South Africa, Botswana, and Kenya Introduce New Tourism Taxes to Promote Sustainable Travel Across Africa: Here’s What You Need to Know

In 2025, African countries are adjusting their tourism tax policies to enhance sustainability, support conservation efforts, and ensure that tourism growth benefits local economies and communities. As one of the world’s most diverse and beautiful regions, Africa attracts millions of international tourists each year. However, tourism growth must be managed carefully to avoid overwhelming the environment and local services. This article examines the new tourism tax policies introduced in 2025 across the African continent, with a particular focus on Botswana, Kenya, and South Africa. These taxes are designed to address the challenges posed by rapid tourism growth and ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared more equitably and sustainably.

Botswana: A $30 Tourism Levy for Conservation

Botswana, home to some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations, has taken a significant step towards sustainable tourism by introducing a $30 tourism levy for all international visitors. This tax, effective from June 1, 2023, is designed to fund conservation initiatives, particularly in the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s largest inland deltas. The levy, which is collected at all border posts, including airports and land entry points, will help maintain the country’s natural habitats, protect endangered species, and support ecotourism initiatives.

While the levy is a welcome step for conservation, it also has broader implications for the tourism industry. Botswana’s unique wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos, is a major draw for tourists, and the funds raised from this levy will help protect these species for future generations. The levy applies to all international visitors, though residents of Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries are exempt. This move reflects Botswana’s commitment to preserving its natural resources and balancing tourism growth with environmental responsibility.

Kenya: A 2% Tourism Levy to Boost Sector Sustainability

Kenya’s tourism sector has long been a critical contributor to the country’s economy, and in 2025, the government has introduced a 2% tourism levy on establishments offering tourism services. This levy is part of a broader effort to raise funds for the Tourism Fund, which supports sustainable tourism development in the country. The fund helps improve infrastructure, support community-based tourism initiatives, and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Kenya’s government has been focused on attracting more tourists, especially from markets like China, to visit the country during the off-season. This strategy aims to spread tourism demand throughout the year, preventing overcrowding in peak seasons and easing pressure on key tourist sites. The 2% levy is expected to generate significant revenue, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector, which is expected to earn KES 650 billion (approximately $5 billion) in 2025, a 24% increase from the previous year.

By promoting off-season tourism and diversifying its tourism offerings, Kenya is positioning itself as a year-round destination for international tourists. The tourism levy plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the country can maintain its competitive edge while investing in the necessary infrastructure and conservation efforts to sustain the industry’s long-term growth.

South Africa: Air Passenger Tax and Environmental Levies

South Africa has also implemented new taxes to help sustain its tourism industry and promote environmental responsibility. The country’s air passenger tax (APT) system, which applies to international and domestic flights, has been in place for several years. For 2025, the tax remains at ZAR 190 for international flights and ZAR 100 for flights to neighboring countries. These funds are used to support tourism infrastructure, including airport improvements and the development of tourism products.

In addition to the air passenger tax, South Africa has introduced new environmental levies aimed at addressing the growing concerns over sustainability. The country’s carbon tax, which applies to the transport sector, including airlines, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encourage greener practices in the tourism industry. The government has also imposed a tyre levy to fund the recycling of used tyres, helping reduce environmental impact across the country.

The combination of these taxes and levies is part of South Africa’s broader effort to balance economic growth with environmental protection. As one of Africa’s most popular tourism destinations, South Africa faces the challenge of maintaining its allure while addressing the sustainability concerns that come with increased visitor numbers. The tourism taxes are designed to ensure that the country’s infrastructure remains robust and that the benefits of tourism are not outweighed by negative environmental consequences.

Other African Nations: Emerging Tourism Tax Policies

In addition to Botswana, Kenya, and South Africa, several other African countries have introduced or are exploring tourism taxes to manage the growth of their tourism industries and address sustainability concerns.

• Ghana: In 2025, Ghana introduced a reclassified Airport Passenger Service Charge of GH₵200 (approximately $100) for travelers departing from the country. This fee is dedicated to improving the country’s airport infrastructure, which has been under pressure due to the increasing number of international travelers. The move aligns with Ghana’s vision of becoming a leading destination for tourists in West Africa while investing in its aviation infrastructure.
• Tanzania: Tanzania is considering implementing a tourism levy to help preserve its world-renowned national parks, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. While the exact structure and timeline for this tax remain unclear, the government has signaled that it is exploring ways to generate funds for conservation and tourism management.
• Uganda: Like Tanzania, Uganda is also considering a tourism levy to support the conservation of its national parks, such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The government is in the process of finalizing the details of the tax, which would contribute to both environmental protection and the growth of Uganda’s tourism sector.

The Importance of Sustainable Tourism Policies

As tourism continues to be a vital sector for many African economies, it is essential that growth is managed sustainably. The introduction of tourism taxes in 2025 reflects a growing awareness of the need to protect the continent’s natural resources while ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are shared by local communities.

Sustainable tourism involves balancing the economic advantages of tourism with the preservation of the environment and the wellbeing of local populations. By investing in conservation, infrastructure, and community-based tourism, African countries can create a more equitable and sustainable tourism model. This will not only help preserve the continent’s rich cultural and natural heritage but also ensure that future generations of travelers can enjoy Africa’s incredible beauty.

What Travelers Need to Know: Navigating Africa’s Tourism Tax Landscape

For travelers planning to visit Africa in 2025, it is important to be aware of the new tourism taxes and levies that may apply to their trips. These taxes, though they may increase the overall cost of travel, are essential for maintaining the sustainability of Africa’s tourism industry. Passengers are advised to check with airlines, hotels, and local authorities for information on the applicable fees and how they may affect their travel plans.

Travelers can also play a role in promoting sustainable tourism by respecting local customs, supporting eco-friendly accommodations, and being mindful of their environmental impact during their travels. By making conscious travel choices, tourists can contribute to the preservation of Africa’s natural resources and help ensure that the continent’s tourism industry remains viable for years to come.

A Step Toward Sustainable Growth in African Touris

The introduction of tourism taxes in 2025 is a critical step toward ensuring that Africa’s tourism industry can grow in a sustainable and responsible manner. By investing in conservation, infrastructure, and community development, African countries are not only securing the future of their tourism sectors but also protecting the invaluable resources that make the continent so unique. For travelers, understanding and accepting these new taxes is part of the responsibility that comes with visiting one of the world’s most beautiful and diverse regions. As Africa continues to evolve as a major global tourism destination, it is essential that the industry adopts policies that promote long-term sustainability, protect the environment, and benefit local communities.