Africa awaits visitors: Discover what Russian travelers can explore on the world's most exotic continent.

Recently, during a meeting with Umaro Sissoco Embalo, the President of Guinea-Bissau, Russian President Vladimir Putin noted that trade between Russia and African countries increased by 10% last year. Tourism also plays a significant role in the economy of our relations.

- For many African countries, tourism is a crucial sector of the economy, - stated Sergey Rybakov, Program Director of Vostok Club and General Director of the "Nature and People" Fund. - In recent years, tourism in Africa has been steadily growing, and its contribution to the economy is becoming increasingly significant.

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Sergey Rybakov

Photo: Evgenia GUSEVA. Go to the Photo Bank KP

- Getting to Africa can be challenging, but those who visit have the chance to experience the perfect blend of ancient and modern, wilderness and city, East and West, - noted the moderator.

In 2023, international tourism in the region recovered to 96% of pre-pandemic levels, and by 2025, the tourism market is expected to reach $25.2 billion, with an annual growth rate of 7.5%.

Africa is a place where rich history, unique nature, and dynamic development converge. Today, this continent is ready to welcome guests and unveil new horizons for them.

NEW ROUTES

Tourism on the continent opens not only new routes but also new opportunities for collaboration. Olesya Nosova, Editor-in-Chief and General Director of the Media Group "Komsomolskaya Pravda", highlighted the great interest in Africa from Russia and emphasized the importance of developing this tourist direction.

- Russians are incredibly curious. And, of course, Africa resonates in our hearts with the most incredible landscapes, adventures, friendly and open people, and delicious food, - said Olesya Nosova, adding that "Komsomolskaya Pravda" always strives to reflect the interests of its readers and is ready to support projects related to tourism development.

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Olesya Nosova

Photo: Evgenia GUSEVA. Go to the Photo Bank KP

GASTRONOMY AS A BRIDGE

Leonid Gelibterman, President of the International Gastronomic Center and Chairman of the Committee on Gastronomic Tourism of the Russian Union of Travel Industry, Director of the Center for Gastronomic Diplomacy at RANEPA, emphasized the importance of gastronomy as a key element of cultural exchange. He noted that Africa and Russia can significantly strengthen their ties through not only the exchange of culture and natural resources but also through gastronomy, which serves as a powerful diplomatic tool.

- Gastronomy is not just about food. It is about culture, customs, and history. Africa and Russia can learn a lot from each other by sharing meals and enjoying food. To achieve this, we simply need to start introducing our tourists to the gastronomic features of Africa and Russia, - said the speaker.

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Leonid Gelibterman

Photo: Evgenia GUSEVA. Go to the Photo Bank KP

The expert also noted that tourists often base their travel decisions on cuisine.

- If we tell about the gastronomic traditions of African countries, which are rich in tropical fruits, exotic dishes, and natural products, it will attract the attention of Russian tourists to visiting the continent. Popularizing knowledge about Russia's gastronomic heritage among African partners is an important part of developing domestic inbound tourism, - added Leonid Gelibterman.

Thus, gastronomic tourism can become a foundation for strengthening intercultural ties, opening up new opportunities for collaboration and mutual understanding.

RESTORING THE CHIMPANZEE POPULATION

- Tourism brings in a significant amount of hard currency. It accounts for almost 7.6% of Uganda's GDP and 6.1% of employment in this sector. Moreover, the revenues from tourism allow us to preserve wildlife, including rare species such as mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, whose population has begun to recover thanks to the measures taken, - stated Diana Kamuntu Museveni, Founder and CEO of Age Safaris, emphasizing that sustainable tourism plays a crucial role in the economic development and preservation of the continent's nature.

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Diana Kamuntu. Photo: Age Safaris Press Service

- For instance, a hundred years ago, there were about one million or even two million chimpanzees on the continent. Today, there are only 350,000. However, thanks to the measures taken, their population is gradually increasing, - she added. - Revenue from visits to national parks not only supports nature conservation. 20% of these funds go to support local communities, providing them with access to education, healthcare, and better living conditions. If Uganda had as many tourists as Egypt — 1.5 million per year, it would have a colossal impact on the economy.

THEATER UNITES

James Nobo, an actor in theater and cinema, theater director, and artistic director of the Joburg Theater Complex – advocates for unity! He noted that art is one of the most powerful tools of cultural diplomacy. Theater unites people, helping to understand that despite borders, our stories, emotions, and quests for meaning are largely similar.

- Today, we live in an amazing time when theater becomes a platform for dialogue between cultures. People are increasingly interested in each other, as the problems we face are similar. That is why it is so important to create connections, share information, and tell stories, - emphasized James Nobo.

According to the expert, theatrical art helps the global South and North to work together, share ideas, and create images that reflect both local and universal human nature. The director noted that the interaction of theaters worldwide strengthens cultural ties and fosters a new level of cooperation.

Interestingly, in July 2025, the premiere of the play "Fräulein Julie" directed by James Nobo is scheduled at the State Theater of Nations.

VISIT BURUNDI

Joseph Nkurunziza, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Burundi to the Russian Federation spoke about what makes Burundi attractive for Russian tourists. This country offers a rare opportunity to see real Africa: without crowds of travelers, but with breathtaking nature, rich culture, and hospitable people.

- In Burundi, you will find a unique experience: Lake Tanganyika, the second deepest lake in the world after Baikal, where crystal-clear water glistens under the rays of the African sun, surrounded only by silence, the lapping of waves, and exotic birds. Burundi is the source of two great rivers, the Nile and the Congo. Here, you will find national parks with chimpanzees, antelopes, and hundreds of bird species. The sight of the Kagera waterfalls is breathtaking, and traditional drumming shows are not just performances, but a true magic. Burundi is a country of nature, history, and tradition, - listed Joseph Nkurunziza.

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Joseph Nkurunziza

Photo: Evgenia GUSEVA. Go to the Photo Bank KP

Overall, Burundi is an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and wanting to experience authentic Africa. Walking through the streets of small villages, you can see the genuine smiles of locals, taste organic coffee with a vibrant aroma, and witness traditional crafts passed down through generations. There are no huge tourist complexes, but there is a true atmosphere of warm African hospitality.