Marriott to Broaden African Footprint with Dozens of New Hotels by 2027

Marriott International has announced plans to open over 50 new properties and add more than 9,000 rooms across Africa by the end of 2027. The expansion will introduce the company into five new markets: Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar and Mauritania, extending its current presence beyond the 20 African countries it already operates in. The move reflects rising demand and increased tourism activity across the continent.

The new hotels will be spread across a variety of settings, from coastal resorts to urban centres and nature reserves. Key developments include new safari lodges in Kenya and Tanzania, the debut of Aloft Hotels in Egypt’s North Coast and the arrival of AC Hotels by Marriott in Casablanca. Marriott also plans to enter emerging destinations like Assinie-Mafia in Côte d’Ivoire and Nouakchott in Mauritania. A number of the projects will involve conversions of existing buildings, offering quicker entry into key areas.

Those planning trips to Africa will find improved access to lodging near unique destinations. In Kenya, the upcoming JW Marriott property near the Masai Mara opens the door to witnessing the Great Migration and visiting the Mara River and Talek Gate region. Casablanca offers visitors a convenient base in Morocco, with Ain Diab beach, the old Medina, and the Corniche district all close at hand. Meanwhile, in Tanzania, properties near Serengeti National Park offer proximity to Grumeti Game Reserve and Lake Magadi, ideal for nature and wildlife experiences.

Less-visited countries are starting to attract attention, offering fresh options for travelers. The upcoming Four Points by Sheraton in São Vicente is set in a spot where beach days, mountain trails, and quiet bays are all part of the daily view. Visitors to Madagascar will be near Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Ambohimanga Hill and the Lemurs’ Park outside Antananarivo. In Mauritania, those staying in Nouakchott can visit Port de Pêche, the scenic Nouakchott Beach and the bustling Marché Capitale for a look into local daily life.

The expansion of internationally managed hotels across Africa is likely to improve travel logistics and comfort levels. It enables more flexible trip planning, especially for those who prefer consistent accommodation standards in diverse regions. In the longer term, this growth may contribute to diversifying tourism flows across the continent, allowing visitors to explore beyond the most well-known destinations with greater confidence.