Travel can change your life, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. But here's where it gets controversial: what if the most expensive destinations aren’t always the ones that leave the biggest impact? While dream destinations like the Maldives or Seychelles can cost thousands, there’s a tiny European country where travelers spend more than anywhere else—and it’s not what you’d expect.
Updated on Dec. 8, 2025, this eye-opening analysis by safari company Go2Africa reveals a surprising truth: the amount visitors spend in a country isn’t just about luxury; it’s a clue to the value they find there. By dividing tourist numbers by total tourism revenue in 2024, Go2Africa uncovered which destinations travelers are willing to splurge on—and why.
And this is the part most people miss: high spending doesn’t always mean high prices. Megan Dominion, spokesperson for Go2Africa, explains, ‘Checking the average spend per tourist before booking can instantly reveal whether you’re headed to a budget-friendly spot or a pricier destination.’ But it’s not just about cost—it’s about where your money goes. In some places, your spending supports local communities and conservation; in others, it lines the pockets of international corporations.
Take Luxembourg, for example, where tourists spend a staggering $5,112 on average. Is it because it’s outrageously expensive, or does it offer unparalleled value? On the flip side, Vatican City sees an average spend of just $15. Does that mean it’s not worth visiting? Not at all—it’s a prime example of a destination where tourism is less commercialized and visits are often shorter.
Here’s the full list of where travelers spend the most and least:
Top 10 Countries Where Tourists Spend the Most:
1. Luxembourg - $5,112
2. Lebanon - $4,155
3. Saint Lucia - $2,984
4. Bahamas - $2,842
5. Australia - $2,748
6. Maldives - $2,736
7. Antigua and Barbuda - $2,664
8. Seychelles - $2,636
9. United States - $2,500
10. Israel - $2,393
Top 10 Countries Where Tourists Spend the Least:
1. Vatican City - $15
2. Eswatini - $21
3. Algeria - $37
4. Malawi - $55
5. Kyrgyzstan - $111
6. Moldova - $137
7. Angola - $155
8. Kazakhstan - $170
9. Mozambique - $179
10. Brunei - $19
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question: Does high spending always equal a better travel experience? Or is it possible that some of the least expensive destinations offer just as much—if not more—in terms of cultural richness and authenticity? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
