Djokovic will top the global rankings ahead of Rafael Nadal whatever the result of Sunday's final against either the Spaniard or Britain's Andy Murray, who were playing in the second semifinal.
The Serbian secured a 7-6 6-2 6-7 6-3 win in just over three hours, snuffing out any hopes of a comeback for Tsonga, who saved two match points before claiming the third set on a tiebreak.
Tsonga had fought back from two sets down to beat six-time champion Roger Federer in the quarterfinals, but there was to be no repeat.
Djokovic responded by breaking Tsonga in the second game of the fourth set and made no mistake when he served for victory for the second time.
"It's difficult to put into words," said Djokovic after his win.
"This is one of the best feelings I've had on a tennis court. My dreams are coming true -- into my first final at Wimbledon.
"I've been working all my life for this. I've been dreaming about playing the final in Wimbledon since I started playing tennis when I was four, so to be there in the final on Sunday will be fantastic."
The 24-year-old Djokovic has reached the summit of the men's game after an incredible 2011, which has seen him beaten just once at the French Open by Federer.
He claimed the Australian Open title in January and four Masters series crowns, beating Nadal in each of the finals
