Tourism and hospitality leaders from across Africa gathered in Zanzibar for the World Travel Awards Africa Gala Ceremony 2026, with destinations, hotels, airlines and tourism organisations recognised across the continent.
The ceremony was hosted at Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar, which opened in January 2026 on Zanzibar’s south-east coast and was itself named Africa’s Leading New Resort and Zanzibar’s Leading Villa Resort.
Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club was named Africa’s Leading Hotel, while Zanzibar won Africa’s Leading Beach Destination and Africa’s Leading Festival & Event Destination.
Tanzania leads destination awards
Tanzania was named Africa’s Leading Destination and Africa’s Leading Tourist Board.
The country’s natural attractions also received recognition, with Serengeti National Park named Africa’s Leading National Park and Africa’s Leading Big 5 National Park. Kilimanjaro National Park was named Africa’s Leading Mountain National Park.
The President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, H.E. Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, said tourism remains an important contributor to Zanzibar’s economy.
“This prestigious occasion reflects the growing stature of Zanzibar as one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations celebrated for its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, fascinating history, warm hospitality and the dedication of its people.”
Graham Cooke, founder of World Travel Awards, said: “It has been a privilege to welcome our winners from across Africa to this extraordinary celebration in Zanzibar. Diamonds Bijoux provided a spectacular setting for an unforgettable evening, reflecting the elegance, warmth and vibrant spirit that make Zanzibar such a compelling destination.
"Our winners represent the very best of the travel and tourism sector, and we congratulate them on their achievements in helping to shape its future.”
Airlines and tourism infrastructure recognised
Kenya Airways won Africa’s Leading Airline and Africa’s Leading Airline – Economy Class, while Ethiopian Airlines was named Africa’s Leading Airline – Business Class.
RwandAir won Africa’s Leading Cabin Crew, while Julius Nyerere International Airport in Tanzania was named Africa’s Leading Airport.
Zanzibar Commission for Tourism received Africa’s Leading Regional Tourist Board award.
South Africa also featured among the winners, with Port of Cape Town named Africa’s Leading Cruise Port and Durban ICC taking Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre.
Luxury and sustainability awards
Chem Chem Lodge was named Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Lodge, while Fraser Suites Abuja won Africa’s Leading Serviced Apartments.
LUX* Marijani was recognised as Africa’s Leading Green Hotel, while The Mora Zanzibar won Africa’s Most Romantic Resort.
Villa Thandawena @ Thanda Safari was named South Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Villa.
Gianni Mannai, general manager of Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar, said: “Hosting the World Travel Awards Africa Gala Ceremony 2026 has been a proud and defining moment for Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar.
"This prestigious occasion has provided an exceptional platform to showcase the beauty, warmth and distinctive hospitality of Zanzibar to travel industry leaders from across Africa and beyond. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all this year’s winners on their outstanding achievements.”
The ceremony marked the opening leg of the World Travel Awards’ Grand Tour 2026, which includes ceremonies in the Maldives, Jamaica, Montenegro and the United Arab Emirates before the Grand Final in Tanzania.
