The awards recognise businesses and destinations demonstrating responsible tourism practices across the continent.
“These awards exist to shine a light on those that don't simply claim to be sustainable or responsible, but can clearly demonstrate what they're doing, the impact they're achieving, and what others can learn from their approach,” said Megan De Jager, portfolio director at RX Africa.
The awards come as African tourism continues to grow. According to WTM Africa's 2026 Africa Travel & Tourism: State of the Industry Report, the continent welcomed 81 million international visitors in 2025, an 8% increase and the fastest growth of any region globally. The report also states that fewer than 5% of African hospitality properties currently hold third-party sustainability certification.
Part of the ICRT Global Responsible Tourism Awards programme, the 2027 WTM Africa edition will be judged by an independent panel with expertise in responsible tourism, conservation, inclusion and destination management. The panel is chaired by Emeritus Professor Harold Goodwin, founder of ICRT Global and managing director of the Responsible Tourism Partnership.
“Those who are taking responsibility for making tourism more sustainable deserve recognition,” said Goodwin. “Every year in the Awards, we find businesses and destinations that are making tourism better. Use your Award in your PR and marketing. You deserve recognition for your contribution to making great places for people to live, because great places to live are great places to visit.”
Free entries are open across six categories:
1. Nature Benefiting Communities – Community-centred initiatives that protect nature and biodiversity.
2. Addressing Climate Change – Action to reduce emissions, build resilience and address the impacts of climate change.
3. Access for People with Disabilities – Accessible experiences, inclusive tourism and employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
4. Communicating Responsible Tourism – Communication of responsible tourism practices.
5. Rebalancing Tourism and Addressing Overtourism – Initiatives that improve the balance between visitors, residents and destinations.
6. All Inclusive Can Be Responsible – All-inclusive operators and destinations demonstrating positive economic, environmental and community impacts.
Entrants may apply across multiple categories. Nomination forms are available on the WTM Africa website, and completed applications must be uploaded through the official entry portal by 31 December 2026.
The City of Cape Town's Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth and Tourism, Alderman James Vos, said: “Cape Town is incredibly proud to be the host city of World Travel Market Africa, one of the signature events on our tourism calendar and an important part of our economic growth mission.
“But for us, growing tourism is also about making sure its benefits reach more people and communities. That is why the Responsible Tourism Awards are so important. They recognise those who are making a real difference and remind us that tourism success should be measured not only by visitor numbers, but also by the positive impact we create for our people and our environment.”
He added: “We look forward to welcoming Africa’s tourism champions to Cape Town in April 2027 and showcasing a destination that is committed to growing tourism responsibly, sustainably and inclusively.”
Finalists and winners will be recognised at the Responsible Tourism Awards Ceremony on 8 April 2027, during WTM Africa at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). The event runs from 7 to 9 April 2027.
“Don't miss your chance to be seen,” added De Jager. “Past winners have turned a single accolade into lasting commercial credibility, unlocking access to international buyers, investors, media and the growing number of travellers who make responsible practice a deciding factor in where and how they travel.”
1. Download the relevant nomination form or forms from the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards page.
2. Complete the application in full.
3. Upload the application to rtawards.icrt.global.
4. Submit by 31 December 2026.
Full category details, nomination forms and judging criteria are available here on the WTM Africa website.
