Zanzibar. Tanzania has cemented its position as a premier tourism destination, scooping multiple top honours at the prestigious 2026 World Travel Awards (WTA) Africa Gala Ceremony.
The glamorous event, which took place on August 28, 2026, was hosted at the newly opened Diamonds Bijoux Zanzibar, a luxury resort on the island’s south-east coast.
The gala brought together hundreds of travel and hospitality leaders from across the continent.
For the third consecutive year, Tanzania was crowned Africa’s Leading Destination, while the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) retained its coveted title as Africa’s Leading Tourist Board.
The country's famous wilderness areas also dominated their respective categories.
Serengeti National Park was named Africa’s Leading National Park for the eighth year running, alongside the title of Africa’s Leading Big 5 National Park.
Kilimanjaro National Park kept its spot as Africa’s Leading Mountain National Park, and Nyerere National Park was named Africa’s Leading Scenic National Park for the second year in a row.
Zanzibar itself enjoyed a highly successful evening, winning both Africa’s Leading Beach Destination and Africa’s Leading Festival and Event Destination.
The Zanzibar Commission for tourism was named Africa’s leading regional tourist board.
Meanwhile, the host venue, Diamonds Bijoux Zanziba, which opened only in January 2026, was declared Africa’s Leading New Resort and Zanzibar’s Leading Villa Resort.
In the aviation sector, Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) was named Africa’s Leading Airport for the second consecutive year.
Local operators also triumphed, with Altezza Travel securing the title of Tanzania’s Leading Tour Operator for the third consecutive year, following wins in 2024 and 2025.
Representing Altezza Travel at the gala, Head of Safari Operations, Ms Leila Maganga, and Safari Operations Manager Ms Diana Zulungu highlighted the profound impact of these accolades.
"One of the happiest parts of my job is meeting people who have just returned from Kilimanjaro or a safari," said Ms Maganga.
"They are full of excitement as they talk about Tanzania’s nature, the wildlife they have seen and the moments that made their journey special," she added.
Ms Zulungu noted the rising trend of repeat visitors.
"It is wonderful to see those same people return the following year, ready to explore more of Tanzania," she said.
"There are hundreds of travel options around the world, so it means a great deal when travellers choose Tanzania again and again," Ms Zulungu said.
She added that tourists frequently return to experience different safaris, visit Zanzibar, explore the southern parks, or make another attempt at climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
However, the rapid growth of the sector comes with a responsibility to protect the environment and support local communities.
However, Ms Maganga emphasised that conservation must remain a top priority.
"Nature is the reason people come to Tanzania, and it must be protected at all costs," stressed Ms Maganga.
"We must also respect the people who make this industry possible. Tourism should help raise living standards, and we hope to see this continue across Tanzania," she added.
The operators also observed a positive shift in visitor demographics, with more families choosing to travel to Tanzania with children.
This early exposure to the country's wildlife and landscapes is seen as a crucial step in fostering environmental awareness.
"Perhaps among these children is a future Jane Goodall or George Adamson," remarked Ms Maganga, adding that: "It may be this very trip that inspires a lifelong passion."
She believes that introducing young travellers to the country's natural wonders will nurture a new generation committed to protecting and restoring national parks and wildlife areas.
Ultimately, the spectacular evening in Zanzibar celebrated more than just titles; it highlighted the unique combination of remarkable nature, rich culture, and the warm hospitality that defines Tanzania.
