Held at the Johari Rotana Hotel in Tanzania’s bustling commercial capital, the event shone a spotlight on destinations, hotels, resorts, and service providers making a mark on the global stage.
Tanzania Takes Centre Stage with Multiple Wins
Demonstrating its strength as a premier tourism destination, Tanzania secured the coveted title of “Africa’s Leading Destination”.
Serengeti National Park added to the country’s accolades by being named “Africa’s Leading National Park”, while Mount Kilimanjaro was recognised as “Africa’s Leading Mountain National Park”.
Zanzibar further boosted Tanzania’s profile by winning “Africa’s Leading Beach Destination”, affirming the nation’s diverse appeal—from wildlife safaris to idyllic coastal escapes.
Maldives and East Africa’s Top Resorts Recognised
The Maldives continued its reign as a leading luxury destination, earning “Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination” and “Indian Ocean’s Leading Green Destination”.
Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club in Kenya was crowned “Africa’s Leading Hotel”, while Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort in Kenya won “Africa’s Leading Resort”.
In the new categories, Tanzania’s own Singita Milele was voted “Africa’s Leading New Hotel”, highlighting the country’s growing reputation for high-end, sustainable tourism. Meanwhile, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort was named “Indian Ocean’s Leading New Resort”, underscoring continued investment in premium travel experiences across the region.
Aviation, Cruise, and Conference Winners
The awards also recognised excellence in the region’s transport and meetings infrastructure. Kenya Airways was named “Africa’s Leading Airline”, and Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam claimed “Africa’s Leading Airport”.
South Africa’s Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) earned the title of “Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre”, while the Port of Cape Town was recognised as “Africa’s Leading Cruise Port”.
These wins reflect the continent’s expanding capacity to host international visitors and major events.
Industry Leaders Celebrate Achievement and Innovation
Graham Cooke, President & Founder of World Travel Awards, praised the event and its winners.
“It has been a privilege to welcome our winners from across Africa and the Indian Ocean to this extraordinary celebration in Tanzania and its thriving capital, Dar es Salaam. The warmth and vibrancy of Tanzanian hospitality made this night unforgettable. Our winners represent the very best of our industry, and we salute their achievements in helping shape the future of travel across the region,” he said.
Ephraim Mafuru, Director General of the Tanzania Tourist Board, called hosting the gala a milestone moment for Tanzania’s tourism sector.
“It has been a unique opportunity to showcase our country’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and world-class hospitality to key figures in the travel and tourism sector. We are honoured to have been at the heart of this celebration of travel excellence and innovation,” he said.
Other Notable Winners Across the Region
- Eden Bleu Hotel, Seychelles – Indian Ocean’s Leading Conference Hotel
- Chale Island, Kenya – Africa’s Leading Private Island Resort
- Go Places – Kenya’s Leading Destination Management Company
- Jumeirah Thanda Safari, South Africa – South Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Villa
These results underscore the dynamism and diversity of Africa and the Indian Ocean’s travel industry, as destinations and businesses continue to innovate, expand, and deliver exceptional visitor experiences.