ZANZIBAR – Cape Town secured two prestigious titles at the World Travel Awards Africa gala ceremony on Friday night, being named both Africa’s Leading City Destination and Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination for 2026.

The awards were announced at Diamonds Bijoux in Zanzibar, with Cape Town beating other African destinations in a global vote by travel professionals, industry leaders and the travelling public.

The dual win places Cape Town among a small number of destinations worldwide that excel in both leisure tourism and business events – combining natural attractions like Table Mountain and the Atlantic coastline with the infrastructure needed to host large-scale conferences.

Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism, said winning both categories was significant.

“Visitors come for the conference but stay longer for the conversation. Business tourism is a critical component of our tourism offering because the value of a business event extends far beyond the conference room,” he said.

“A visitor becomes a tourist, a trader and ultimately an investor. They experience our city, build relationships, discover opportunities and often return, bringing colleagues, friends and family with them.”

Tourism growth from continent

The recognition comes as Cape Town experiences strong growth in African tourism. Arrivals at Cape Town International Airport from elsewhere on the continent grew by 17% in 2025, the fastest of any category, while foreign visitor spend in the city rose by 18% over the same period.

James Vos, mayoral committee member for economic growth and tourism, said the awards reinforced Cape Town’s position as both a leisure and business destination.

“Business events are among our most valuable visitors. They arrive midweek and out of season, spend across the city, and bring decision-makers who can return with investment,” he said.

“We have 31 international destinations directly connected to Cape Town, and our focus is on growing that number, landing more flights, and strengthening our city-to-city relationships around the world.”

The World Travel Awards, often referred to as the Oscars of tourism, recognise excellence across the global travel and tourism industry.

Cape Town will now compete at the World Travel Awards Grand Final later this year against regional winners from other continents.