Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa excel at 2025 World Travel Awards in Dar es Salaam

TANZANIA – The 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA) Africa & Indian Ocean Gala, hosted on June 28 at the Johari Rotana Hotel in Dar es Salaam, showcased the exceptional achievements of Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa.

Industry leaders from across the continent gathered to recognize destinations and companies shaping the future of African tourism, with each of these three nations making a particularly strong impression.

Outstanding Performances by Tanzania

Tanzania emerged as a key winner, collecting 27 awards across a diverse set of categories, a remarkable increase from previous years.

The country was named Africa’s Leading Destination 2025, reflecting its growing reputation for world-class attractions, supportive infrastructure, and sustainable tourism practices.

Serengeti National Park claimed the honor of Africa’s Leading National Park, while the legendary Ngorongoro Conservation Area was named Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction for its awe-inspiring scenery and unmatched biodiversity.

Mount Kilimanjaro, a symbol of adventure, was crowned Africa’s Leading Mountain National Park, and Zanzibar held its position as Africa’s Leading Beach Destination, renowned for its exquisite shores and rich culture.

Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam received recognition as Africa’s Leading Airport, signaling notable progress in the country’s travel infrastructure.

Tanzania’s numerous national parks also received distinctions for cultural tourism, scenic beauty, and conservation, while Gran Meliá Arusha and select Zanzibar resorts were honored for hotel and beach excellence.

Diverse Wins for Kenya and South Africa

Kenya celebrated more than 30 wins, highlighting the country’s advancements in sustainable safaris, aviation, and meetings tourism. Kenya Airways was again recognized as Africa’s Leading Airline, and Safari.com earned accolades for excellence in eco-friendly safari experiences.

Chale Island secured its place as Africa’s Leading Private Island Resort, while Emboo Safari Camp earned gold in the Nature Positive category for its carbon-neutral operations and support for local communities.

South Africa collected honors in several sectors, including cruise tourism, conferences, and community-based initiatives.

Cape Town stood out as Africa’s Leading Cruise Port, and Durban ICC was named Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre.

Organizations such as !Khwa ttu and Dlala Nje were rewarded for their work in social responsibility and heritage preservation, with Valley of Waves recognized as Africa’s Leading Water Park for family entertainment.

Focus on Growth, Sustainability, and the Global Stage

This year’s awards, covering more than 80 categories, spotlighted excellence and innovation across a broad landscape of African tourism.

Winners now prepare for the World Travel Awards Grand Final in Bahrain on December 9, 2025. With growing investment, unique attractions, and a rising emphasis on sustainable practices, Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa are set to further solidify Africa’s stature in global travel.

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