Entries Open for WTM Africa’s 2026 Responsible Tourism Awards

Entries are officially open for the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2026. Businesses, destinations, and individuals who are making a positive impact through sustainable and responsible travel are encouraged to enter before the submission deadline on 20 March 2026.

Winners of the Gold awards at WTM Africa will go on to compete at the Global Responsible Tourism Awards, elevating Africa’s top performers to compete against the best from around the world.

Set to take place on 14 April 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) during WTM Africa, the awards honour the organisations transforming tourism across Africa – economically, socially, and environmentally.

Africa’s strong global track record

“In 2025, the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards discovered many examples of replicable good practice, and there was a real buzz of celebration,” said Harold Goodwin. 

“Foxes Safari Camps went on to win Gold at the 2025 Global Responsible Tourism Awards in the ‘All-Inclusives Responsible Tourism Award’ category, while !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre won Gold in the “Increasing Local Sourcing & Creating Shared Value” category.”

Additionally, three of WTM Africa’s Gold winners – Township & Village, Dlala Nje, and !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre – secured international recognition at the ICRT Global Awards.

·        Township & Village won Gold at WTM Africa and Silver in the ICRT Global Awards for strengthening local economic opportunities in Stellenbosch townships.

·        Dlala Nje, a trailblazer in community-driven cultural tours in Hillbrow, Johannesburg, earned both the WTM Africa Gold and an ICRT Global Silver in the category of economic inclusivity.

·        !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre achieved the rare feat of scoring Gold at both the regional and global levels, recognised for their exceptional commitment to cultural preservation and education.

“These awards give responsible tourism practitioners across Africa a chance to be recognised not only on a regional stage but also globally,” says Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director – Travel, Tourism & RX Africa Marketing. “It’s a celebration of those paving the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and transformative travel industry.”

“We are very excited for the upcoming World Travel Market Africa Responsible Tourism Awards, and I am looking forward to seeing the range of entries representing the travel and tourism practitioners who are making a positive difference in our country, and particularly here in Cape Town,” commented Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.

“As a city that has built such a strong global reputation as a travel destination, we understand very well the value that tourism holds for our economy. But it is equally important that this tourism is managed sustainably, that local communities benefit, that we celebrate the full spectrum of our cultural diversity, and that we preserve our natural resources for generations to come. That’s why these awards are so important to us, and I have no doubt we will see some very deserving winners next year.”

Free to Enter – Multiple Categories Available

Participation is free and open to initiatives across the continent. A panel of independent experts will select winners in six categories:

1.     Local Economic Benefits – Supporting local businesses, growing SMMEs, and keeping tourism spend in local hands.

2.     Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – Creating platforms for underrepresented voices in tourism’s workforce.

3.     Nature Positive – Enhancing biodiversity and protecting natural heritage through tourism.

4.     Championing Cultural Diversity – Offering experiences that promote understanding, dignity, and pride in local communities.

5.     Adapting to Climate Change – Building resilience in tourism through design innovation, adaptation, and preparedness.

6.     Regenerative Tourism – Going beyond sustainability to restore, renew, and transform communities and ecosystems.

Nomination forms and detailed descriptions of each category are available for download directly on the WTM Africa website. All completed applications must be uploaded here.

A Call to Africa’s Changemakers

“We’re not just looking to recognise people – we’re looking to inspire action,” adds De Jager. “By sharing your work or nominating others, you’re helping to spark real change. When we showcase what’s possible, we empower more people to take action, amplifying the impact across the travel industry and beyond.”

The WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards remain a landmark celebration for the continent, offering meaningful industry recognition while inspiring others to do better – for people, for places, and for the planet.