The boutique travel event, held at the Norval Foundation in Cape Town, recorded a 37% increase in attendance compared to 2025, with 87% of buyers attending for the first time, drawn from 32 countries. Appointments increased by 29% year-on-year, reflecting a surge in commercial intent from luxury buyers actively seeking African experiences.

The results are striking given the broader context of global uncertainty. According to the newly released State of African Tourism 2026 report, the continent is successfully “selling certainty in an anxious world.” Because high-end safaris and luxury itineraries are typically booked 12 to 18 months in advance, and demand for established destinations remains resolute, the region’s tourism industry is not expected to be materially affected by ongoing disruptions in the Middle East. Instead, discerning luxury travellers are increasingly looking to Africa not as an alternative, but as a trusted destination of first choice.

Africa’s hotel development pipeline tells its own story: with 55% of the entire continental pipeline currently under construction, investor confidence in African luxury hospitality is at an historic high. The infrastructure is being built, and ILTM Africa’s record buyer numbers suggest the demand is ready to meet it.

The 87% new buyer figure is perhaps the most telling statistic of all. As the State of African Tourism report highlights, the post-pandemic “revenge travel” wave has crashed, replaced by a more informed, discerning traveller for whom trust is the new currency. This influx of new buyers suggests that ILTM Africa is actively converting these new markets, translating directly into fresh commercial pipelines and relationships for exhibitors that did not exist twelve months ago.

Carol Weaving, Managing Director of RX Africa, the organiser behind ILTM Africa, noted: “The travel sector has always been a people industry selling high-value, high-stakes experiences. Africa Travel Week has evolved into a powerful in-person event where technology handles the heavy lifting, and humans focus on the relationship building that defines this industry.”

-ENDS-

Issued by: Big Ambitions 

Contact: Sonnette Fourie

Tel: +27 81 072 2869 

Email: sonnette@bigambitions.co.za 

ABOUT:

ILTM Africa gives leaders in the African luxury travel market every opportunity to re-connect, build relationships and grow their business. An invitation-only event, the very best travel agents from across the globe meet Africa’s most spectacular luxury travel experience providers.

Next event: 10 to 12 April 2026 – Norval Foundation, Cape Town https://www.iltm.com/africa/en-gb.html

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2025, WTM Africa facilitated more than 60 000 appointment request from 70 countries with a 30% increase in exhibitors from 2024.

Next event: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town http://africa.wtm.com/

ATW Connect:  Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel, LGBTQ+ travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology.
https://atwconnect.com/

RX: is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people.  RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com. 

 
RELX: is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.

*Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

Table of Contents

Cape Town: The WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2026 were presented today at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, recognising 22 organisations across 13 countries who are delivering measurable impact for people, places and nature.

The ceremony was MC-ed by Rachel Nxele, board member of SANParks, with special guest speaker Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth at the City of Cape Town. The awards span five categories – Championing Cultural Diversity; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Local Economic Benefit; Nature Positive; and Regenerative Tourism – and are run in partnership with the International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT).

“These awards are both celebration and evidence – recognising those organisations that are building dignity, protecting nature and honouring heritage.” – Rachel Nxele, board member, SANParks; MC, WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2026

Nxele framed the awards around a single, challenging question: can you prove it? “The awards recognise real work, real commitment and real impact,” she said. “The work that happens when no-one is watching.”

Alderman James Vos echoed that emphasis on demonstrable outcomes. The awards, he said, are “about showing impact” – because if you cannot show impact, it means “nothing to no-one”.

Vos described the awards as an important showcase of “how it can be done and how it should be done” and called on the industry to build more “tourism-preneurs” – to create greater longevity and broader economic opportunity.

THE TROPHIES

This year’s winners received trophies that are, in themselves, a statement of intent.

Gold and silver winners received handmade protea trophies crafted by Cape Gypsea, each one unique. The delicate inner petals are formed from the pages of recycled books; the bold outer petals from vibrant Shweshwe fabric, locally sourced with a focus on eco-conscious biodegradability. Together, they bring past and present into a single object – forgotten stories and living African tradition, side by side.

Organisations recognised as “One-to-Watch” received a bottle of Painted Wolf Wines, which is this year celebrating 20 years of wines for conservation. The company takes its name from Lycaon pictus – the scientific name for the African wild dog – and has donated 4% of sales to conservation since it was founded. By supporting African wild dogs, that support flows throughout the ecosystems and communities that share wild spaces across the continent.

THE 2026 RESPONSIBLE TOURISM WINNERS

The 2026 WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Award Gold winners are:

Ele Collection Zimbabwe – Nature Positive
Plastic waste is transformed into construction grade aggregate, reducing extraction pressure on natural systems while providing income to community collectors and educating visitors through factory tours. The judges praised the circular model for turning a major environmental threat into longterm infrastructure value while strengthening community livelihoods.

RuralRevive Namibia – Regenerative Tourism
RuralRevive’s “Building a Desert Based Economy Initiative” is conceptualised and driven by the Wolwedans Foundation. It is transforming the tourism economy around Maltahöhe through climate appropriate horticulture, local enterprise development and systems that reconnect tourism with community livelihoods. The judges recognised Rural Revive for addressing deep-rooted structural challenges by rebuilding local food systems, restoring dignity through work and creating a resilient desert based economy.

Saruni Basecamp Kenya – Regenerative Tourism
A community conservancy model has generated more than 1.5 million dollars for 6,605 landowners, conserved more than 414,000 hectares and embedded regenerative food systems and women’s economic empowerment across 13 camps. The judges commended Saruni Basecamp for demonstrating how long-term lease agreements and bed night fees can secure large and connected landscapes for wildlife, while strengthening local livelihoods.

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company South Africa – Local Economic Benefit
Local procurement has increased from 29 percent in 2017 to 89 percent today, supporting more than 150 small businesses and providing mentorship and certification support to 67 SMMEs. The judges highlighted TMACC’s commitment to developing suppliers beyond the Cableway itself, helping entrepreneurs strengthen operations and access wider tourism markets.

Traditional African Homestays Southern Africa – Championing Cultural Diversity
A fast-growing network of heritage homestays enables visitors to become part of village life while ensuring most fee income stays within communities, with expansion now reaching Eswatini and Botswana. The judges noted the remarkable year-on-year growth, with more than R6 million generated and 70–80 percent of income remaining in host communities, demonstrating a scalable model of cultural preservation and community empowerment.

V&A Waterfront Academy Cape Town – Local Economic Benefit
Since 2023, 315 young people have been placed into employment, with 90 percent securing fulltime jobs for the first time and 15 small businesses supported through the Watershed craft market. The Academy’s model addresses a critical gap by supporting both young workers and the businesses that hire them during the fragile first six months of employment.

The 2026 WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Award silver winners are:

Elephant Human Relations Aid Namibia – Regenerative Tourism
Human elephant conflict incidents have fallen from 92 in 2023 to just 12 so far in 2026, with no elephants shot as problem animals in 2025, across more than 2 million hectares.

Graskop Gorge Lift Company South Africa – Nature Positive
A zero impact access system protects critically endangered species such as the Graskop cliff aloe while sourcing most procurement within 100 kilometres.

Green Planet & TUI Care Foundation Egypt– Championing Cultural Diversity
The Colourful Cultures programme supports artists, artisans and community hosts through training in hospitality, storytelling and entrepreneurship, connecting them to tourism markets through hotel, tour operator and online partnerships.

Imvelo Safari Lodges – Regenerative Tourism
Longterm coexistence work includes water management, antipoaching deterrence and the successful reintroduction of white rhinos.

LUX Marijani Zanzibar – Local Economic Benefit
Local suppliers are embedded into the resort’s value chain, generating consistent income for fishers, farmers, transport providers and women’s cooperatives.

Saruni Wild Kenya – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
A structured internship programme has shifted staff representation from an allmale team in 2015 to nearly one third women today, including a female Assistant Manager and equal gender representation among interns.

TUI Futureshapers North Africa – Local Economic Benefit
The programme supports more than 180 young entrepreneurs across Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia, strengthens local value chains and creates jobs through locally led tourism businesses.

Unexplored Cape Town – Championing Cultural Diversity
Inclusive, community rooted food tours take guests into neighbourhood kitchens and markets, supporting small vendors and welcoming travellers with disabilities while showcasing diverse African and diaspora food cultures.

The 2026 WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Award one-to-watch winners are:

AgroTourism Park by Eco Terra Vista Tours Rwanda – Local Economic Benefit
A grassroots model integrating smallholder farming, cultural heritage and tourism ensures revenue stays in rural communities historically excluded from tourism value chains.

Cape Tourist Guides Association South Africa – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Recognised for strengthening representation by ensuring guides reflect South Africa’s cultural, linguistic and socioeconomic diversity.

Desert & Delta Safaris Botswana – Championing Cultural Diversity
The Okavango Marathon Project offers an immersive cultural journey through remote communities along the Okavango Panhandle, meeting fishermen, travelling by mokoro with community guides and engaging with the San community at Tsodilo.

Green Safaris Zambia and Malawi – Regenerative Tourism
Mukuni Organic Farm and hydrological restoration using cascading check dams demonstrate a regenerative approach to restoring degraded land.

Jacada Travel Zimbabwe – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
A Female Guides of the Future initiative supports women to access high-level guiding roles through training, mentorship and career pathways in partnership with the Wilderness Trust.

Spekboom Southern Africa – Nature Positive
A tour company offering an automated split payment model channels 2.5 per cent of every booking directly to conservation or community causes at no extra cost to guests.

TUI Care Foundation Field to Fork Tanzania – Regenerative Tourism
Strengthens regenerative food systems, supports local farmers and links sustainable agriculture with tourism markets. One of nine projects worldwide.

TUI Turtle Aid and Project Diversity, Cape Verde – Nature Positive

More than 1.2 million endangered turtle hatchlings have been protected  since 2017 by TUI with local partner Project Biodiversity.

THE JUDGES

The judges of the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards were chaired by Emeritus Professor Harold Goodwin, managing director of the Responsible Tourism Partnership and founder ICRT global and included Glynn O’ Leary Transfrontier Parks Destinations and ICRT Southern Africa, Ruth Crichton regional head Southern Africa the Long Run and ICRT Southern Africa, Adama Bah, Institute of Travel and Tourism of The Gambia (ITTOG) and ICRT West Africa, Martin Brackenbury formerly IFTO and UN Advisor, Kerry Carmichael founder of Echo and Tiomóid Foley, net zero tourism manager, business development and intermediary marketing at Visit Scotland

Debbie Hindle, chair of the International Centre for Responsible Tourism Global, closed the proceedings by congratulating all the winners – and in particular the gold winners, who now have the opportunity to compete in the Global Responsible Tourism Awards and take their stories to the international stage.

Olivia Gradidge, marketing manager WTM Africa and ILTM Africa said: “At WTM Africa, we’re proud to shine a light on these inspiring organisations. It’s truly an honour to recognise the outstanding work of the winners and witness the innovative strides our industry is making every year. This highlight on our events calendar reflects our commitment to championing responsible tourism that benefits people, places, and nature.”

Full citations for all winners are available at www.icrt.global.

-ENDS-

Issued by: Big Ambitions 

Contact: Sonnette Fourie

Tel: +27 81 072 2869 

Email: sonnette@bigambitions.co.za 

Notes to editors:

About CBISN
CBISN is a leader in market intelligence and capacity-building services for those engaging with the Chinese outbound tourism market. Their partnership with WTM Africa aims to provide African stakeholders with actionable insights and tools to welcome and serve Chinese visitors more effectively.

Now in its 33nd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. Held annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024 spanned 12 halls, making it the largest edition to date. The event attracted over 47,000 attendees and more than 35,000 visitors (including 6,000+ high-value buyers) and over 2,550 exhibitors and representatives from over 161 countries. In 2025, ATM will expand to 13 halls, growing across all sectors, and will continue to be a crucial gathering for the global travel and tourism industry. Arabian Travel Market is part of Arabian Travel Week. #ATMDubai

ATM takes place from 4 – 7 May 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai.
https://www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html

Arabian Travel Week is a week-long festival of events alongside Arabian Travel Market 2025. Providing a renewed focus for the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector, it includes Start-Up Competition, Influencers’ Event, GBTA Business Travel Forums, and ATM Travel Tech. The event also features ATM Buyer Networking and a series of country forums.

https://www.wtm.com/arabian-travel-week/en-gb.html

About RX

RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.

About RELX

RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

World Travel Market (WTM) Portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are Arabian Travel Market, WTM London, WTM Latin America and WTM Africa.

WTM London is the world’s most influential travel & tourism event for the global travel community. The show is the ultimate destination for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it. WTM London is where influential travel leaders, buyers and high-profile travel companies gather to exchange ideas, drive innovation, and accelerate business outcomes.

Next event: 3 to 5 November 2026 at ExCel London

http://london.wtm.com/

WTM Latin America is held annually in São Paulo and attracts more than 29,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers a qualified content combined with networking and business opportunities. In its most recent edition, in 2024, WTM Latin America maintained its focus on the effective generation of business and managed to secure the early scheduling of more than six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents, and exhibitors.  WTM Latin America contents are available in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

Next event: 14 to 16 April 2026, Expo Center Norte, São Paulo, Brasil
latinamerica.wtm.com

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2024, WTM Africa facilitated more than 10 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 8% compared to 2023 and welcomed more than 10 thousand visitors (unaudited), 25% more than 2023.

Next event: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town http://africa.wtm.com/

About ATW Connect:  Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology. https://atwconnect.com/

WTM Global Hub, is the WTM Portfolio online portal created to connect and support travel industry professionals around the world. The resource hub offers the latest guidance and knowledge to help exhibitors, buyers and others in the travel industry face the challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic. WTM Portfolio is tapping into its global network of experts to create content for the hub. https://hub.wtm.com/

Exhibitor numbers have grown to 780 – a double-digit increase on 2025 – drawn from 40 countries and supported by 43 tourism boards and 65 event partners. A total of 13,500 appointments have been confirmed, a 35% increase on last year.

Perhaps the most significant story within the numbers is the breadth of new participation. Fifteen countries are represented by buyers for the first time, including Jamaica, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Pakistan, Denmark, and Portugal. This geographical spread reflects Africa’s growing appeal across entirely new source markets. On the exhibitor side, Angola, Cyprus, Djibouti, Jordan, Norway, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Germany, and the UAE are all participating for the first time.

Crucially, 81% of hosted buyers and Buyers’ Club members are entirely new to WTM Africa, a remarkable statistic that points to an event rapidly expanding its global footprint.

The timing of this year’s event carries particular significance. As the travel industry continues to navigate the ripple effects of conflict in the Middle East, which is disrupting established travel corridors, shifting source markets, and forcing a global reassessment of destination strategy, face-to-face trade events have become vital. 

Carol Weaving, Managing Director of RX Africa, said in the opening event: “Africa Travel Week has evolved into a powerful in-person event where technology handles the heavy lifting, and humans focus on the relationship building that defines this industry. Our people are our superpower.”

The industry’s own research reinforces this human-centred approach. This year’s State of the Industry Report, commissioned for Africa Travel Week, highlights that the path forward for African tourism is rooted in empathy and genuine human connection: “It’s how you interact with the traveller as a human being and understand where their specific needs are.”

The tangible economic value of these connections was highlighted by Alderman James Vos, who noted that Cape Town’s international flights have surged to over 230 per week, with tourism now supporting over 106,000 jobs in the city. 

“As a City government, we made a deliberate decision to host WTM Africa,” Vos said during his opening address. “It is an investment that delivers real economic returns. With over 100 countries represented here and 8,000 trade professionals doing deals on this floor, the impact goes far beyond these few days. It translates into future bookings, sustained demand, and long-term growth. Tourism is a team sport. When travellers choose South Africa, they are choosing an experience that no single destination can deliver alone.”

Beyond the exhibition floor, WTM Africa 2026 features a comprehensive content programme of 101 speakers across 82 curated sessions, spanning travel tech, responsible tourism, adventure tourism, medical tourism, golf tourism, and sports and events tourism. The Africa Tourism Investment Conference (ATIC), taking place on Tuesday 14 April, brought together investors, policymakers, and tourism leaders to interrogate the continent’s infrastructure ambitions and investment pipeline.

“Africa, the time is now, and the growth is palpable,” said Weaving, extending special thanks to the host city of Cape Town and Alderman James Vos for the city’s continued commitment to positioning the Mother City as Africa’s premier events destination.

-ENDS-

Issued by: Big Ambitions 

Contact: Sonnette Fourie

Tel: +27 81 072 2869 

Email: sonnette@bigambitions.co.za 

Notes to editors:

About CBISN
CBISN is a leader in market intelligence and capacity-building services for those engaging with the Chinese outbound tourism market. Their partnership with WTM Africa aims to provide African stakeholders with actionable insights and tools to welcome and serve Chinese visitors more effectively.

Now in its 33nd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. Held annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024 spanned 12 halls, making it the largest edition to date. The event attracted over 47,000 attendees and more than 35,000 visitors (including 6,000+ high-value buyers) and over 2,550 exhibitors and representatives from over 161 countries. In 2025, ATM will expand to 13 halls, growing across all sectors, and will continue to be a crucial gathering for the global travel and tourism industry. Arabian Travel Market is part of Arabian Travel Week. #ATMDubai

ATM takes place from 4 – 7 May 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai.
https://www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html

Arabian Travel Week is a week-long festival of events alongside Arabian Travel Market 2025. Providing a renewed focus for the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector, it includes Start-Up Competition, Influencers’ Event, GBTA Business Travel Forums, and ATM Travel Tech. The event also features ATM Buyer Networking and a series of country forums.

https://www.wtm.com/arabian-travel-week/en-gb.html

About RX

RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.

About RELX

RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

World Travel Market (WTM) Portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are Arabian Travel Market, WTM London, WTM Latin America and WTM Africa.

WTM London is the world’s most influential travel & tourism event for the global travel community. The show is the ultimate destination for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it. WTM London is where influential travel leaders, buyers and high-profile travel companies gather to exchange ideas, drive innovation, and accelerate business outcomes.

Next event: 3 to 5 November 2026 at ExCel London

http://london.wtm.com/

WTM Latin America is held annually in São Paulo and attracts more than 29,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers a qualified content combined with networking and business opportunities. In its most recent edition, in 2024, WTM Latin America maintained its focus on the effective generation of business and managed to secure the early scheduling of more than six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents, and exhibitors.  WTM Latin America contents are available in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

Next event: 14 to 16 April 2026, Expo Center Norte, São Paulo, Brasil
latinamerica.wtm.com

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2024, WTM Africa facilitated more than 10 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 8% compared to 2023 and welcomed more than 10 thousand visitors (unaudited), 25% more than 2023.

Next event: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town http://africa.wtm.com/

About ATW Connect:  Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology.
https://atwconnect.com/

WTM Global Hub, is the WTM Portfolio online portal created to connect and support travel industry professionals around the world. The resource hub offers the latest guidance and knowledge to help exhibitors, buyers and others in the travel industry face the challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic. WTM Portfolio is tapping into its global network of experts to create content for the hub. https://hub.wtm.com/

Table of Contents

Third annual Media Awards celebrate excellence in African travel journalism across five categories.

Cape Town: Africa Travel Week (ATW) has announced the winners of its 2026 Media Awards, honouring the journalists, photographers and content creators bringing Africa’s travel and tourism stories to global audiences.

Now in its third year, the ATW Media Awards received a record number of entries – over 170 across five categories: Sustainability Feature Award, Visual Tourism Award, Tourism News Award, Destination Feature Award and the Young Talent Award. All were evaluated by a world-class judging panel comprising wildlife photographer and Canon ambassador Ellie Rothnie, Kojo Bentum-Williams of VoyagesAfriq, Barry Nield of CNN Travel, Divia Thani of Condé Nast Traveller and Tom Hall of Lonely Planet.

“These awards exist to shine a light on the storytellers who shape how the world sees Africa,”says Olivia Gradidge, Marketing Manager (WTM Africa & ILTM Africa) at RX Africa, the host and architect of Africa Travel Week. “The quality of entries this year reflects the depth of talent working in African travel media, and we congratulate every finalist and winner.”

2026 ATW Media Awards Winners

Sustainability Feature Award

Gold: Bella Falk, BBC Wildlife Magazine – Dog Stars: On the Trail of African Wild DogsSilver: Savanna Strauss, Rewilding Southern Africa – Rewilding Giants

Bronze: Tafadzwa Mwanengureni, Minority Africa – They Escaped Their Husbands. Then They Took on Poachers.

Visual Tourism Award

Gold: Wiktoria West, Rewilding Southern Africa – Eastern Chimpanzee

Silver: Bella Falk, Passports & Pixels – Ugandan Group of Dancers

Bronze: Aaron Fishbein – The Basotho Herdsman

Tourism News Award

Gold: Jane Gatwiri, NTV Kenya – Twigas on Transit

Silver: Morgan Barnard, Social Safari Africa – Marriott International was preparing to open its new Ritz-Carlton Safari Camp in Kenya’s Maasai Mara

Bronze: Dale Hes, Tourism Update – AI’s Gatekeeper Role: A Threat to African Tourism

Destination Feature Award

Gold: Sam Kemp, National Geographic Traveller UK – Sierra Leone: After the Storm

Joint Silver: Charlotte Wigram-Evans, National Geographic Traveller – Uganda:We are One

Joint Silver: Lorna Parkes, National Geographic Traveller UK – Kenya: Natural OrderBronze: Victor Ayeni, Punch Newspapers – Nigeria: Sango’s Festival Where Ancient Rites Ignite Fire, Thunder

Young Talent Award

Gold: Shereefdeen Ahmad, The Liberalist – How Schengen Visa Denials Are Shutting Africans Out of the Global Stage

Silver: Savanna Strauss, Rewilding Southern Africa – Is Silence Going Extinct?

Bronze: William Muthama, K24 Digital – List of KWS Parks and Reserves You Can Visit for Free on Saturday

“In a media environment flooded with AI-generated content and deepfakes, what we saw in these entries was a reminder of why real journalism still matters,” says Dorine Reinstein from Big Ambitions, ATW’s PR partner. “”The 2026 winners represent the very best of that community: writers, photographers and journalists producing pieces that were grounded, well-researched and honestly told.”

The 2026 ATW Media Awards were presented at the end of Day 1 of WTM Africa during Africa Travel Week.

For media enquiries, contact Sonnette Fourie on +27 81 072 2869 or sonnette@bigambitions.co.za

-ENDS-

Issued by: Big Ambitions 

Contact: Sonnette Fourie

Tel: +27 81 072 2869 

Email: sonnette@bigambitions.co.za 

Notes to editors:

About CBISN
CBISN is a leader in market intelligence and capacity-building services for those engaging with the Chinese outbound tourism market. Their partnership with WTM Africa aims to provide African stakeholders with actionable insights and tools to welcome and serve Chinese visitors more effectively.

Now in its 33nd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. Held annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024 spanned 12 halls, making it the largest edition to date. The event attracted over 47,000 attendees and more than 35,000 visitors (including 6,000+ high-value buyers) and over 2,550 exhibitors and representatives from over 161 countries. In 2025, ATM will expand to 13 halls, growing across all sectors, and will continue to be a crucial gathering for the global travel and tourism industry. Arabian Travel Market is part of Arabian Travel Week. #ATMDubai

ATM takes place from 4 – 7 May 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai.
https://www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html

Arabian Travel Week is a week-long festival of events alongside Arabian Travel Market 2025. Providing a renewed focus for the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector, it includes Start-Up Competition, Influencers’ Event, GBTA Business Travel Forums, and ATM Travel Tech. The event also features ATM Buyer Networking and a series of country forums.

https://www.wtm.com/arabian-travel-week/en-gb.html

About RX

RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.

About RELX

RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

World Travel Market (WTM) Portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are Arabian Travel Market, WTM London, WTM Latin America and WTM Africa.

WTM London is the world’s most influential travel & tourism event for the global travel community. The show is the ultimate destination for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it. WTM London is where influential travel leaders, buyers and high-profile travel companies gather to exchange ideas, drive innovation, and accelerate business outcomes.

Next event: 3 to 5 November 2026 at ExCel London

http://london.wtm.com/

WTM Latin America is held annually in São Paulo and attracts more than 29,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers a qualified content combined with networking and business opportunities. In its most recent edition, in 2024, WTM Latin America maintained its focus on the effective generation of business and managed to secure the early scheduling of more than six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents, and exhibitors.  WTM Latin America contents are available in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

Next event: 14 to 16 April 2026, Expo Center Norte, São Paulo, Brasil
latinamerica.wtm.com

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2024, WTM Africa facilitated more than 10 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 8% compared to 2023 and welcomed more than 10 thousand visitors (unaudited), 25% more than 2023.

Next event: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town http://africa.wtm.com/

About ATW Connect:  Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology. https://atwconnect.com/

WTM Global Hub, is the WTM Portfolio online portal created to connect and support travel industry professionals around the world. The resource hub offers the latest guidance and knowledge to help exhibitors, buyers and others in the travel industry face the challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic. WTM Portfolio is tapping into its global network of experts to create content for the hub. https://hub.wtm.com/

Table of Contents

Cape Town, South Africa – IBTM Africa, which takes place alongside WTM Africa, is fast positioning itself as a critical platform for Africa’s MICE sector, bringing together international buyers, leading suppliers, and a dedicated business events programme at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from April 13-15, 2026.

Reante Naidoo, Buyers & Digital Director for WTM Africa says IBTM Africa is now a core pillar of the show.

“Over one-third of WTM Africa’s hosted buyer programme has direct MICE influence,” explains Naidoo. “Significantly, of those MICE buyers, 99% are senior decision makers who directly influence or control purchasing decisions. They’re coming to Cape Town, from both traditional and emerging source markets, to explore new products, establish new relationships and experience what South Africa, and Africa, has to offer.”

Of the confirmed MICE buyers who will be in attendance, there is strong representation from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Kenya, United Arab Emirates, Italy, Tanzania, Egypt, India, Spain, Australia, Uganda, Turkey, Netherlands and South Africa.

“IBTM Africa provides MICE suppliers with access to the buyers who matter,” says Naidoo. “And with an extended programme of events, including a ‘Women in MICE’ breakfast, a leadership workshop, and dedicated speaker sessions, there is plenty of opportunity to network and engage.”

Women in MICE Breakfast

The Women in MICE breakfast takes place on 15 April from 08:00 to 10:00 at the CTICC. The session brings together industry professionals to discuss leadership, inclusivity, and collaboration in the business events sector. Interested parties can register by emailing Antois-Leigh Nepgen on antois-leigh@4mal.co.za.

Space is limited and early registration is recommended.

Women in MICE Workshop, in partnership with Women in Tourism

Open to all exhibitors and taking place on the event floor on 15 April from 10:30, this workshop looks at tourism leadership, and specifically practical tools, proven strategies and real-world insights to empower organisations, women leaders, and entrepreneurs across the tourism value chain.

China Ready® Workshop

With China’s outbound travel market projected to soar to 200 million trips by 2028 (according to digital marketing and research firm, China Trading Desk) and South Africa’s Trusted Tour Operator Scheme coming in to play,  there is no better time for South Africa’s inbound tourism sector – including MICE – to familiarise themselves with the needs of the Chinese market. WTM Africa’s China Ready® Workshop gives interested exhibitors the chance to equip themselves with the knowledge and tools to cater to Chinese travellers.

For more information visit: https://www.wtm.com/africa/en-gb/whats-on/china-ready-workshop.html

Again, space is limited and booking a seat in advance is essential.

Sports Events & Tourism Exchange in partnership with Nielsen Sports 

The Sports and Events Tourism Exchange (SETE) brings together businesses from across the spectrum of sports, events and industries – with a full programme running on Wednesday, 15 April 2026.

“The global sports events sector is growing quickly,” says Olivia Gradidge, Marketing Manager, WTM Africa. “It presents a massive opportunity for South Africa. We encourage anyone up and down the supply chain to attend – and help position South Africa as a major player when it comes to hosting world-class, international events.”

Africa Tourism Investment Conference

The Africa Tourism Investment Conference (14 April, CTICC) is a crucial event for the MICE industry. It provides businesses with essential investment insights, networking opportunities, and access to key decision-makers.

This conference is the ideal platform for MICE professionals to drive growth and capitalise on emerging trends in tourism investment. To view the full programme, please visit https://www.wtm.com/africa/en-gb/whats-on/tourism-investment-forum-africa.html.

Pre-registration is essential.

Invitation to Join Diverse Exhibitor Base

Currently, 40% of exhibitors attending WTM Africa in April have a strong MICE element to their business, with representation from established hotel groups including Southern Sun Hotel Interests, Tsogo Sun Casinos Management Company, Minor Hotels, City Lodge Hotels, and specialist venues like Kievits Kroon Gauteng Wine Estate.

The exhibitor base spans 17 countries across Africa and beyond, including South Africa, Tanzania, Kingdom of Eswatini, Ethiopia, Madagascar, Uganda, Seychelles, Namibia, Botswana, and international destinations such as Singapore, Switzerland, Jordan, and Saint Helena.

National tourism authorities, airlines, venues and ground transport providers will showcase Africa’s business events infrastructure and capabilities, demonstrating the continent’s readiness to host international meetings, incentives, conferences, and events.

“IBTM Africa connects global demand with Africa’s growing business events sector,” says Carol Weaving, MD of RX Africa, which hosts Africa Travel Week, including WTM Africa and IBTM Africa, each year. “This is a warm invitation to Africa’s MICE sector to join us in Cape Town for three focused, valuable days. The buyers are confirmed, the programme is set, and the opportunity is real. We look forward to welcoming exhibitors who are ready to do business.”

Learn more & register your interest: IBTM Africa

-ENDS-

Issued by: Big Ambitions 

Contact: Sonnette Fourie

Tel: +27 81 072 2869 

Email: sonnette@bigambitions.co.za 

Notes to editors:

About CBISN
CBISN is a leader in market intelligence and capacity-building services for those engaging with the Chinese outbound tourism market. Their partnership with WTM Africa aims to provide African stakeholders with actionable insights and tools to welcome and serve Chinese visitors more effectively.

Now in its 33nd year, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. Held annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2024 spanned 12 halls, making it the largest edition to date. The event attracted over 47,000 attendees and more than 35,000 visitors (including 6,000+ high-value buyers) and over 2,550 exhibitors and representatives from over 161 countries. In 2025, ATM will expand to 13 halls, growing across all sectors, and will continue to be a crucial gathering for the global travel and tourism industry. Arabian Travel Market is part of Arabian Travel Week. #ATMDubai

ATM takes place from 4 – 7 May 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai.
https://www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html

Arabian Travel Week is a week-long festival of events alongside Arabian Travel Market 2025. Providing a renewed focus for the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector, it includes Start-Up Competition, Influencers’ Event, GBTA Business Travel Forums, and ATM Travel Tech. The event also features ATM Buyer Networking and a series of country forums.

https://www.wtm.com/arabian-travel-week/en-gb.html

About RX

RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.

About RELX

RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX. *Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

World Travel Market (WTM) Portfolio comprises leading travel events and online portals across four continents. The events are Arabian Travel Market, WTM London, WTM Latin America and WTM Africa.

WTM London is the world’s most influential travel & tourism event for the global travel community. The show is the ultimate destination for those seeking a macro view of the travel industry and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping it. WTM London is where influential travel leaders, buyers and high-profile travel companies gather to exchange ideas, drive innovation, and accelerate business outcomes.

Next event: 3 to 5 November 2026 at ExCel London
http://london.wtm.com/

WTM Latin America is held annually in São Paulo and attracts more than 29,000 tourism professionals during the three-day event. The event offers a qualified content combined with networking and business opportunities. In its most recent edition, in 2024, WTM Latin America maintained its focus on the effective generation of business and managed to secure the early scheduling of more than six thousand meetings that were held between buyers, travel agents, and exhibitors.  WTM Latin America contents are available in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

Next event: 14 to 16 April 2026, Expo Center Norte, São Paulo, Brasil
latinamerica.wtm.com

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2024, WTM Africa facilitated more than 10 thousand unique pre-scheduled appointments, an increase of more than 8% compared to 2023 and welcomed more than 10 thousand visitors (unaudited), 25% more than 2023.

Next event: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town http://africa.wtm.com/

About ATW Connect:  Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology.
https://atwconnect.com/

WTM Global Hub, is the WTM Portfolio online portal created to connect and support travel industry professionals around the world. The resource hub offers the latest guidance and knowledge to help exhibitors, buyers and others in the travel industry face the challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic. WTM Portfolio is tapping into its global network of experts to create content for the hub. https://hub.wtm.com/

Cape Town – ILTM Africa today announced a major expansion for its 2026 event, becoming the first luxury travel marketplace on the continent to serve both inbound and dedicated outbound opportunities focused on the Middle East. The move responds to rapid growth in Africa’s outbound luxury travel spending, which industry data shows is reaching US$1.6 bn by 2026.

The expansion comes as travel agencies across sub-Saharan Africa report a 32% jump in luxury outbound bookings over the past year, with strong demand for Middle Eastern destinations. This growth has created a clear market need that ILTM Africa 2026 will address.

“The African luxury travel market continues to evolve, and our clients’ needs are evolving with it,” said Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director of ILTM Africa. “For 2026, we’re enhancing our event by introducing dedicated outbound opportunities focused exclusively on the Middle East, giving African agencies direct access to a curated selection of luxury products from that region. At the same time, we remain fully committed to delivering unmatched value for our South African and sub-Saharan partners through our established buyer mix. This extension simply adds targeted connections while protecting the ROI and proven benefits that have made ILTM Africa indispensable for both exhibitors and buyers.”

ILTM Africa will return to Cape Town’s Norval Foundation in 2026 as an expanded marketplace bringing together:

• African suppliers, showcasing premier continental experiences;
• Middle Eastern suppliers, presenting high-end regional offerings;
• African buyers, seeking both regional products and exclusive access to new opportunities in the Middle East;
• And international buyers, exploring investment prospects within African markets.

This dual focus makes ILTM Africa the only African event connecting luxury suppliers with buyers looking for both inbound and outbound opportunities. Many African buyers now handle both types of travel but previously had to attend multiple events to meet all their suppliers. The new format saves time and money while giving suppliers access to expanded markets.

Under the event’s permanent tagline “Igniting Opportunities Fuels Prosperity,” the 2026 event reflects a clear mission: create real value by connecting people who can grow each other’s businesses, whether that means bringing luxury travellers into Africa or helping Africans discover new destinations abroad.

The event will maintain its successful format of pre-matched one-to-one meetings, focused networking, and practical sessions on market trends, now with expanded scope to serve both markets. The Norval Foundation, known for its art collections and architecture, provides a fitting backdrop for this business-focused event.

For more information visit the ILTM Africa website or to express your interest to exhibit, please register here.

-ENDS-

Issued by: Big Ambitions 

Contact: Sonnette Fourie

Tel: +27 81 072 2869 

Email: sonnette@bigambitions.co.za 

ABOUT:

ILTM Africa gives leaders in the African luxury travel market every opportunity to re-connect, build relationships and grow their business. An invitation-only event, the very best travel agents from across the globe meet Africa’s most spectacular luxury travel experience providers.

Next event: 10 to 12 April 2026 – Norval Foundation, Cape Town https://www.iltm.com/africa/en-gb.html

WTM Africa launched in 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. In 2025, WTM Africa facilitated more than 60 000 appointment request from 70 countries with a 30% increase in exhibitors from 2024.

Next event: 13 to 15 April 2026 – Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town http://africa.wtm.com/

ATW Connect:  Africa Travel Week’s digital arm, is a virtual hub packed to the seams with interesting content, industry news and insights, and the opportunity to hear from experts on a variety of topics in our new monthly webinar series. All with the aim to keep all of us in the travel and tourism industry connected. ATW Connect focuses on inbound and outbound markets for general leisure tourism, luxury travel, LGBTQ+ travel and the MICE/business travel sector as well as travel technology.

RX: is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people.  RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com. 

RELX: is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.

*Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at http://www.relx.com/investors

Flight Schedule:

• Cape Town to Livingstone: Departs 12:00, arrives 14:50 (P0 051)
• Livingstone to Cape Town: Departs 08:10, arrives 11:10 (P0 050)
• Operates Thursdays and Sundays
• Additional Saturday flights: December 1st – January 5th holiday season

“Our timing is specifically designed around the tourism experience,” says Proflight Zambia Director of Flight Operations Captain Josias Walubita. “Passengers can leave Cape Town after breakfast and be at Victoria Falls in time for an afternoon sunset cruise. The morning departure from Livingstone also means Capetonians can be back at their desks before lunch.”

The service offers dual benefits: tourism access to Victoria Falls and enhanced business connectivity to Lusaka, with passengers to Zambia’s capital remaining onboard during a brief Livingstone stopover. The new routing increases seat availability on the popular Lusaka-Cape Town route and features improved baggage allowances.

The Zambian side of Victoria Falls offers unique experiences, including the Devil’s Pool swim (available mid-September to early January), exclusive Livingstone Island tours, and microlight flights over the Falls. 

For those looking to explore further, Livingstone serves as a gateway to Zambia’s pristine safari destinations, with connections available to various wildlife reserves.

South African passport holders benefit from visa-free entry to Zambia, reducing immigration queues. This streamlined access, combined with the new direct flight, makes Victoria Falls more accessible than ever for Cape Town residents.

Early booking incentives are now available.

Continuing the positive trend of recent years, the Company experienced strong sales in November as a result from the ongoing demand for cruising.

“Our guests have spoken! The solid number of bookings this past month is a positive indicator of what to expect early in the new year during wave season, when many of our guests typically book their cruises with us,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “In recent years, we have begun to offer more diverse and longer itinerary options, and this positive momentum is a sure sign that our guests are delighted with our offerings and are looking forward to exploring the world with us. Our new 2025 and 2026 itineraries will bring them more of what they want and more opportunities to enjoy their ideal holiday visiting their dream destination aboard any NCL ship.”

NCL has an endless number of sailings for travellers to choose from as the Company sails to 450 destinations across the globe including exotic and port-rich itineraries in Africa, Asia, South America, the Caribbean and more. The voyages are thoughtfully curated to feature the most popular, and best-rated ports based on guest satisfaction and to introduce our guests to new hidden gems.  NCL’s itineraries provide travellers with the ultimate cruising experience, allowing them to immerse themselves into each destination and wake up in a new fantastic location nearly every day.

The newly released season of sailings features several ships making their debut in new destinations, including Norwegian Sun visiting new ports in Asia for the first time, including Kyoto (Kobe), Japan; the all-new Norwegian Viva homeporting for the first time in Galveston, Texas for a series of Caribbean voyages; and much more.

Additional highlights from the new deployment include:

ASIA

Just in time for travellers to admire the fall foliage, Norwegian Sun’s season in Asia will kick off in Japan on 3 November, 2025, on an 11-day open-jaw sailing starting from Tokyo to Incheon, South Korea, calling to Jeju (Jeju Island), South Korea and Kyoto (Kobe), Japan – both first time visits for the ship – as well as stops in several popular Japanese cities including Nagoya and Osaka. On 14 November 2025, the ship will depart from Incheon, South Korea for the first time for another 11-day open-jaw voyage on its return to Tokyo with a similar itinerary that features a call to Hiroshima, Japan. From December 2025 through March 2026, Norwegian Sun will offer a selection of cruises between 11- and 15-days sailing through Southeast Asia with several embarkation ports for guests to choose from including Singapore; Laem Chabang, Thailand; and Keelung, Taiwan. 

AFRICA

NCL has curated a selection of exotic and port-intensive Africa sailings for Norwegian Dawn starting November 2025 through March 2026 featuring multiple embarkation ports including Cape Town, South Africa; Port Louis, Mauritius; and Doha, Qatar. The season begins on 2 November 2025, with a 21-day repositioning cruise from Barcelona, Spain to Cape Town, South Africa calling to sought-after destinations including Santa Maria, Cape Verde; Casablanca, Morocco; and Agadir, Morocco. Due to popular demand for more open-jaw voyages to start and end in Cape Town, South Africa and Port Louis, Mauritius, NCL is offering four 12-day sailings calling to the popular ports of Antsiranana, and Nosy Be, Madagascar, as well as an overnight stay in Richard’s Bay, South Africa, where guests can opt to explore the local wildlife by a safari tour, learn about South African history or enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Aklantstrand Beach.

THE CARIBBEAN

NCL’s newest ship, Norwegian Viva will homeport in Galveston, Texas for the first time from December 2025 through April 2026 following Norwegian Prima’s footsteps which will kick off its inaugural season in this charming town on 15 December 2023. During Norwegian Viva’s winter season, the vessel will offer guests seven-day roundtrip Western Caribbean  itineraries to Cozumel, and Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; as well as Harvest Caye, NCL’s resort-style destination located in Southern Belize. On 10 January and 24 January 2026, Norwegian Viva will sail a 14-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary for cruisers searching for a longer warm-weather escape. The voyages will visit George Town, Cayman Islands – a first-time visit for the ship – and call to NCL’s private island – Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas; Road Town (Tortola), British Virgin Islands; St. John’s (Antigua), Antigua; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; and Cozumel, Mexico.

Between November 2025 and April 2026, Norwegian Escape will homeport in New Orleans – the first Breakaway-Plus class ship to homeport in this bustling city – offering a series of seven-day roundtrip Western Caribbean voyages. For a similar and extended itinerary option, the ship will also offer two 14-day Southern Caribbean cruises on 1 February, and 22 February 2026, where the ship will visit for the first time Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Colon, Panama; and Cartagena Colombia.

Homeporting for a second season in La Romana, Dominican Republic, Norwegian Sky is offering travellers a selection of seven, nine and 12-day roundtrip Southern Caribbean itineraries from December 2025 through April 2026 calling to a variety of picturesque ports including Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendijk, Bonaire; Willemstad, Curaçao of the ABC islands and more. During the 5 January 2026, nine-day sailing Norwegian Sky will cruise to the southwestern coast of the Dominican Republic to make her debut in Cabo Rojo, offering guests a beautiful beach escape. These Caribbean cruises provide travellers worldwide the opportunity to enjoy these bucket-list destinations, as most visitors arriving to the Dominican Republic do not require a visa to enter the country.

SOUTH AMERICA

The South America itineraries begin with the transatlantic crossing from Lisbon, Portugal to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on 20 November, 2025, visiting Portugal, Cape Verde, and several cities in Brazil. Norwegian Star will then embark on a 17-day cruise from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on 4 December, 2025 calling to ports in Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile, and making its way to the South Pole as the vessel cruises by Paradise Bay and Elephant Island in Antarctica for guests to enjoy the views and wildlife from the comfort of their balcony or the ship’s top deck before disembarking in Buenos Aires, Argentina. From 21 December 2025, through 15 February 2026, guests can also embark on 14-day roundtrip sailings from Buenos Aires, Argentina, to enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to cruise by Paradise Bay and Elephant Island in Antarctica. These sailings will also call to Montevideo, Uruguay; Puerto Madryn and Ushuaia, Argentina; Punta Arenas, Chile and Stanley, Falkland Islands – a remote and charming South Atlantic archipelago.

PANAMA CANAL

From October 2025 through April 2026, Norwegian Jade will offer between 11 and 17-day cruises traversing the Panama Canal – a bucket list experience for many guests. The itineraries will offer a variety of embarkation and disembarkation ports including Miami; New York City; Tampa, Fla., and for the ship’s first time, Callao, Peru, where guests can conveniently plan extended stays pre- or post-cruise in each destination.   

The unique open-jaw 17-day Panama Canal voyage on Norwegian Jade sailing from Callao, Peru on     11 March 2026, will make its way up the west coast of South America and Central America calling to Acajutla, El Salvador; Huatulco, and Manzanillo, Mexico – for the ship’s first time – and it will mark the vessel’s return to the guest favourite port, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico since 2008. After 12 port visits and four days at sea, the voyage will disembark in San Diego, Calif.

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Travellers searching for immersive itineraries to explore Australia and New Zealand can enjoy Norwegian Spirit’s open-jaw sailings to and from Sydney, Australia and Auckland, New Zealand between December 2025 and March 2026. Embarking and disembarking in different ports gives travellers the opportunity to extend their vacation onto land by planning pre- or post-cruise stays to fully dive into the local culture and destination. The vessel will offer 11 to 14-day voyages with most itineraries calling to guest favourite ports including Melbourne, Australia, and Napier and Dunedin, New Zealand. Select sailings will cruise by the magnificent New Zealand fjords – the Doubtful Sound, Milford Sound, and Dusky Sound – providing an unforgettable memory for NCL guests. For more information about the Company’s award-winning 19-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 021 200 6586 or visit www.ncl.com.  

The Energy Summit will be held in the FNB Portside building with an opening address by Minister Mireille Wenger, the Western Cape Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities. Neil Hughes, Managing Director, Providence Hospitality & Quivertree Digital Hospitality Solutions and FEDHASA Cape Board member will host the first of the two sessions, Talking Energy: Shedding Light on Hospitality & the Public Sector. It will focus on the current state of affairs affecting the hospitality industry and invite robust discussion between members on both sides of the fence. Panellists include Alwie Lester, Special Advisor to the Western Cape Premier; Rashid Toefy, Deputy Director General Economic Operations, Western Cape Government; Glyn Taylor, joint CEO, Century City Conference Centre and Hotels and FEDHASA Cape Board Member; and Emile Langenhoven, General Manager, Lanzerac Hotel.

The second session, Switching on Alternative Energy Solutions, aims to provide insight into sustainability, alternative energy resources, and funding. Host Monwabisi Thethe, CEO, Brand Contact and FEDHASA Cape Board member will introduce the energy experts who are spearheading a Plan B for South Africa’s energy crisis and providing practical solutions for future-proofing businesses. Panellists leading this discussion are Helen Davies, Chief Director Green Economy, Western Cape Government; Kyle Durham, Head of Sustainable Finance and ESG Solutions at First National Bank; Khudusela Pitje, CEO at New GX Capital; Shane Prins, Manager for Generation Development, City of Cape Town; and Bernhard Meyer, Capital Investments, National Department of Tourism.

Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, City of Cape Town will speak at the end of the Summit with closing remarks by Lesego Majatladi, MD, Latitude Aparthotels and FEDHASA Cape Board Member.

“The Energy Summit is an opportunity to get key decision-makers, stakeholders and experts from the private and public sectors into a room to tackle the energy crisis which continues to have a devastating impact on the hospitality industry,” says Lee-Anne Singer, FEDHASA Cape Chairperson.

“We look forward to robust discussions, which not only unpack the current challenges, but explore practical, sustainable solutions and alternative energy sources which may help future-proof businesses and livelihoods,” Singer says.

For more information on the event, contact: rema@fedhasacape.co.za

JOHANNESBURG (21 December 2022) – Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, marked its debut in South Africa today as Norwegian Jade became the first of its 18 ships to homeport in Cape Town, South Africa.

 Norwegian Jade will sail on a 12-day Extraordinary Journey around the coast of South Africa and Namibia with seven ports of call, including Richard’s Bay, Durban, Mossel Bay and Lüderitz.

South African guests aboard Norwegian Jade will be able to holiday without the worry of visas and flights and enjoy NCL’s unique ‘Freestyle Cruising’ concept, which allows the ultimate freedom and flexibility at sea. A smaller ship at 2,402 guest capacity (dual occupancy), Norwegian Jade is packed full of features that enable guests to make the most of their precious vacation time. She boasts a broad variety of staterooms including The Haven by Norwegian, NCL’s exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept, 16 dining options, Broadway-style shows and the serene Mandara Spa.

For more information about the Company’s award-winning 18-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional or visit www.ncl.com.  

About Norwegian Cruise Line

As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 55 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionised the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, its fleet of 18 contemporary ships sail to over 400 of the world’s most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize. NCL not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveller staterooms, mini-suites, spa-suites, and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company’s ship-within-a-ship concept. For additional information or to book a cruise, visit www.ncl.com or contact a travel professional. For the latest news and exclusive content, visit the media centre and follow NCL on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube @NorwegianCruiseLine; and Twitter and Snapchat @CruiseNorwegian.

Locally Issued By:

Claire Lathe, Big Ambitions

claire@bigambitions.co.za