On 28 June 2025, Tanzania was named Africa’s Leading Destination 2025 during the World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony held in Dar es Salaam.
The country received multiple regional awards across various categories, reflecting the breadth of its tourism assets.
Zanzibar was named Africa’s Leading Beach Destination, while Serengeti National Park received two awards: Africa’s Leading National Park and Africa’s Leading Big 5 National Park. Mount Kilimanjaro was awarded Africa’s Leading Mountain National Park.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area was recognised as Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction, and Kitulo National Park was named Africa’s Leading Honeymoon Destination.
Tanzania also secured awards in niche tourism categories. Ruaha National Park was awarded Africa’s Leading Cultural National Park. Nyerere National Park was recognised as Africa’s Leading Scenic National Park, while Tarangire National Park received the title of Africa’s Leading Elephant Paradise National Park.
Julius Nyerere International Airport was named Africa’s Leading Airport, and the Port of Dar es Salaam won Africa’s Leading Cruise Port.
The Tanzania Tourist Board received the title of Africa’s Leading Tourist Board 2025.
Several Tanzanian operators were also recognised for their role in the industry. Altezza Travel was named Tanzania’s Leading Tour Operator. Zara Tanzania Adventures won Africa’s Leading Adventure Tour Operator. Miracle Experience – Balloon Safaris Tanzania received the award for Africa’s Leading Balloon Ride Operator, and Pollman’s Tours & Safaris was named Africa’s Leading Tour Operator.
Other winners at the event included the Maldives, voted Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination and Indian Ocean’s Leading Green Destination. Kenya Airways was named Africa’s Leading Airline. Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club received the award for Africa’s Leading Hotel, and Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort was named Africa’s Leading Resort. Durban ICC was awarded Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre.
The event brought together representatives from the tourism and hospitality sectors across Africa and the Indian Ocean region.
Graham Cooke, President and Founder of the World Travel Awards, said: “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.”
Ephraim Mafuru, Director General of the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), said: “Hosting the World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2025 has been a milestone moment for Tanzania’s travel and tourism sector, and a unique opportunity to showcase our country’s landscapes, cultures and hospitality to key figures in the travel and tourism sector.”
The World Travel Awards were established in 1993 to recognise excellence across the global travel and tourism industry. The brand is recognised internationally, with regional ceremonies held each year to award top performers in each market.
