WTM Africa 2026: Your Essential Travel Industry Calendar Highlight

The countdown to the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2026 has officially begun and with trade visitor registration now open, it’s the perfect time for travel professionals, destination marketers, tourism boards and global explorers to secure their place at Africa’s leading travel and tourism event.

Hosted in Cape Town, one of the world’s most-loved travel destinations, WTM Africa 2026 will run from 14–16 April 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). As the continent’s premier B2B travel and tourism exhibition, WTM Africa brings together international buyers, African tourism products, media and industry leaders for three days of networking, learning and opportunity.

Event Details: WTM Africa 2026 at a Glance

Dates: 14–16 April 2026
Location: CTICC, Cape Town, South Africa
Registration: Click here

Free until 13 March 2026
R900 per person from 14 March to 12 April
R1 265 per person from 13 April

WTM Africa remains a vital showcase for African travel trends, tourism innovation, destination marketing and business development – making it a must-attend event for anyone working in travel, hospitality, aviation, events, tech or content creation.

Why WTM Africa 2026 Matters

Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director at RX Africa says: “WTM Africa is more than an exhibition – it’s three days of connection, writing business, lead generation, learning and celebration.” According to her, the 2026 programme promises new content tracks, high-impact partnerships, and elevated networking experiences designed to spark collaboration across the global travel value chain.

What’s New at WTM Africa 2026

China Ready® Workshop – A First for WTM Africa

Taking place 15 April, this workshop is ideal for tourism businesses targeting the rapidly expanding Chinese outbound travel market. Insights are delivered by the China Business Intelligence Service Network (CBISN), and tickets include the China Outbound Travel Market – Africa Report 2025 (valued at US$149). Only 50 seats are available, so early registration is essential.
• CPD-accredited
• Early-bird: US$99

Africa Tourism Investment Conference (ATIC) – 14 April

A full-day strategic forum focusing on tourism investment, infrastructure development and sustainable growth across Africa. Presented with global investment leader JLL Africa and led by industry strategist Gillian Saunders.

Stellenbosch Experience & Wine Tourism Highlights

Back by popular demand, the Stellenbosch Experience returns on 14 April, bringing wine, food, culture and networking to the CTICC.

This year’s Wine Tourism programming also includes:

• Blaauwklippen documentary premiere – 13 April
• Live tastings
• Regional showcases

Women in Tourism (WIT) x Women in MICE (WIM) Partnership

A new power collaboration launching the 2026 Women in MICE Awards and a leadership-focused breakfast on 15 April. A WIT-led masterclass will explore:

• Personal branding
• Visibility in tourism
• Leadership development

The partnership also supports NextGen Ready, creating mentorship opportunities for young tourism talent.

Expanded Content Tracks for 2026

Delegates can look forward to deep-dives into key travel trends and topics such as:

• Artificial Intelligence in Travel
• LGBTQ+ Travel Trends
• Authenticity in Tourism
• Traveller Psychology
• Wine Tourism
• Sustainability & Destination Stewardship

Immersive learning spaces like the Sound Garden and Brain Box will return with hands-on workshops and panel discussions.

Media Programming & Africa Travel Week Media Awards

A dedicated track for travel media, content creators, bloggers, podcasters and journalists will once again highlight responsible storytelling and travel journalism across Africa.

Event Partners Elevating the 2026 Experience

WTM Africa 2026 is supported by partners including:

• Lift Airlines (official local airline partner)
• Southern Sun & The President Hotel (accommodation partners)
• International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) (host of EQUAL Africa Pride)

These partnerships ensure seamless travel, premium comfort, and inclusive, forward-thinking programming for all delegates.

Why You Should Attend WTM Africa 2026

Whether you are a tour operator, hospitality leader, destination marketing professional, travel agent, tourism board, content creator or business owner, WTM Africa gives you access to:

• Global tourism buyers
• High-value business meetings
• Emerging market insights
• Trend forecasting
• Networking opportunities
• Access to innovative travel products
• Learning sessions led by global experts

For anyone passionate about the future of travel in Africa and beyond, this is the one event you don’t want to miss.

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