Africa Tourism Awards 2026: Benin wins 4 awards and confirms its shine on the African tourism scene
Cotonou, November 2, 2026 — Benin really stood out at the 2026 Africa Tourism Awards, with the ceremony taking place this past Sunday, November 1, in London, United Kingdom. The country took home four major awards: “Tourist Destination of the Year,” “Cultural Destination of the Year,” and “Tourism Video of the Year,” plus the title of “National Tourism Agency of the Year,” which went to Benin Tourism. With these four wins, the country is among the top winners of this edition, getting recognized across the continent for its efforts in tourism development and destination promotion.
Les Africa Tourism Awards distinguent les destinations, institutions, entreprises et personnalités qui façonnent l’avenir du tourisme africain. Réunissant responsables d’offices de tourisme, décideurs publics, professionnels de l’hôtellerie et du voyage, investisseurs et médias, cette initiative s’impose comme une vitrine de premier plan pour l’excellence touristique africaine et contribue à porter un nouveau regard sur le continent.
This record reflects the success of the proactive policy carried out by the Government of the Republic of Benin, which has placed tourism at the heart of its development strategy, as a driver of economic growth and cultural expression. Restoration and enhancement of heritage, development of next-generation cultural and tourist facilities, modernization of infrastructure, renewal of offerings: the major investments made by the Government have profoundly transformed the destination. This ambition goes hand in hand with a promotion strategy aimed at boosting the country’s visibility and attractiveness on international markets.
These trophies are part of a series of international awards that reflect the growing interest in the destination. As early as 2024, Benin was listed among the top ten countries to visit by Lonely Planet. In 2025, the American magazine Afar included it in its selection of the 25 destinations to discover in ‘Where to Go in 2025,’ while the Benin Pavilion won the Gold Trophy in the ‘Exhibition and Design’ category at the Osaka World Expo, awarded by the Bureau.
International Exhibitions (BIE). In 2026, the country was crowned “Best International Destination” at the 4th edition of the Afrotourism Award in Brazil. The Africa Tourism Awards are continuing this momentum today.
In recent months, Benin has really stood out through major cultural events, like Vodun Days in Ouidah, the Mask Festival in Porto-Novo, and the Gaani Festival in Nikki, while also charming visitors with the variety of its landscapes, heritage sites, and unique experiences. From the lakeside town of Ganvié to the royal palaces of Abomey, from the Bètammaribè Tatas to the Black River, from the hills of Dassa to the beaches of Grand-Popo, Benin showcases a mix of tourist treasures that make the destination truly special.
“These awards are an important recognition of the progress we’ve made and the ambition we collectively hold for Benin as a destination. They acknowledge the investments made, the richness of our heritage, and the work of everyone who contributes, day by day, to showcasing our country to the world. Most importantly, they encourage us to keep working to make Benin a top tourist destination, capable of offering unique and memorable experiences to travelers from all over the world,” said Sindé CHEKETE, Director General of Benin Tourism.
These successes further strengthen the positioning of the country brand ‘Benin, a World of Splendors,’ which represents a new ambition for the destination. Through its international campaigns, strategic partnerships, and highlighting of its cultural and natural treasures, Benin aims to continue its conquest of new markets and expand its audience among international travelers.
About Bénin Tourism
The Beninese Agency for Tourism Development (Benin Tourism) is the public agency responsible for the operational implementation of Benin’s national tourism development strategy. Through the country brand ‘Benin, a World of Splendors,’ it works to promote the country internationally, develop an attractive and competitive tourism offer, and support industry professionals. Through its initiatives, Benin Tourism helps position the country as a top tourist destination on both the African and international stages. To learn more: www.benintourisme.bj
Contact presse
For any additional information, please contact:
Jean-Wilfried KEMAJOU
Brand Coordinator for Benin