Zanzibar to Host Essence of Africa 2026 in Africa’s Next Tourism Power Move

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In a bold step forward for the continent’s tourism industry, Essence of Africa has announced that its highly anticipated third edition will take place at the luxurious Diamonds Bijoux resort in Zanzibar from October 20 to 22, 2026. 

Following the resounding success of the 2025 edition along Kenya’s stunning coast, this premier networking forum will once again bring together top international buyers and leading African tourism suppliers to forge meaningful, long-lasting business partnerships across the continent.

Zanzibar, the enchanting semi-autonomous archipelago off Tanzania’s coast, continues to captivate the world with its pristine white-sand beaches, vibrant cultural tapestry, and seamless connectivity to renowned mainland safari routes. The island’s rising popularity is evident in its impressive 10% surge in international tourist arrivals recorded in December 2025 alone

Beyond its postcard-perfect tropical charm, Zanzibar stands out as a versatile destination that seamlessly complements Africa’s diverse tourism landscape, positioning it as an ideal host for Essence of Africa 2026.

Co-Founder Amanda Margison shared her excitement about the upcoming gathering: “Building on our fruitful partnership with the Diamonds team during the exceptional 2025 event in Malindi, we are thrilled to elevate this collaboration into a genuine strategic alliance. Hosting in Zanzibar allows us to amplify Essence of Africa’s reach and showcase the continent’s incredible variety to global audiences.” 

Margison highlighted that the new Diamonds Bijoux property aligns with the forum’s mission to link international buyers to Africa’s multifaceted tourism products, underscoring a shared commitment to creating real, tangible value for both buyers and African exhibitors.

The choice of Zanzibar as the 2026 venue underscores the rising prominence of Africa’s coastal and island destinations on the world stage. Co-founder Chris Mears emphasised the island’s distinctive appeal: it offers a refreshing counterpoint to classic safari adventures, weaving together breathtaking natural scenery, deep historical roots, and an authentic sense of place that resonates profoundly with discerning travellers. “By hosting Essence of Africa in Zanzibar,” Mears noted, “we give the global travel trade an unparalleled chance to experience firsthand how coastal gems like this can enrich and diversify multi-destination African itineraries.”

Travel and Tour World reports that, through Essence of Africa 2026, international buyers will gain immersive insights into how Zanzibar’s blend of heritage, history, and natural beauty integrates seamlessly into the wider African travel offering. The forum aims to demonstrate the immense potential of interconnected, multi-destination journeys that link the continent’s mainland highlights with its coastal treasures.

The platform’s track record speaks for itself: the 2025 Malindi edition welcomed 158 international buyers from 39 countries, who held more than 5,600 pre-arranged meetings with 150 African exhibitors. These figures highlight Essence of Africa’s growing stature as one of the continent’s premier tourism networking events.

At its core, Essence of Africa excels in cultivating authentic business relationships between the international travel trade and Africa’s tourism providers. Thoughtfully designed immersive destination experiences and insightful content sessions facilitate deep, productive engagements. As a result, the forum has become instrumental in elevating global perceptions of Africa as a vibrant, multifaceted, and highly desirable travel destination.

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Essence of Africa prioritises commercially significant connections, creating an environment where buyers and exhibitors can collaborate, innovate, and plan future ventures. The 2026 gathering will spotlight Africa’s tourism diversity, from awe-inspiring landscapes and exceptional wildlife to dynamic urban centres and profound cultural legacies.

Zanzibar’s singular attractions make it the perfect showcase for the continent’s layered tourism appeal. Attendees will discover the island’s storied past, lively traditions, and pristine environments while enjoying its renowned warm hospitality.

Exhibitor registration opens on February 16, 2026, with attractive early-bird rates to reward prompt commitments. This presents an excellent opportunity for tourism operators across Africa to showcase their offerings to a global audience and expand their international footprint.

As Essence of Africa journeys to Zanzibar for 2026, it is set to play a defining role in Africa’s tourism evolution. By rotating through the continent’s most captivating locales, the forum consistently illuminates Africa’s capacity to deliver varied, unforgettable experiences tailored to diverse traveller preferences.

Events like Essence of Africa, while focused on East African coastal/island destinations, could indirectly boost Nigeria and Africa’s tourism by amplifying continental visibility. Such forums spotlight Africa’s diversity, encouraging multi-destination itineraries that combine beach escapes with cultural or wildlife experiences elsewhere. Increased global buyer exposure fosters partnerships, potentially driving investment, improving the marketing of Nigerian sites, and enabling cross-promotion. 

For Nigeria, participation in or inspiration from these events could highlight its cultural depth (e.g., Nollywood, festivals, cuisine) to international operators, aiding recovery from visa/infrastructure woes and positioning it within pan-African travel packages. 

Overall, these events reinforce Africa’s unified appeal, potentially increasing arrivals across the continent and creating spillover demand for destinations such as Nigeria.

Loved this glimpse into Africa’s evolving tourism scene? Dive deeper into inspiring stories, destination guides, and industry updates. Explore more articles on our site today and stay ahead of the next big travel wave!

 

FAQs

1. What is the Essence of Africa?

Essence of Africa is a leading meetings-driven tourism forum that connects pre-qualified international buyers with top African tourism suppliers through curated networking, immersive experiences, and business-focused sessions to drive continental partnerships.

2. When and where is Essence of Africa 2026 taking place? 

The third edition will be held from October 20 to 22, 2026, at the luxurious Diamonds Bijoux resort in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

3. Why was Zanzibar chosen as the host for 2026?

 Zanzibar’s stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, spice plantations, Stone Town’s history, and proximity to safari circuits make it a versatile, high-appeal destination that complements broader African itineraries. A 10% increase in arrivals is expected in late 2025, indicating a growing global interest in African itineraries.

4. How successful was the previous edition?  

The 2025 Malindi, Kenya, event featured 158 international buyers from 39 countries, 150 African exhibitors, and over 5,600 pre-scheduled meetings, cementing its reputation as a key platform for meaningful tourism connections.

5. How can tourism suppliers participate in Essence of Africa 2026?

Exhibitor registration opens on February 16, 2026, with early-bird rates available. African tourism businesses can showcase their offerings to global buyers, expand their reach, and forge valuable partnerships.