Benin nominated in four categories

Benin is among the nominees for the Africa Tourism Awards 2026 in four categories, a recognition that highlights its cultural heritage, tourist appeal, and the efforts of its national promotion agency.

Competition for top tourism awards

The country is competing for the awards of Destination of the Year and Cultural Destination of the Year. Its agency Benin Tourism is also selected in the category of Tourism Office of the Year, while the promotional film Explore Benin, A World of Wonders is in contention for the Award for Tourism Video of the Year.

Promoting historical and cultural sites

These distinctions occur as the country multiplies initiatives to strengthen its visibility on the international tourist market. Through its promotional campaign, Benin highlights the richness of its historical and cultural heritage, including the city of Ouidah, a major site in the history of the slave trade and Vodun, the royal palaces of Abomey, classified as UNESCO World Heritage, as well as Ganvié, the famous lake city nicknamed the "Venice of Africa."

Diverse tourist attractions

The country also promotes its beach resorts, such as Grand-Popo, and develops a tourist offer focused on cultural discovery, heritage, living traditions, and local experiences. The competition brings together several top African destinations.

Strong competition and public voting

In the category of Destination of the Year, Benin is competing with Angola, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Namibia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Tanzania. For the title of Cultural Destination of the Year, it faces notably Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Public voting is open until October 29 and represents 20 percent of the final score.

Winners to be announced in London

The remaining 80 percent will be awarded by a panel of experts and the Africa Tourism Awards committee. The winners will be announced on November 1 in London. Until the verdict, these four nominations constitute a new showcase for Benin, which aims to establish itself as one of the essential cultural destinations on the African continent.