ATTA names Angola as one of 'Africa's Top Destinations to watch in 2026'

Recognition from Africa's leading tourism association follows strong industry interest at Experience Africa event in London

Angola has been recognised as one of Africa's leading destinations to watch in 2026 by the African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA), the continent's largest tourism trade association, in its newly released Africa Travel Trends Report 2026.

The report highlights Angola alongside Algeria as one of the most exciting emerging destinations on the continent, citing major infrastructure investment, improved accessibility, visa reforms, cultural richness and growing demand from travellers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-track experiences.

According to ATTA, cultural immersion, heritage storytelling, conservation-led experiences and slower, more meaningful journeys are among the key trends shaping travel to Africa in the coming year. These trends align closely with Angola's tourism offering, from the ancient Kingdom of Kongo and UNESCO World Heritage Site of M'banza Kongo to the dramatic landscapes of Iona National Park, Kalandula Falls, traditional tribal cultures and growing conservation initiatives across the country.

ATTA describes Angola as "Africa's rising star", highlighting the country's new international airport near Luanda, visa-free access for visitors from 98 countries, improved international air connectivity and growing investment from international hotel brands. The report also notes Angola's remarkable natural attractions, including Kalandula Falls, ancient rock art in the Namib Desert and recovering wildlife populations in Iona and Kissama National Parks.

The recognition comes during a week of growing international attention for Angola at Experience Africa in London, the UK's leading Africa-focused travel trade and media event. Across three days, Angola Tourism held more than 40 scheduled meetings with tour operators, travel advisors and media, alongside numerous networking appointments and industry discussions.

Angola also featured prominently during a panel discussion exploring emerging destinations in Africa beyond the traditional safari circuit. Representing Angola Tourism, Tim Henshall, UK Director of KLEBER GROUP, joined industry leaders to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing emerging destinations, with Angola repeatedly referenced as one of Africa's most exciting new tourism frontiers.

The strong interest shown by both trade and media at Experience Africa reflects the growing momentum behind Angola's tourism sector and supports ATTA's assessment that the country is becoming one of the destinations to watch in the coming year.

Tim Henshall, UK Director for KLEBER GROUP representing Angola Tourism, said:

"To be recognised by ATTA as one of Africa's destinations to watch in 2026 is a significant endorsement of the work Angola has undertaken to develop a sustainable and internationally competitive tourism sector.

"We are seeing growing interest from travellers looking for authentic experiences, meaningful cultural connections and destinations that remain largely undiscovered. Angola offers all of this and more. From spectacular landscapes and rich heritage to welcoming people and growing tourism infrastructure, we are proud to be opening a new chapter for tourism in Angola."

ATTA's report also highlights the growing demand for conservation-led tourism and authentic wildlife experiences that move beyond traditional safari models. Angola is increasingly well positioned to benefit from this trend through ongoing conservation initiatives and wildlife recovery programmes in key protected areas.

The country has invested heavily in tourism infrastructure in recent years, including the opening of the new Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport, expanded visa-free access, improved air connectivity and a growing portfolio of accommodation and tourism experiences. These developments are helping to position Angola as one of Africa's most compelling destinations for adventurous and culturally curious travellers.

As Angola continues to open its doors to the world, recognition from ATTA reinforces the country's emergence as one of Africa's most exciting new travel destinations and a place where visitors can still experience the spirit of genuine discovery.

For further information on Angola's tourism offering, visit www.angolatourism.com

ENDS

About Angola

Angola is Africa's magnificent secret, a country of jaw-dropping contrasts and untamed beauty in the heart of Southern Africa. As the continent's sixth-largest nation, Angola dazzles with landscapes that shift from lush rainforests to dramatic desert expanses, from thundering waterfalls to 1,600 kilometres of pristine Atlantic coastline. This is a land shaped by powerful kingdoms and complex history, where the ancient Kingdom of Kongo once held sway and Portuguese colonial influence left an indelible mark.

The capital, Luanda, is a dynamic Atlantic gateway where African vitality, Portuguese heritage and indigenous traditions create an intoxicating urban energy. With its tourism brand, "Visit Angola – The Rhythm of Life", the destination calls to explorers, nature enthusiasts and culture seekers who refuse to follow the crowd.

For more information visit www.angolatourism.com

Start planning your journey, visit www.angolatourism.com

Link to images of Angola here

Press Contacts

Adele Cutler, PR ManagerE-mail: adele.cutler@klebergroup.comTel: +44 7976 578988

Tim Henshall, UK DirectorE-mail: tim.henshall@klebergroup.comTel: +44 7810 508791