(Posted 10th February 2026)
Following last year’s successful second edition on the Kenyan
coast, Essence of Africa has announced that its third edition will take place at
Diamonds Bijoux in Zanzibar from 20–22 October 2026, continuing the event’s
journey across Africa’s leading tourism destinations.
The decision to host the 2026 edition in Zanzibar aligns with growing global interest
in the island, which recorded a 10% increase in international tourist arrivals in
December 2025. As a tropical island just a short flight from popular safari circuits and
adventure hubs, Zanzibar offers international buyers the opportunity to explore how
Africa’s varied tourism experiences can be woven into seamless, multi-stop
itineraries.
“After working closely with the Diamonds team in Malindi to deliver an exceptional
experience in 2025, we’re excited to see this collaboration evolve into a true strategic
alliance and to extend the growth of Essence of Africa across the continent,” says
Amanda Margison, Co-Founder of Essence of Africa. “The launch of their new
property in Zanzibar provides a perfect setting for another distinctive destination for
our international buyer forum, and their investment in their people and products
reflects a shared commitment that delivers real value for both buyers and African
exhibitors.”
“Essence of Africa is designed to move across the continent, and bringing the forum
to Zanzibar reflects both the rotational nature of the show and the growing
importance of Africa’s island and coastal destinations,” says Chris Mears, Co-
founder of Essence of Africa. “Zanzibar offers a unique contrast to traditional safari
experiences, combining natural beauty, culture and a strong sense of place in a way
that resonates deeply with international buyers. By hosting Essence of Africa here,
we’re giving the global travel trade the opportunity to experience first-hand how
destinations like Zanzibar elevate and enrich African itineraries.”
Essence of Africa 2026 builds on the success of the previous year’s edition in
Malindi, where 158 international buyers from 39 countries met with 150 African
exhibitors in over 5,600 pre-scheduled meetings.
Curated by On Show Solutions and ATTA® Group Events, the forum continues to
focus on facilitating commercially meaningful connections between buyers and
Africa’s tourism suppliers, supported by immersive destination experiences and in-
depth content sessions.
Registration for exhibitors opens 16 February with favourable early bird rates
available. Interested buyers can review information and apply on the website
https://essenceofafrica.travel/
