ILTM Africa 2026 returns to Cape Town with its biggest post-pandemic edition yet

ILTM Africa will return to the Norval Foundation from 10–12 April 2026, marking its largest edition since the pandemic and reinforcing its position as a leading platform for African luxury travel.

Bringing together influential luxury travel suppliers and international buyers, the three-day event will host delegates from 32 countries. Organisers say the 2026 programme is designed to foster meaningful business connections through a curated and immersive experience.

“This year, ILTM Africa welcomes international delegates representing 32 countries, reinforcing its role as the leading meeting place for African luxury travel,” said Megan De Jager, Portfolio Director at RX Africa. “We are excited to return to the iconic Norval Foundation, where art, culture and design intersect to create an inspiring backdrop for business-building and igniting long-term partnerships.”

James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth and Tourism in Cape Town, highlighted the importance of hosting ILTM Africa as part of the broader Africa Travel Week programme.

“Events like these showcase the best of our destination — our crafts, cultures, communities and cuisine — the authentic ingredients that make Cape Town such a sought-after place to visit,” Vos said. “Tourism remains a powerful economic driver for our city, supporting nearly 7% of our workforce.”

Immersive, sensory-led programme

Organisers have placed a strong emphasis on experiential travel and African storytelling throughout the event.

Delegates will be welcomed with curated transfers hosted by Jeep Tours and Cape Sidecar Adventures, followed by a live performance from the Isibane se Afrika Choir.

A bespoke scent experience created by Cape Island will be introduced across the venue, reflecting a growing trend in sensory branding within luxury travel.

Wine tourism will also take centre stage, with a dedicated session led by The Wine Tourism Conference, followed by a curated lunch and private cellar experience at Klein Constantia Wine Estate.

Focus on sustainability and African innovation

Sustainability remains a key theme across ILTM Africa 2026. Highlights include an interactive art installation by Painted Wolf Wines, supporting conservation efforts for African wild dogs.

The Africa Luxury Network Chamber of Commerce and Industries will showcase a range of African-led innovations, including Wazawazi, alongside products from Kalahari Truffles, Holy Kow and The Wren Design.

As host destination partner, Cape Town Tourism will use the event to promote the city’s luxury tourism offering and unveil elements of its updated tourism framework, alongside its “This is Cape Town” campaign.

Digital innovation and media expansion

The 2026 edition will also introduce a new event app aimed at improving networking and lead generation for delegates, enabling connections to continue beyond the event itself.

In addition, ILTM Africa plans to expand its media footprint through a new luxury travel publication in collaboration with Voyages Afrique, offering increased exposure for African destinations and products.

Organisers acknowledged a wide range of partners contributing to the event, including NVD Property & Project Management, The Diamond Works, City of Cape Town and the Norval Foundation.

Additional support will be provided by Lift, Paper Aeroplane, Reverie Social Table and Airalo.

“With its strongest post-Covid line-up, a renewed focus on wine tourism, and an immersive celebration of African luxury, ILTM Africa 2026 promises to be a defining moment for how Africa is showcased to the world’s high-end travel community,” De Jager said.