Essence of Africa has announced Zanzibar as the host destination for its 2026 edition, to be held from the 20th to the 22nd of October.
The event to take place on the archipelago floating on the Tanzanian waters of the Indian Ocean is continuing the forum’s rotation across key African tourism hubs.
Essence of Africa has therefore just confirmed that its third edition will be held at Diamonds Bijoux in Zanzibar from 20 to 22 October 2026, following the second edition which was hosted on the Kenyan coast in 2025.
The 2026 edition builds on the outcomes of the previous year’s forum in Malindi, Kenya, where 158 international buyers from 39 countries met with 150 African exhibitors across more than 5,600 pre-scheduled meetings.
The decision to host the 2026 edition in Zanzibar follows increasing international interest in the destination, which recorded a 10 percent rise in international tourist arrivals in December 2025.
As a tropical island located within short flying distance of major safari circuits and adventure hubs, Zanzibar offers buyers the opportunity to assess how diverse African tourism products can be combined into integrated, 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,” said 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,” said 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.”
Curated by On Show Solutions and ATTA Group Events, Essence of Africa continues to focus on facilitating commercially relevant connections between international buyers and African tourism suppliers, supported by destination-led experiences and structured content sessions.