What an energising and inspiring experience at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025! Held from 13–15 May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, this leading trade show brought together Africa’s top tourism stakeholders from across the continent to connect, collaborate, and champion a shared vision for tourism.

CapeNature was proud to attend this dynamic three-day gathering, contributing to powerful conversations around tourism, conservation, and sustainable travel.

Since its humble beginnings in 1986 with just 166 exhibitors, Africa’s Travel Indaba has grown into one of the continent’s most influential tourism showcases. This year’s event attracted thousands of role-players — from regional tourism boards to international buyers — all united in their commitment to positioning Africa as a leading global travel destination.

A Continental Collaboration for Conservation

CapeNature joined like-minded partners in promoting tourism that supports biodiversity, education, and community upliftment. The event featured a diverse range of exhibitors across multiple categories and interests:

• Provincial tourism authorities, regional product owners, and national tourism boards from across Africa.

• SMMEs were featured under the “Hidden Gems” initiative, highlighting innovative and authentic experiences from emerging tourism entrepreneurs.

• Media outlets, industry associations, and support organisations shared insights and amplified sector growth.

• Outdoor exhibits presenting safari operators, transport services, adventure tourism, and camping experiences.

This rich mix of voices created the ideal environment for CapeNature to engage with both established players and new innovators — exchanging ideas, building partnerships, and promoting sustainable tourism.

Meaningful Engagements & Strategic Partnerships

CapeNature’s team received a warm welcome upon arrival, setting the tone for three days of vibrant engagement. Sharing an exhibition space with Wesgro, and exhibiting alongside the Weskus Municipality, the energy at the event was electric — from the bustling of exhibitors queuing for personalised name tags to the spontaneous networking that followed.

During the event, CapeNature had the pleasure of connecting with a wide range of tour operators and industry professionals, including Cape Town Destination Management Company, Vibrant Experiences, Umfulana, and Ananzi Marketing, among many others.

Each interaction reinforced the value of collaboration in advancing sustainable tourism — and underscored the appetite for eco-friendly, conservation-driven travel experiences in the Western Cape.

A key highlight was meeting Dr Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Provincial Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism. His visit accentuated CapeNature’s important role in supporting the Province’s economic and environmental objectives.

Culture, Cuisine & Connections

Africa’s Travel Indaba wasn’t just about business — it was a celebration of African culture, creativity, and culinary diversity. Traditional music and dance performances filled the venue with spirit, while local food trucks offered authentic tastes from across the continent, adding a festive flair to the formal programme.

The final day was especially memorable, with large crowds visiting the CapeNature stand. Interest in our Travel Trade Programme peaked as tour operators and buyers explored the unique, eco-friendly travel experiences we offer across the Western Cape.

Learn more about our Travel Trade Programme and how to get involved here: CapeNature Travel Trade Programme.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on the connections made and momentum gained at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025, CapeNature remains committed to advancing sustainable tourism. We are excited to grow our partnerships, amplify the voices of community-based tourism entrepreneurs, and continue offering visitors immersive experiences that promote biodiversity conservation and contribute to sustainable tourism.

Watch the Recap Here: