Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) has been crowned Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction 2025 at the prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA) — an international recognition that cements its status as one of the most extraordinary travel destinations in the world.
“We are delighted and deeply inspired by this recognition,” said Abdul-razaq Badru, Conservation Commissioner of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA). “This award inspires us to work even harder and more passionately to protect and maintain the outstanding site's unique global status. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who voted for us; your support has truly made this possible.”
This marks the second time Ngorongoro has received this honor, having previously won it in 2023. Located in northern Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area remains the only site in the world with three UNESCO designations: a Mixed World Heritage Site, a Biosphere Reserve, and a Global Geopark.
Renowned for its rich biodiversity and geological significance, Ngorongoro is home to the Big Five — rhino, lion, elephant, buffalo, and leopard — and offers a rare opportunity to view all five in harmony, often within a single day.
“The area also features world-renowned historical attractions such as the Olduvai Gorge, where the skull of early man 'Zinjanthropus' was discovered, and the Laetoli footprints, the oldest known human footprints dating back over 3.7 million years,” said Mariam Kobelo, Senior Assistant Commissioner for Tourism and Marketing at NCAA.
She further highlighted Ngorongoro's other natural and cultural treasures, including Mount Lolmalasin, Tanzania’s third-highest peak; migrating sand dunes; the Ndutu plains, the birthing grounds for the Great Wildebeest Migration; Endoro waterfalls; ancient elephant caves; and the northern highland forests, which serve as vital wildlife habitats and water sources for the districts of Karatu, Monduli, and Ngorongoro.
Ngorongoro’s recognition comes during a historic year for Tanzania, which won an unprecedented 27 out of 60 awards presented at the 2025 World Travel Awards, hosted in Tanzania for the first time since the awards’ inception in 1993.
“This award, and others we have proudly won, remain a testament to our beloved president's courageous and compassionate leadership,” said Ambassador Dr. Pindi Hazara Chana, Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism. “She has been an influential voice for conservation, tourism, and national development. As a ministry and a country, we remain committed to maintaining these accomplishments for the sake of present and future generations.”
This collective success is largely attributed to the strategic leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has redefined Tanzania’s image on the global stage. Her initiatives include the launch of internationally acclaimed films such as “Tanzania: The Royal Tour” and “Amazing Tanzania”, boosting budgetary support for the tourism sector, improving infrastructure across conservation areas, and promoting a favorable environment for tourism investment.
“We believe this achievement will not only attract more tourists but also stimulate investment and promote long-term conservation efforts,” added Abdul-razaq Badru. “We are honored to showcase Ngorongoro as a global treasure for humanity.”
Tanzania Sets a New Record at the 2025 World Travel Awards
Tanzania has made history by winning a total of 27 out of 60 awards at the World Travel Awards (WTA) 2025, marking the highest number of accolades the country has ever received. The awards ceremony was held in Tanzania for the first time since the WTA was established in 1993.
In this landmark victory:
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The government sector secured 11 awards, including top honors for the best tourist attractions, Africa’s Leading Tourism Board, Africa’s Leading Safari Destination, and Africa’s Leading Airport.
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The private sector claimed 16 awards, highlighting excellence among safari companies, hotels with outstanding service, and premier beach resorts attracting visitors from around the globe.
These historic achievements were made possible through the strong and visionary leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose initiatives have elevated Tanzania’s international tourism profile. Her contributions include launching The Royal Tour documentary to showcase the country’s attractions worldwide, increasing the tourism sector budget, upgrading infrastructure in protected areas, and fostering a friendly environment for investors.
This wave of success has affirmed Tanzania’s status as a tourism hub for Africa and the world, with a clear vision for promoting sustainable tourism that benefits local communities and strengthens national economic growth.
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