April 21, 2026 / Source: Jornal de Angola
The golden year for the global projection of national tourism continues, and this time it was the readers of Viajes National Geographic who voted Angola as the Best International Destination 2026.
In an article written for Viajes National Geographic in January 2026, titled “Angola, a jewel to be discovered in southwest Africa,” it states that the national territory is a place filled with treasures for travelers, where “authenticity, adventure, rhythm, and hospitality” lead visitors to the most diverse charms of Mother Nature.
This segment, aimed primarily at a Spanish audience, focuses on showcasing landscapes and countries through in-depth reporting and detailed pieces that convince people to want to peer a little further than what is shown in the photos, which are carefully chosen to illustrate such destinations.
This year, there were 98 competing countries divided into 14 categories, which included the selection of the best destinations, hotels, and sustainability projects. Angola captured the readers’ attention and secured an unexpected first place as the Best International Destination.
In turn, the island of Menorca was distinguished as the best sustainable destination, while, for example, the region of A Coruña, in Galicia, was voted as having the best tourism sustainability project.
On social media, JA Online noted the reaction of the Ministry of Tourism, which expressed a “deep sense of pride” over the achievement, stating that it is “recognition of the grandeur of our landscapes and the intangible richness of our culture.”
This award also represents the consecration of a destination that is increasingly “establishing itself” through its “authenticity and the hospitality of its people.”
Furthermore, thanks were extended to the voters, as well as to those who have helped and continue to help promote Angola as a destination of excellence on the global tourism stage.
It is worth noting that this award comes at a time when the tourism sector still faces challenges in meeting local demand and serving the needs of Angolans. Distinctions such as this one can benefit or leverage the progressive reforms that have been taking place recently, with the arrival of international figures such as Speed, Will Smith, the Argentine National Team, Joe Biden, and the most recent in everyone’s memory: the Pope, along with the arrival of cruise ships in Namibe and Luanda, as well as the Rovos Rail trains.
With vast potential for exploration in this field, investing in tourism—as the head of the Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR) stated during the latest “Café Cipra” talk—is still currently done only by those who have passion. However, the objective is that one day this reality will reach the entire population with an offer that is both high-quality and affordable for every budget, he assured.