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    Dates

    7–9 Apr 2027

    City / country

    Cape Town, South Africa

    Venue

    Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)

    Time

    10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

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    Event overview

    Overview

    WTM Africa 2027 will take place from April 7 to 9 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

    This premier event brings together industry leaders and innovators in travel and tourism, showcasing the latest trends and opportunities in the sector.

    TL;DR

    1. 1Event Dates: April 7-9, 2027
    2. 2Location: Cape Town International Convention Centre
    3. 3Focus on travel and tourism industry trends
    4. 4Networking opportunities with global leaders
    5. 5Exhibitor participation from diverse sectors

    Why visit

    Attendees will gain valuable insights into the latest trends in travel and tourism, network with industry leaders, and discover new business opportunities.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibitors will have the chance to showcase their products and services to a targeted audience, gain visibility in the market, and connect with potential buyers and partners. WTM Africa serves as a crucial platform for industry professionals to connect, share insights, and explore new business opportunities. It highlights the importance of the African travel market on a global scale.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Travel agents and tour operators
    Destination marketing organizations
    Hospitality and accommodation providers
    Travel technology companies
    Government tourism officials
    Media and press representatives

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Tourism boards and destination marketers
    Travel service providers
    Hospitality brands and hotels
    Travel technology solutions
    Transport and logistics companies
    Sustainable tourism initiatives

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Travel and tourism services
    Accommodation and hospitality solutions
    Travel technology and innovations
    Transport and logistics services
    Sustainable travel products
    Cultural and adventure tourism experiences

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)

    Cape Town, South Africa

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    10:00 AM –6:00 PM on April 7 – 8, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM on April 9
    Register

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Reed Exhibitions Limited

    RX

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2027

    Forecast — not final

    Visitors

    6,000

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    WTM Africa 2027 will take place from April 7 to 9 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. This premier event brings together industry leaders and innovators in travel and tourism, showcasing the latest trends and opportunities in the sector. WTM Africa serves as a crucial platform for industry professionals to connect, share insights, and explore new business opportunities. It highlights the importance of the African travel market on a global scale..

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    Visitors typically include Travel agents and tour operators, Destination marketing organizations, Hospitality and accommodation providers, Travel technology companies. Event Dates: April 7-9, 2027. Location: Cape Town International Convention Centre. Focus on travel and tourism industry trends. Networking opportunities with global leaders. World Travel Market - WTM Africa attracts an audience aligned with the organiser's published visitor positioning.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitors will have the chance to showcase their products and services to a targeted audience, gain visibility in the market, and connect with potential buyers and partners. The event offers a unique opportunity to engage with key stakeholders in the industry. Networking opportunities with global leaders. Exhibitor participation from diverse sectors. WTM Africa serves as a crucial platform for industry professionals to connect, share insights, and explore new business. Exhibitor categories include Tourism boards.

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    Sub-Saharan Africa — Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa (CTICC and V&A Waterfront precinct)

    Why it matters

    WTM Africa is the continent's leading B2B inbound and outbound travel trade event, run by RX (Reed Exhibitions) at the CTICC in Cape Town. It concentrates African tourism boards, hotels, lodges, DMCs, airlines and tech suppliers in one hall and feeds them to international buyers from Europe, the Americas, the Gulf and Asia — the same audience served by WTM London but with an Africa-only product focus. Its co-location with ILTM Africa adds a high-value luxury layer, while Cape Town's role as the continent's most connected leisure gateway makes the show a practical springboard for testing African itineraries before the northern-hemisphere selling season.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Digital buyer journeys

    Professionals expect pre-show agendas, product finders, and meeting tools; suppliers align demos and literature to short on-stand decision cycles.

    02

    Sustainability in procurement

    Energy use, recyclable materials, and carbon reporting increasingly appear in RFPs and exhibitor scorecards across industrial trade fairs.

    03

    Automation and labour efficiency

    Visitors benchmark machinery, software, and services that reduce downtime, staffing pressure, and total cost of ownership.

    04

    Regional supply-chain resilience

    Buyers diversify suppliers across Europe, MENA, and Asia while favouring vendors with local service, spare parts, and training.

    05

    Hybrid engagement models

    Live demonstrations remain decisive, but follow-up webinars, digital catalogues, and year-round supplier portals extend the commercial window after the show.

    Global and African travel trade circuit around WTM Africa

    Plan the circuit 6–9 months ahead: contract space for spring shows in Q3–Q4 of the preceding year and lock buyer appointments 4–8 weeks before each event.

    WTM Africa sits in a crowded annual trade calendar: northern-hemisphere shows set the buying agenda early in the year, WTM Africa anchors the African sourcing season in April, and the autumn shows close contracts for the following season.

    January–March

    Northern-hemisphere buying season opens (FITUR, ITB Berlin) — set annual contracts and product lines.

    April–May

    African sourcing season: WTM Africa at the CTICC followed by Africa's Travel Indaba in Durban.

    November

    WTM London closes the loop with global buyers and finalises next-season agreements.

    Peer events selected from the global travel trade circuit around WTM Africa's April slot; verify dates and stand availability on each organiser's site.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    Budget
    City Bowl / Lower Long Street — 5–15 min walk to CTICC

    USD 70–120 / night

    Compact business hotels within walking distance of the CTICC; rates rise during show week — book 6–8 weeks out.

    source
    Mid-range
    Foreshore / V&A Waterfront — 10–25 min walk or short taxi to CTICC

    USD 130–220 / night

    Most show-week delegates stay in the Waterfront/City Bowl belt; breakfast-inclusive rates are common.

    source
    Premium
    Waterfront / CTICC precinct — adjoining or under 15 min walk

    USD 250–450 / night

    The Westin is directly connected to the CTICC convention precinct — the most convenient option for exhibitors and media.

    source

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    rental_car

    Estimated costZAR 400–800 per day (approx. USD 22–45) plus fuel
    Best forAirport pick-up to CTICC / city hotels

    Rental desks are at the airport terminal; CTICC has basement parking — confirm daily rates with the venue.

    public_transit

    Estimated costZAR 11–30 per trip (approx. USD 0.60–1.70) with a myconnect card
    Best forMyCiTi bus — Airport/Civic Centre routes to the Foreshore and Waterfront

    MyCiTi is reliable in the City Bowl/Waterfront corridor; a card can be bought at station kiosks. Not ideal for luggage-heavy arrivals.

    shuttle

    Estimated costFree–ZAR 150 per trip (approx. USD 0–8)
    Best forHotel shuttle / CTICC delegate shuttle (V&A Waterfront hotels)

    Several Waterfront hotels run complimentary shuttles to the CTICC during major trade shows; check with your hotel at booking.

    walking

    Estimated costFree
    Best forV&A Waterfront and Foreshore hotels to CTICC

    The CTICC is a 10–20 minute walk from most Waterfront and Foreshore hotels; the precinct is guarded and busy during show days.

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa required
    ATA Carnet: check with organiser
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    Visa-exempt entry (visa-free)Passport holders of visa-exempt countries (typically UK, US, most EU states, Australia, Canada, Brazil, Japan and many SADC states) visiting for business meetings or tourism up to 90 daysNot yet confirmedNo advance application — status granted at port of entry
    Visitor's Visa (Section 11(1)(b))Nationals of countries not on the South African visa-exempt list travelling for tourism or business meetings/conference attendance$23.00Typically 10–20 working days at a South African mission; allow 4–6 weeks in peak periods
    Conference/business visitor documentationVisa-required nationals attending WTM Africa as buyers, exhibitors or media$23.00Same as the visitor's visa (10–20 working days)

    A large share of WTM Africa's international buyers (UK, US, most of the EU, Australia and most SADC states) travel visa-free for business meetings up to 90 days — check the Home Affairs visa-exempt list for your passport.

    South Africa does not routinely accept ATA carnets; exhibitors shipping stand materials should use a customs broker and a temporary import permit arranged through the organiser's freight partner.

    Official visa page

    Weather

    April is Cape Town's autumn shoulder: daytime highs of about 22–24 °C and night-time lows of 11–14 °C, with roughly 40–50 mm of rain spread over 7–8 wet days as the winter rainfall season starts. Days often begin cloudy and clear by afternoon, but the Table Mountain south-easter can make it feel cooler on the Waterfront — pack layers and a light rain jacket.

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    Confirm mobile roaming or local SIM options for business visitors to South Africa.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary: 10–15% in restaurants, around ZAR 10–20 for bar staff and car guards, and 10% for taxi/rideshare drivers. Check whether a service charge is already on the bill.

    Business etiquette

    South African business culture is relatively informal and relationship-driven — a firm handshake, first names and small talk before the meeting are normal. Punctuality matters for scheduled meetings but build buffer time for Cape Town traffic.

    Dress and safety

    Smart-casual business dress is standard on the CTICC floor; evenings in the Waterfront are smart-casual. Use metered taxis or rideshare after dark, avoid displaying valuables in the City Bowl, and walk only in well-lit, busy precincts.

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: PVG

    Compare flights to the nearest international gateway serving Cape Town; confirm ground transport on the organiser site.

    Visa

    Most WTM Africa trade visitors (UK, US, most EU states, Australia, Canada and most SADC countries) enter South Africa visa-free for business meetings of up to 90 days with a passport valid at least 30 days beyond departure and two blank pages. Nationalities not on the visa-exempt list need a Visitor's Visa (approx. ZAR 425 / USD 23, typically 10–20 working days) and should carry an organiser invitation letter, hotel confirmation and return ticket. Confirm current rules with South African Home Affairs before booking.

    Estimated cost: Varies by visa type and nationality (check official site).

    Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.

    Passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond departure and contain at least two blank pages; return/onward ticket and proof of accommodation are commonly requested. Business meetings are permitted on a visa-free visitor entry; paid work is not. Approx. equivalent of the published ZAR 425 visitor's visa fee — confirm the current fee and biometric requirements with your nearest South African m

    Official

    Hotels

    Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

    Areas to stay

    City Bowl / Lower Long Street — 5–15 min walk to CTICC · Foreshore / V&A Waterfront — 10–25 min walk or short taxi to CTICC · Waterfront / CTICC precinct — adjoining or under 15 min walk

    budget

    $70-$120 USD/night

    Book

    mid range

    $130-$220 USD/night

    Book

    premium

    $250-$450 USD/night

    Book

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: Primary gateways: PVG Airport (PVG); SHA Airport (SHA). Allow road or rail time to Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC); on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.

    Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC): City Bowl / Lower Long Street — 5–15 min walk to CTICC: Hotel Sky Cape Town (Lower Long St), Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town Lodge Hotel; Foreshore / V&A Waterfront — 10–25 min walk or short taxi to CTICC: Southern Sun Cape Sun, Protea Hotel Cape Town North Wharf, City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront; Waterfront / CTICC precinct — adjoining or under 15 min walk: The Westin Cape Town (adjoins CTICC), Radisson

    Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Cape Town; confirm local availability before travel.

    Public transit: Check local bus/metro options for routes to Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

    Parking: On-site parking is available at Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC); confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: April 2027

    Temperature: 11–24 °C (daytime highs 22–24 °C, night lows 11–14 °C)

    Seasonality: Autumn shoulder season — winter rains begin returning in April with roughly 40–50 mm across 7–8 wet days; mornings often cloudy, afternoons frequently clear.

    Packing: April is Cape Town's autumn shoulder: daytime highs of about 22–24 °C and night-time lows of 11–14 °C, with roughly 40–50 mm of rain spread over 7–8 wet days as the winter rainfall season starts. Days often begin cloudy and clear by afternoon, but the Table Mountain south-easter can make it feel coo

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    Best day for qualified buyer meetings: Day 2 — Thursday 8 April 2027

    Day 2 is the show's peak: the exhibition floor, conference programme and pre-scheduled buyer meetings all run at full density, while opening day (7 April) is partly consumed by registration, keynotes and aisle orientation, and the final day (9 April) typically thins out after midday as exhibitors begin packing. If you can only attend one full day, target 8 April and pre-book meetings two to three weeks in advance.

    Networking spots

    3

    CTICC exhibition floor and buyer lounges

    Show Venue

    Highest density of decision-makers during show hours; carry cards and a one-page product sheet.

     

    V&A Waterfront (5–15 min walk from CTICC)

    Dining and Bar Precinct

    Book restaurants in show week well ahead; the Waterfront is walkable and safe into the evening.

     

    Hotel bars in the CTICC/Foreshore precinct (e.g. Westin and Radisson Blu Waterfront)

    Hotel Business Lounges

    Several hotels run delegate happy hours during WTM Africa week — check the show programme for official receptions.

     

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    visitor_ticket

    visitor · trade (pre-registered)

    Not yet confirmed

    forecast

    hotel_night

    visitor · budget

    USD 70–120 / per night

    estimate

    hotel_night

    visitor · mid-range

    USD 130–220 / per night

    estimate

    hotel_night

    exhibitor · premium

    USD 250–450 / per night

    estimate

    per_diem

    visitor · standard

    USD 60–90 / per day

    estimate

    ground_transport

    visitor · standard

    USD 15–30 / per day

    estimate

    visa_fee

    visitor · visa-required nationalities

    USD 23 / per application

    estimate

    visa_fee

    visitor · Visitor's Visa (Section 11(1)(b))

    USD 23 / per application

    official

    visa_fee

    visitor · Conference/business visitor documentation

    USD 23 / per application

    official

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Pick the closest answer for each. Your recommendation updates live.

    QUESTION 1 OF 6

    What is your primary role?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    You want to source African product or test the market, can hold 15+ supplier meetings across two days, and want to keep spend under roughly USD 600 per attendee.

    Best for

    Travel trade buyers, tour operators, DMCs, hotels and media who want supplier meetings and market insight without stand spend

    Min. budget

    $525.00

    Timeline

    4–8 weeks out: register for a trade badge, book CPT flights and CTICC-area hotels early (April is shoulder season and show week sells out)

    Risks

    Budget estimate from listing cost signals — confirm live rates.

    Trade badge approval depends on qualifying trade credentials.

    Waterfront/Foreshore hotels near the CTICC rise in price and sell out during show week.

    Cape Town flight capacity from some source markets is seasonal — book early.

    exhibit

    You have a distributable product, 30+ target buyer meetings and can fund a small stand plus staff travel and accommodation.

    Best for

    African and international suppliers, hotels, DMCs, tourism boards and tech vendors selling into the trade with a diary of pre-booked buyer appointments

    Min. budget

    $2,200.00

    Timeline

    4–6 months: contract space with RX, then 3–4 months for stand design, freight and staff travel logistics

    Risks

    Budget estimate from listing cost signals — confirm live rates.

    Stand build, freight, customs clearance and second-staff travel push real cost well above the entry budget.

    Returns depend on pre-booked buyer meetings — build the appointment diary before the show.

    Late space booking limits hall position and buyer footfall.

    skip

    Product, budget or target markets do not align with Africa's inbound/outbound trade — monitor the organiser's post-show reports and revisit for a later edition.

    Best for

    Suppliers with no African or outbound trade distribution plans for the 2027 season, or teams whose budget is committed elsewhere

    Min. budget

    Not yet confirmed

    Timeline

    No commitment required

    Risks

    No major risks listed.

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    Exhibitor
    A company or individual that displays products or services at the event.
    2
    Visitor
    An individual attending the event to explore products and services.
    3
    Networking
    The act of meeting and connecting with other professionals in the industry.
    4
    Sustainability
    Practices that promote environmental conservation and responsible tourism.
    5
    Travel Technology
    Innovative solutions and tools that enhance travel experiences.
    6
    Tourism Board
    An organization responsible for promoting a destination's tourism.

    Trust footer

    Sources

    5

    References

    1

    Publishers

    0

    Date checked

    1

    WTM Africa

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