Uganda Wins The Best In Show- Africa 2026 Award

NEW YORK, USA – In a significant boost for African tourism, Uganda has been crowned the winner of the prestigious “Best in Show – Africa” award at the 2026 Travel & Adventure Show held at the Javits Convention Center.

The award, announced this week, recognizes Uganda’s immersive and vibrant showcase that captivated thousands of American travelers and industry experts. As North America’s largest consumer travel event, featuring over 600 exhibitors and 20,000 attendees, the show serves as the premier gateway for international destinations to reach the U.S. market.

Why Uganda Stole the Spotlight

The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), in collaboration with the Ugandan Embassy in Washington, D.C., and the Permanent Mission in New York, presented an experiential booth that stood out among hundreds of global competitors. Key highlights that secured the win included:

• Immersive Gorilla Experiences: Virtual reality tours that transported visitors to the lush, mist-covered Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
• A Taste of the Pearl: Live tastings of premium Ugandan Arabica coffee and the world-renowned “Uganda Waragi,” offering a literal flavor of the country’s hospitality.
• Cultural Connection: Direct engagement with travel experts who highlighted the country’s 50+ tribes, showcasing a rich tapestry of music, dance, and storytelling.

“This recognition celebrates Uganda’s immersive and experiential showcase, brought to life through our rich culture and warm hospitality,” stated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Beyond the Award: Why 2026 is the Year for Uganda

The “Best in Show” win comes at a time when Uganda is being hailed by major travel publications as a top global destination. Beyond the trade show floor, the “Pearl of Africa” offers experiences that are increasingly rare in the modern world:

1. The Primate Capital: Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and boasts the highest density of primates in Africa, including the famous chimpanzees of Kibale Forest.
2. Diverse Landscapes: From the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains (the “Mountains of the Moon”) to the thunderous Murchison Falls, where the world’s longest river—the Nile—squeezes through a 7-meter gap.
3. Adventure Reimagined: For the adrenaline seeker, Jinja remains the adventure capital of East Africa, offering world-class white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and quad biking along the Nile.
4. Sustainable & Ethical Travel: Uganda’s 2026 tourism strategy focuses on “High-Value, Low-Impact” travel, ensuring that your visit directly contributes to gorilla conservation and community empowerment.

Plan Your Award-Winning Journey

With Uganda’s tourism profile at an all-time high, travelers from the USA and across the globe are encouraged to move beyond the “packaged tour” and explore the country at their own pace.

The Secret to a Perfect Safari: Rent a Car and Driver

The best way to experience the hidden gems of Uganda—from the remote tree-climbing lions of Ishasha to the serene craters of Fort Portal—is by road. To ensure a seamless, safe, and authentic experience, we recommend Rent A Driver Uganda.

By hiring a professional local driver, you gain more than just a chauffeur; you gain a guide who understands the local terrain, the best bird-watching spots, and the quickest routes through the countryside.

• Reliable Fleet: Choose from rugged 4×4 SUVs, Safari Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs, and comfortable Coaster buses for groups.
• Safety First: Expert, licensed drivers who handle the “African massage” (the bumpy roads) with ease.
• Freedom to Explore: No rigid schedules—stop whenever you see a breathtaking view or a local market that catches your eye.

Planning to visit Uganda from USA or any other destination and would love to travel privately- we at Rent A Driver Uganda will be more than happy to offer you our services. Simply contact us now by sending an email to info@rentadriveruganda.com or call us now on +256-700135510 to speak with the reservations team.