Shining the light on the best in Eastern Cape Tourism

Kouga – Kouga Local Municipality is proud to be the naming partner of the first-ever Eastern Cape Tourism Awards and Expo (ECTA) – a prestigious event set to celebrate excellence, innovation, and economic growth within the province’s thriving tourism sector.

Scheduled to take place from 25 to 27 September 2025, the event will recognise outstanding businesses, individuals, and destinations that contribute to making the Eastern Cape a premier tourism hotspot.

The expo will also serve as a dynamic business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) platform, fostering connections, collaborations, and investment in the industry.

Elevating the Eastern Cape as a top tourism destination

“The Eastern Cape is home to world-class attractions, and it is time we showcase the incredible people and businesses driving our tourism success,” said Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman.

“This event is not just about recognition – it is about positioning the Eastern Cape as a leading destination for both business and leisure tourism, boosting investment, increasing visitor numbers, and ensuring that our industry continues to thrive.”

The 2025 Eastern Cape Tourism Awards and Expo categories have been thoughtfully curated to ensure inclusivity, relevance, and alignment with the province’s diverse tourism landscape. The awards will spotlight innovation, service excellence, and impactful contributions, ensuring that businesses of all sizes receive well-deserved recognition.

Award Categories:

Accommodation Excellence

• Best Hotel or Resort
• Best Guesthouse, B&B, or Lodge
• Best Backpacker or Camping Grounds
• Best Homestay Experience

Tourist Attraction

• Exceptional Safari & Game Park Experience
• Ultimate Adventure Attraction
• Unique Agri-Tourism Experience
• Iconic Cultural & Heritage Experience

Tourism Excellence

• Outstanding Culinary Experience & Restaurants
• Digital Tourism Influencer of the Year
• Sustainable Tourism Award
• Tour Operator of the Year

MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Industry

• Premier Conference & Events Venue
• Event & Conference Organiser of the Year

Future Leaders in Tourism

• Recognising young professionals (35 and under) who are shaping the future of the industry

Tourism businesses across the Eastern Cape are encouraged to participate - whether by entering the awards, attending the expo, or both.

Nominations open on 1 March 2025 and close on 15 April 2025, with businesses able to self-nominate or be nominated by others.

As the Eastern Cape Tourism Awards & Expo prepares to take its place as a must-attend event on the tourism calendar, the region is ready to step into the spotlight and showcase the unforgettable experiences it has to offer.

Nominate a deserving candidate today b following the link at
https://tinyurl.com/ECTA2025.