Angola to take centre stage as Host Country of ITB Berlin 2026 - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Angola, the official Host Country of ITB Berlin 2026, will move into the spotlight of the international travel industry from 3 to 5 March. Under the slogan “Visit Angola – The Rhythm of Life”, the southwest African nation is presenting itself as a destination defined by striking landscapes, a rich cultural heritage and a long-term vision for responsible tourism development. The host country programme begins on 2 March with the opening press conference and the opening gala.

Angola’s presentation at the World’s Leading Travel Trade Show centres on the country’s diverse natural settings. From the Kalandula Falls and the Tundavala Gap to the dunes of the Namib Desert and the Atlantic coastline, the country combines dramatic scenery with largely untouched environments. Alongside nature, music and dance play a defining role. Genres such as kizomba, semba and kuduro reflect Angola’s contemporary cultural identity and creative energy.

“With Angola as the Host Country of ITB Berlin 2026, a hidden gem will suddenly be in the international spotlight,” said Deborah Rothe, Director of ITB Berlin. “We are delighted to offer the country a prominent stage where participants can experience Angola’s rhythm, natural beauty, cultural diversity and hospitality.”

Julia Kleber, CEO of the KLEBER Group and official representative of the Angola Tourism Board, emphasised the significance of the appearance. “It is a great pleasure and honour to present Angola at the World’s Leading B2B Travel Trade Show. We are proud to represent Angola and further strengthen its visibility as an authentic destination in international tourism.”

Opening events mark start of host country programme

Angola’s host country presence officially begins on 2 March. At 10 a.m., the opening press conference of ITB Berlin will take place at CityCube Berlin (Hall A3). H.E. Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel, Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Angola, will outline the country’s tourism strategy and objectives.

The evening will feature the opening gala at CityCube Berlin. Approximately 700 invited guests from politics, tourism, media and international institutions are expected. The programme combines multimedia staging with culinary elements and live performances. Angolan music ensembles and traditional kizomba dancers will present interpretations ranging from classical compositions to modern sounds, blending traditional percussion instruments with contemporary arrangements.

3 March: Official opening and media focus

The trade show programme begins on 3 March with the opening tour and ribbon cutting ceremony at the Angola stand (Hall 21, Stand 112). Representatives from politics and the tourism industry will formally open the host country’s exhibition presence.

From 2 to 3 p.m., the official Visit Angola press conference will be held at CityCube Berlin (Hall A1). Minister Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel will present Angola’s positioning as a tourism destination and provide insights into the country’s long-term development strategy. A Q&A session will follow.

Angola will also participate in the ITB Berlin Convention. Together with representatives from UN Tourism and the WTTC, the country will join the Global Roundtable session “Leading Tourism into Balance” at 3.35 p.m. in Hall 7.1a (Orange Stage).

4 March: Angola Night

On the evening of 4 March, the host country invites trade visitors to Angola Night at the exhibition stand. Guests will be offered Angolan finger food, signature drinks and live cultural performances. A speech by Minister Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel will accompany the evening programme.

5 March: B2B speed dating

On 5 March, the Angola stand will host B2B speed dating sessions with Angolan DMCs and tourism partners from the German-speaking market. Participating stakeholders include DMCs, hotels, national parks and TAAG Angola Airlines. The format is designed to facilitate direct exchange between Angolan suppliers and international buyers.

Live broadcasting and interactive cultural formats

Throughout the three exhibition days, an Angola-branded TV studio on the stand will serve as a platform for interviews, discussions and live recordings. Studio content will be produced and distributed via digital and social media channels, providing continuous updates and background coverage.

In addition, daily kizomba workshops will invite visitors to engage directly with Angolan dance culture. The sessions offer short introductions to rhythm and movement, creating an experiential link between cultural presentation and audience participation.

Image Credit: Muila tribe © Robert Haidinger, Angola Tourism Board