Villages in Egypt, Mauritius, Uganda Recognised Among UN’s Best Tourism Villages for 2024
Rural Communities Shaping the Future of Sustainable Travel
The UN Tourism has announced its 55 Best Tourism Villages for 2024 in the fourth edition of their initiative.
Villages from all regions worldwide, including Egypt, Mauritius, and Uganda, were chosen from over 260 applications from more than 60 UN Tourism Member States. Another 20 villages were selected to join the Upgrade Programme.
“Tourism is a vital tool for inclusion, empowering rural communities to protect and value their rich cultural heritage while driving sustainable development,” said UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.
He added, “By leveraging their unique assets, these communities can foster economic growth, promote local traditions, and enhance the quality of life for their residents.”
The initiative, launched in 2021, advances tourism’s role in rural areas, preserving landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and culinary traditions. With its 75 new members, the Best Tourism Villages (BTV) Network now includes 254 villages.
The UN Tourism for Rural Development Programme
The Best Tourism Villages initiative is part of the UN Tourism for Rural Development Programme. According to UN Tourism, the Programme fosters development and inclusion in rural areas, combats depopulation, advances innovation and value chain integration through tourism, and encourages sustainable practices.
The Best Tourism Villages for 2024
Among the 55 recognised villages worldwide, those in the Africa and Indian Ocean Islands region are:
- Abu Ghosoun, Egypt
- Gharb Suhayl, Egypt
- Grand Baie, Mauritius
- Roches Noires, Mauritius
- Ruboni Tourism Village, Uganda
The UN Tourism Board announced that submissions for the fifth edition will open in early 2025, providing a new opportunity for rural destinations to showcase their inspiring initiatives and gain global recognition as champions of rural development.
