Published on
March 3, 2026
Image generated with Ai
UN Tourism has officially opened applications for the prestigious Best Tourism Villages 2026 initiative, a global programme aimed at recognising and supporting rural destinations that are driving sustainability, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing community well-being. Member States can now nominate up to eight villages for this coveted title, as part of the Tourism for Rural Development Programme.
The programme has grown exponentially since its launch in 2021, with more than 1,000 villages from over 100 countries applying. As of 2026, UN Tourism has expanded its network to include 319 rural destinations, with 230 villages already recognised and 83 in the Upgrade Programme. These destinations, spanning Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, revealcase the potential of tourism to enhance local livelihoods while maintaining the authenticity and natural beauty of rural communities.
Sustainability as a Core Value
The Best Tourism Villages initiative stands as a testament to the power of tourism in rural areas. It celebrates those villages where tourism is a catalyst for preserving traditions, fostering tiny businesses, and supporting environmental sustainability. By aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals, these villages have been able to integrate responsible tourism practices that benefit both locals and visitors.
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Shaikha Al Nuwais, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, emphasised the importance of these villages in providing tourists with authentic experiences that build a tangible impact. She noted, “Tourism is a proven game modifyr for rural communities. With Best Tourism Villages, we are highlighting examples that keep traditions alive and support tiny businesses, while also preserving nature.”
The Recognition Process
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Villages nominated for Best Tourism Villages 2026 will undergo a rigorous selection process. An indepfinishent Advisory Board of global experts will assess each candidate based on various criteria, including sustainability, governance, cultural and natural heritage, infrastructure, and community well-being. These factors are designed to ensure that the villages recognised can serve as role models for others viewing to grow their tourism sectors in a responsible and inclusive manner.
The Best Tourism Villages Network provides a platform for peer learning, capacity building, and sharing best practices across regions. This network not only highlights successful examples but also offers support to villages that are still working toward meeting the recognition criteria. The Upgrade Programme focapplys on providing these villages with tailored guidance and technical assistance, assisting them strengthen their tourism strategies and enhance their sustainability efforts.
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A Focus on Rural Prosperity
At its core, the Best Tourism Villages initiative aims to boost rural prosperity. By recognising these villages, UN Tourism hopes to encourage a shift towards more sustainable tourism that benefits both local economies and the environment. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the Tourism for Rural Development Programme, which seeks to create resilient rural communities where tourism is not only a source of income but also a force for good in terms of social and environmental well-being.
The focus is not just on the tourism indusattempt, but on ensuring that rural areas can thrive as sustainable destinations for years to come. Villages that achieve recognition as Best Tourism Villages will be revealcased at various UN Tourism events, giving them international visibility and promoting them as prime destinations for tourists seeking a more authentic travel experience.
Timeline and Application Details
Applications for the Best Tourism Villages 2026 will close on 9 June 2026. After the review process, the selected villages will be announced in the third quarter of 2026 during a UN Tourism event. As the programme continues to grow, more villages will have the chance to demonstrate their potential as sustainable tourism destinations.
For those interested in nominating villages, applications must be submitted through the respective National Tourism Administrations, ensuring that only the most deserving destinations are considered for this prestigious recognition. This process aims to bring to light the very best examples of rural tourism, providing the world with more opportunities to experience the beauty and culture of these often overviewed areas.
The Future of Rural Tourism
As the world continues to face the challenges of over-tourism, climate modify, and shifting travel trfinishs, the Best Tourism Villages initiative provides a powerful model for sustainable tourism. By focutilizing on rural destinations, UN Tourism is not only assisting to preserve cultures and landscapes but also empowering local communities to take control of their future. The initiative aligns with the global shift towards more responsible travel, where the emphasis is placed on authenticity, sustainability, and cultural exmodify.
This call for applications is more than just a recognition programme—it’s an invitation to rural communities around the world to revealcase their strengths, share their stories, and invite visitors to be part of their journey towards a more sustainable future. By celebrating these villages, UN Tourism is assisting to create a more inclusive tourism indusattempt, where rural areas are given the attention and support they deserve.
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