Community
We foster a strong sense of belonging among industry professionals, encouraging collaboration, knowledge sharing, and mutual support to drive collective growth and success.
Relevance
We prioritise staying attuned to the evolving needs of the visitor attractions sector, ensuring that our initiatives and resources are aligned with current industry trends and challenges.
Credibility
We uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, building trust among members and stakeholders through transparent practices, research-driven insights, and advocacy efforts.
About AAVEA
The African Association of Visitor Experiences and Attractions (AAVEA) is the leading association dedicated to elevating Africa’s attractions industry. Through education, advocacy, and collaboration, AAVEA empowers professionals to enhance the quality, competitiveness, and sustainability of visitor experiences across the continent.
What do we do?
Represent, lobby, facilitate and advocate the importance of the industry to local and national authorities.
Conduct research, gather data to enable use for trends, performance and Industry intelligence.
Host conferences, learning and networking events to share insights with our members and industry stakeholders.
Benchmark and Share industry best practices
Support professionalisation of the industry.
Upcoming events
The IAAPA Institute for Attractions Professionals (IAP) is a hybrid program designed for highly motivated learners eager to expand their knowledge of cross-departmental industry functions. This edition will take place from 9–10 October 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa, ahead pf the IAAPA and AAVEA Africa Summit.
The intensive two-day in-person program combines classroom instruction led by industry experts with interactive small-group activities. Participants will also gain access to three months of self-paced online coursework, specially curated for IAP, allowing them to dive deeper into essential topics. This blended learning approach provides a comprehensive understanding of the key disciplines and processes required to manage a successful attraction.
Key programme outcomes:
– Gain a global perspective on the attractions industry.
– Explore best practices across various operational areas.
– Learn strategies to predict, meet, and exceed guest expectations.
– Conduct a risk assessment for your facility to proactively address hazards.
– Analyse and interpret food and beverage metrics to drive performance.
– Participants will also identify emerging trends, tackle challenges unique to entertainment types, and exchange best practices with peers from diverse attraction categories.
– Take advantage of this unique opportunity to grow professionally and enhance your operational expertise.
Participants should be highly motivated learners with an interest in cross-departmental industry functions. Participants will gain a global attractions perspective, learn more about all areas of operation, and will share best practices across member types. The intensive two-day in-person program is designed with a blend of classroom instruction led by industry experts and small group activities. Participants will dive deeper into topics during their three-month access to self-paced online coursework specially curated for IAP. By combining in-person and online learning, participants will gain a solid understanding of the key disciplines and processes required to manage a successful attraction.
During the program, participants will: identify industry trends and challenges and opportunities for different entertainment show types. They will explore best practices to predict, meet, and exceed guests’ expectations. They will conduct a risk assessment for your facility and proactively prevent hazards. They will also interpret food and beverage metrics and data.
Pre-register here for updates and more information about the IAP.
Mark your calendars! The second edition of the AAVEA and IAAPA Africa Summit takes place from 11–13 June 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa. This premier event is dedicated to empowering the African attractions industry, offering an invaluable opportunity to explore the diverse world of attractions and experiences across the continent, network with key stakeholders, and participate in EDUTours featuring unique destinations like adventure parks and indoor attractions.
The summit boasts a comprehensive educational program, designed to equip attendees with cutting-edge strategies and insights to thrive in the dynamic attractions industry. Key topics include:
– Africa’s distinctive attraction landscape
– The impact of global trends on local markets
– Guest safety and enhancing visitor experiences
– Revenue optimisation strategies
– Sustainability in the attractions sector
This collaborative initiative between AAVEA and IAAPA aims to elevate the global presence of African attractions. Through expanded educational programs and research, we’re building a foundation of knowledge and expertise for our community and the broader tourism sector. The partnership also fosters connections between industry professionals across Africa and the world.
The inaugural Africa Summit in 2024, held at Sun City, was a resounding success, bringing together industry leaders from around the globe. It provided a platform to exchange ideas, share best practices, and forge meaningful connections.
Pre-register here for updates and more information about the summit.
contact information
members@aavea.org.za
marketing@aavea.org.za
120 Belvedere Road, Claremont, Cape Town, 770
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