According to a recent announcement, Morocco has secured a prestigious position in the global ranking of the best hotels for 2026, with the Royal Mansour Marrakech achieving an impressive 26th place worldwide. This distinction makes it one of only two African hotels to be included in the coveted list of the top 50 hotels globally. The ranking was unveiled during a ceremony held on September 15 in the Carrousel halls of Paris, France, where Royal Mansour Marrakech was also honored as the "Best Hotel in Africa 2026." Another notable mention was the Mount Nelson hotel in Cape Town, which claimed the 34th position worldwide.
The 2026 edition of the "Best 50 Hotels" list marks a significant milestone, being the first time the event has taken place outside London. The results showcased hotels from 22 countries across six continents, while the Rosewood Hong Kong maintained its status as the top hotel in the world. This ranking is based on the opinions of over 800 experts in the hospitality and travel industry, including hotel owners, specialized journalists, field professors, and experienced travelers from 13 regions around the globe. The independent evaluation process is overseen by Deloitte, ensuring a fair and unbiased judgment.
The voting process is conducted individually and confidentially, with participants' identities kept anonymous. This method ensures that inclusion in the list is based on expert assessments of the guest experience, service quality, and the unique identity of each hotel, rather than merely on facilities and amenities.
Royal Mansour Marrakech stands out as a prime example of luxury hospitality in Morocco. Opened in 2010, the hotel was designed to offer an experience that reflects various aspects of Moroccan culture and identity. Its design deviates from traditional hotels, featuring 53 individual riads, each with its own courtyard, rooftop pool, private spaces, and stunning views of Marrakech. The hotel also employs a unique service model, utilizing a network of hidden tunnels and corridors that allow staff to move discreetly without disrupting guests' privacy. In addition to personalized service and luxurious amenities, the hotel boasts a range of dining options, including the renowned restaurant "Sesamo," overseen by Massimiliano Alajmo, and a grand Moroccan restaurant managed by Hélène Darroze, following Yannick Alléno's previous supervision. Rates for accommodation start at approximately $1,900 per night.
On the other hand, Mount Nelson in Cape Town, which made its entry into the global list at 34th place, offers a different model of luxury African hospitality. Established in 1899 to cater to first-class passengers on the Union Castle line, the hotel has evolved into one of South Africa's historic hospitality institutions. Known as the "Pink Lady of Cape Town" due to its signature color introduced in 1918 to celebrate the end of World War I, the hotel has hosted numerous prominent figures, including Winston Churchill and Lord Kitchener. Mount Nelson features 198 rooms distributed across six locations, alongside nine acres of gardens, swimming pools, tennis courts, a spa, and various dining spaces for guests. Accommodation rates start at around $1,115 per night.
The presence of these two African hotels in the 2026 list highlights the diverse offerings of upscale hospitality across the continent, showcasing a Moroccan experience rooted in privacy and local architectural identity, contrasted with a South African model that embraces rich history while reimagining luxury hospitality.
As reported by tourismdailynews.com.
