Cresta Riley’s has once again reinforced its role as a key driver of cultural tourism in Botswana following the successful hosting of the 2026 Ngamiland Cultural Festival, an event proudly owned and driven by the hotel for over a decade.
What began as a local cultural celebration has evolved into one of Ngamiland’s most recognised and anticipated tourism and heritage events, bringing together communities, cultural groups, performers, exhibitors, tourism stakeholders, and visitors in celebration of the region’s rich identity, traditions, music, dance, cuisine, and cultural heritage.
Through the festival, Cresta Riley’s continues to demonstrate its long-standing commitment to preserving Botswana’s cultural heritage while creating a meaningful platform for local talent, cultural expression, community participation, and tourism development within the region.
As a hospitality brand rooted in Botswana, Cresta Riley’s says the festival aligns closely with the hotel’s commitment to preserving authentic African experiences while contributing towards sustainable tourism and local economic participation.
Speaking on the significance of the festival, General Manager of Cresta Riley’s, Cornelius Musubia, said:
“The Ngamiland Cultural Festival is more than just an event; it is a celebration of identity, heritage, and community. Over the years, the festival has become an important cultural and tourism platform that not only preserves tradition, but also creates opportunities for local communities, performers, creatives, and businesses to participate meaningfully in Botswana’s tourism economy.
As Cresta Riley’s, we are proud to continue driving an initiative that brings people together while showcasing the richness and authenticity of Ngamiland’s cultural heritage.”
Musubia added that events of this nature play an important role in diversifying Botswana’s tourism offering beyond wildlife and safari experiences by positioning culture and community at the centre of the visitor experience.
Growing Through the Years
From humble beginnings to becoming one of Ngamiland’s most celebrated cultural events, the journey of the Ngamiland Cultural Festival has been truly remarkable. For more than a decade, the festival has evolved into a vibrant platform that proudly showcases the region’s rich heritage, traditions, music, dance, cuisine, and cultural identity. It has become a cherished gathering that brings communities together, preserves cultural legacies, and offers visitors an authentic experience of the diverse cultures that make Ngamiland unique.
Its continued success over the years would not have been possible without the unwavering support of local communities, cultural groups, sponsors, partners, exhibitors, performers, tourism stakeholders, and the many attendees who continue to support and believe in the vision of the festival year after year.
Cresta Riley’s would like to extend sincere appreciation to all partners and stakeholders who have contributed to the growth and sustainability of the festival over the years. Your support continues to play a meaningful role in preserving Botswana’s cultural heritage while helping position Ngamiland as an important cultural tourism destination.
As the festival continues to evolve, it remains a powerful reminder of the importance of culture, community, storytelling, and shared identity in shaping Botswana’s tourism future.
Located in the tourism hub of Maun, Cresta Riley’s continues to position itself as a gateway to authentic Botswana experiences by supporting tourism initiatives that celebrate local identity, encourage community participation, and strengthen destination storytelling.
The hotel says it remains committed to working alongside local stakeholders, cultural groups, tourism operators, and communities to help promote sustainable and experience-led tourism in the Ngamiland region.
As cultural tourism continues to gain momentum globally, Cresta Riley’s believes Botswana has a unique opportunity to leverage its heritage, traditions, and community experiences to further strengthen the country’s tourism appeal.