By Arusha News Reporter
Arusha is gearing up for what could be a record-breaking high tourism season beginning mid-June through to early November, providing quality game viewing as animals gather around shrinking water sources and lessening the need for long park drives.
The Executive Director of Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), Mr Elirehema Maturo, told The Arusha News: “We expect visitors this season to surpass significantly even last year’s record of 5.36 million tourists.”
Forecasts for 2025 suggest continued growth with Fitch Solutions, a US-based credit rating agency, saying international tourist arrivals to Tanzania were expected to rise by 6.1 per cent.
In 2024, Tanzania welcomed a record 5.36 million tourists, exceeding the government’s 2025 target of 5.0 million. Of those, 3.22 million were domestic travellers while 2.14 million were international arrivals.
Tourism revenue reached around USD 4 billion in 2024, up from USD 3.4 billion in 2023 and USD 2.5 billion in 2022. The government has set an ambitious goal of increasing tourism earnings to USD 6 billion by December 2025.
To improve the visitor experience, TATO has trained 650 guides on ethical practices and customer care standards. Mr Maturo also said that the government has committed to upgrade infrastructure, including road repairs to key national parks ahead of peak season.
Accommodation demand has also surged. “Hotel and lodge bookings are nearing full capacity, with some top-tier properties fully booked through August,” said Frida Mberesero, Director of Kisangara Tours Limited. “We’re seeing strong tourism demand. Our premium packages are receiving positive response,” she added.
Tanzania largely receives tourists from the United States, France, Germany and the United Kingdom. However, there have been of late new arrivals from Russia, China, Japan, South Korea and India.
Ms Mberesero also noted that there were encouraging numbers of domestic tourists this season too.
However, there was a word of caution concerning the anticipated high numbers of tourists. “We must promote responsible travel to help preserve fragile ecosystems,” said Mr Kidon Mkuu, Co-ordinator of Wildlife and Environment Care Initiative (WECI).
The season brings vital economic benefits to local communities. “This is when I earn most of my income for the year,” said John Mollel, a jewellery vendor at the Maasai Market, adding: “Tourists breathe vital oxygen in our businesses.”
