Tanzania's northern tourism circuit and Zanzibar set to shine together

What you need to know:

  • By presenting these destinations as a unified experience, Tanzania can capitalize on its diverse offerings to attract a wider range of travelers and solidify its position as a premier global tourist destination.

At the just concluded Karibu Kili Fair in Arusha, a compelling argument surfaced for combining Tanzania's renowned northern tourism circuit, featuring iconic destinations such as the Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, and Ngorongoro, with the allure of Zanzibar.

Analysts suggest that by presenting these destinations as a unified experience, Tanzania can capitalize on its diverse offerings to attract a wider range of travelers and solidify its position as a premier global tourist destination.

Against the backdrop of the Magereza Arusha grounds, Tanzania’s Minister of Natural Resources, Ms. Angellah Kairuki, and Zanzibar’s Minister for Tourism and Heritage, Mudrick Soraga, inaugurated the event, marking a collaborative effort to promote 'Destination Tanzania'.

The fair, serving not only as a trade exposition but also a cultural celebration, provided a platform for showcasing Tanzania's rich heritage and natural wonders to a global audience.

"We aim to make this a comprehensive experience that highlights the best of Tanzanian hospitality and the rich tapestry of our tourism offerings," stated Mr Mudrick Soraga, emphasizing the holistic approach to showcasing Tanzania's allure.

In a display of solidarity and shared goals, the ministers paid a visit to the Zanzibar stand, recognizing the island's distinctive cultural and historical significance within the broader Tanzanian tourism landscape.

The collaborative spirit they said underscores the deep interconnection between Arusha and Zanzibar, with each region mutually dependent on the other for tourism and economic prosperity.

Echoing this sentiment, Regional Commissioner Paul Mokanda emphasized the inseparable bond between the two regions during a recent meeting with Zanzibar’s President Hussein Mwinyi.

Minister Soraga reinforced this sentiment, declaring, "Zanzibar and Arusha are two entities that cannot be separated. Our regions are deeply dependent on each other."

Indeed, as Zanzibar continues to enchant visitors with its unique cultural heritage and historical allure, Arusha's renowned safari experiences offer complementary adventures, creating a seamless and enriching travel experience for tourists.

Recognizing this synergy, stakeholders from both regions convened at the historic launch of the Zanzibar Tourism Investment Show in Arusha.

"We are inviting all Arusha tour operators and hoteliers to participate in our upcoming show in Zanzibar," announced Hafsa Mbamba, Executive Secretary of the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, (ZCT) emphasizing the importance of collaboration in maximizing tourism potential.

To strengthen this partnership further, Minister Soraga and Hafsa Mbamba engaged in discussions with key members of the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), exploring strategies to enhance cooperation between Zanzibar and Arusha safari operators.