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Tourism in Tanzania
Responsible Tourism in Tanzania has become a marketing tool for the safari
industry. The welfare of our communities may, at times, be of genuine concern to
the safari company although, sadly, many times it is not. Can you, the traveler,
do anything toward changing the safari companies to support responsible tourism?
Indeed, yes it is possible to make a difference. Responsible Tourism should give
back to the community and you the tourist can and should change the industry; it
is your money after all.
Responsible tourism is an attitude of mind to which every traveler should all
aspire. To choose a company that supports the community in deed and not in word
only is the key; by employing some discernment this task should not be
difficult. Your travel agent or safari company might not have a real presence in
Tanzania. They may confidently spout fair trade values and a responsible tourism
ethos, however, the very fact they are not present in Tanzania makes it
difficult for them to do as they claim. Always insist in knowing who the ground
operator is and check them out. Look carefully at what they claim they are
doing.
When visiting Tanzania it is possible to visit the community projects that are
being supported by your presence in the county. Alternatively, after choosing
the correct operator, you prefer just simply relax and enjoy your safari, then
do just that.
Charities are increasingly looking to become self finding, this means becoming
leaner and becoming more responsible; becoming a business. Some charities use
tourism to fund community projects. All the funds raised through tourism go
toward building schools, clinics and caring for young children who would
otherwise be left to fend for themselves on the streets.
Some charities have become very good tour operators. These professionally run
charities or tour operations allow the community to build itself a brighter
future on the back of tourism. These companies offer boutique style safaris and
specialize in showing clients the real Africa in style, comfort and safety. All
the profits remain in Tanzania and all the profits go into the community.
When on safari and you are amongst local people - remember you are their guest -
treat them with the regard a visitor should show toward the host. Many of the
National Parks are home to people whose economy is based on livestock; respect
the local customs and traditions and dress code. Often we see the tourist has
little respect for the dress code of other cultures. It is not pretty to see
tourism interfere with the native peoples work and private lives; use common
sense and remember what is acceptable in your culture may not be acceptable in a
more traditional culture.
Tanzania has over the past few years risen from relative obscurity and now
enjoys tourists in ever increasing numbers. There are good reasons for this.
There is no tribalism in Tanzania; it is safe. Tanzania is gentle and friendly
and peace loving.
Tanzania has Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti, the Selous and
Zanzibar. This remarkable country does not stop at these few destinations
either; so much more is on offer. Tanzania is a country to visit, for fauna,
flora, culture and to experience real Africa in a safe environment.
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