Story by Tichaona Kurewa
In a stunning departure from tradition, the resort city of Victoria Falls has defied seasonal expectations after recording a tourism boom in January.
Typically a slow month after the holiday season, January has been buzzing with life, defying expectations and painting a vibrant picture for the future of Zimbabwe’s tourism industry.
“Traditionally, January experiences a dip in tourism, but this year, Victoria Falls relatively recorded an increase in business compared to the previous year. Both local and international and local tourists made up our clientele,” said Elephant Experience marketing manager, Janice Ncube.
“We doubled January 2023 figures this year and it’s encouraging. We will continue to do various marketing initiatives to boost our numbers this year and beyond,” noted Chikopokopo Helicopters marketing manager, Jane Makanda.
The tourism players further predicted continued growth throughout the year, with the upcoming Easter holidays and winter season, traditionally peak tourism periods, expected to see even higher numbers.
“This early surge sets the stage for a potentially record-breaking year.The industry is well-positioned to capitalize on this momentum, creating jobs, boosting the economy, and showcasing the wonders of Zimbabwe to the world,” noted Ncube.
“With Easter and the winter season approaching, traditionally peak periods for international tourism, we expect even higher numbers,” noted Makanda.
Tatenda Safaris managing director, Tatenda Gunda weighed in, “The future is bright. We are already receiving bookings ahead. We urge the government to expedite the rehabilitation of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway to cater for and promote self-drive tourists.”
ZBC News caught up with a group of tourists from Russia who were mesmerised by the country’s scenic views and hospitality.
*Tourism players record rare brisk business in January*
Story by Tichaona Kurewa
In a stunning departure from tradition, the resort city of Victoria Falls has defied seasonal expectations after recording a tourism boom in January.
Typically a slow month after the holiday season, January has been buzzing with life, defying expectations and painting a vibrant picture for the future of Zimbabwe’s tourism industry.
“Traditionally, January experiences a dip in tourism, but this year, Victoria Falls relatively recorded an increase in business compared to the previous year. Both local and international and local tourists made up our clientele,” said Elephant Experience marketing manager, Janice Ncube.
“We doubled January 2023 figures this year and it’s encouraging. We will continue to do various marketing initiatives to boost our numbers this year and beyond,” noted Chikopokopo Helicopters marketing manager, Jane Makanda.
The tourism players further predicted continued growth throughout the year, with the upcoming Easter holidays and winter season, traditionally peak tourism periods, expected to see even higher numbers.
“This early surge sets the stage for a potentially record-breaking year.The industry is well-positioned to capitalize on this momentum, creating jobs, boosting the economy, and showcasing the wonders of Zimbabwe to the world,” noted Ncube.
“With Easter and the winter season approaching, traditionally peak periods for international tourism, we expect even higher numbers,” noted Makanda.
Tatenda Safaris managing director, Tatenda Gunda weighed in, “The future is bright. We are already receiving bookings ahead. We urge the government to expedite the rehabilitation of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway to cater for and promote self-drive tourists.”
ZBC News caught up with a group of tourists from Russia who were mesmerised by the country’s scenic views and hospitality.
“We are excited to be here in Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe is a beautiful country,” said a tourist.
“People here are friendly and the hospitality is just excellent. Back home we will tell our friends to visit Zimbabwe,” noted another.
Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is expected to reach US$5 billion by 2025 and experts believe the target is attainable with the month of January setting the tempo.“We are excited to be here in Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe is a beautiful country,” said a tourist.
“People here are friendly and the hospitality is just excellent. Back home we will tell our friends to visit Zimbabwe,” noted another.
Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is expected to reach US$5 billion by 2025 and experts believe the target is attainable with the month of January setting the tempo.
