The tourism industry of Zimbabwe, in association with BRANDit, recently hosted a highly successful roadshow in Mumbai to showcase the country’s diverse tourism offerings to the Indian travel trade. The event, held on 22nd August 2024, brought together 17 prominent Zimbabwean stakeholders from the private sector, including tour operators, destination management companies (DMCs), budget and luxury lodges, and hospitality groups.
The participants included activity operators and DMCs such as Africa Travel Tours, Wild Horizons, Love for Africa, and Mavigo Tours, Heritage Expeditions, Batoka Africa and Routes Through Africa. Representing the hotel and lodge sector were Bayete Collection, Shearwater, Rainbow Tourism Group, and Zambezi Boutique, with luxury safari experiences and lodges showcased by Forthergill Island, Zambezi Cruise & Safaris, and Machaba Safaris. The event also featured Chikopokopo Helicopters, providing luxury helicopter services.
The delegation was supported by Hon. Tongai M Mnangagwa, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority along with Ms. Sophia Hope T Chimba, Zimbabwe Tourism Attaché in India, and Zimbabwean cricket legend Hamilton Masakadza.
All participants engaged with an enthusiastic Indian travel trade audience. The roadshow aimed to strengthen ties between Zimbabwe and India’s tourism industries, fostering mutual growth and cooperation. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural experiences, warm hospitality, and ease of travel, Zimbabwe is well-positioned to become a favoured destination for Indian tourists.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Tongai M Mnangagwa, remarked: “Zimbabwe is a treasure trove of countless experiences waiting to be explored. Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, our country offers a unique blend of wildlife, culture, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for Indian travellers. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the serene Matobo Hills and the pristine Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe is a dream for nature lovers and adventure seekers. We invite one and all to immerse in our rich cultural heritage, explore the historic ruins of ancient civilisations, and discover the vibrant traditions that define Zimbabwe.”
He further added, “As we work to increase brand visibility and awareness in India, we recognise the immense potential of this market. We invite the travel trade to partner with us to showcase the untapped beauty of Zimbabwe to Indian tourists. Our country offers unparalleled experiences, from close encounters with the Big Five on safari to adrenaline-pumping adventure activities. With full support for joint marketing initiatives, Zimbabwe is ready to welcome Indian visitors with open arms.”
The roadshow featured engaging presentations and productive networking sessions with over 100 leading Indian travel professionals, effectively highlighting Zimbabwe’s premier attractions, including Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and Matobo Hills. The delegation highlighted Zimbabwe’s natural beauty, diverse safari experiences, rich cultural heritage, and wide array of adventure activities, presenting the country as a distinguished destination in its own right, rather than merely an add-on to other African itineraries.
Access to Zimbabwe has also been significantly enhanced, with Emirates, Kenya Airways and Qatar Airways offering daily flights into Harare. Emirates also operates daily services between Harare and Victoria Falls in a codeshare agreement with Fastjet in addition to the daily services by Air Zimbabwe. Additionally Ethiopian Airlines provide daily connections between India and Zimbabwe, further facilitating travel. Indian tourists can obtain a visa on arrival for Zimbabwe, with single-entry visas available for USD 30 and double-entry visas for USD 45.
Lubaina Sheerazi, CEO of BRANDit, shared her enthusiasm, stating: “BRANDit has always been at the forefront of introducing new and exciting destinations to the Indian travel trade, and Zimbabwe is no exception. Our expertise lies not only in bringing such destinations to light but also in adding significant value to both the destination and India’s travel industry. My personal journey to Zimbabwe in 2013 was nothing short of revelation – the country’s culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality left an indelible mark on me. With its unique offerings, ease of access, visas on arrival for Indians, Zimbabwe is set to become a must-visit destination for Indian travellers eager to explore uncharted territories. The Zimbabwe Roadshow in Mumbai is a testament to BRANDit’s commitment to empowering Indian agents and tour advisors with the knowledge and tools they need to effectively showcase unique destinations such as Zimbabwe. We are delighted to see such strong interest from the Indian travel trade and are confident that Zimbabwe will soon become a preferred standalone destination for Indian tourists.”
The roadshow underscored the commitment of both Zimbabwe and India to fostering closer ties in the tourism sector, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s rich offerings are presented to an eager Indian market.
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