Tanzania preparing for more visitors

The African nation of Tanzania is predicting an increase in its visitor numbers over the coming years, according to reports.

Some $1.2 billion (£598 million) is set to be generated by the Tanzania tourism industry this year but this is expected to rise to $1.35 billion in 2009.

The national tourist board said that the growth, which is hoped to see between 150,000 and 200,000 more visitors to the country next year, will be supported by increased marketing in North America and Europe.

Speaking in an interview with Reuters, Tanzania tourist board boss Peter Mwenguo said: "For 2009, we should try every effort to reach 950,000 visitors. For revenue it will be in the range of $1.35 billion.

"(This year) our target is to receive 750,000 tourists, but it might go up to 800,000. In terms of revenue, we are projecting about $1.1 billion to $1.2 billion."

Tanzania's major attractions to tourists include the Serengeti and Selous national parks, the beaches along its eastern coastline and the archipelago of Zanzibar.

Flights to Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania are available with carriers including Kenya Airways, Emirates and Virgin Atlantic.

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