Election violence devastates Tanzania's tourism: Hotels empty as cancellations surge

The deadly unrest that broke out after Tanzania’s recent elections has dealt a heavy blow to the country’s tourism industry, a key pillar of its economy. The beaches and safari parks that normally attract crowds from around the world are unusually quiet this season.

After the October 29 vote, opposition groups accused President Samia Suluhu Hassan of manipulating the results, triggering mass protests across the country. Security forces responded with extreme force, and opposition sources claim that at least 1,000 people were killed. The government has yet to announce an official death toll.

With new demonstrations planned for December 9, many in the sector fear additional disruption.

A hotel manager in Arusha, one of the main gateways to Serengeti, described the situation:

“Business has collapsed. Hundreds of December bookings were canceled. At this time of year, we expect at least 60% occupancy, but the hotel is almost empty.”

Government officials, however, insist that Tanzania remains safe for foreign visitors. Government spokesman Gerson Msigwa said the country is “stable and open to all,” downplaying the concerns.

Yet the slowdown is visible on the streets. Shopkeepers in Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic center, say business has been unusually quiet for two weeks straight.

Tourism revenue under threat

Tourism is Tanzania’s largest source of foreign income. Last year the country welcomed over 2 million visitors, and the sector expected to bring in nearly $4 billion this year.

But many operators are afraid to speak openly. A tour company worker in Arusha said, “People who tell the truth fear becoming targets. But at least half of the industry is struggling right now.”

Some activists are calling on foreigners to boycott travel to Tanzania in order to pressure the government. Exiled activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai claimed on social media that bodies were dumped into the Indian Ocean during the unrest, urging tourists to stay away.

Others believe the downturn is also connected to recent policy decisions. Nora Suleiman, who runs a tour agency in Zanzibar, said new insurance charges and high taxes on plane tickets are discouraging potential visitors.

Patrice Caradec, head of the French tour operators union SETO, pointed to an additional factor: the European Union’s ban on certain Tanzanian airlines this year due to insufficient safety personnel. “Tanzania has been hugely popular among the French, but demand fell by 15–18% this summer,” he said.

Restoring trust will be difficult

Caradec added that the Tanzanian government ignored an expert team sent by SETO to help resolve the airline ban, calling the situation “deeply disappointing.”

The country’s international image has also taken a hit. According to data from travel-intelligence firm Mabrian, global perceptions of Tanzania’s safety fell by 14% in November compared to last year. Hotel prices dropped by a similar margin.

“Even after the political situation stabilizes, convincing travelers that Tanzania is safe again will remain one of the country’s most urgent challenges,” said Mabrian analyst Carlos Cendra.