Zimbabwe’s tourism industry, in collaboration with BRANDit, recently held a highly successful roadshow in Mumbai, India, to promote the country’s diverse travel experiences to the Indian market. The event, held on August 22, 2024, brought together 17 key stakeholders from Zimbabwe’s private tourism sector, including tour operators, destination management companies (DMCs), and representatives from both budget and luxury hospitality sectors.
The roadshow aimed to highlight Zimbabwe’s unique offerings as a prime travel destination for Indian tourists. Renowned DMCs and activity operators like Africa Travel Tours, Wild Horizons, Love for Africa, and Mavigo Tours showcased their expertise, while the hospitality sector was represented by Bayete Collection, Shearwater, Rainbow Tourism Group, and Zambezi Boutique, showcasing a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly lodges to luxurious hotels.
Luxury safari experiences were highlighted by Forthergill Island, Zambezi Cruise & Safaris, and Machaba Safaris, while Chikopokopo Helicopters showcased their high-end helicopter services. Supporting the event were key figures such as Tongai M. Mnangagwa, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, and officials from the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, including Sophia Hope T. Chimba, Zimbabwe Tourism Attaché in India. The presence of Zimbabwean cricket legend Hamilton Masakadza further enhanced the event’s appeal.
The roadshow featured engaging presentations and networking sessions, connecting over 100 leading Indian travel professionals with Zimbabwe’s premier attractions. These included the majestic Victoria Falls, the wildlife-rich Hwange National Park, and the ancient Matobo Hills. The presentations emphasized Zimbabwe’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse safari experiences, vibrant cultural heritage, and various adventure activities, positioning the country not just as an add-on to other African trips but as a distinguished destination in its own right.
Facilitating travel to Zimbabwe has been made easier with daily flights to Harare offered by Emirates, Kenya Airways, and Qatar Airways. Emirates also runs daily services between Harare and Victoria Falls in partnership with Fastjet, supplemented by daily flights from Air Zimbabwe. Ethiopian Airlines provides additional daily connections between India and Zimbabwe. Indian tourists can obtain visas on arrival, with single-entry visas available for USD 30 and double-entry visas for USD 45.
The successful roadshow in Mumbai marks a significant step in enhancing Zimbabwe’s visibility and appeal in the Indian market. It paves the way for increased tourism and a stronger cultural connection between the two countries. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming hospitality, Zimbabwe is poised to become a top destination for Indian travelers.
