Tourist arrivals increase

Victoria Falls - Tourist arrivals in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe’s prime resort are projected to skyrocket in the third quarter of the year, with accommodation bookings already at 30%, an industry official has said. Employers’ Association of Tourism and Safari Operators president, Clement Mukwasi, told NewsDay that they were looking forward to recording brisk business in the third quarter due to the coming in of the European and American markets. The third quarter runs from July 1 to September 30.

“Figures are actually rising and we are very happy about that. The third quarter of 2016 is looking very good and we hope we will keep the trend to 2017. Actually, from July to August this year, hotel bookings suddenly shot up to 30% from the European and American market,” Mukwasi, who is also an executive of the Shearwater Adventures group, said.

“From now up to September, we are very busy. Some people are starting to increase their accommodation capacity and some are recalling employees they had laid off.”

Mukwasi attributed good business to international shows the government and private sector attended in countries such as Germany, United Kingdom, South Africa, among others.

“We are basking in glory and I am sure every player is smiling because it’s looking very good. The only month, which has low booking is November because Americans usually dedicate their money to charity work during that period,” he said.

Mukwasi said even December was almost fully booked and urged locals to book early as they will fail to secure accommodation if they come late.

He said Victoria Falls had overtaken Livingstone in terms of arrivals in the third quarter.
Mukwasi ruled out fears that pockets of violence being experienced in Zimbabwe would affect their businesses.

Source: Tourist arrivals increase (15/7/16)