TATO Membership Structure, Fees, and How to Apply

The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) continues to strengthen Tanzania’s tourism sector by bringing together credible businesses across the tourism and hospitality value chain. As the industry’s leading private sector association, TATO provides a strong platform for advocacy, networking, marketing, and capacity building. For businesses in tourism and accommodation, joining TATO is more than a formality – it is a strategic step towards growth, visibility, and long-term sustainability.

TATO Membership Categories and Fee Structure

TATO offers structured TATO Membership designed to accommodate the diverse nature of tourism and accommodation businesses operating in Tanzania. For tour operators and accommodation providers, full voting membership is available at a standard annual rate. However, TATO has adopted a fair and inclusive fee system that considers business size and operational capacity to ensure accessibility across the sector.

Tour Operators – Full Voting Member

• Yearly membership: US$1,500
• Discounted rate for licensed tour operators with up to 3 vehicles (proven with a valid TALA/TTLB license): US$400
• Discounted rate for licensed tour operators with up to 10 vehicles (proven with a valid TALA/TTLB license): US$750

Without proof of a valid license, the highest TATO membership fee will be applied.

Accommodation – Full Voting Member

• Yearly membership: US$1,500
• Discounted rate for licensed accommodations with 21 to 40 rooms/tents (proven with a copy of TALA/TTLB accommodation license/occupancy certificate): US$750
• Discounted rate for licensed accommodations with fewer than 20 rooms/tents (proven with a copy of TALA/TTLB accommodation license/occupancy certificate): US$400

Without proof of a valid document, the highest membership fee will be applicable.

Mountain Climbing – Full Voting Member

• Yearly membership: US$1,500
• Discounted rate for licensed tour operators with 6–10 permanent employees (proven with a valid TALA/TTLB license/PAYE/NSSF): US$750
• Discounted rate for licensed tour operators with less than 5 permanent employees (proven with a valid TALA/TTLB license/PAYE/NSSF): US$400

Without proof of a valid document, the highest membership fee will be applied.

Airlines / Hot-Air Balloon – Full Voting Member

• Yearly membership: US$1,500
• Discounted rate for licensed airlines with fewer than 5 planes/hot-air balloons (proven with a copy of TALA/TTLB registration license): US$750

Without proof of a valid document, the highest TATO membership fee will be applied.

International Associates (Tour Operators / Travel Agencies / Booking Engines / Online Travel Agencies & Travel Partners) – Non-Voting Member

• Yearly membership: US$3,000

Honorary Membership – Voting Member

• Yearly membership: US$20,000

Affiliates – Non-Voting Member

• Yearly membership (large/mega enterprises): US$3,000
• Yearly membership (medium enterprises): US$1,500
• Discounted rate for affiliates with more than 20 permanent employees (PAYE/NSSF): US$750
• Discounted rate for affiliates with fewer than 20 permanent employees (PAYE/NSSF): US$400
• Discounted rate for affiliates with NGO/NPO certification: US$250

Without proof of a valid document, the highest membership fee will be applied.

How to Submit Membership Forms and Supporting Documents

Applying for TATO membership is a structured and transparent process designed to be efficient and business-friendly. Interested companies are required to complete the official TATO Membership Registration Form and submit it together with relevant supporting documents. These documents include valid operating licenses such as TALA or TTLB, accommodation occupancy certificates where applicable, and statutory proof such as PAYE or NSSF registration for enterprises qualifying for discounted rates.

Once the registration form and attachments are complete, applicants submit them to the TATO Secretariat either physically at the TATO offices in Arusha or electronically via the official communication channels info@tatotz.org | tato@cybernet.co.tz | +255 744 777 444 . After submission, proof of membership fee payment must be attached to the application. Upon confirmation of payment, TATO issues an official invoice and proceeds to formally register the applicant as a recognized member of the association.

Affiliate Membership and International Partnerships

For companies that operate alongside the tourism industry but do not necessarily provide direct tour operations or accommodation services, TATO offers an affiliate membership category. These include financial institutions, insurance providers, equipment suppliers, technology providers, and non-governmental organizations working in conservation and tourism development.

Affiliate membership fees vary according to enterprise size and staffing levels, with additional discounted rates for NGOs and smaller organizations. Like full members, affiliates are required to complete registration forms and attach supporting legal documentation to qualify for reduced fees and formal recognition within the association.

Access to TATO WhatsApp Communication Platforms

Additionally, access to the TATO WhatsApp groups (TATO Members, TATO Biashara, and TATO Rapid Response) is structured to maintain professionalism and security within the Association’s communication channels. Access is offered at a rate of US$100 for one person.

All existing and new members are required to present a copy of their valid TALA/TTLB license and provide the full names, positions, and contact details of the people to be granted access, according to their respective membership category.

Value of Membership in Tourism and Accommodation

TATO membership provides tourism and accommodation businesses with strong industry representation, branding opportunities, and operational support. Members benefit from inclusion in TATO’s official directory, visibility on marketing platforms, access to trade fairs, and participation in tourism promotion events. For accommodation providers, this translates into higher exposure to credible tour operators, improved occupancy potential, and stronger integration into national and international booking networks.

Through training workshops, policy engagement, and collaborative platforms, TATO empowers members to maintain high standards of service delivery, sustainability, and legal compliance. This strengthens not only individual businesses but also Tanzania’s reputation as a reliable and competitive tourism destination.

Final Remarks

TATO’s membership fee structure and registration process are designed to promote transparency, inclusivity, and professionalism across Tanzania’s tourism and accommodation industry. By attaching the correct membership forms, valid licenses, and proof of payment, applicants not only secure their place within the association but also become part of a powerful collective voice shaping the future of tourism in Tanzania.

For tourism and accommodation businesses seeking growth, credibility, and long-term industry integration, TATO membership remains one of the most strategic investments in Tanzania’s tourism landscape. Fo more Communications : info@tatotz.org | tato@cybernet.co.tz | +255 744 777 444