TATO Clarifies Tour Guide vs. Foreign Tour Leader Roles Following Government Ban on Non-Citizen Tour Guiding

The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) wishes to officially address the recently published Government Notice No. 487A, issued on 28 July 2025 under the Business Licensing Act (CAP. 101). The Notice explicitly prohibits non-citizens from engaging in several business categories in Tanzania, including the practice of tour guiding.

As Tanzania’s leading tourism body, TATO welcomes this directive as a constructive and long-overdue clarification that reinforces Tanzanian citizens’ rightful place in the core guiding profession. Tour guides are the lifeblood of our safari experiences — their cultural insight, ecological knowledge, and hospitality have long made Tanzania one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

Understanding the Regulation

The new Government Order stipulates that only Tanzanian citizens are eligible to be licensed as safari tour guides. It further cautions that any non-citizen engaged in tour guiding, or any Tanzanian citizen found aiding them, is liable to heavy penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and revocation of business or residence permits.

TATO supports this regulation wholeheartedly, aligning it with existing legislation under the Tourism Act (2008), particularly Section 58 (1) & (2), and the Tourism (Tour Guides) Regulations of 2015, Government Notice No. 270. These statutes already mandate that all licensed tour guides must be Tanzanian nationals approved by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism (MNRT).

However, it is equally critical to note the distinction made in Section 58 (3) of the Tourism Act. This provision clearly states that the rules do not prohibit foreign tour leaders from accompanying or leading tourists into Tanzania, provided they are not functioning as local tour guides.

Clarifying the Distinction: Tour Guides vs. Foreign Tour Leaders

TATO takes this opportunity to clarify a growing source of confusion within the industry and among international partners — the difference between a tour guide and a foreign tour leader.

Tour Guides:

Tour guides are Tanzanian citizens who have undergone specialized training and are licensed by the MNRT. Their responsibilities include leading game drives, interpreting wildlife behavior, sharing deep knowledge about Tanzania’s ecosystems, and ensuring guest safety throughout the tour.

Tour guides are:

• Holders of a valid tour guide license issued by MNRT.
• In possession of a C-class driver’s license certified by LATRA and the Tanzania Traffic Police.
• Trained in Advanced PSV (Public Service Vehicle) Driving (e.g., VETA-certified).
• Certified in First Aid, with frequent refresher courses.
• Typically educated in wildlife management, tour guiding, or possess extensive field experience.
• Under the age of 60, as per LATRA compliance requirements.

In short, tour guides are the core of the in-country tourism experience. They are crucial not only for delivering high-quality safaris but also for ensuring compliance with Tanzanian safety and conservation laws.

Foreign Tour Leaders:

Foreign tour leaders, by contrast, perform logistical and coordination duties on behalf of overseas tour operators. They often travel with groups across multiple countries and assist in ensuring smooth operations for the entire trip. Their role typically includes:

• Coordinating trip logistics for the group.
• Ensuring the itinerary flows as planned across borders.
• Assisting travelers in airports, hotels, and with documentation where applicable.
• Representing the foreign tour operator or travel agency organizing the trip.
• Managing group expectations and facilitating communication between clients and local providers.

It is important to underscore that foreign tour leaders:

• Do not drive tourists or operate Public Service Vehicles.
• Do not perform the functions of tour guides within Tanzania.
• Do not replace licensed Tanzanian tour guides in the bush or on safaris.

TATO sees foreign tour leaders as valuable partners who help promote Tanzanian tourism abroad. They act as brand ambassadors and are essential in driving business to local operators. Their presence should not be misconstrued as a threat to Tanzanian jobs but rather viewed as complementary support to the tourism value chain.

TATO’s Position

As the apex body representing over 400 licensed tour operators in Tanzania, TATO has long advocated for the protection and professionalization of the guiding sector. We view the enforcement of this directive as an opportunity to:

• Further invest in the training and development of local guides.
• Promote cultural and ecological storytelling that is deeply rooted in Tanzanian identity.
• Strengthen the integrity of the safari experience by ensuring it is led by qualified professionals who understand local terrain, language, and safety protocols.

TATO has already played a proactive role in strengthening the guiding profession. In April 2025 alone, the association facilitated intensive Code of Conduct & Ethics training for over 1,000 safari driver guides. This training initiative, which continues in partnership with public and private institutions, emphasizes guest safety, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation.

Looking Ahead

TATO calls on all licensed operators, stakeholders, and international partners to respect this directive and to continue fostering ethical and collaborative tourism practices. The association will:

• Support its members in complying with the government notice.
• Continue engaging the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism and other agencies to ensure fair, efficient implementation.
• Educate travelers and partners on the differences between tour guides and tour leaders to prevent future misunderstandings.
• Promote responsible collaboration between foreign operators and local guides.

Final Remarks

Tourism is a strategic pillar of Tanzania’s economy, employing over 1.5 million people directly and indirectly and contributing 17% to the national GDP as of 2024. Maintaining its sustainability and integrity requires collective responsibility.

TATO reiterates that safeguarding the role of Tanzanian tour guides is not only a matter of national pride but a cornerstone of sustainable and inclusive tourism. We welcome Government Notice No. 487A as a bold move toward strengthening Tanzania’s tourism industry, creating jobs, and reinforcing the authenticity of the safari experience.

We urge all stakeholders to familiarize themselves with the legal distinctions, uphold professional standards, and work together to ensure that Tanzania remains a world-class, ethical, and unforgettable destination.

For more information, visit: www.tatotz.org
Contact: executivedirector@tatotz.org