Africa is undoubtedly a land of beauty. From the gorillas in Rwanda, Kenya’s beach line along the Indian Ocean, the Zanzibar Island, Egyptian pyramids, Zimbabwe’s waterfalls, to the beautiful parks, caves and the rich culture and history, it is no wonder that millions of people come to Africa every year to experience its beauty. Interested in tourism? Well, this is the right place to be.
Tourism is a flourishing industry in most African countries creating employment and huge revenues for Governments. One viable business venture in tourism is the tour operations business. Tour firms plan and organize holidays on behalf of their clients. If you have a passion for Africa’s beauty this is one area worth exploring. Here are a few tips on how to start and successfully run a tour business.
1. Passion & Knowledge First
As is the case with businesses in any other field having passion is important. Remember running a tour business means you might have to be away on weekends and holidays as you escort tourists to their destinations or supervise your team. The good side of it is that you get to visit many destinations and have fun on the job. If you have the passion then you are good to start. But it won’t be enough. If you are a registered tour guide already, then partner up with other tour guides so that you extend offers to your potential customers. If you’re not but you have leading skills, make sure you surround yourself with skilled guides who will be able to present out-of-the-ordinary tours.
2. Due Diligence
Draft a business plan that shows the sustainability of your business idea and the projected growth patterns. This will come in handy when you seek financing and in the future as you monitor the growth of the business. You should also obtain a license and any other documents that may be required. Contact the Chamber Of Commerce the closest to you and ask for information and forms to be filled. Don’t rush into the process, being wise and prepared helps building a sustainable business. Keep your eyes and your ears wide opened.
3. Curve a Niche
What differentiates you as the best from the rest? You will need to curve a niche or be identified for something unique. For instance, you can specifically target corporate clients or low end clients. You can also exclusively offer romantic holidays or family holidays. Whatever the path you will chose to explore, be strong at it! The more unique you are, the more attractive you will ever be!
4. Train Your Team
Your team that will mostly comprise of tour agents will need to have a clear understanding of the tourism industry and the tourist locations your clients visit. For your company is taking tourists to a game park the agent should know the names, behavior and characteristics of the animals at the park. You should also train your staff on communication skills, courtesy and customer relations to ensure clients are satisfied with your service.
5. Have Business Sense
Running a tour firm may be fun but remember you are also running a business .You can undergo training in areas like accounting and business management to sharpen your business skills or hire experienced personnel to oversee the business. Check for competitions, mentorship, business incubator centers which will strengthen your skills and help you grow your business healthily. Don’t hesitate to look for assistance and support.
6. Seek Partnerships
It is important to forge partnerships with organizations who deal with tourists such as hotel operators, airline companies, cruise ships, and tour bus operators. You can for instance negotiate commissions and discounts agreements with such operators. That way they will refer their clients to you.
7. Market Your Business
You can do this by distributing flyer at the airport and hotels or use online marketing through your website or social media so as to get clients from outside the country or continent. You can also offer promotions and discounts to frequent customers and those who recommend other clients so as to build your customer numbers and build loyalty.
Now you are ready to start: don’t forget, be passionate, unique, prepared and you will have the right foundations to be successful. Good luck in your venture!
