Tourism is more than just seeing new places. It’s about stories, cultures, and the people who make the journey unforgettable. One of those people is Laurent Laulen, a young man from Tanzania whose love for travel turned into something much bigger.
Laurent’s story begins at Saint Dominic College, where he studied Tourism and Tour Guiding. In 2019, after graduation, he went through six months of field training that allowed him to work as a tour guide. That experience changed everything. It didn’t just teach him the skills. It gave him a dream to one day start his own company.
Unlike many who look for jobs in the government, Laurent wanted to build something of his own. He imagined a company that offers more than tours, something that brings people closer to the beauty of Africa. So, he worked hard, saved up, and step by step, his dream came true. He founded LAU&SAFARIS, a travel company with a powerful motto, ” Dream. Explore. Discover”.
But the journey was not easy. There were tough moments like clients who didn’t listen, language barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and risky situations. Still, Laurent never gave up. “You need patience and professionalism,” he says. “Tourism is not just a job. It’s a service.”
Today, LAU&SAFARIS is known for providing safe, enjoyable, and well-organized tours. The company brings travelers closer to nature, culture, and lasting memories. Whether it’s a wildlife safari or a cultural experience, each journey is thoughtfully planned.
Laurent’s story goes beyond travel; it’s about vision, determination, and believing in what’s possible. What began as a simple dream has grown into a business that helps others explore the beauty of Africa, one tour at a time.
Looking ahead, Laurent hopes his journey will inspire young people across Africa to follow their dreams, no matter how big they may seem.
Tanzania’s tourism sector is a thriving economic powerhouse, as evidenced by significant recent growth. In 2024, Tanzania welcomed a record 5.36 million tourists, with 2.14 million international and 3.22 million domestic visitors, surpassing its 2025 target of 5 million, and reflecting a 132% increase in international arrivals from 2021.
This surge generated approximately $4 billion in revenue in 2024, a 200% increase in international tourism income since 2021, and contributed an estimated 17.2% to the national GDP. The sector also serves as a major employer, supporting over 1.5 million jobs directly and indirectly.
Tanzania was recognized by the United Nations Tourism body as the fastest-growing African destination in 2024, with a 48% increase compared to the pre-COVID-19 period. Popular attractions such as Serengeti National Park received over 589,300 visitors in 2024, maintaining its title as the world’s best safari destination for the sixth consecutive year, while Mount Kilimanjaro was named Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction.
