The Role of Large Mammals and Protected Areas to Tourist Satisfaction in the Northern Circuit, Tanzania

Abstract

The quality of a tourist trip through diversifying attractions and tourist experiences enhances destination loyalty and tourism satisfaction. The Northern Circuit of Tanzania contains six parks that bring many tourists to the country. Information was gathered about tourist satisfaction and attractions in for each protected area in the area. Tourists were most satisfied with Ngorongoro Conservation Area followed by Serengeti and Lake Manyara because of the high density, diversity, and visibility of large mammals. The large mammals mostly sought by tourists were large mammals rather than only members of the Big Five. Kilimanjaro and Arusha had a relatively low popularity compared to Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Lake Manyara parks. It is recommended that the unique contribution of each of the protected areas be highlighted for each protected area in a joint tourism planning and marketing endeavor.