Altezza Travel became the largest taxpayer in Kilimanjaro in 2025

This confirms that we are not only the region’s leading travel company but also its largest business. 

It took us ten years to reach this milestone since welcoming our first client in 2014, and we are incredibly proud of this achievement. Along with our recent Travelife certification, UN Tourism membership, and recognition from the World Travel Awards, this reinforces that we are on the right path.

Our taxes make Tanzania a better place

We believe that travelers should be aware that by booking a tour with a local company, they will make a significant contribution to the local economy. It’s not just about salaries — all of our employees are based in Tanzania — but also about the broader impact on the country. Every tax payment we make helps fund schools, hospitals, police stations, universities, and other essential services that improve people’s lives.

From the beginning, Altezza Travel has operated transparently. We declare all sales, register them properly, and pay the required taxes. We believe every business should do the same.

In 20 years from now, we want Tanzania to be a place where skilled professionals from around the world want to work. We also hope that young Tanzanians will see their future here at home rather than seeking opportunities abroad.

We are proud that Altezza Travel is already part of this vision — we employ over 260 professionals full-time, and the lowest salary paid to unskilled laborers is 250% higher than the regional average.

We pay taxes in Tanzania only

Altezza Travel is registered and operates entirely in Tanzania. This means that every payment made to us goes directly to our Tanzanian account, and all taxes are paid in Tanzania — not in an offshore jurisdiction.

Many large Kilimanjaro and safari travel companies are based in the UK, North America, or Europe. They keep most of their profits abroad and transfer only the minimum amount needed to run tours in Tanzania.

What taxes do we pay in Tanzania?

When assessing our tax contributions, the Tanzania Revenue Authority considered the following:

• VAT – 18% on each tour sold
• Corporate Profit Tax – 30% on our profits
• Skills Development Levy – 3.5% on each salary paid
• PAYE (individual income tax) – from 8% to 30%, depending on the salary amount.
• Withholding Tax – 10% on rental payments and services ordered from abroad
• Import Duty – 30-50% on foreign-manufactured equipment brought into Tanzania

In addition to these, we make several social contributions for our employees:

• NSSF (National Social Security Fund) – 20% of each salary
• NHIF (National Health Insurance Fund) – 10% of each salary
• WCF (Workers Compensation Fund) – 0.5% of each salary

In short, the total taxes we pay in Tanzania are comparable to those of businesses in Western Europe.

Park fees go to the state treasury, too

Beyond taxes and social security contributions, a significant portion of each tour cost goes directly to the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) as entry fees. For example, as of 2025, nearly $1,000 from a 7-day Kilimanjaro trek is paid to TANAPA. The remaining amount covers expedition expenses and additional taxes.

We also pay annual licensing fees

Every year, we renew our Tourism Operations License (TALA) and business licenses. Together, these cost approximately $10,000 annually.

By choosing Altezza Travel, you are booking with a responsible and fully compliant tour operator that supports Tanzania’s economy, communities, and conservation efforts.

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