Tourism Overview

Tourism is one of the most important socio-economic sectors in Kenya, contributing Kshs.790 billion to the country's GDP and employing about 1.1 million people in the industry.

World Recognition

  • World's leading safari destination (World Travel Awards)
  • Wildebeest Migration - One one of the 7 wonders of the natural world
  • 82% brand loyalty from visitors (Country Brand Index)
  • 37.33% growth in international arrivals (2018)

Economic Impact

  • 5.6% sector growth in 2019
  • 1.1 million people employed
  • 2,025,206 international arrivals (2018)
  • High multiplier effects across economy

Tourism Opportunities & Products

Come Live the Magic

Kenya is a year-round destination offering authentic, diverse and unique experiences, providing travelers with breathtaking moments of discovery wrapped with the warmth of its people.

Wildlife & Safari Experiences

The Big Five

Home to the legendary Big 5 - Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo, Lion and Leopard. Kenya is the only country with a wildlife park within its capital city (Nairobi National Park).

The Special Five

Northern Kenya's unique wildlife - the Gerenuk, Somali Ostrich, Reticulated Giraffe, Grevy's Zebra and the fringe-eared Oryx.

Birding Paradise

Over 1,100 recorded species of birds. Prime locations include Lake Baringo, Lake Nakuru and Lake Elementaita.

Twin Migration

World-renowned for the twin migration of Humpback whales and Wildebeests. The Maasai Mara migration is highly sought after by international travelers.

Adventure Tourism

Trekking & Hiking

Chyulu Hills, Aberdares Ranges, Loroghi Hills, Matthews Ranges, and Ndoto Mountains offer spectacular trekking experiences.

Lake Turkana

World's largest permanent desert lake and alkaline lake. Experience cultural festivals and unique desert lake shores.

Health & Wellness

Natural hot springs and wellness tourism opportunities requiring development for international markets.

Medical Tourism

Nairobi has excellent medical facilities with potential to draw medical tourists from neighboring countries. Development opportunities exist for specialized medical tourism packages.

Year-Round Destination

Kenya offers unique experiences beyond migration season. Destination management companies provide custom-made itineraries for diverse traveler preferences.

Tourism Investment Areas

Kenya's tourism sector offers significant investment opportunities across various segments, supported by growing infrastructure and favorable policies.

Hospitality Infrastructure

  • Hotel and resort development
  • Eco-lodges and sustainable tourism
  • Conference and meeting facilities
  • Luxury safari camps
  • Beach resort development

Tourism Products & Services

  • Adventure tourism operations
  • Cultural tourism experiences
  • Destination management services
  • Tourism technology platforms
  • Transportation services

Sustainable Tourism

  • Community-based tourism
  • Conservation tourism initiatives
  • Green certification programs
  • Wildlife conservancy partnerships
  • Renewable energy tourism facilities

Specialized Tourism

  • Medical tourism facilities
  • Health and wellness centers
  • Sports tourism infrastructure
  • MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) facilities
  • Educational tourism programs

Proudly Kenyan - Cultural Heritage

Kenya is a country of deeply rooted traditions and vibrant cultural cross-roads. Some of the oldest evidence of human culture has been discovered in Kenya, making it truly a cradle of humanity.

Ancient Heritage

Kenya is truly a cradle of humanity with some of the oldest evidence of human culture discovered here. The country links its prehistoric past to new cultural expressions in a land of breathtaking beauty.

Cultural Diversity

Kenya's diverse landscape - from snow-capped mountains to the Great Rift Valley, deserts to lakes, vast savannahs, lush forests, and sparkling coast - are reflected in the diversity of Kenyan people and their traditions.

Living Traditions

Many communities thrive in areas that have sustained their unique ways of life for centuries, while others are adapting their customs in growing urban areas.

Modern Expression

In rapidly growing urban centers, people of diverse cultures intersect, resulting in dynamic and creative new forms of expression that further enrich contemporary Kenyan culture.

Tourism Recognition & Support Agencies

World Recognition

Brand Loyalty

82% brand loyalty from visitors (Country Brand Index)

Growth Rate

37.33% growth in international arrivals (2018)

Key Tourism Agencies & Organizations

Kenya Association of Tour Operators

KATO represents and promotes the interests of tour operators in Kenya, ensuring quality tourism services and sustainable practices.

Visit KATO

Kenya Tourism Board

KTB is the official tourism promotion agency responsible for marketing Kenya as a premier tourism destination globally.

Visit KTB

Ministry of Tourism & Wildlife

The government ministry responsible for policy formulation, regulation, and development of Kenya's tourism sector.

Visit Ministry

Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers & Caterers

KAHC represents the hospitality industry, promoting excellence in hotel services and hospitality standards across Kenya.

Visit KAHC