Kenya’s tourism industry is experiencing a significant boost as domestic and international travelers flock to various destinations across the country during the festive season. The Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC) Coast branch executive officer, Sam Ikwaye, confirmed that hotel occupancy rates have surpassed 90% in key regions such as Kisumu, Naivasha, Machakos, and the coastal area, which remains a hub for leisure and tourism activities during the holidays.
This surge in travel is largely attributed to a range of initiatives under the ‘Tembea Kenya’ campaign, which has spurred greater domestic tourism. The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO, June Chepkemei, praised these innovative marketing campaigns for playing a pivotal role in increasing local travel. One notable success has been the ‘Tembea Kenya, Capture Magical Kenya’ photography competition, which encouraged Kenyans to explore and share hidden gems from across the country.
The high occupancy rates are also reflective of the diverse experiences hotels and resorts have curated for guests this season. With packages catering to various budgets, travelers have a wider selection of accommodations and activities to choose from. “Hotels have curated experiences to make this festive season memorable and enjoyable,” Ikwaye said. Improved accessibility, driven by better road, rail, and air transport, along with enhanced security measures, has made it easier for visitors to enjoy a stress-free holiday.
In Mombasa, the local government and tourism stakeholders have collaborated to host vibrant events, including a swimming gala competition, food festivals, and boxing matches. These celebrations have added to the rich array of activities available to visitors during the Mombasa International Festivals, held from December 25 to 31 at the Mama Ngina waterfront grounds. The festival celebrates the cultural diversity of the coastal region, offering a platform to showcase local arts, traditional attire, cuisines, and dances.
The ongoing growth in domestic tourism is evident, with bed nights increasing by 12.98% from 3,176,245 in 2023 to 3,588,568 in 2024, equating to a rise of over 412,000. Chepkemei highlighted the importance of partnerships with county governments in driving tourism, particularly with the nine established tourism circuits. Such collaborations will be vital in sustaining growth in the coming years.
Overall, the strong festive season performance is a clear sign that Kenya’s tourism sector is on an upward trajectory, stimulating local economies and creating job opportunities while fostering national pride in the country’s diverse attractions.
