Kenya remains one of Africa’s leading travel destinations, attracting a significant number of visitors from neighboring countries and beyond. According to the Annual Tourism Sector Performance Report by the Ministry of Wildlife and Tourism, Uganda and Tanzania led the way in 2024, contributing the highest number of arrivals into Kenya. The data highlights Kenya’s continued appeal as a travel hub within the East African region, bolstered by its diverse attractions, improved infrastructure, and regional integration efforts.
Kenya’s position as a leading African tourism destination is reinforced by its vibrant travel sector, renowned safari experiences, and rich cultural heritage. The country’s hospitality industry continues to thrive, offering diverse accommodation options and world-class conference facilities. Furthermore, initiatives such as the East African Single Tourist Visa and reduced travel restrictions within the EAC have facilitated smoother entry for African travelers.
Uganda emerged as the top African country with the highest number of visitors to Kenya in 2024, recording 225,559 arrivals. The strong historical, economic, and social ties between Kenya and Uganda have played a major role in fostering cross-border travel. The two nations are part of the East African Community (EAC), which promotes free movement of people and goods. Additionally, Uganda’s close proximity and improved transport networks, including the expansion of the Northern Corridor and the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), have made travel between the two countries easier and more accessible.
Business and trade remain major drivers of Uganda-Kenya travel. Nairobi, being a regional business hub, attracts Ugandan traders, investors, and professionals seeking opportunities in various sectors. Moreover, many Ugandan students enroll in Kenyan universities, contributing to the steady flow of visitors.
Tanzania secured the second spot, with 203,290 arrivals in 2024. Like Uganda, Tanzania shares deep economic and cultural ties with Kenya, and the two countries have long enjoyed strong diplomatic relations. The tourism industry itself fosters travel between the nations, as many international visitors touring Tanzania’s Serengeti often extend their trips to Kenya’s Maasai Mara for a more comprehensive wildlife experience.
The ease of movement through the Namanga border, enhanced air connectivity between Nairobi and Dar es Salaam, and Kenya’s business-friendly policies have encouraged a growing number of Tanzanians to visit. Additionally, Nairobi’s reputation as a financial and educational hub attracts Tanzanian professionals, students, and entrepreneurs.
Apart from Uganda and Tanzania, Kenya continues to receive visitors from other African countries, including:
Rwanda – Rwanda has steadily increased its number of visitors to Kenya, benefiting from EAC visa agreements and enhanced airline connectivity. Business and education remain key drivers for Rwandan travelers.
Ethiopia – With Ethiopian Airlines offering multiple direct flights to Nairobi, Ethiopia has become a key source of visitors, particularly for business and diplomatic engagements.
Nigeria – Nigeria remains a significant source of African travelers to Kenya, with visitors often coming for business, conferences, and leisure tourism.
Kenya’s position as a leading African tourism destination is reinforced by its vibrant travel sector, renowned safari experiences, and rich cultural heritage. The country’s hospitality industry continues to thrive, offering diverse accommodation options and world-class conference facilities. Furthermore, initiatives such as the East African Single Tourist Visa and reduced travel restrictions within the EAC have facilitated smoother entry for African travelers.
With Uganda and Tanzania leading in arrivals, Kenya remains a preferred destination for regional tourists, ensuring steady growth in intra-African tourism.
