General Information

Welcome to the Magical Kenya Specialist Programme        

There has never been a better time to learn all about our beautiful country. We hope you enjoy all of our lessons and that it helps you sell Kenya with confidence.

Regarded as the birthplace of safari, Kenya’s wildlife offering has long been regarded as the main draw for visitors yet there is so much more to this destination than you might have thought. Within its borders, visitors will find savannahs rich in game and birdlife, timeless cultures that remain unchanged by the modern world, pristine beaches and coral reefs, equatorial forest and mighty snow-capped mountains, searing deserts and cool highland retreats with endless opportunities for culture, action and relaxation.        

There has never been a better or safer time to visit, with all national parks, the cities and the vast majority of Kenya’s coastline once again open for business and ready to receive your clients. There are so many elements that make Kenya a stress-free holiday option for your clients; getting around the destination is easy; the Kenyan people are friendly and welcoming and most people speak a good level of English. Kenya is also easily accessible from the major transport hubs across the world, making the destination a fantastic option for those looking for their next long-haul trip.

Key Kenya Selling Points

The world is becoming smaller and smaller, with new destinations opening up and with better flight connections than ever before. Even though a holiday can be booked in a few clicks, the vast majority of sales to Kenya continue to be done through travel agents and tour operators.

The vastness of the country can be daunting for a first-time visitor and with such a wealth of things to do, clients welcome the expertise of an agent. Because clients are not confident in booking Kenya themselves, there is often a higher margin to be made on these bookings compared to other countries.

Below is a list of just a few of the key selling points for Kenya - this is a great list to have to hand if you're speaking to a client, particularly a first-time visitor!

Kenya is the Birthplace of Safari

Home to the 'Big 5', the abundance of wildlife is comparable to nowhere else on earth. It’s not just the larger animals to watch out for as Kenya is home to 11% of the world’s birdlife with over 1,100 species spotted here.

The Variety is Endless

There is something for everyone from safari, adventure sports, relaxing beach breaks, cultural excursions, colorful history, and outstanding service.

Kenya is a Year-Round Destination

Kenya is an easy sell when it comes to the weather; it can be sold all year! Yes, there are two rainy seasons but showers are often short-lived and make for dramatic game drives.

There are Daily Flights

There are daily direct departures to Nairobi from almost all major global hubs. When in destination, there are daily shuttle services on light domestic aircraft, making even more remote areas closer than you think.

It is English-Speaking, Friendly, and Welcoming

As Kenya was a former British colony, most people, if not all, speak fluent English so you will find no language barriers here.

What makes Kenya different?

Kenya is a multi-experiential destination with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, mild climate all year round, and luxury lodging and services. What makes it even more unique is the immense opportunities for intimate and responsible connection with nature, diversity of wildlife in breathtaking landscapes, enriching cultural encounters with friendly people, barefoot luxury even in remote locations, a multi-experiential coastline, vibrant cities for active and passive pursuits, and exhilarating activities both at the coast and inland.    

Scroll to see what makes Kenya different from the rest!

Kenya offers visitors an immense variety of experiences...this video shows you some of the best

Welcome to the Kenya Coast - North and South

Kenya North Coast Key Attractions:

 
• Lamu archipelago
 
• Lamu Festival
 
• Malindi Marine Reserve
 
• Watamu Marine Reserve
 
• Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve
 
• Mida Creek
 
• Gedi and Takwa Ruins

North Coast: Swahili culture in charming coastal towns and islands

The North Coast features three coastal sub-brands of Malindi, Watamu, and Lamu. Malindi town is at the center of a strip of idyllic tropical beaches offering visitors a range of world-class resorts and quiet relaxing hideaways. Further south is Watamu resort, which is fronted by wide white beaches. This tranquil haven is home to several well-established resorts and many private guesthouses. To the far north is Lamu, an island where history lives and breathes in the narrow streets. It's the oldest Swahili settlement in East Africa.

The north coast offers a variety of experiences for travelers, such as bird-watching in Arabuko Sokoke and Mida Creek, water sports at the Watamu and Malindi Marine reserves, kite surfing at Che Shale, exploring the geographical marvel at Hell’s Kitchen, exploring ancient ruins of Gedi and Takwa, and enjoying sundowners aboard traditional dhows.

Key Attractions

 
• Mombasa Old Town
 
• Diani Beach
 
• Shimba Hills National Reserve
 
• Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary
 
• Fort Jesus
 
• Haller Park
 
• The Kaya Forests
 
• Kisite Mpunguti Marine reserves

Mombasa & South Coast: Vibrant coastal city and fine beaches

Mombasa is a place steeped in history, yet at the same time a fascinating commercial and cosmopolitan port city. It is an island connected to the mainland by bridges and ferries. The town overlooks a wide harbor, where commercial shipping mingles with traditional sailing dhows. The true heart of Mombasa is found in the exotic old town, among the narrow winding streets and Arab architecture. The air here is always heavy with the scent of spices. At the water’s edge is Fort Jesus, an imposing 16th-century fort that stands watch over the harbor.

Modern Mombasa is a city of great diversity and life. This is a city where all are welcomed and quickly absorbed into this great coastal melting pot. It is a place where both history and progress are greatly valued, where a busy harbor existence is lived at its own unique, tropical pace. Travelers in Mombasa can explore the rich Swahili culture, ancient forts, and narrow streets in the old town or explore the nature parks and indulge in various water sports activities. The annual Mombasa cultural festival is a draw for many visitors. Mombasa is one of the most exciting towns on the African coast and has a nightlife to match, making the coastal experience much more than just beaches.

The Kenya south coast boasts one of the best beaches in Africa, Diani. Besides Diani, there are a number of beaches such as Tiwi and Galu beaches. Kenya’s beaches are ideal for a variety of water sports, discovery of sea life which can be seen from a special glass-bottom boat or up close by snorkelers and scuba divers. Besides beaches, other key attractions include the Mijikenda Kaya forests, Shimoni Caves, islands such as Funzi Keys and Wasini Islands, and the Shimoni caves which tell the tale of the ancient slave routes.

Things to Know Before You Book

Holidays to Kenya largely continue to be booked through the trade - this presents an exciting opportunity for agents.  

The vastness of the country can be daunting for a first-time visitor, and with such a wealth of things to do, clients will welcome the expertise of an agent that can take the hassle out of sorting through the different options to find the perfect holiday for them.

On the Kenya Tourism Board's website, www.magicalkenya.com, there is a list of recommended tour operators who are members of the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) that will help you curate experiences that fit the various budgets and travel expectations of clients.

Below is a selection of practical information on booking a holiday to Kenya; how to get there, airlines, how to get around, pricing, etc.

How to Get to Kenya

 Kenya is readily accessible via Europe, the Middle East, Asia, the USA, and Southern Africa by numerous international air carriers. Kenya has three international airports: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Moi International Airport in Mombasa, and Eldoret International Airport in Eldoret-Nairobi serving as the hub of the East African region.  

These airports service numerous international carriers including the national airline Kenya Airways.

Most city hotels offer airport transfer services; public buses and taxis are also readily available.

Kenya can be accessed by road from Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Somalia. Immigration should be processed at land border stations.

Entry by sea is possible, and immigration should be processed at a port facility.

Which Airlines Fly There?

 The international gateway to Kenya is Nairobi, which is served by direct flights from a number of cities around the world with the national airline, Kenya Airways, and other regional and global airlines.  ****Suggestion for image: An image of a Kenya Airways plane.****

What’s the Best Way to Travel When in Kenya?

 BY AIR: Light aircraft offer the easiest way to travel long distances – the following domestic carriers have the country covered and fly from Wilson airport:  

   
• Air Kenya: covers Amboseli, Mara, Lewa Downs, Lamu, Malindi, Meru, Mombasa, Nairobi (Wilson), Nanyuki, and Samburu (www.airkenya.com)
   
• Fly 540: Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu, Malindi, Mara, Lamu, Eldoret, Lodwar, and Kitale (www.fly540.com)
   
• JamboJet: Ukunda, Kisumu, Eldoret, and Malindi direct from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (www.jambojet.com)
   
• Kenya Airways: Kisumu, Mombasa, Malindi, and Nairobi (www.kenya-airways.com)
   
• Safarilink: Mara, Amboseli, Nanyuki, Lewa Downs, Naivasha, Samburu, Shaba, Lamu, Kiwayu, Tsavo West, Loisaba, and Lewa (www.safarilink-kenya.com)
 

BY ROAD: There are numerous ground handlers that offer driving safaris. Unlike some other African destinations, self-drive is not recommended for international visitors. Although the main roads in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Malindi are easy to navigate, once in a national park, there is minimal signage and as such it is far better to have a local driver that can both navigate the untarmacked tracks and point out the wildlife.  BY RAIL: Although most people prefer to fly or drive, it is possible to travel between Nairobi and Mombasa by rail - the Madaraka Express. You can get the timetable for the daily service HERE.

Is Kenya a Mass Destination?

Kenya is not a mass destination, but it has the ability to appeal to a wide variety of clients. With its diverse destinations and experiences available all year round, it caters to the different segments of travelers and their diverse motivations. From bird-watching holidays to luxury beach breaks - Kenya has something for everyone!  

Is Kenya Expensive?

Kenya is a multi-experiential destination with unique and authentic experiences that fit all pockets, from shoestring to blowout!

Visa & Entry Information

A visa for overseas travellers is required. From January 2021, the visa application will be done online, it will not be available on arrival. Children under 16 do not need a visa.

The procedure of application has now been modified and simplified to a user-friendly mode that takes three simple steps. The E-Visa portal now has its dedicated website: www.evisa.go.ke. Visa approval is being done in real-time.

Safety

Kenya is a safe destination. The government has put in place numerous procedures to ensure the safety and security of travellers in and around Kenya. To address the current Covid-19 pandemic, Kenya has implemented Covid-19 health and safety protocols at all key touch points. More details can be found on www.magicalkenya.com.

Common sense is all that is required to keep safe on holiday in Kenya. Visitors are encouraged to avoid displaying expensive possessions and walking through unlit urban areas at night. It is also recommended that visitors leave their valuables and airline tickets in the hotels’ safe. Out in the bush and when viewing wildlife, visitors are encouraged to carefully follow safari guides' instructions and respect the wilderness that they are visiting.

COVID-19 Test Requirements for Arriving Passengers

Passengers must have a negative PCR-based Covid-19 test carried out within 96 hours on arrival.

The mandatory Ministry of Health Travelers Health Surveillance online form must be filled and submitted prior to travel. The online form should be accessed from the Ministry of Health website: https://ears.health.go.ke/airline_registration/

After submitting the travel surveillance form, passengers are advised to download the QR code. Passengers will be required to display the received QR codes to port health officials on arrival for them to be allowed to proceed to arrival immigration.

Arriving passengers will be required to undergo a 14-day quarantine except if you are coming from the exempted countries. For the most up-to-date list of exempted countries, please visit www.kcaa.or.ke/quarantine-exempted-states

Locator forms to be completed and left with the operator for the purposes of traceability.

Watch this video to learn all about the new Magical Kenya Health & Safety Protocols approved by the Ministry of Health of Kenya, World Travel & Tourism Council, and the UNWTO.

An Introduction to Sustainable Kenya

Sustainable Kenya: An Introduction

A trip to Kenya is a vote for sustainability. With over 8% of the country under national protected areas, any booking made means impacting the lives of local communities around Kenya’s iconic destinations, and protecting the diverse wildlife and the unique environments where they are found.

The goal for the Kenyan tourism industry is to be low impact, community- and conservation-oriented, and to have a positive influence on the people who visit as well as the country’s resources.

Kenya supports conservation, sustainability, and community development through a number of projects that strive to conserve wildlife, sustain resources, and employ local communities.

Conscious travelers have many accommodation options to choose from, ranging from eco-rated lodges, hotels, and camps to reserves, conservancies, and sanctuaries that all promise a memorable and responsible stay for your clients.

In addition, there are considerable efforts being made to reduce human-wildlife conflict in areas outside Kenya’s national parks, reserves, sanctuaries, and conservancies. These efforts range from allocating off protected areas within parks and conservancies to encouraging community tourism enterprises and providing compensation to farmers whose livestock are killed by Kenya’s free-roaming wildlife.

Different stakeholders, including private investors, local NGOs, and conservation organizations, initiate these interventions. There are also well-publicized events held to raise money and awareness for such initiatives. Travel agents can help by booking their clients at lodges that support these initiatives and are working towards making a difference. Generally, lodges that support sustainability tend to be smaller (and more exclusive), so it’s a win-win since the higher the price of the trip, the greater your commission.

In addition to these initiatives, others include:

Ivory Ban: Kenya has been firm on the war against poaching to protect endangered animals such as elephants and rhinos sought after for ivory and horns.

Plastic Ban: Kenya set an example in conservation of the environment through the ban on single-use plastics in 2018. Dubbed the world’s toughest moratorium, the ban has reduced the number of plastics getting into the Indian Ocean waters posing a real threat to marine life. Kenya has stepped up her efforts on harnessing the blue economy and the plastic ban is one of the success stories towards this goal.

Wildlife Conservation: Kenya is home to one of the largest populations of rhinos in Africa. It has only two remaining female northern white rhinos, whose species is on the brink of extinction. Kenya is a pioneer of the sanctuary approach, placing rhinos in fenced-off areas under the close watch of armed rangers equipped with thermal imaging cameras and drones.

Green Energy: Kenya is leading in Africa in green energy, tapping into solar, wind, geothermal, and hydro-energy.

Welcome to the Central Highlands

Key Attractions

 
• Mount Kenya National Park
 
• Mt. Kenya
 
• Aberdares National Park
 
• Meru National Park
 
• Lakes (Lake Alice, & Lake Rutundu)
 
• Rivers (Tana) and waterfalls (Thompson Falls)
 
• Local tribes
 
• Laikipia Plateau
 
• Sagana Rapids
 
• Private ranches & conservancies (Ol Pejeta, Il Ngwesi & Lewa)

Slightly to the north of Nairobi is Mt. Kenya, Africa’s second highest peak towering at 5,200m above sea level. It is unique in that it is the only snow-capped mountain straddling the equator. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and it forms part of the Mt. Kenya National Park. The mountain provides a challenge for climbers, trekkers, and hikers. Its forests and high-altitude lakes are perfect for trout fishing and horse riding, and are home to endangered wildlife species and the historic Mau caves, a legacy of the Kenyan spirit.

This region is also home to one of Kenya’s newest attractions: the Meru National Park. This park is an isolated, wild, and undisturbed haven for the wildlife enthusiast and was reborn through concerted conservation efforts. Further to the east, the little explored Bisidani and Rahole Reserves await exploration by those daring enough to take up the adventure. In the beautiful Laikipia Plateau and the Matthews Ranges, visitors will find stunning lodges and camps owned and run by the local communities that offer the last word in wilderness luxury and a greater opportunity to get to know Kenya's least known cultures.

Map of Mount Kenya

Welcome to Southern Kenya

Key Attractions:

 
• Maasai Mara Game Reserve
 
• Amboseli National Park
 
• Tsavo East and West National Parks
 
• Chyulu Hills National Park
 
• Rich local cultural experiences

Southern Kenya offers great opportunities to experience Kenya’s wild side with popular parks and reserves dotting the area. The annual wildebeest migration in Maasai Mara game reserve was the 8th wonder of the world that can be explored on foot, hot air balloon, and in vehicles. Towards the east lies the salt lake of Magadi and along its shores, the archaeological treasures of Olorgesailie. In addition to the Mara, there’s the Amboseli National Park which is known as the Kilimanjaro royal courtyard due to its large herds of elephants. Amboseli is famous for its big game and its great scenic beauty; the landscape is dominated by the towering Mount Kilimanjaro. In addition, there’s the Tsavo East and West National Parks, a wilderness the size of Jamaica.

Map of Southern Kenya

Welcome to The Rift Valley

Key Attractions

 
• Lake Nakuru National Park
 
• Lake Baringo
 
• Lake Bogoria National Park
 
• Lake Naivasha
 
• Hell’s Gate National Park
 
• Mount Longonot
 
• Menengai Crater
 
• Geothermal spa
 
• Kerio Valley
 
• Transrift trail

The Great Rift Valley is one of the natural wonders of the world. The freshwater and soda lakes that line the floor of the valley each offer fantastic scenery and birdlife, including the world’s largest flamingo population. Active travelers can explore the dormant volcanoes of Longonot, Suswa, and Menengai or even ride mountain bikes through herds of zebras beneath the cliffs of Hell’s Gate. The shores along Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha provide for those who want to relax and are ideal for idyllic weekends.

Furthermore, the Kenya Lake System, located in the Great Rift Valley, is an area of outstanding natural beauty. It is comprised of three inter-connecting lakes - Lake Bogoria, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Elementaita - and is enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Map of Lake Nakuru

Welcome to Nairobi

Key Attractions

 
• Nairobi National Park
 
• Nairobi National Museum
 
• Karen Blixen Museum
 
• Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
 
• Giraffe Centre
 
• Nairobi Gallery
 
• Karura Forest
 
• Railway Museum
 
• Maasai Markets

Nairobi Overview

Nairobi is one of Africa’s most vibrant and exciting cities. Matching excellent global cuisine and a buzzing nightlife, this city makes for a vibrant and dynamic city stay. It draws its name from the Maasai word, ‘enkare nyirobi’, meaning 'a place of cool waters' but it is also known as the ‘Green city in the sun’.

Behind the bright lights, there is plenty of history, culture, sport plus a fascinating art scene waiting to be discovered. Nairobi’s real claim to international fame is that just 20 minutes from the city centre you’ll find the world’s only urban national park.

Map of Nairobi

Welcome to Northern Kenya

Key Attractions

 
• Lake Turkana
 
• Desert Museum
 
• Turkana Cultural Festival
 
• Northern Kenya Tribes
 
• Samburu National Reserve
 
• Shaba National Reserve
 
• Sibiloi National Park
 
• Koobi Fora Museum – the Cradle of Mankind
 
• The El Molo and Samburu communities among others
 
• Rendile Camel trains
 
• Chalbi Desert
 
• Community Conservancies
 
• Central Island Park

Kenya’s Wild and Arid North

Kenya’s wild and arid north is the ideal destination for those looking to really get away from it all. From the baking deserts and plains to the wild shores of Lake Turkana, this is adventure country. Lake Turkana, also known as the Jade Sea, is the world’s largest desert lake and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region has a rich cultural heritage with approximately 14 local tribes. Travellers also have the opportunity to take a front row seat at Kenya's wildest race - the Maralal Camel Derby or visit the beautiful Samburu and Shaba National Reserves, home to many rare northern species.

Map of Northern Kenya

Welcome to Western Kenya

Key Attractions

 
• Kisumu City
 
• Rusinga
 
• Rusinga Island
 
• Mfangano Island
 
• Lake Victoria
 
• Kakamega Forest
 
• Mount Elgon
 
• Takawiri Island
 
• Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum
 
• Tea Plantations

Western Kenya is a little-known world of wonders. Here you will find lush green highlands, tropical rainforests, and the great expanse of Lake Victoria. The region is positioned as Kenya’s eco-tourism destination. There is a wealth of cultural and historical attractions here. The massive sacred stones of Kit Mikayi and Maragoli have great meaning to the Luo and Luhya communities, while a more recent monument to history can be found at Tom Mboya mausoleum on Rusinga Island. Thimlich Ohinga, a 14th-century complex surrounded by a stone wall, was recently added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites (June 2018).

One of Kenya's most exciting cultural events can be experienced at Kakamega, where the bullfights create an unforgettable spectacle. A hike through the world-famous Kakamega Forest and the highlands of Kericho shows nature at its most pure and peaceful with their beautiful tree plantations and quiet hill retreats.

Map of Western Kenya

Types of Accommodation

From city centre hotels to beautiful boutique coastal resorts, tented camps, and treetop lodges, Kenya has a huge variety of accommodation. The Kenya Tourism Board promotes properties accredited by the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC) so you can be sure your clients are staying at a reputable property.  ****Suggestion for image: A collage of different types of accommodations in Kenya.****

Tented Camps  

Looking for an authentic stay when in Kenya? Look no further than a tented camp, which can be found in all of Kenya’s National Parks and Conservancies. They range from uber luxurious camps with less than ten tents to larger complexes with more on-site facilities such as swimming pools, spa facilities, restaurants, and bars.

Staying in a tented camp puts your clients at the heart of the action and they should expect to hear and see lots of wildlife. Some camps are unfenced, which means that larger game can roam wherever they please. However, guests are kept safe by askaris who are never far away and will insist on walking guests to and from their tent at all times of the day or night. For those guests who are experiencing safari for the first time, a fenced camp may be a good choice to give them some added security.

This is very different from any kind of camping your clients might have experienced before. Whether they are staying in an eco-friendly camp or somewhere with a more permanent footprint, you can book tents which have comfortable bedrooms and bathrooms with hot running water to relax in after a long day out on safari.

Lodges  

There are some truly stunning boutique lodges across Kenya’s national parks and conservancies. They offer great vantage points if they are located on a hilltop or above the treetops. This is where the term “armchair safari” has been coined as you can go on a safari without even leaving your lodge!

Treetops Lodge in Aberdare National Park is arguably one of Kenya’s most famous lodges due to its royal connection. This is nestled in amongst the trees over a watering hole so offers a great place to view wildlife from.

In the Mount Kenya region and further north towards Laikipia, there are many lodges which are owner-run so your clients will often be hosted by the owner who will be able to tell rich stories and anecdotes and lots more about the local area.

Starbeds  

A unique and romantic option, a starbed can be moved outside, often onto a decking area so clients can sleep under the stars. This kind of accommodation can be found mainly in conservancies in the Laikipia area.

Coastal Resorts  

Finishing a holiday in Kenya with a few nights or more on the coast is a popular option for visitors to the destination. There are five main areas of the coast which include Lamu, Malindi, Watamu, Mombasa, and Diani.

Mombasa is the main hub on the coast and Kenya’s largest city. Being this close to Mombasa city means your clients are perfectly located for exploring the old cobbled streets of Old Mombasa and the attractions here such as UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fort Jesus.

Malindi is on Kenya’s north coast and like Mombasa has its own international airport. Around 30 minutes north of Malindi is Watamu, which is famed for its deep-sea fishing and water sports, namely kite surfing. Although there are some resort-style properties in this area, there are more smaller, boutique properties as well as some offering apartment-style accommodation like recently refurbished Hemingway’s and Medina Palms.

Diani, situated south of Mombasa, is accessible via the Likoni Ferry from Mombasa City or via Ukunda airstrip. Diani is the busiest area with various small shops, bars, and restaurants located on this wide, white sand strip of beach. Heading further south, visitors will find Galu, Kinondo, Mswambweni, and Funzi Keys. There are lots more boutique properties in this area and the further south you travel, the more secluded properties become, perfect for those wanting an escape or a romantic hideaway.

City Hotels  

Whether staying in Nairobi or Mombasa, there is plenty of choice. For those needing to be close to the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) or the commercial hub, there are many international brands in this area. The suburbs of Nairobi, such as Langatta and Karen, contrast to downtown Nairobi in that they are very leafy, green areas of the city. There are new properties in these areas offering a palatial colonial style of accommodation.  

Even if your clients are staying in the city, they will never be far from nature. With Nairobi National Park minutes away from the centre, staying within or on the boundaries of the park is an option. Westlands, just north of downtown Nairobi, is a trendy district with chic boutique hotels bringing something new to the existing portfolio here.