TOURISM

Nairobi ranked among the world’s best travel cities by TripAdvisor

Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, has once again cemented its status as a top global travel destination after being ranked among the world’s best cities to visit, according to the latest survey by TripAdvisor.

The ranking places Nairobi alongside other renowned international destinations such as Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Osaka in Japan, Johannesburg in South Africa, and Casablanca in Morocco. The recognition is based on traveler reviews and ratings collected over the past 12 months, highlighting the city’s appeal to both local and international tourists.

Nairobi stands out as the only capital city in the world with a national park within its borders. The Nairobi National Park is a vast game reserve that serves as a sanctuary for endangered black rhinos while also being home to giraffes, zebras, lions, and other wildlife. In addition, the city boasts a well-regarded elephant orphanage operated by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, further enhancing its reputation as a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

The recognition by TripAdvisor comes at a time when Kenya’s government is actively implementing policies to enhance the tourism sector. Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has been at the forefront of introducing strategies aimed at attracting more visitors to the country.

Recently, the cabinet approved a proposal to exempt travelers from all African countries from the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This move aligns with the government’s broader agenda to promote open skies policies and regional integration. Under the new policy, most African visitors will be allowed a two-month stay in Kenya, while East African Community (EAC) nationals will continue to enjoy a six-month stay under the EAC free movement protocols.

‘This initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel across the continent. Most African visitors will be allowed a two-month stay, while East African Community (EAC) nationals will continue to enjoy a six-month stay under EAC free movement protocols,” the resolution reads.

These initiatives have significantly boosted Kenya’s tourism numbers. According to the latest government data, the number of visitors touring Kenya’s game reserves increased by 43 percent in 2024, reaching approximately 3.64 million, up from 2.54 million in 2023.

Similarly, international arrivals have surged, with 2.4 million foreign tourists visiting Kenya in 2024, a significant increase from 2.08 million recorded in 2023. This growth underscores Kenya’s rising appeal as a leading travel destination and the effectiveness of policies aimed at bolstering the sector.

With its unique blend of wildlife, vibrant culture, and government-backed tourism-friendly policies, the city is well-positioned to remain a top choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in Africa.

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