As it looks to revive its tourism sector, Kenya is banking on the Indian market to boost its international arrival numbers in the year ahead.
In 2019, Kenya welcomed a total of 122,649 travellers from the Indian market, according to official data. That number dipped to 25,251 from the period between January to October 2020, as the pandemic swept the globe and forced both country’s authorities to impose travel restrictions. Kenya’s wildlife tourism has taken a major hit from the coronavirus Now, as travel picks up in 2021, Kenya sees the Indian market as key to the country’s tourism revival going forward. Kenya Tourism Board CEO, Betty Radier, said the East African country’s tourism offerings hold greater appeal to Indian travellers over other destinations. “The Indian market is one that has continued to uptake our tourism offerings for many years. Kenya and India continue to have cordial relations, especially because both countries are bound by both history and culture,” she added. “It is certainly not by mistake that India has been one of our key source markets.”
Known for its picturesque tourist attractions and safari experiences, Kenya’s national parks and game reserves are a major draw for wildlife and adventure seekers. Alongside wildlife and rustic experiences, Kenya also offers up a myriad of other attractions including authentic African cuisine, exotic cultures, breathtaking beaches, and even, spectacular cityscape.
As part of health and safety protocols, all travellers entering Kenya must show a negative Covid-19 test result taken within 72 hours prior to departure. The yellow fever vaccine continues to be a mandate for all Indian travellers visiting Kenya, thus, they would need to possess a valid vaccine card upon arrival in Kenya. They also have to obtain an eVisa.
At present, Kenya Airways operates thrice-weekly direct flights from Mumbai to Nairobi.