Known worldwide for its rich nature that attracts tourists from all over the world, Kenya offers a wildlife experience that is unmatched anywhere else in the world.
The country was just recognized as the world’s leading safari destination for 2021, according to the World Travel Awards. It is the seventh year in a row that Kenya received this international accolade.
It beat Botswana, South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
“Without a doubt, this is well-deserved, and I believe that we shall get even better. We shall continue with our commitment towards preserving and showcasing to the world the unique wildlife heritage bestowed to our country for the sake of generations to come,” Kenya Tourism Board CEO Betty Radier said in an interview.
Kenya was one of the African countries that had its tourism industry severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. The country’s economy shrank 1.1% year-on-year in the third quarter of 2020 compared with growth of 5.8% in the same period in 2019, according to the statistics office— as the COVID-19 pandemic slashed tourist flows into the country.
However, Kenya’s economy rebounded in 2021 following the easing of measures aimed at curbing COVID-19’s spread, the statistics office said in late December. There was growth of 24.8% in the third quarter of 2021 compared to the previous period of the last year, with the contribution of the recovery of accommodation and food-serving activities sector, which also includes tourism.
The average cost of a safari in Kenya is USD $3000 for a 10-day tour. Budget safaris cost around $1700 while luxury safaris can cost as much as $10,000.
Masai Mara National Reserve is the most popular safari park in Kenya among tourists. However, the country offers other options such as Lake Nakuru National Park, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo National Parks and Samburu Game Reserve.