Kenya recorded a record-breaking 2.4 million tourist arrivals in 2024, marking a 15% increase compared to 2023, announced the Minister of Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano.
Citing data from the Tourism Research Institute, the Kenyan minister specified that the leading source markets were the United States, with 306,501 visitors (12.8% of the total), followed by Uganda (9.4%) and Tanzania (8.4%).
Tourism revenues reached approximately $3.1 billion in 2024, up from around $2.6 billion in 2023, reflecting an increase of over 19%, she added.
Domestic tourism also saw growth, Miano noted, with overnight stays rising from 4.6 million in 2023 to 5.1 million in 2024, a 12% increase. Cruise tourism in Kenya experienced a remarkable surge of 163.5% in 2024, benefiting from improved port infrastructure and intensified international promotional campaigns.
Meanwhile, business tourism has established itself as a key driver of the sector, accounting for 27% of arrivals in 2024, up from 24% the previous year.
According to the Minister of Tourism, this growth results from targeted government strategies, including diversifying the tourism offering, enhancing air connectivity, and promoting new experiences ranging from safaris to cultural stays.
Kenya aims to reach 3 million visitors in 2025, with projected revenues of approximately $3.8 billion.