Nairobi Mini Orphanage recorded the highest number of tourists in Kenya after a record 455,550 tourists visited the conservation site, according to the latest statistics from the Annual Tourism Sector Performance Report 2024 by the Tourism Research Institute.
According to the latest statistics, Kenya has managed to bounce back from the setbacks that had stifled the tourism industry to record an impressive growth in the sector.
The world's only national park within a major city, the Nairobi National Park, came second, recording a total of 431,165 visitors within the year, with the KWS attributing the impressive growth in numbers to collaborative conservation efforts.
Lake Nakuru National Park ranked third, attracting a total of 293,107 visitors. The park is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, particularly its iconic flamingoes that draw both local and international tourists.
''With Nairobi Orphanage, Nairobi National Park, and Kisumu Impala Sanctuary leading the charts, the numbers speak volumes about the growing love for our parks and the success of collaborative conservation efforts,'' KWS noted.
Nairobi Safari Walk and Amboseli National Park secured the fourth and fifth positions, with 286,165 and 266,102 visitors, respectively, during the period.
Tsavo East National Park, Hell's Gate National Park, Kisite Marine Park, and Tsavo West National Park followed closely in positions six through ten, showing an improved number of visits and solidifying their status as leading tourist destinations.
Why Flock in Numbers
According to the data, holiday and leisure accounted for the largest share of visits to the parks, with 44.2 per cent of visitors citing it as their main reason for entry.
This was followed by visitors on business or attending conferences, who accounted for 26.9 per cent. Additionally, 22 per cent visited friends and relatives, highlighting the significance of the Kenyan diaspora and regional travel.
Visitors in transit ranked fourth, making up 4.2 per cent of the total. Other segments included education and religion at 1 per cent each, medical and employment at 0.4 per cent each, and sports at 0.3 per cent, indicating niche tourism activities with growth potential.
Kenya boasts a rich tapestry of tourist attractions, drawing visitors with its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and vibrant cultures.
Among its many highlights is the great migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross its plains, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities.
Nairobi National Park, for instance, is home to the big five despite being located in the busy capital city of Kenya.
Top 10 National Parks and Reserves
- Nairobi Mini Orphanage – 455,550 visitors
- Nairobi National Park – 431,165 visitors
- Kisumu Impala Sanctuary – 309,728 visitors
- Lake Nakuru National Park – 293,107 visitors
- Nairobi Safari Walk – 286,165 visitors
- Amboseli National Park – 266,102 visitors
- Tsavo East National Park – 238,545 visitors
- Hell's Gate National Park – 230,314 visitors
- Kisite Marine Park – 96,634 visitors
- Tsavo West National Park – 89,594 visitors
