Kenya’s Tourism Sector Surges with Record International Arrivals in 2024

Mombasa, Kenya — Kenya’s tourism industry recorded a remarkable recovery in 2024, with international arrivals hitting a record 2.4 million, a 15 percent increase from the previous year. The United States led as the top source market, accounting for nearly 13 percent of visitors, followed by Uganda and Tanzania. The surge in arrivals coincided with a significant rise in tourism revenue, which grew nearly 20 percent to Sh452.2 billion, reflecting the sector’s strong post-pandemic rebound.
Speaking at a Mombasa hotel during the release of the 2024 Tourism Performance Results, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano attributed the growth to strategic government interventions. These included enhanced product diversification, digital transformation, targeted marketing campaigns, and improved air connectivity. Domestic tourism also recorded impressive gains, with bed night occupancy increasing by 12 percent, while niche segments like cruise tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) saw double-digit growth. Miano highlighted the importance of intra-African travel in driving economic growth and creating opportunities across Kenya’s hospitality and service sectors.
Looking ahead, Kenya aims to sustain this momentum by further expanding its tourism offerings and attracting more international visitors. The government has set ambitious targets to welcome 3 million tourists in 2025, potentially generating Sh560 billion in revenue. Miano emphasized that strengthened public-private partnerships and sustainable tourism initiatives will continue to position Kenya as a competitive and diverse destination on the global stage.