Kenya tourism recovers as top 5 parks attract over 1.7 million visitors in 2024
The growth was driven mainly by holidaymakers, with 44.2 % of visitors stating that leisure was their main reason for entry.
Tourism attractions in Kenya witnessed a major boost in 2024, with the Nairobi Mini Orphanage drawing the highest number of visitors in the country, a new government report shows.
According to the Annual Tourism Sector Performance Report 2024 released by the Tourism Research Institute, the Nairobi Mini Orphanage welcomed a total of 455,550 visitors, topping the list of most visited destinations.
This marked a strong rebound for the country’s tourism sector after a period of slowed activity.
Coming second was the Nairobi National Park, which recorded 431,165 visitors.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) attributed this growth to strengthened conservation partnerships and ongoing efforts to protect wildlife in urban spaces.
In third place was Lake Nakuru National Park, which attracted 293,107 visitors over the same period.
The park is widely known for its scenic landscapes and large populations of flamingoes, which continue to attract tourists from both within and outside the country.
KWS hailed the improvement in numbers across top destinations.
"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," the service said.
The report placed Nairobi Safari Walk in fourth position, drawing 286,165 visitors, while Amboseli National Park came fifth with 266,102 visitors.
Other key destinations included Tsavo East National Park, Hell’s Gate, Kisite Marine Park, and Tsavo West, all of which recorded notable increases in footfall.
The growth was driven mainly by holidaymakers, with 44.2% of visitors stating that leisure was their main reason for entry.
Business travel and conference attendance came in second, accounting for 26.9% of the total number.
Additionally, 22% of visitors were in the country to visit friends and relatives, showing the strong influence of regional and diaspora travel.
Those in transit made up 4.2%, while visits related to education and religion each stood at 1%.
Smaller segments included visitors seeking medical treatment and employment, both at 0.4% and sports-related visits at 0.3 %.
These figures suggest a rise in niche tourism markets that could grow with targeted investment.
Kenya’s rich wildlife and natural diversity remain central to its appeal, offering tourists memorable experiences.
From national parks to marine sanctuaries, the country’s protected areas are continuing to gain traction among travelers.
A standout feature remains the Nairobi National Park, which sits within the capital city and is home to the Big Five.
Despite its urban location, it remains one of Kenya’s leading wildlife destinations.
The report shows that Kenya’s tourism sector is back on its feet, with local and international visitors flocking to its conservation areas.
With parks and orphanages posting strong numbers, the industry looks set for further recovery and growth.