Kenya’s tourism sector has recorded strong growth in 2026, with earnings rising to KSh564 billion as international visitor arrivals increased, boosting the country’s hospitality industry and foreign exchange earnings.
Figures released by the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife show that tourism earnings increased by 18.7 per cent to KSh564 billion in the 2025/26 financial year, up from KSh476 billion recorded in the previous financial year.
International arrivals also increased by 9.8 per cent to 2.76 million visitors, compared to the previous financial year. Domestic tourism remained strong, with the number of local visitors contributing to the sector’s overall performance.
The World Bank has also acknowledged the sector’s improved performance, pointing to increased international arrivals and stronger activity in the hospitality industry.
In its July 2026 Kenya Economic Update, the lender noted that tourism had remained resilient, with accommodation and food services recording double-digit growth as international arrivals recovered.
“Tourism also remained resilient, with accommodation and food services recording double-digit growth as international arrivals recovered,” the World Bank stated.
The development highlights the growing contribution of hotels, restaurants and other hospitality businesses to Kenya’s economic performance.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano attributed the improved performance to increased international connectivity and targeted marketing campaigns under the Magical Kenya brand.
“Our collective journey over the four years has radically revitalised Magical Kenya, delivering record-breaking tourism revenue and a surge in both international and domestic visitor arrivals,” Miano said.
The government has also been promoting new tourism products to attract visitors beyond the traditional wildlife safaris and coastal holidays.
These include sports tourism, cultural experiences, adventure travel and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE), which have helped attract international visitors and business travellers.
The growth has also been supported by improved air connectivity, with the Kenya Tourism Board working with international airlines to promote the country in key source markets.
However, the industry still faces challenges, including limited direct flights to some tourist destinations, infrastructure gaps and competition from other African tourism markets.
Tourism remains an important source of foreign exchange, employment and business opportunities for Kenyans, particularly those working in hospitality, transport, tour operations and wildlife conservation.
The government is seeking to build on the gains by attracting more international visitors while strengthening domestic tourism and expanding the range of experiences available across the country.