The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) is rolling out the red carpet for global media representatives ahead of the 2024 Magical Kenya Tourism Expo (MKTE). From September 27th to October 1st, media personnel from around the world are being given an exclusive opportunity to explore Kenya’s most captivating destinations.

This immersive experience is designed to showcase the country’s rich and diverse tourism offerings, setting the stage for a successful expo at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi from October 2nd to 4th.

The familiarization trips, organized by KTB, are aimed at providing media representatives with firsthand experiences of Kenya’s top attractions, enabling them to share authentic and compelling stories with their audiences. 

This year’s MKTE is expected to draw over 5,000 delegates, including more than 160 hosted buyers and over 100 buyers’ clubs. The event will provide a crucial platform for local tourism businesses to connect with international markets and foster partnerships that will drive growth in the sector.

Four distinct media teams are embarking on curated journeys that highlight Kenya’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage. One team is exploring Amboseli and Meru, starting with a game drive in Amboseli National Park, known for its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and thriving elephant population. They will then head to Rhino River Camp in Meru for a luxurious stay amidst nature. 

A late afternoon game drive through the Rhino Sanctuary offers an up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures, followed by a serene sundowner experience. This journey not only underscores Kenya’s extraordinary biodiversity but also highlights its conservation efforts.

Another group is venturing to Naivasha from Nairobi, beginning their adventure with a tranquil boat ride on Lake Naivasha. The experience includes a visit to Crescent Island, where they connect with nature in an intimate setting. 

They then proceed to The Forest, an adventure park where they can indulge in zip-lining, cycling, horse riding, archery, and paintball. The day concludes with a stay at Enashipai Spa & Resort, blending adventure with relaxation. This trip showcases Kenya’s appeal to both thrill-seekers and those seeking tranquility.

A third team is discovering the charms of Kisumu and Lamu, starting with a scenic boat ride to Takawairi Island and Bird Island. They continue to Kisumu, visiting the Kisumu Impala Animal Sanctuary and enjoying a leisurely lunch at Dunga Hill Camp, where they also experience a beautiful sundowner. The vibrant nightlife of Kisumu offers a glimpse into the region’s dynamic cultural scene. Their next stop is Lamu, where they will explore Kenya’s rich cultural heritage in the country’s oldest town, demonstrating the diversity of experiences available to visitors.

The fourth group is exploring the iconic Masai Mara and the beautiful beaches of Diani. Their journey begins with a game drive through the Mara BaseCamp Wilderness, where they experience the incredible wildlife and stunning scenery of one of the world’s most renowned safari destinations. After settling into their lodge and enjoying a sumptuous lunch, they embark on an afternoon game drive and visit a local Maasai village to learn about the traditions of this famous community. From the savannah, they will head to the coast, experiencing the pristine beauty of Diani’s beaches, which complement Kenya’s reputation as a premier safari and beach destination.

These trips are more than just an opportunity to showcase Kenya’s tourism potential. They are part of KTB’s broader strategy to strengthen the country’s position as a top travel destination and to promote MKTE as a prime platform for business networking and sector growth. Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa highlighted the significance of MKTE in creating valuable connections between local tourism enterprises and international markets. 

He emphasized that the expo has been instrumental in helping small and medium-sized tourism businesses access global markets, which is crucial for the growth and diversification of Kenya’s tourism sector.

Ololtuaa also encouraged stakeholders to leverage MKTE to explore new business opportunities and partnerships. He noted that the expo has played a pivotal role in supporting local businesses in the tourism value chain, especially those that may not have the resources to participate in international expos. 

His remarks come as the industry gears up for what is expected to be a landmark edition of MKTE, building on the successes of previous years and aiming to attract even greater participation from international buyers and exhibitors.

KTB CEO June Chepkemei expressed optimism about the upcoming expo, stating that MKTE has established itself as a consistent and affordable platform for Kenyan travel trade, county governments, and affiliated brands to connect with international suppliers and markets. 

She highlighted KTB’s efforts to increase the number of hosted buyers from emerging markets such as the Americas, Asia, and the Middle East, in addition to the traditional source markets in Europe and Africa. This is part of a broader strategy to diversify Kenya’s tourism products and appeal to a wider range of travelers.

Chepkemei also emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for local tourism businesses to showcase their offerings on a global stage. She noted that MKTE is an invaluable platform for building partnerships and exploring new markets, which is essential for the continued growth and innovation of Kenya’s tourism industry. 

As the media teams conclude their journeys and prepare for the expo, there is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation.

The 2024 Magical Kenya Tourism Expo promises to be a celebration of the country’s unique attractions and a testament to the resilience and dynamism of its tourism sector. By providing media representatives with unforgettable experiences across Kenya, KTB is not only promoting the upcoming expo but also reinforcing Kenya’s status as one of Africa’s top travel destinations.