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Diani beach, Maasai Mara voted as best tourist destinations in Africa
The Kenyan tourism industry has received a major boost after key attractions and hotels scooped top awards during the World Travel Awards ceremony.
The sterling performance is welcome news to the industry, which has been hit hard by the terrorist threat.
The news also comes just days after the British government lifted travel advisories against visiting parts of the Kenyan Coast, including Mombasa, Kwale and Kilifi counties, which are popular tourist destinations.
The awards — and the lifting of the advisories — are likely to lead to a revival of the tourism sector, which has been on the decline in the past two years.
Speaking during the awards ceremony, Tourism Principal Secretary Ibrahim Mohamed said winning the prestigious awards would boost the Kenyan tourism sector.
“It is a great day for Kenya, as our tourist attraction sites, hotels, lodges and tour firms have scooped some prestigious awards on the African continent,” said Dr Mohamed. “It is confirmation that travel agents from around the world have confidence in Kenya’s tourist destination.”
Mombasa port was also voted Africa’s leading cruise port after warding off competition from Port Elizabeth, Cape Town and Durban, all of them in South Africa.
The Maasai Mara National Reserve was ranked Africa’s leading national park, beating South Africa’s Kruger National Park, Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Central Kalahari Game Reserve of Botswana.
The national carrier, Kenya Airways, was ranked Africa’s leading airline in the Business Class category, beating South African Airways, EgyptAir and Ethiopian Airlines.
The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) was voted Africa’s leading tourist board for the fourth year running.
Diani Reef Beach Resort and Spa was voted Africa’s leading spa resort, while Finch Hattons emerged as Africa’s leading safari lodge.
Game Watchers Safaris and Porini Camps won Africa’s leading tented safari camp award while Sanctuary Olonana was declared Africa’s leading Eco-Lodge.
The Nairobi Serena Hotel was ranked Africa’s green hotel after beating Hilton Hurghada Plaza of Egypt and Phantom Forest Eco-reserve of South Africa.
