Nairobi, Kenya – The Kenya Tourism Board has been crowned as the best tourism board in Africa, at the Africa Tourism Awards 2025 (The Balearica Awards), held on 1 November at the Hilton London Canary Wharf.
The Kenya Tourism Board beat renowned competitors including Egypt Tourism Authority, Rwanda Development Board, South African Tourism, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, and Instituto do Turismo de Cabo Verde, affirming Kenya’s position as a continental benchmark for destination marketing and promotion.
Other winners were the Masai Mara National Reserve, which was named Best Safari Destination, reinforcing Kenya’s leadership in African tourism.
The Masai Mara National Reserve’s award as Best Safari Destination follows stiff competition from iconic parks such as Chobe, Kruger, Serengeti, South Luangwa, and Volcanoes National Parks. This accolade highlights the Mara’s unmatched wildlife experiences, especially the celebrated annual wildebeest migration, and its pioneering community-focused conservation efforts.
Kenya’s success extends beyond these wins. KTB also received commendations in categories such as Best Tourism Video with the acclaimed campaign “This is the Real Deal,” Best Country Destination, Best City Destination for Nairobi, and Best International Airport for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. These recognitions collectively demonstrate Kenya’s diverse tourism appeal and infrastructure excellence.
Speaking on the awards, Allan Njoroge, Acting CEO of Kenya Tourism Board, said:
“These accolades are a strong testament to Kenya’s extraordinary natural heritage and our commitment to sustainable tourism growth. The Masai Mara remains our crown jewel and one of the world’s premier safari destinations. Our recognition as Best Tourism Board reflects KTB’s innovative marketing strategies, strategic partnerships, and concerted efforts to grow visitor arrivals, boost revenue, and create millions of jobs for Kenyans.”
These awards came at the side lines of the 2025 World Travel Market (WTM) in London, where Kenya Tourism Board showcased the destination. KTB led a dynamic Kenyan delegation to the global tourism showcase, leveraging the platform to forge new partnerships, promote Kenya’s newest tourism products, and drive international arrivals.
The Board’s presence at WTM amplified Kenya’s diverse offerings, including adventure, cultural festivals, coastal experiences, and eco-tourism, ensuring Kenya remains top of mind for travellers worldwide.
Kenya continues to raise its profile as Africa’s premier tourism destination, combining world-class wildlife experiences with vibrant cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and warm hospitality.
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Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) is a state corporation established and regulated under the Tourism Act 2011. Our mandate is to develop, implement and co-ordinate a National Tourism Marketing Strategy. To market Kenya as the home of human origin and as an all-year-round diverse, sustainable and authentic tourism destination.
Magical Kenya is the flagship tourism brand created and managed by the KTB. Magical Kenya captures the essence of Kenya’s diverse offerings, promoting the country as a must-visit destination for local, regional, and international travellers.
