Kenya’s tourism sector generated approximately $3.3 billion (Ksh. 0.5 trillion) in 2025, driven by strong growth in both international and domestic travel, according to the Kenya Tourism Sector Performance Report 2025.
Data from the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife shows that the country recorded a total of 7.9 million tourists that year.
Of this figure, international arrivals stood at 2.7 million visitors, reflecting continued recovery in global travel demand and renewed confidence in Kenya as a destination.
Meanwhile, domestic tourism accounted for 5.2 million travelers, highlighting the growing role of local travel in sustaining the sector and boosting year-round activity.
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The Cabinet Secretary described the performance as a sign of resilience and strategic progress, noting that tourism remains a major contributor to foreign exchange earnings, employment, and economic diversification.
Notably, the strength of domestic tourism continued to provide a vital stabilizing anchor for the sector, cushioning against external shocks and seasonal fluctuations while sustaining consistent demand across the year.
Globally, international tourist arrivals grew by approximately 4% in 2025. With most destinations recording steady recovery. The world registered an estimated 1.52 billion international tourists, representing an increase of nearly 60 million arrivals compared to 2024.
Against this backdrop, Kenya delivered a significantly stronger performance. International arrivals increased from approximately 2.47 million in 2024 to 2.7million in 2025, representing a growth rate of about 9%. more than double the global average.
This above-average performance underscores growing international confidence in Kenya as a preferred travel destination, supported by enhanced destination marketing. improved product offerings, and sustained recovery in key source markets. It also reflects the country’s strategic positioning within the global tourism landscape, particularly as destinations compete for a share of the expanding international travel market.
