Magical Kenya’s Signature Experience expanded

Humpback whale.

A female humpback whale breaching off Kenya's coast at Watamu. PHOTO | COURTESY

Kenya has added 29 new sites to diversify its tourism products. In the second phase of the Magical Kenya Signature Experiences ceremony held at Karura Forest in February, Humpback Whale Watching Experience in Watamu was among those to be promoted.

“The 29 new experiences in the Signature Collection add an extra layer of magic to what Kenya has to offer the world,” said Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala.

Mr Balala called on players in the industry to work with the Kenya Tourism Board to sell their packages to both international tourists and the domestic market.

Also recognised are Mida Creek Floating Adventure, Watamu Tree House, Zero to Hero Kite Surfing, Tribe Watersports, The Hemingways (Watamu), Watamu Tree House, Distant Relatives Experience, Diani Bikes, Kayaking in Kenya, In the footsteps of Elsa the Lioness and Black Rhino Tracking with Saruni.

Saruni Lodge, Fly Camping Under The Stars, Karisia Walking Safaris, Karisia Safaris Ltd, Nanyuki Olepangi Farm Experience, Olepangi Farm, El Karama Experience, El Karama Lodge, Borana Lodge, The Ololo Experience, Saruni Lodges, Thimlich Ohinga World Heritage Site and National Museums of Kenya.

The Signature Collection journey began in 2019 with 15 inaugural facilities that met the criteria of a Kenya signature experience, to grow and diversify Kenyan products to ensure they are a cut above other destinations.

■ Anthony Kitimo

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This article was first published in The EastAfrican newspaper on February 20, 2021.