A Boost between Kenya-Uganda Tourism as Border Restrictions Ease

Relaxed border restrictions nearly doubled the growth in tourism numbers between Kenya and Uganda in the past two years, with the two countries executing joint tourist events to improve integration. 

The restrictions have improved the tourism industry between Uganda and Kenya. This has made it easier for tourists to explore the rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and incredible wildlife of Uganda and Kenya

The single visa that allows tourists to travel between Kenya and Uganda without the need for separate visas has been the biggest factor contributing to the growth in tourism. This has made it easier for tourists to explore both countries.

In addition, the use of identification cards to cross borders has further simplified travel arrangements. This initiative has reduced the time and all protocol that is involved in crossing borders, enabling tourists to make the most of their trip 

The data from  Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC), indicates that  600,000 tourists visited various tourist centers in the two countries, compared to 320,000 in 2022.

During the media launch of the 3rd Uganda Kenya Coast Tourism Conference in Mombasa, The Uganda Consul-General at the Kenyan Coast, Ambassador Paul Mukumbya said increased trips of Uganda Airlines and the modern transport sector have led to increased numbers. For instance, in 2023, more than 490,000 Kenyans visited Uganda, whereas 201,620 Ugandans visited Kenya

“The 3rd Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference is set to take place in Kampala, Uganda on November 20th – 21st 2024,” This was announced by Mukumbya.

Synergies between key tourism players from Uganda and the Kenya Coastal region have been built and enhanced where different tourism stakeholders from both countries are already selling both destinations.

Uganda and Kenya’s coastal regions present diverse and complementary tourism products, making it easier to market them jointly to international audiences. While Uganda has tourist attractions like mountain gorillas, and chimpanzees, cultural and religious tourism, and big Kampala nightlife, the Kenya coast is known a lot for its stunning beaches like Diani Beach, marine tourism, and historic sites. Therefore, by collaborating, both countries can promote tourism without competition, supporting each other’s unique strengths to attract more visitors.

Dr. Sam Ikwaye, executive director of KAHC, emphasized the importance of fostering trust and collaboration among tourism stakeholders, noting the positive impact of familiarization trips and business-to-business engagements facilitated by the conference.”The confidence levels among stakeholders have risen, enabling Kenyan and Ugandan operators to develop and exchange tourism packages effectively,” he said. 

In the ongoing joint campaign, Kenya and Uganda have arrangements where tourists arriving in Kenya can go on to visit Uganda on the same visa. For instance, tourists can have breakfast at a beach in Kenya and lunch on a safari in Uganda 

The main partners include the Kenya Association of Tour Operators, Kenya Association of Travel Agents, TOSKENYA, KAHC, Kenya Coast Tourist Association, Kenya Tourism Board, Kenya Tourism Federation, Uganda Tourism Board, Private Sector Foundation Uganda, Uganda Tourism Association, Eyalama Adventures and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uganda.

The relaxed border restrictions between Kenya and Uganda have been one of the biggest transformative breakthroughs for the tourism industry in both countries.