Writer: Emily Wekulo
Kenya is set to host several major tourist events in 2025, drawing both local and international visitors eager to experience its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
Known as the heart of safari tourism, Kenya offers more than just the iconic Maasai Mara and its world-famous Great Migration.
From pristine beaches along the Indian Ocean to lush highlands and vast savannahs teeming with wildlife, Kenya remains a top destination for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, and authentic cultural encounters.
As 2025 unfolds, Kenya’s tourism calendar is packed with vibrant cultural festivals, exhilarating sports events, and groundbreaking eco-tourism initiatives, all highlighting the country’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in travel.
Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker, a history enthusiast, or someone looking to immerse yourself in traditional African festivities, Kenya has something for everyone.
Why should Kenya be your next travel destination? Have you ever experienced the thrill of a camel derby in the arid lands of Samburu, danced under the moonlit skies during a Swahili festival in Lamu, or marvelled at the spectacle of thousands of wildebeest crossing the Mara River?
Beyond these unique experiences, Kenya offers world-class accommodations, a warm and hospitable culture, and an ever-improving infrastructure that makes travel seamless.
Below are detailed descriptions of the key tourism events set to take place in Kenya in 2025, including their dates, locations, and highlights. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to rediscover this magical land, Kenya promises an unforgettable journey filled with beauty, adventure, and discovery.
Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit (AYTIS)
This event is set to take place on June 10–13, 2025. AYTIS serves as a platform for young innovators and entrepreneurs in the tourism sector across Africa. The summit aims to highlight and support youth-led innovation in tourism, providing a platform to showcase transformative ideas to a global audience of investors, industry leaders, and policymakers.
Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, boasts a well-developed infrastructure with an international airport, modern conference facilities, and a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget options. Notable venues include the Sarova Panafric Hotel, known for hosting significant events.
Attendees can anticipate engaging workshops, networking opportunities, and the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge, which has become a highlight of the summit. The event attracts hundreds of innovators, government leaders, and tourism experts, aiming to revitalize the tourism industry in the region post-COVID.
June in Nairobi is generally cool and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, providing a comfortable climate for conference activities.
Kenyan Food Event (KFE)
Hello Culinary enthusiasts! Don’t say it’s too early to start booking for November 18–20, 2025. All mouths will be watering from Sarit Centre, Nairobi. KFE is the largest exhibition serving the food and drink industry across East Africa.
The event offers a pivotal platform for industry professionals seeking new suppliers, producers, and service providers to enhance their businesses.
The Sarit Centre is a premier event venue in Nairobi, equipped with modern facilities to host large exhibitions. The surrounding area offers a variety of accommodations, including international hotel chains and boutique establishments, catering to diverse preferences and budgets.
Visitors can explore a wide array of food and beverage products, attend industry seminars, and network with key market leaders. The event attracts national and international brands, providing insights into industry opportunities and trends.
November in Nairobi typically experiences short rains, with temperatures averaging between 17°C and 26°C. Attendees are advised to carry light rain gear.
Wikimania 2025
Wikimania is the annual conference celebrating Wikipedia and its sister projects. The 20th edition will be hosted in Nairobi, marking a significant milestone as it brings together contributors from around the globe to discuss the free knowledge initiative.
Creators be aware that this, time to interact with your fellows is here. Though the dates have not been communicated, Come Travel Kenya Limited is on the watch out to keep you posted and help you with your travel plans.
The conference is expected to utilize state-of-the-art venues equipped to handle international delegates. Participants can look forward to keynote speeches, collaborative workshops, and discussions on the future of the Wikimedia movement. The event fosters a sense of community among contributors and provides learning opportunities for newcomers.
Nairobi TravelExpo 2025
This will take place in May 2025 at the Sarova Panafric Hotel, Nairobi. The Nairobi TravelExpo is a significant event in Kenya’s tourism calendar, bringing together exhibitors from across Africa to showcase travel and tourism opportunities. The event aims to facilitate networking among industry players and promote tourism offerings.
The Sarova Panafric Hotel is a renowned venue for conferences and exhibitions, offering modern facilities and services. Nairobi’s infrastructure supports such large events, with ample accommodation options nearby.
Attendees can expect to meet a diverse range of exhibitors, including destination management companies, hospitality providers, and tourism boards. The expo provides opportunities for networking, business development, and discovering new travel products and services.
May in Nairobi marks the end of the long rainy season, with average temperatures between 16°C and 24°C. While the weather is generally pleasant, occasional showers may occur.
Before we forget, early birds, there will be a …
Kenya International Trade Show
On January 31 – February 2, 2025. The location is yet to be announced. This trade show is a premier event that attracts exhibitors and visitors from various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
It serves as a platform for businesses to showcase their products, network, and explore market opportunities in Kenya and the broader East African region
The event is typically held in major cities like Nairobi or Mombasa, which are equipped with the necessary infrastructure to host large-scale trade shows. These cities offer a range of accommodations
Let’s delve into some fun activities, of the year after so much business:
Ilchamus Cultural Festival
You have not seen the scenery that lined up the drive from Nairobi to Baringo County! If you are looking for a textbook road trip, this is your event. This festival celebrates the Ilchamus community’s rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional music, dance, and rituals. It aims to promote cultural preservation and tourism in the region.
Baringo County offers various accommodations, including lodges and guesthouses. While the infrastructure is developing, the area’s natural beauty and cultural significance make it a unique destination. What to
Visitors can engage with the Ilchamus people’s traditions, enjoy performances, and participate in cultural exchanges. The festival provides an authentic experience of Kenya’s diverse cultural landscape. Baringo County typically experiences warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 20°C and 30°C. Depending on the festival’s timing, there may be occasional rains, so it’s advisable to check the forecast closer to the event.
Closely related to this, there is the…
Tobong’u Lore (Lake Turkana Cultural Festival)
Usually held in Lodwar and Loiyangalani, Turkana County. Tobong’u Lore, meaning ‘welcome back home’ in the Turkana language, is a celebration aimed at promoting peace, cultural exchange, and tourism among communities bordering Lake Turkana.
Turkana County’s infrastructure is developing, with accommodations ranging from basic guesthouses to tented camps. Travellers should be prepared for limited amenities but will be rewarded with rich cultural experiences and stunning landscapes.
The festival features traditional music, dance, and ceremonies from various indigenous communities, including the Turkana, El Molo, and Samburu. It’s an opportunity to witness authentic cultural expressions and foster cross-cultural understanding.
Turkana County is generally hot and arid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Visitors should prepare for high heat and stay hydrated.
Kenya’s coastal regions and northern territories are renowned for hosting vibrant cultural and sporting events that offer tourists unique experiences. Here are some notable events scheduled for the remainder of 2025:
Lamu Cultural Festival
Celebrating the rich Swahili heritage, the Lamu Cultural Festival showcases traditional dances, poetry, crafts, and dhow races, reflecting the island’s historical and cultural significance. Lamu offers a range of accommodations, from boutique hotels to guesthouses, all reflecting the island’s unique architecture.
The town’s narrow streets are pedestrian-friendly, and transport is often by donkey or boat, preserving its old-world charm. Visitors can immerse themselves in Swahili culture, participate in traditional activities, and enjoy the island’s serene beaches and historic sites.
Lamu typically experiences warm temperatures in the latter part of the year, averaging between 25°C and 30°C, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor festivities.
Mombasa Carnival
As Kenya’s largest multicultural festival, the Mombasa Carnival features vibrant parades, music, dance, and traditional costumes, celebrating the city’s diverse heritage. Mombasa boasts well-developed infrastructure, including a variety of accommodations from luxury resorts to budget hotels, and efficient transport networks, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors.
Tourists can enjoy street parades, live performances, and sample local cuisines, all set against the backdrop of Mombasa’s historic architecture and coastal allure. Mombasa’s climate is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C. Late-year months are generally dry, providing pleasant conditions for outdoor events.
Maralal International Camel Derby
This annual event attracts participants and spectators worldwide, featuring camel races, cycling competitions, and cultural showcases, promoting sports tourism and cultural exchange. Maralal offers basic accommodations, including lodges and campsites. While the town’s infrastructure is modest, the event’s organizers ensure necessary amenities for participants and visitors. Attendees can witness thrilling camel races, engage with the local Samburu culture, and explore the scenic landscapes of northern Kenya. Maralal experiences mild to warm temperatures, averaging between 20°C and 28°C. The latter part of the year is generally dry, providing favourable conditions for outdoor activities.
Whether it is for business or pleasure; the Kenyan tourism calendar is packed with events that will give you the experience of a lifetime. You may want to start talking to your travel agent as soon as possible to help you plan your visits to various events in Kenya, in 2025. These events offer tourists an opportunity to engage with Kenya’s rich cultural tapestry and participate in unique local traditions. Prospective visitors should verify event dates and details closer to their travel time, as schedules may be subject to change. Let us keep in touch for updates. Karibu Kenya!
