Kwale delights in picking tourist numbers despite low season

However, this year, the situation is different. Instead of a 20% to 30% tourist turnout as compared to last year, there has been up to a 60% increase in visitors.

"We're looking to have an all round good season," said a hotel owner in Kwale County, adding that the government has also offered support to the tourism sector by providing funds to hire extra staff during the low season.

Hoteliers said one of the main challenges has been for hotel owners to get tourists to their destinations. Many tourists have to fly for several hours and make multiple connections before arriving at Moi International airport.

Despite this challenge, the surge in tourism is a welcome relief for the industry, which has been struggling to get back to pre-COVID-19 levels of occupancy.

Several hotels have had to come up with competitive packages to attract both local and international tourists to visit Kwale County.

The packages include discounts on accommodation, meals, and activities. Some hotels are also offering free airport transfers.

“The COVID-19 pandemic created a pent-up demand for travel,” another hotelier said.