Seasonality Effects on Trends of Domestic and International Tourism: A Case of Nairobi National Park, Kenya

Abstract

Tourism is a very important source for foreign revenue for Kenya, as well as the main supporter and rationale for wildlife conservation in the country.  But most of this revenue is from international tourists, which the government and stakeholders seem to invest and focus on more rather than domestic tourism.  However, international tourists cannot always support the tourism industry, especially in years of economic, political and social turmoil. A vibrant domestic tourism can cushion the industry from fluctuations in international tourists and bring stability and predictability in the industry.  This study sought to addresses reasons why domestic tourism is still low despite its importance, and suggest ways of improving it in Kenya.  The data for this study was gathered through the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) tourism records, interviews with key stakeholders and players in the industry and interviews with local communities surrounding NairobiNational Park. About 64% of all tourists for NairobiPark for the last twenty years was domestic tourism, while only 35% were international tourists.  The level of education influenced the likelihood of the community to visit the parksand appreciate its conservation contribution.  Extra disposable income, lack of free time and low education were the hindrances towards local Kenyans visiting the park.  Therefore new marketing strategies, special holiday hotel rates for Kenyans and a more friendly hospitality industry for Kenyans would increase domestic tourism, especially for protected areas in urban vicinity.

Key words: Domestic tourism, international tourism, Kenya, NairobiNational Park,