Kenya is charting new paths in tourism, unveiling the Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series in a bold bid to attract 200,000 adventure tourists over the next five years.

Tourism and Wildlife CS Rebecca Miano said the initiative is designed to showcase Kenya’s untapped potential beyond its famed beaches and wildlife safaris.

“Through these initiatives, we seek not only to attract more international visitors but also to promote local tourism and create economic opportunities for the communities involved,” Miano emphasised.

The series, which spans the counties of Laikipia, Elgeyo Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, Baringo, and Nandi, offers a diverse array of activities including hiking, biking, cultural immersions, and farm tours. It kicked off at

Thompson Falls with the Heritage Trail Tour and Tinderet Barng’etuny Mountain Run, setting the stage for a vibrant journey that will culminate in the Taptengele Cultural Festival on Friday and the Tinderet Barng’etuny Mountain Run on Saturday.

Felix Koskei, Head of Public Service, highlighted the importance of collaboration among key players at the launch.

“I officially launched the Magical Kenya "Mountain and Trail Series" by flagging off the Heritage Trail Tour & Tinderet Barng’etuny Mountain Run at Thompson Falls this morning," Koskei stated.

"Five counties- Laikipia, Elgeyo Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, Baringo and Nandi- will be traversed with the series culminating with the Taptengele Cultural Festival on January 17, and the Tinderet Barng’etuny Mountain Run on January 18. It offers a unique mix of sport, culture, and nature, while showcasing Kenya’s hidden gems

In attendance were Principal Secretaries John Ololtuaa (Tourism) and Silvia Museiya (Wildlife), MP Julius Melly, KTB Chairman Francis Gichaba, and Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei.

Kenya Tourism Board CEO June Chepkemei hailed the move as a transformative leap for the sector.

“Adventure tourism will allow visitors to discover hidden gems by traversing unique terrains and immersing themselves in the rich and diverse cultures of the participating counties,” she said.

Chepkemei noted that the sector, which generated Sh350 billion (about 2.7 billion U.S. dollars) in 2024 from 2.4 million international visitors, is poised for greater heights.

Adventure tourism, she added, is expected to redefine Kenya’s travel landscape and bolster its economy.

With tourism standing as one of Kenya’s key economic pillars alongside tea, horticulture, and diaspora remittances, officials are optimistic about the industry’s resilience.

From scenic trails to cultural festivals, the Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series promises to captivate both local and international audiences, marking a new era for the nation’s tourism sector.