Kenya has been ranked among the top 52 global travel destinations for 2024 by the latest New York Times annual travel list.
According to the ranking, Kenya secured position 31 on the travel list, ranking as the third best travel destination in Africa.
The New York Times hailed Kenya’s Tsavo National Park for being the home to many elephants in the country, despite the animal being endangered across the world.
Additionally, it explained that African Savanna elephants had been included in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s red list for possible extinction, but the wild animals were thriving in Kenya.
“In 2021, African savanna elephants went from vulnerable to endangered, putting them on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s red list for possible extinction.
“But in Kenya, the elephant population has grown by 21 percent since 2014, to a total of 36,280. Almost half live in Tsavo, home to Africa’s most successful elephant rehabilitation program, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust,” stated the ranking.
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Why Travel to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Tsavo National Park
Further, the national park was highlighted for its conservation projects including the elephant orphanage, rehabilitation units and mobile veterinary clinics.
Also, the report noted that the mobile veterinary clinics had treated more than 11,000 animals, including 3,500 elephants since its establishment in 1977.
“The organization has rehabilitated and released 200 elephant orphans,120 are still in their care, and runs anti-poaching teams, builds water sources and secures vulnerable boundaries,” added the New York Times.
At the same time, the Wildlife Trust manages six small eco-lodges, which the report noted provides local jobs and help its conservation work.
“In 2024, the trust will open the first lodge next to the Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, dedicated to saving the critically endangered black rhino,” hailed the report.
Other Countries Ranked alongside Kenya
The 2024 list highlights travel destinations experts believe people should take advantage of within the year and offer inspiration around sustainable travel, international and cultural events, nature and art.
Also Read: KWS to Triple Park Entry Fees
Other honorable mentions in Africa included Morocco, which ranked 19 globally and first in Africa. The report stated that it supported local recovery in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake.
Also, Madagascar was ranked second in Africa and 22nd top travel destination globally because of its textiles and contemporary art.
In addition, Hurghada in Egypt was ranked fourth in Africa and 41st globally because of its abundant marine ecosystem.
