Kenya is one of the world’s leading safari destinations, attracting millions of tourists.
If you want to legally operate as a tour or safari company in Kenya, you must obtain a license from the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA).
This license ensures that your business meets the set standards, builds trust with clients, and protects you from legal challenges.
Moreover, the license ensures that you are recognized as a legitimate business, and you can market your services confidently to both local and international tourists
Additionally, it helps you protect your clients and business by ensuring compliance with safety, insurance, and staff requirements, thereby avoiding fines, penalties, or business closure for operating illegally.
This guide takes you through everything you need to know about applying for and securing a tour or safari operator’s license in Kenya.
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Step-by-Step Process of Getting a Tour Safari License in Kenya
The licensing process is done through the TRIMS Self-Service Portal, managed by the Tourism Regulatory Authority.
Step 1: Register on the TRIMS Self-Service Portal
Go to the TRA TRIMS portal online.
Click “Register” on the homepage and fill in the required details.
Submit your information and wait for approval.
Once approved, TRA sends login credentials to your email.
Step 2: Register Your Company or Business
Log in to the TRIMS system and select “Register an Entity.”
Fill in the entity registration form accurately.
Upload mandatory documents such as your Business Registration Certificate (CR12), KRA PIN, and Single Business Permit.
Submit and proceed to the License Application Form, where you’ll add more supporting documents.
This step confirms your company’s existence and ensures you’re recognized as a legitimate business entity in Kenya.
Step 3: Application Verification
TRA’s registration office will carefully vet your documents. This includes confirming that your business is legally registered and meets the standards of a safari operator.
If everything checks out, you will receive an approval email.
Step 4: Pay the Applicable Fees
After verification, The system will generate an invoice.
Pay the application fee (Ksh1,000) and the annual license fee (Ksh8,000).
Upload proof of payment.
However, late payments attract a 10% penalty per month.
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Step 5: Premises Inspection
TRA officials will schedule an inspection of your office or premises. This step ensures that your business has a proper physical location and meets basic operational requirements.
Inspectors will check for:
- A functioning office with signage.
- Valid vehicle insurance and inspection reports.
- A list of staff, their qualifications, and contracts.
- Proof that your company can deliver safe and reliable safari services.
- You’ll be asked to sign off on the inspection findings. Any discrepancies must be fixed before your license is approved.
- Step 6: Issuance of the Tour Safari License
If your company meets all requirements, TRA will issue your license.
You will receive an approval email.
The license will be available to download and print from the TRIMS system.
Required Documents for Tour Safari License Application
Having the right documents ready can speed up the process.
For Entity Registration:
- Business Registration Certificate (CR12)
- Single Business Permit
- KRA PIN Certificate
- Appointment Letter
For Tour or Safari Operator’s License:
- Filled Tourism License Application Form
- Lease agreement or title deed of premises
- Certificate of incorporation
- CR12 / Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Work permits for non-Kenyan staff
- Proof of vehicle ownership or hire contract
- Vehicle inspection reports & insurance covers
- Staff list with CVs and professional certificates
- Sample safari itineraries
- Proof of application and license fee payments
- Tour Safari License Fees in Kenya
Application Fee: Ksh. 1,000
Annual License Fee: Ksh. 8,000
Renewal Fee: Ksh. 8,000
Payments must be made through KCB Bank (University Way Branch) into TRA’s official account.
The license is valid for one year, and businesses must renew it at least 30 days before expiry.
Failure to renew on time attracts penalties or cancellation.
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