The Covid-19 pandemic greatly affected the tourism industry in Kenya. Major events that tourists greatly look forward to every year were hampered. However, with the opening up of borders, there is hope for a significant return to tourism activity in 2021. Here are three major events to look forward to this year.
WILDEBEEST MIGRATION (July-October)
The wildebeest migration is one of the most thrilling, intriguing and spectacular migratory movements. So amazing the migration is, it is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Every year 15 million wildebeest that include, Thomson’s gazelles, Zebras, Elands, Impalas and other hoofed animals, move across the Mara plains in Kenya all the way South into Tanzania through Serengeti. This movement is a circular migration that happens throughout the year. The arrival of the animals at the Mara River in Kenya and the consequent crossing in July through to October is considered the climax of the migration. The constant battle for survival from the crocodiles in the river, at this point, will have you experience a mixture of emotions- from anxiety to anticipation to excitement. This experience will leave a lasting impression and will have you longing to experience it every other year.
HUMP WHALE MIGRATION- August
Little known Hump Whale Migration happens around the same time as the Wildebeest Migration. Humpback whales swim 4000km from Antarctica along the Coasts of South Africa, Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya and Somalia.
The Malindi-Watamu Marine National Reserve is one of the best places to see the Whales migration. Every August, in Kenya, Watamu treats local and international tourists to the sight of the Marine Big 5 that includes 10 different species of dolphins and whales.
Whales travel to warm tropical inner reefs during breeding and birthing. They are sighted along the East African Coast in June. The return journey to Antarctica is made in October.
Visitors to Watamu describe watching these magnificent whales with their young calves leaping out of water as a natural beauty to behold.
Head over to Watamu this August and enjoy this amazing, exciting and unforgettable experience.
ELEPHANT NAMING- August
Kenya will host its first annual Elephant Naming festival in August 2021, as announced by the Kenya Tourism Board on World Elephant Day on 12th August 2020.
During the ceremony, individuals will adopt an elephant before proceeding to give the elephant its first name. The second name will be a Masai name based on the animal’s profile, history, role in the family and physical attributes like state of tusks.
The festival is an effort towards conservation and to learn more about elephants and other wildlife. Protection of elephants is paramount since elephants are among endangered animal species not only in Kenya but also in the world due to increased demand for ivory that has resulted in poaching.
By Lizz Abade, Tylink Travel.
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