Kenya Crowned the 2025 Friendliest Country in the World by Condé Nast Traveller

Kenya has done it again — this time earning the ultimate global compliment. In its 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, the world-renowned travel magazine Condé Nast Traveller has named Kenya the friendliest country in the world, giving it an outstanding score of 98.46.

This recognition places Kenya ahead of other top destinations such as Thailand, Mexico, Cambodia, Mauritius, and Vietnam — countries long celebrated for their hospitality. But for travelers who have experienced Kenya firsthand, this comes as no surprise.

“Behind each lovely Kenyan safari, there’s a whole host of even lovelier guides who make you feel completely at ease, even when metres away from a prowling lion,”
— Condé Nast Traveller, 2025 Edition

🦁 Safari Warmth, City Energy, and Coastal Charm

From the world-famous Maasai Mara to the crystal shores of Diani and Lamu, Kenya’s warmth runs deeper than just a smile. It’s a feeling — the friendly wave of a safari guide, the genuine laughter shared over a cup of chai, the effortless blend of cultures in Nairobi’s nightlife, and the tranquil welcome found in the coastal breeze.

At Karen Plains Hotel, we see that same warmth every day in our guests’ stories — from travelers discovering Nairobi for the first time to returning adventurers who now call Kenya their second home.

🌿 Tourism on the Rise

According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), Kenya recorded 18.6 million visitor days in 2024, up from 17 million in 2023, with the average length of stay increasing to 12.1 days. That means tourists aren’t just coming — they’re staying longer, exploring deeper, and connecting more meaningfully with the country.

June Chepkemei, CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), attributes this success to Kenya’s ongoing innovation in the tourism sector.

“The concerted efforts made to diversify tourism products, improve connectivity, and enhance the visitor experience are bearing fruit,” she said.

These efforts include growing Kenya’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism, improving digital infrastructure, and nurturing eco-friendly and community-based travel experiences.

✨ A Welcoming Spirit That’s Unmistakably Kenyan

Kenya’s recognition as the friendliest country in the world is more than an award — it’s a reflection of who we are. Whether you’re wandering through Nairobi’s creative hubs, hiking the Ngong Hills, or watching the sun dip over the savannah, Kenya meets you with open arms.

And for those exploring Nairobi, there’s no better way to experience this spirit than staying with us at Karen Plains Hotel — where local art, warm hospitality, and contemporary comfort meet in the heart of Karen.

Come stay with us and experience the friendliness Kenya is famous for.
Book directly via our website: Karen Plains Hotel Booking Page