Nyahururu: The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and Athletics Kenya (AK) have launched the 'Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series,' intended to position the country as a tourist destination. This new six-event initiative is set to culminate with the Barngetuny Mountain Run in Nandi County on Saturday, 18 January.
According to Kenya News Agency, the series was flagged off at the top of Nyahururu's Thompson Falls gorge in Nyahururu town. Head of Public Service Felix Kosgei and Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano emphasized that the series is designed to showcase the country's landscapes through a series of mountain and trail running events, aiming to position the countryside as a tourist destination.
Tinderet Member of Parliament Julius Melly joined Kosgei and Miano in highlighting the event's aim to position Kenya as a global hub for sports tourism. The first event is scheduled for January 18, 2025, in Nandi County, marking the beginning of this series.
The event is part of Kenya's broader tourism strategy, which focuses on offering a range of experiences to attract global visitors. The Magical Kenya Mountain and Trail Series is expected to become a flagship event, drawing attention from international and local travellers, runners, and adventure enthusiasts.
The series will take enthusiasts through Laikipia, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, and Nandi counties, ending with a series of events on Saturday. Ms. Miano noted the potential of these mountain running events as training grounds for Kenyan athletes and platforms for showcasing the country's prowess in the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships.
Additionally, the series offers investment opportunities in the tourism sector, particularly in the sports tourism market. This venture aims to attract international sports enthusiasts and provide a new avenue for domestic tourism.
Kenya's landscapes, from towering mountains to scenic trails, provide an ideal setting for adventure tourism.