One month after local flights resumed, domestic tourism in Kenya’s South Coast is also on the rise triggering a hike in weekend air tickets.
This is an indication that Kenyans have heeded to Tourism CS Najib Balala’s call to promote local tourism as the country adjusts to the new normal that is living with coronavirus.
For a one-way ticket, you will cough between Sh5,900 and Sh8,900 to Ukunda, a popular tourist destination.
A look into Jambojet’s ticket prices starting Friday, August 21, a morning flight ticket will cost you Sh8,900 to Ukunda while that for midday will cost Sh6,900 and Sh5,900 for the evening flight.
For Kenya Airways, a one-way ticket to Mombasa is going for Sh4,845 while Safarilink, charges Sh6,500 for a one-way ticket to Ukunda.
Skyward Express’ rate is Sh6,950 for a one-way ticket to Ukunda and Sh5,950 to Mombasa.
Also read: Kenya Tourism Board names marathoner Eliud Kipchoge Kenya’s tourism ambassador
However, more tourists have been seen to prefer a visit to the coastal city more than any other part of the country including the North Rift which is a favourite tourist destination.
Airfares to North Rift and Luo Nyanza is on the lows of Sh3,900 to Sh4,500.
When local flights resumed on July 15, the uptake of passengers was low forcing operators to bring down the fare.
A majority of Kenyans are unable to travel due to the economic aftershocks of COVID-19 which has strained their budgets.
Balala together with the Kenya Wildlife Service slashed park entry fees by 50% to promote local tourism for the next one year.
The discounted prices have also been extended to foreign tourist visiting Kenyan parks.
Source: See Africa Today