Magical Kenya Travel Expo runs 6–8 October in Nairobi; 10,000 delegates expected

The 16th Magical Kenya Travel Expo (MKTE) runs from Tuesday 6 to Thursday 8 October 2026 at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi. The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), which organises the trade fair, expected more than 10,000 delegates from 40 countries, more than 400 exhibitors and more than 250 international buyers, The Star reported on 28 July.

The 2025 edition drew 7,691 delegates, and the organisers projected growth of about 30 per cent this year, according to The Star.

The theme is "Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence: Shaping the Future of Tourism", The Star and HapaKenya reported on 28 and 29 July. According to The Star, sessions will cover artificial intelligence, big data and smart destination tools.

KTB chief executive June Chepkemei said, as quoted by The Star, that every element of the programme, "from the buyer selection to the seminar agenda, is informed by data and consumer demand intelligence". The Star also reported that Kenya aims to attract 5 million international visitors by the end of 2027.

Business events, known in the trade as MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions), get particular attention this year. Kenya MICE Association chair Duncan Muriuki said, as quoted by Capital FM on 31 July: "MICE is the next frontier for growing tourism revenue." He also said, as quoted by The Star, that through the Kenya MICE Club the association is working with government and the private sector on competitive bidding packages that include destination incentives.

The expo's website lists evening events on 7 and 8 October, held with the Spirit of Africa Festival, for buyers, exhibitors and trade visitors to see Nairobi after dark.