Kenya supports a rich avifauna. These comprise species from the West African rainforests, the east flank of Africa, the southern tropics, the Horn of Africa, as well as the north-western districts of Kenya. To a large extent, this shows the diversity of the habitat of Kenya, which include semi-arid scrubs, deserts, lowlands, montane forests, large soda lakes, freshwater lakes, a long coastline as well as alpine meadows. Besides, Kenya is located on a major migration route for waterfowl, passerines, and raptors from Europe, Russia as well as the Middle East. The country is at the intersection of these biogeographical areas.
Research
Kenya tourism is a substantial contributor to the economy accounting for 12% of total employment and 27% of foreign exchange. It has attracted massive government and foreign investments with major effects on other sectors. There were 2.035 million arrivals in 2019 from all over the world and was projected to grow by 10%. But COVID-19 with its impact on travel has brought the industry to a halt. Whilst tourism has proven to be resilient to terrorism, recession, violence, pandemics, and natural disasters, none of these events has had such an impact on the economy, especially the tourism industry, as COVID-19.
Kenya tourism is a substantial contributor to the economy accounting for 12% of total employment and 27% of foreign exchange. It has attracted massive government and foreign investments with major effects on other sectors. There were 2.035 million arrivals in 2019 from all over the world and was projected to grow by 10%. But COVIS-19 with its impact on travel has brought the industry to a halt. Whilst tourism has proven to be resilient to terrorism, recession, violence, pandemics, and natural disasters, none of these events has had such an impact on the economy, especially the tourism industry, as COVID-19.
A balloon safari starts with a pick-up from the lodge at 5 AM and drop-off at the balloon launch site. The ground crew awaits in the recently plowed field. Already, as daylight approaches, the stars are fading. The sun bursts over the mountains and sunlight dances on the hills adorned with the lacy greens. The morning sky streaks with orange and red. The aroma of fresh doughnuts and coffee overwhelms the earthy, dewy smell of the early morning. As you reach there, you will find the ground crew unpacking the large engine. Ballooning is done best during dawn or dusk.