Kenya Crowned World’s Friendliest Country in 2025 Global Index.
Kenya has been crowned the world’s friendliest country in the 2025 Global Friendliness Index, an annual survey by the World Tourism Federation (WTF) that ranks nations based on hospitality, cultural warmth, and openness to visitors.
The report released on Tuesday ranked Kenya ahead of Thailand, Portugal, and New Zealand, lauding the nation’s “exceptional warmth and spirit of togetherness.”
According to the Federation, Kenya’s victory was attributed to its people’s hospitality, the country’s rich tourism culture, and government initiatives promoting cultural inclusivity. The global survey gathered responses from over 120,000 international travelers across 85 countries, evaluating friendliness, safety perception, and community engagement.
“Kenya has shown that friendliness is more than a gesture—it’s a lifestyle,” said WTF Secretary-General Dr. Elena Rios during the award ceremony in Geneva, Switzerland. “Visitors consistently describe Kenya as a place where they arrive as strangers but leave feeling like family.”
Kenya achieved an impressive 9.4 out of 10 in the friendliness score, emerging as Africa’s best and the overall global leader. Destinations such as Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and the Maasai Mara were highlighted as prime examples of Kenya’s “authentic African hospitality.”
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano welcomed the accolade, terming it a triumph for Kenya’s tourism and national pride.
“This recognition reflects who we are as Kenyans—welcoming, caring, and proud of our culture. It’s a testament to our people in the hospitality sector who ensure every visitor feels at home,” said Rebecca Miano
The Ministry of Tourism attributed the achievement to successful initiatives such as the ‘Tembea Kenya’ domestic tourism campaign and the newly introduced visa-free entry system, which simplified travel for international visitors.
Travelers praised Kenyans for their warmth and helpfulness. “From the moment I landed in Nairobi, everyone was smiling and eager to help,” said Liam Carter, a British tourist. “It’s not just the safaris or beaches—it’s the people that make Kenya unforgettable.”
In 2024, Kenya recorded 2.3 million international tourist arrivals, with projections indicating a 25% increase in 2025 following the award.
Kenya now joins past winners including Iceland (2023) and Fiji (2024), cementing its position as Africa’s leading travel destination.
“This award belongs to the Kenyan people,” Miano added. “Their spirit of harambee—working together—is what makes Kenya the friendliest country on earth.”
