EXPLORING OPPORTUNITIES IN AGRITOURISM

Agritourism is a niche form of tourism that involves any agricultural operation or activity that brings visitors to farms, plantations or ranches. This form of tourism as opposed to wildlife tourism, involves interactions at the farms where tourists see different farm settings, different crops being grown, and processing at the farm both for crops and livestock. This kind of tourism is mainly targeted at individuals who have an interest in farming and would like to get a feel of an actual farming enterprise and know the intricacies involved in farming.  The full potential of agritourism in Africa remains largely untapped, primarily due to a lack of knowledge or information among farmers regarding how to effectively position their farms to attract visitors seeking to learn from their enterprises. However, there exists significant potential for growth in this sector, as both farmers and investors from across Africa and beyond express interest in learning from successful agricultural enterprises. 

Unlocking this potential requires efforts to educate farmers on strategies for showcasing their farms as educational and experiential destinations. By providing guidance on how to create engaging farm tours, highlight sustainable practices, and offer hands-on learning experiences, farmers can attract a broader audience interested in agricultural innovation and best practices. Additionally, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among farmers and stakeholders can further stimulate the growth of agritourism across the continent.

Nevertheless, this form of tourism is slowly picking up in Africa and we have numerous case studies detailing the success stories of smallholder farmers. Many of the narratives have been shared on our website and social media platforms for those interested in visiting the actual farms, a nominal fee is charged, directly benefiting the farmers.

Visitors to Kneya have the unique opportunity to experience the enchanting fusion of nature, culture, and the agricultural marvels in Kenya's agritourism destinations. whether you are wandering through vineyards, participating in aquaculture endeavours, traversing cattle ranches, or delving into the world of coffee and tea plantations, these hotspots provide exclusive chances to connect with the earth and delve into Kenya's rich farming legacy. From coffee plantations of Kikuyu land to the tea estates of Kericho and other highlands of Kenya, and from the sugarcane fields of Nyanza to the expansive and fruitful Lord Delamere farms; from the flower and horticultural farms of Naivasha to the dairy and cheese farms in Limuru and the wheat and barley fields of Timau, the diversity of agricultural landscapes in Kenya is boundless. Each field holds a unique narrative, and these tales have been curated and interwoven by Inclusive Holidays Africa for you to explore. Together, these simple yet profound experiences shape the future of our region with distinct character and identity.

Tea & Coffee Plantations

Nairobi is encompassed by vast expanses of coffee and tea plantations. Tea plantations adorn the hillsides surrounding Limuru and Tigoni, while sprawling coffee estates grace the lower part of Kiambi, yielding premium arabica coffee for both local consumption and international markets.

The Central Highlands Route, The Rift Valley Route and The Western Route of Kenya stand out as prime destinations offering suitable economic opportunities for the entire family. Renowned for their stunning landscapes, tea and coffee plantations, and conservation areas boasting a diverse rich flora and fauna, these routes provide a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors of all ages.

Kenya coffee stands tall among the world's finest, rivalling esteemed Latin American varieties and revered by discerning coffee connoisseurs. Notably, in the vicinity of Kiambu lies Kiambaa, affectionately dubbed 'Millionaire's Row' due to its thriving local coffee production. Renowned as Kenya's premier coffee-growing region, this ridge boasts optimal altitude, climate, and conditions for cultivating coffee beans of exceptional quality.

Tea Plantation in Kimbaa

The tea industry in Kenya ranks among the world's largest, and the tea plantations nestled in Kericho and Nandi Hills provide captivating experiences. Explore renowned tea estates such as Tinderet Tea Estate and Kericho Tea Estate, where you can observe the precise craft of hand plucking and processing tea leaves. Immerse yourself in the beauty of scenic tea gardens and indulge in tea tastings while soaking in panoramic vistas of the rolling hills.

For decades, the slopes of Kericho have remained Kenya's premier tea-growing region. Established by several large tea corporations in the 1950s, these plantations benefit from ideal conditions that consistently yield exceptional quality tea.

Avocado Farming - Kakuzi

Avocado, Macadamia Farming & Forest Plantations 

Kenya's avocado industry is booming, ranking among the top horticultural exports. Avocados from Kenya are shipped worldwide, particularly to Europe and the Middle East, thanks to a growing market demand. Murang'a County, situated on The Central Highlands Route of Kenya, stands out as the leading avocado-growing region. With its nutrient-rich red soils and favourable climate, the county produces a remarkable 40% of Kenya's avocado supply, with expectations for further growth. The county governments's supportive policies and initiatives contribute to the success of avocado farmers. Other notable avocado-producing areas in Kenya include Nyeri, Kisii, Machakos, and Nandi.

On the other hand, Macadamia farming serves as a vital income source globally, especially for small-scale farmers in Kenya. Currently ranked third in macadamia production, Kenya holds a significant 13% share of the global market, amounting to 7,750 tonnes on a kernel basis. Over the recent years, macadamia's role as a cash crop for foreign exchange earnings has steadily increased.

The primary buyers of macadamia are companies exporting to European Union nations, along with those marketing branded roasted macadamia products. Given the growing consumer interest in macadamia, farmers can consider processing and selling roasted macadamia directly to consumers. This value-added approach promises higher profits compared to selling to processors and exporters. 

Kenya's Eburru Forest 

Kenya boasts of the most diverse forests in East Africa. The Kenya Forest Service is tasked with managing these resources sustainably for the country's socio-economic development. These forests include lowland rainforests in the west, montane forests in the central and western highlands, and mangroves along the coastline, notably Lamu and at the mouth of the Tana River. The highest diversities are found in coastal forests, western plateau forests like Kakamega, and geologically older mountains such as Taita Hills and Kasigau.

These are the forests that contain biodiversity, these are the forests that help us retain water when it rains and keep our rivers flowing,these are the forests that many future generations will need

Wangari Maathai on indigenous forests

Sugar Plantations

Sugarcane Harvesting 

Sugarcane farming in Kenya dates back to the 1920s, with the establishment of the first plantation at Kibos Sugar Estate in Kisumu. Since then, the sector has flourished. witnessing the emergence of numerous sugar factories nationwide. Today, sugarcane farming plays a vital role in Kenya's agriculture, providing employment opportunities and significantly contributing to the economy.

For farmers, sugarcane cultivation offers a reliable income source through sales to sugar factories, thus uplifting livelihoods and enabling investment in farm improvement. Moreover, sugarcane is a key export commodity, bolstering Kenya's foreign exchange reserves by supplying sugar to countries like Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. 

Flower Farms

Flower Farms in Naivasha

Naivasha stands as the heart of Kenya's thriving agricultural sector. Its fertile optimal altitude and proximity to lake waters have established it as a prime hub for cultivating and harvesting fresh-cut flowers and vegetables. Particularly renowned is the flourishing flower industry, which has emerged as one of Kenya's most lucrative ventures. Each day, numerous flights ferry roses, carnations, and assorted cuttings directly to European markets.

As the industry continues to spur, Kenyan flowers find their way to shelves in the Middle East, Australia, and South Africa. This expansion has significantly bolstered local economies and employment opportunities, with Naivasha assuming a central role in this bustling trade.

Numerous farms in the vicinity welcome tourists, offering them the chance to explore their operations, including greenhouses and other facilities. Some farms go a step further by showcasing their commitment to environmental preservation and industry sustainability through self-regulation initiatives, thereby ensuring a fair and sustainable future for all stakeholders.

Experience an agritourism safari like no other that promises unforgettable moments and a deepened appreciation for the country's agricultural abundance with Inclusive Holidays Africa

The author is Stephen Mwasio, Tourism Consultant and CEO of Inclusive Holidays Africa Twitter - - @inclusiveafrica