As Kenya prepares for the peak tourism season, the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) has urged travellers and businesses to avoid dealing with unlicensed tourism operators, saying such practices breach the law and could expose visitors to fraud and poor services.
In an advisory issued on July 20, 2026, the regulator directed hotels, tour companies, travel agencies, destination management firms, online booking platforms and tourist transport providers to confirm that the businesses they work with hold valid licences before entering into partnerships or making payments.
The Authority also cautioned licensed tourism businesses against paying commissions, referral fees or any other form of compensation to individuals or companies that are required to be licensed under the Tourism Act, 2011, unless they have a valid licence issued by the regulator.
According to the TRA, the growth of unlicensed operators creates unfair competition for businesses that comply with the law, puts visitors and investors at risk of fraudulent or substandard services, and could damage Kenya’s standing as a trusted tourism destination.
The regulator warned that anyone found operating illegally or conducting business with unlicensed tourism enterprises could face action under existing laws.
TRA Director-General Norbert Talam reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to safeguarding visitors, supporting legitimate businesses and maintaining high professional standards across the tourism sector.
He also encouraged stakeholders to verify the authenticity of tourism licences through the Authority’s online verification platform or by contacting the regulator directly before engaging any tourism service provider.
The advisory comes at a time when visitor numbers are expected to rise, with the regulator urging all players in the industry to uphold the law and promote professionalism.
The Authority says greater compliance will help protect travellers, strengthen confidence in Kenya’s tourism sector and preserve the country’s reputation as a safe and reliable destination for local and international visitors.
