Mara hotels record full bookings ahead of Easter Holiday

MARA, KENYA: Hotels in the Mara and Mombasa have recorded impressive bookings as the Easter Holiday approaches.

A survey by The Standard indicates that the bookings have been done by locals as foreigners shun the country because of the travel advisories that have been issued by the Western countries.

Siana Conservancy Chairman Sammy Nkoitoi said most hotels in the Mara are looking forward to a good business as more Kenyans have opted to spend their holiday at the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

"Most hotels have already been booked by local tourists and those that are not full have continued to receive bookings," said Nkoitoi.

He however singled out the dilapidated road infrastructure as an impediment to the tourism at the Mara.

He called on the county government to gravel the road from Narok to Sikenani and the one from Narok to Talek so as to woo more local tourists.

"Many people would opt to travel for recreation but they are scared by the poor roads. The county government should urgently address this," said Nkoitoi.

Mara Sarova Assistant Manager Steve Keriga said they anticipate a full booking by Friday and Saturday.