Tourist hotels still fully booked despite Westgate attack

By KIPCHUMBA KEMEI

Most hotels in Masai Mara Game Reserve remained fully booked at the weekend despite the Westgate Mall terror attack.

Hoteliers said the attack has not affected tourist arrivals, adding that they expected more visitors this weekend as the peak season that started in July with the great wildebeest migration spectacle peters out.

The first group of wildebeests, which cross the Mara River into Kenya from Serengeti plains in Tanzania has already crossed the river back, the reserve warden Mike Ntutu said.

“Though regrettable, the attack did not affect arrivals. We thank the Government for assuring visitors of their safety,” said Stephen Mpaayei, the Hotel Manager, Keekorok Lodge.

Mara Triangle

All hotels in the Mara Triangle were still fully booked yesterday with police and their management enhancing security.

Uniformed and plainclothes were deployed to all hotels and airstrips to beef up security, a survey by The Standard established.

“We are not going to leave anything to chance. Security personnel comprising of the General Service unit (GSU), regular police and Narok County rangers have briefs to ensure tourists and other visitors are safe,” said Mara DO Samuel Buto.

Step up security

Peter Kipeno, a proprietor of a prestigious tented camp along the Siria Escarpment within the Mara Triangle, said his establishment, which has been fully booked since July, will continue receiving tourists until mid next month.

“We have not received any cancellation. The terror attack will not affect further arrivals. The Government should, however, step up security to deter future attacks,” said Kipeno

He supported the calls by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for foreign countries not to issue travel advisories to their citizens following the Westgate Shopping Centre.

Tumate ole Siera, a Tour Guide Consultant, said though the attack dampened the mood in the country, tourists have not cancelled their stay.