Abstract:
This study looked at the factors that affect domestic tourism in Nairobi, Mombasa, and
Nakuru with a view of addressing them and coming up with sustainable performance
frameworks for domestic tourism industry. The study investigated a sample of cross-section
of the tourist and other tourism stakeholders using a questionnaire survey method. A sample
of 600 respondents from the tourism industry players in the regions was selected using
purposive and stratified random sampling. A closed and open-ended structured questionnaire
schedule with both closed and open-ended questions were used to collect data. A total of 558
respondents filled and returned the data collection tools representing a response rate of 93%,
from which analysis were done and statistical inferences made presentations and conclusions
drawn. The study observed that the government and other tourist industry stakeholders must
work together to address hindrances pointed out in order to improve domestic tourism these
include price adjustments, emphasis on tourism education through curricula, creation of a
strong people friendly domestic tourism policy; the need of sensitizing the local communities
on the value of tourism and the need to conserve national resources for posterity. If these
measures are taken then increased domestic tourism participation leading to creation of jobs
thus reducing poverty. It is expected that the study will assist the government and other
industry stakeholders in coming up with practical measures to address the obstacles facing
domestic tourism with a view to increasing Kenyan participation in domestic tourism, and
also contribute to theoretical knowledge.
