Planning a trip should be exciting, not stressful. These are the 7 easy ways to identify a legit travel Agency in Kenya. Unfortunately, many travellers in Kenya have fallen victim to fake travel agencies that disappear after receiving payment. With travel scams on the rise, it’s important to know the 7 easy ways to identify a legit travel Agency in Kenya
This guide has 7 Easy Ways to Identify a Legit Travel Agency in Kenya.
1. Check for Registration with the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA)
Every legitimate travel agency in Kenya must be licensed by the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA). This government body regulates all tourism-related businesses, including tour operators, travel agents, and hotels.
Before working with any agency, ask for their TRA licence number. You can verify it directly on the Tourism Regulatory Authority website or by contacting their offices. A licensed agency will have no problem sharing its certification.
If the agency hesitates to provide proof of registration, that’s a major red flag.
2. Look for Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) Membership
The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) is another sign of credibility. KATA vets and approves travel agencies that meet high standards of professionalism and reliability.
You can check the KATA membership directory on katakenya.org to confirm if an agency is listed. Members often display the KATA logo on their website or social media pages.
KATA membership means the agency follows industry ethics and has been verified as a trustworthy operator.
3. Verify Physical Address and Contact Information
A legitimate travel agency in Kenya will always have a verifiable physical office, valid email address, and active phone numbers. Avoid agencies that operate solely online without sharing any real contact details.
If possible, visit their office to confirm their existence before making any payments. Even a quick Google Maps check can help you confirm if the location actually exists.
4. Read Reviews and Testimonials
Customer feedback says a lot about an agency’s reputation. Search for reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, or social media platforms.
Legit travel agencies will have a track record of satisfied clients who share positive experiences, photos, and comments. On the other hand, fake agencies often have poor or no online presence—or a suspicious flood of fake five-star reviews posted on the same day.
Pay attention to how the agency responds to complaints. A professional business will handle criticism respectfully and offer solutions.
5. Check Their Website and Online Presence
A professional travel agency will invest in a clean, informative website that clearly outlines its services, destinations, and contact information.
Watch out for:
- Generic stock photos with no real Kenyan destinations.
- Poorly written content full of spelling mistakes.
- No privacy policy or terms and conditions.
Also, check how active they are on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. A genuine company often posts about recent trips, client testimonials, and upcoming offers.
6. Be Careful with Payment Methods
Never send money to a personal number or account. Legitimate agencies use registered business accounts, bank transfers, or secure online payment gateways.
Ask for an official receipt and a written invoice detailing your package and payment breakdown. Avoid agencies that demand full payment upfront without a contract or refund policy.
7. Compare Prices Before Booking
If the price sounds too good to be true—it probably is. Scammers often lure travellers with unbelievably cheap deals that turn out to be fake.
Take time to compare prices with other licensed agencies offering similar packages. Reputable travel agents will provide detailed cost breakdowns, including accommodation, transport, and park fees.
