Kenya-based Bonfire named Africa’s leading travel agency

Kenyan travel agency Bonfire Adventures has been feted as Africa’s leading travel agency at the just concluded World Travel Awards 2018, where the country bagged several awards.

Started by Simon Kabu and his wife, Sarah Kabu, the agency has become popular with middle-class travellers for deals and packages offered for local and international locations.

The company leverages high traffic of bookings to negotiate with airlines and hotels, capitalising on volumes rather than margins. Bonfire was awarded alongside Destination Kenya, which topped the destination management company category.

Struggling carrier Kenya Airways was also named the leading business and economy class airline in the aviation industry in Africa, flying past competitors in its category that included the Ethiopian and South African airlines.

Diani Beach is Africa’s leading beach destination with Diani Reef Beach Resort and Spa topping the spa resort categories.

Maasai Mara, one of the wonders of the world, continues to be a lead attraction not just for the country but also the continent as a favourite national reserve. Hotels and lodges that were recognised for their efforts include the Aberdare Country Club topping the green hotel category and Ol Pejeta Conservancy named the leading conservation company.

Luxury property Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club topped Africa hotels. Villa Rosa Kempinski, known for hosting high-profile leaders and delegates in its expansive presidential suite, was named the leading luxury hotel in the continent while its sister property Olare Mara clinched the leading luxury tented safari camp.

Kenya has seen an increase in the number of hospitality players lining up for a slice of the market with an expected 1,800 rooms to be added to the country over the next two years.

The ceremony held in in South Africa on Saturday. Global winners to be announced in December in Portugal.