Mikumi National Park (Tanzania)

Tourism is travel for pleasure or business; also the theory and practice of touring, the business of attracting, accommodating, and entertaining tourists, and the business of operating tours. Tourism may be international, or within the traveller’s country. The World Tourism Organization defines tourism more generally, in terms which go “beyond the common perception of tourism as being limited to holiday activity only”, as people “traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes”.

Tourism can be domestic or international, and international tourism has both incoming and outgoing implications on a country’s balance of payments. Today, tourism is a major source of income for many countries, and affects the economy of both the source and host countries, in some cases being of vital importance.

Hiking is the preferred term, in Canada and the United States, for a long, vigorous walk, usually on trails (footpaths), in the countryside, while the word walking is used for shorter, particularly urban walks. On the other hand, in the United Kingdom, and the Republic of Ireland, the word “walking” is acceptable to describe all forms of walking, whether it is a walk in the park or backpacking in the Alps. The word hiking is also often used in the UK, along with rambling (a slightly old-fashioned term), hillwalking, and fell walking (a term mostly used for hillwalking in northern England). The term bushwalking is endemic to Australia, having been adopted by the Sydney Bush Walkers club in 1927. In New Zealand a long, vigorous walk or hike is called tramping.It is a popular activity with numerous hiking organizations worldwide, and studies suggest that all forms of walking have health benefits.

In the United States, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, and United Kingdom, hiking means walking outdoors on a trail, or off trail, for recreational purposes. A day hike refers to a hike that can be completed in a single day. However, in the United Kingdom, the word walking is also used, as well as rambling, while walking in mountainous areas is called hillwalking. In Northern England, Including the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, fellwalking describes hill or mountain walks, as fell is the common word for both features there.

Road cycling is a popular form of cycling in East Africa, offering both recreational and racing opportunities amidst stunning landscapes. In Kenya, road cycling enthusiasts can explore the picturesque rolling hills and lush green tea plantations of Limuru, located just outside Nairobi. This region is renowned for its cool climate and expansive views, making it a perfect destination for cyclists seeking both challenging terrain and beautiful scenery.

The routes in the tea plantations of Limuru provide a unique blend of smooth, winding roads and rugged terrain. Cyclists can enjoy a mix of paved roads and off-road tracks, all surrounded by endless fields of vibrant tea bushes that stretch as far as the eye can see. The routes are designed to cater to cyclists of all skill levels, from beginners looking for a leisurely ride to experienced racers seeking a challenging workout. The smooth roads of the lower sections of the plantations are perfect for long-distance rides, while the steeper, more rugged paths offer a test of endurance and skill for those looking to tackle the hills.

Cycling in Limuru also offers a chance to experience local culture. Cyclists can stop at small tea factories to learn about the tea-making process and taste some of Kenya’s finest tea. The region’s local markets are also a great place to interact with friendly locals, sample fresh produce, and explore unique handicrafts. The combination of beautiful landscapes, challenging routes, and a rich cultural experience makes road cycling in the Tea Plantations of Limuru an unforgettable adventure for cycling enthusiasts.