As crowned by Condé Nast Traveller UK and Condé Nast Traveler US readers, Kenya has officially been named the world’s friendliest country for 2025 — and it’s not hard to see why.

While the legendary Big Five often steal the spotlight, it’s the warmth of the Kenyan people that truly defines the nation’s charm. Behind every breathtaking safari lies a team of passionate guides who make travelers feel safe, inspired, and right at home — even when just meters away from a prowling lion.

Beyond the savannah, Nairobi’s vibrant nightlife reflects Kenya’s energetic spirit, while the country’s dreamy Indian Ocean coastline offers a more tranquil escape. From luxurious resorts along Diani Beach to the laid-back rhythms of Lamu, Kenya seamlessly blends adventure, culture, and relaxation.

This year’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards celebrated the destinations where travelers feel most welcome — because while beautiful landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and luxury hotels make a trip unforgettable, it’s the people who give it soul.

Kenya topped a remarkably close ranking, with all top 10 countries scoring above 96 percent — a testament to the global embrace of warmth and hospitality.

Kenya is joined by three other distinguished destinations from the Indian Ocean coastal countries among the most welcoming nations.:

Together, these destinations embody what makes travel transformative — genuine human connection. Whether it’s a guide sharing stories under the Kenyan stars, a Seychellois fisherman offering fresh catch, or a Thai vendor greeting you with “sawasdee,” these moments remind us that the world’s friendliest countries are defined not by geography, but by heart.

Kenya, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Thailand — nations gracing the shores of the Indian Ocean, where the warmth of their people is as enduring as the waves that connect them, and where travelers return again and again for genuine hospitality and heartfelt connection.