The Sable Antelopes explored Nairobi National Park after Group A elimination, embracing Kenya’s wildlife, hospitality, and sports tourism experience.

Angola national team have swapped the roar of the stadium for the wild calls of nature after their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) elimination, with a weekend excursion to Nairobi National Park.

The visit offered players, officials, and accompanying media staff a chance to experience Kenya’s famed wildlife and hospitality first-hand.

Farouk Shikhalo was given his chance between the sticks for Harambee Stars’ final CHAN 2024 group game against Zambia, with Byrne Omondi dropping to the bench.

The visit, organized by the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), is part of a growing initiative to position Kenya as a global sports tourism hub.

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The contingent enjoyed an immersive tour, encountering wildlife just minutes from the heart of Nairobi.

“It is my first time coming to Nairobi National Park and it was amazing especially with close wildlife encounters. I will share this experience with my family and friends and invite everyone, not just Angolans, but people everywhere to visit this wonderful place,” shared Eric Goncalves, Director of Communications for the Angola Football Federation.

Angola’s players were equally moved by the experience, emphasizing Kenya’s hospitality and rich natural environment.

Benni McCarthy has changed his earlier stance on giving priority to foreign-based players in international assignments after getting impressed by the CHAN 2024 squad.

Defender Eddie Afonso said, “Nairobi is a wonderful city with kind people and a unique environment. Experiencing the park here was very special and memorable for all of us.”

This trip builds on KTB’s recent partnership with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), designed to leverage football’s wide popularity to promote the country as a leading tourism destination.

Earlier this year, KTB also worked with renowned athletes and global sporting events to further expand its international profile.

Arcilen Oliveira, Director of Football for Angola, described the excursion as a standout highlight of their visit to Kenya.

“Although I have visited Kenya before, this was my first time at a national park here. The combination of excellent hospitality and proximity to nature made this trip unforgettable for our team. It’s not every day you get this close to such diverse wildlife.”

For KTB, hosting Angola’s delegation in Nairobi National Park symbolizes more than just a sightseeing trip. It underscores a vision to capitalize on sports as a key driver of tourism growth.

Grant, who guided Chelsea to League Cup and UEFA Champions League final places in 2008, has been left amazed by the atmosphere, hospitality and level of infrastructure he saw in Nairobi during the ongoing CHAN 2024.

KTB Chief Executive Officer, June Chepkemei, highlighted this broader ambition, saying: “Sport speaks to passion, pride, and possibility and it brings Kenya’s story to life in a way that is both global and personal. In bringing teams like Angola’s to discover Kenya we solidify our commitment to harnessing diverse avenues for tourism growth thus sustaining our global competitiveness. We are confident that these personal encounters will deepen appreciation for our hospitality and inspire more travellers to explore Magical Kenya.”

Sports tourism has become one of the fastest-growing segments worldwide, now accounting for nearly 10 percent of global travel, according to UN Tourism.

By curating experiences such as the Angolan team’s park visit, Kenya is tapping into this momentum to boost its visibility across regional and international markets.