Business travel is changing, and if you’ve been on the move lately, you’ve probably noticed it too.
There’s a new rhythm to how companies plan trips. Beyond where people need to be, it’s also important to consider how they get there, why they’re going, and what value the journey brings. And while the core purpose of travel (business growth and connection) hasn’t changed, the way we approach it certainly has.
Here’s a look at some of the trends we’re seeing in 2025, drawn from conversations with our clients, partners, and travelers across the region.
Sustainability Is a Growing Priority
More companies are now prioritizing the environmental impact of their travel. There’s increasing interest in tracking carbon footprints and making responsible choices, like booking direct flights, staying in eco-conscious hotels, and recycling.
This doesn’t mean the end of travel—far from it. It simply means we’re being more intentional and efficient with our corporate travel.
Bleisure Travel Is on the Rise
If you’ve ever added a weekend at the coast after a work trip or extended your stay to visit friends or family nearby, you’ve done what’s now known as “bleisure” travel.
What was once a quiet, personal add-on is increasingly becoming part of how companies support work-life balance. Combining work trips with personal relaxation has helped travelers feel refreshed and valued, and makes all the effort involved in travel a little more rewarding.
Well-being Is Being Taken Seriously
We’re seeing a shift in how travel is planned. It’s no longer just about catching the cheapest flight. Now, companies and travelers alike are asking:
- Will this trip be comfortable?
- Will I arrive well-rested?
- Is there support if things go wrong?
This could mean choosing flights that avoid overnight layovers, staying in hotels with fitness facilities, or 24/7 travel assistance; an accurate description of what we offer our clients here at Kendirita. It’s a welcome change—and one that shows genuine care for your people, not just their productivity.
Flexibility Has Become the New Standard
If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that plans can shift—fast. Business travelers now expect flexibility in bookings, cancellation policies, and even how meetings are scheduled.
As travel providers, we are adapting too, offering more flexible options and real-time support to help our clients stay on track when things don’t go quite as planned.
Regional Travel Is Picking Up
There’s been a noticeable increase in travel within Africa, especially between major business hubs like Nairobi, Kigali, Kampala, and Addis Ababa. This is partly driven by regional trade and partly by a growing sense that homegrown partnerships matter.
We’ve seen clients embrace this shift, using business trips as opportunities to explore, connect, and build relationships across borders.
Finally
Corporate travel in 2025 is transitioning into a meaningful movement—travel that respects time, people, and purpose.
As a travel agency, we find it encouraging to see these shifts. They point to a more thoughtful, human-centered way of doing business on the move. And while no two travelers are alike, the direction is clear: better travel makes better business.
If you’re curious about how these trends might affect your own travel plans, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to chat and share what we’re learning on the road—and even happier to help book your trip, making it truly effortless and worth your while.
Writer: Winnie Wekesa