NAIROBI, Kenya – The Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) has issued a public warning over fraudulent individuals and entities posing as legitimate game lodges in the Maasai Mara and Naboisho Conservancy.
In a statement, the authority said the impostors are falsely claiming to represent Hotelio Gallare Game Camp Kenya Ltd—also referred to as Gallera, Galleria, or Gallary—and Zebrina Gazebo Game Lodge Kenya Ltd.
The two non-existent entities are purported to be operating within the Maasai Mara National Reserve and Naboisho Conservancy in Narok County.
The regulator said it had received complaints about fake job advertisements linked to the fraudulent outfits, in which unsuspecting applicants were asked to pay for Tourism Health or Food Handlers Certificates.
“TRA confirms that no such facilities exist in the Maasai Mara region and cautions the public against engaging with anyone claiming to represent them,” said Director General Norbert Talam. “The public is further advised to remain vigilant and avoid making payments for job placements or document processing in the tourism sector.”
The authority described the activities as criminal and urged victims and witnesses to report incidents to the Tourism Regulatory Authority, the Tourist Police Unit (TPU), or the nearest police station.
“We wish to remind the public to stay alert against unlicensed or rogue operators. Always verify that the facility or tour operator you book with is licensed by TRA,” the agency added.
The warning comes amid growing concern over online scams targeting Kenya’s hospitality and tourism sectors, especially in popular destinations like the Maasai Mara.
TRA has in recent months intensified a crackdown on unlicensed tour operators and fraudulent entities tarnishing the industry’s reputation.
