NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenyans and foreign tourists will start paying revised fees to access national parks, reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries from October 1, 2025, after Parliament approved the first comprehensive fee review in nearly two decades.
The Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access, Entry and Conservation) (Fees) Regulations 2025 were ratified on September 25, marking the end of an 18-year freeze on park entry charges.
The new structure significantly raises fees across major attractions, including Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Tsavo, Meru, and Nairobi National Park.
Entry charges for the premium Amboseli and Lake Nakuru parks will rise by 74 per cent for Kenyan and East African adult residents—from Sh860 to Sh1,500.
Students and children aged 5–18 will pay Sh750, more than triple the current Sh215. For foreign visitors, charges will climb by 50 per cent to $90 (Sh11,660).
Nairobi National Park will also see a steep increase, with locals paying Sh1,000—up from Sh400—and international visitors charged Sh10,360.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) said the review is crucial to bridging a Sh12 billion annual funding deficit and ensuring financial sustainability for conservation.
According to KWS, more than 90 per cent of its revenue comes from tourism, with 78 per cent of its budget spent on security.
“This review is not just about revenue—it is about the survival of our wildlife and the resilience of our conservation systems,” said KWS Director-General Erustus Kanga, noting that new funds will strengthen anti-poaching operations, habitat restoration, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and conservation education.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano assured that the ministry is working with KWS to ensure a smooth rollout.
Visitors who booked and paid for trips via eCitizen before the announcement will not be affected by the new rates.
The regulations, published in July and subjected to public consultation, also introduce annual passes ranging from Sh10,400 for children to Sh130,000 for families, alongside charges for vehicle parking, aircraft landings, and specialised activities such as camping and guided tours.
Despite concerns about affordability, KWS projects that revenues will grow to Sh16.6 billion by 2028, backed by a study showing visitors were willing to pay more if it translated into improved services.
“Kenya remains a competitive and accessible destination. The additional revenue will directly enhance both wildlife protection and visitor experiences,” Kanga said.
