The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has unveiled draft regulations proposing new entry fees for national parks, reserves, sanctuaries, and marine parks — the first review since 2006.
The Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access and Conservation) (Fees) Regulations, 2025 outline different rates for citizens, residents, and non-residents, with prices varying between the high season (July–March) and low season (April–June).
Under the proposal, adult residents and East African Community (EAC) nationals will see a 74.4% increase in admission to Amboseli and Lake Nakuru National Parks, from KSh 860 to KSh 1,500. Entry to Tsavo East and Tsavo West will rise from KSh 515 to KSh 1,000, while Nairobi National Park will charge citizens KSh 1,000 in high season and KSh 600 in low season.
Non-residents will pay KSh 7,500 in high season and KSh 5,000 in low season for Nairobi National Park. For Meru, Kora, and Aberdare National Parks, locals will be charged KSh 800, while foreigners will pay between KSh 5,169 and KSh 9,046.
At Hell’s Gate, Mt. Longonot, and Lake Elementaita Wildlife Sanctuary, Kenyan visitors will pay KSh 500, with foreigners paying between KSh 2,584 and KSh 6,461.
The proposed structure also:
- Introduces a children’s category (ages 5–17) with reduced rates.
- Exempts seniors (70+) and persons with disabilities from paying entry fees.
- Offers annual passes: adult (KSh 45,000), child (KSh 10,400), family of up to 7 (KSh 130,000), and tour driver (KSh 6,000).
- Sets discounted rates for conferences, educational groups, and professional delegations.
- Adds new charges for water sports and higher daily rates for vehicles, motorcycles, aircraft, helicopters, boats, and drones.
KWS says the review is necessary to address rising operational costs, inflation, and the need for sustainable funding, and to align Kenya’s fees with global standards. Similar adjustments have already been made in Tanzania and South Africa.
According to KWS, revenue from the new charges will be reinvested in park infrastructure, community conservation, and anti-poaching efforts, helping protect endangered species and enhance the visitor experience.
The proposals, developed after consultations with counties, conservation groups, and tour operators, are now open for public participation. If approved, the new fees will take effect in January 2026.
