Kenyans will enjoy free entry to national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and game reserves across the country on September 27, 2025.
The government made this announcement through a statement from Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, who indicated the free entry as part of the commemoration of this year’s World Tourism Day on the same date annually.
Miano stated the move aligns with this year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” that encourages how tourism can lead to improved living standards and conservation.
As a way to celebrate this achievement, I am happy to announce that the Government of Kenya will be offering free entry to all Kenyan citizens to the national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries operated by the Kenya Wildlife Service,” she announced.
She also added that the day will provide Kenyans with a good opportunity to reassemble with nature and marvel at the wildlife and natural heritage of the nation.
It is also meant to remind one and all of the necessity for conservation and how every individual can contribute towards ensuring Kenya’s environment is safe.
We invite all Kenyans to take advantage of this opportunity and go, find out, and enjoy the beauty of our sanctuaries, parks, and reserves, not only Kenya’s gems but world gems,” she added.
Anyone who would want to know more on how to get free entry can visit the KWS website at www.kws.go.ke or visit their official social media handles. You can dial 0800 597 000 (for free) or message them via their WhatsApp number 0726 610 509.
World Tourism Day has been celebrated every year since 1980 with a view to promoting sensitization on the impact of tourism on human beings, the economy, and the environment.
Even though Kenyans entered for free on the day, the government is still going ahead with the increase in park entrance fees in a bid to raise a KSh 12 billion budget deficit.
A fresh proposal by the Ministry of Tourism demands that park fees for Kenyans would go up to KSh 1,000 from KSh 430 and foreigners would go up to KSh 10,360 from KSh 5,570.
The ministry argues that the increase is necessary for the funding of conservation initiatives. The public have already been consulted to raise the fees in 29 counties.
There is one exception in the proposal. Five years and below children, individuals above 70 years, individuals with disability, and guides, porters, and boat crew that are licensed will continue to be allowed in the parks for free.
