Government Moves to Ease Access to Nairobi National Park Amid Visitor Surge

The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has announced a raft of measures to improve access to Nairobi National Park following a surge in visitor numbers over the weekend that resulted in long queues at entry points.

In a statement issued Monday, Cabinet Secretary Hon. Rebecca Miano acknowledged the extended waiting times experienced by park-goers and assured the public of the government’s commitment to enhancing the visitor experience.“The surge in visitor numbers is a testament to Kenya’s growing appeal as a premier tourism and conference destination,” Miano noted, attributing the increase to international meetings currently underway in Nairobi and sustained marketing efforts.

To address the congestion, the ministry has unveiled several interventions aimed at streamlining entry and easing traffic flow. These include: Express Lanes for prepaid ticket holders to facilitate quicker entry; Opening of Additional Gates: The East Gate off Mombasa Road and the Mbagathi Gate opposite Multimedia University are now fully operational; Future Access Point: Plans are underway to establish a new entry via the Southern Bypass.

The Cabinet Secretary also lauded the growing uptake of the prepaid ticketing system, revealing that over 60 percent of Sunday visitors used the eCitizen platform to book their tickets in advance.“If you haven’t yet tried it, we invite you to purchase your tickets in advance via the eCitizen platform at kws.ecitizen.go.ke for a smoother entry,” she encouraged.

Miano emphasized that the upgrades are not just about convenience but part of a broader mission to deliver a world-class tourism experience while conserving the park’s unique wildlife ecosystem.“Together, we’re building a future where every visit is not just a trip, but an unforgettable adventure,” she concluded.

Nairobi National Park, situated just minutes from the capital’s central business district, remains a major attraction for both local and international visitors, offering a rare urban safari experience. The latest developments are expected to further boost its status as a leading destination for nature lovers.