For many years, Kenya has been a top destination for tourists worldwide who want to visit the country’s national parks and game reserves. In the first half of 2024 alone, the number of tourists in the country reached 1,027,630, representing a significant growth compared to previous years. At the same time, the Ministry of Tourism announced a record-breaking number of about 2.5 million visitors by December 2024 and targeted 2.7 million by 2027 annually. The top destinations for international and local tourists are the various parks and game reserves in the country, which are all managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
If you plan to visit Kenya’s various national heritages and protected sites, understanding the entry fees is essential for proper budget planning and trip preparation. The fees for parks are usually announced annually by the KWS, with the latest changes happening in late 2023 to cover the 2024/2025 financial year.
How many KWS parks and game reserves are in Kenya?
There are over 411 protected areas in Kenya that are recognized worldwide, but the specific number of parks includes 26 national parks, 30 national reserves, and one game sanctuary. The KWS manages the national parks directly, while the game reserves are privately owned or managed by local communities through various conservancy models that promote community-based conservation.
The most well-known protected sites include the Masai Mara National Reserve, famous for its great migration of wildebeest and zebras, and Amboseli National Park, which provides a captivating view of Mount Kilimanjaro. Other premium destinations include Lake Nakuru National Park, renowned for its flamingo populations and diverse bird species, and Tsavo East and West National Parks, collectively forming one of the largest wilderness areas in the world.
Kenya’s protected areas are strategically categorized into different classifications that affect pricing: Premium Parks (Amboseli and Lake Nakuru), Wilderness Parks, Urban Safari destinations, Mountain Climbing areas, Marine Parks, and Scenic/Special Interest locations. This classification system helps KWS manage visitor flow while ensuring conservation funding reaches the most critical habitats.
What are the new park fees for KWS 2025?
If you are a visitor to any park or game reserve in Kenya, one requirement is that you will not be allowed inside unless you have paid the various entry fees. The charges vary from one park to another and are influenced mainly by whether you are a Kenyan citizen, an East African Community (EAC) resident, or an international tourist.
The Kenya Wildlife Service has implemented a tiered pricing structure designed to make conservation accessible to local communities while generating sustainable revenue from international tourism. This approach supports both wildlife protection efforts and community development initiatives around protected areas.
As per KWS, the fees are classified into citizens/residents and non-residents, as seen in the comprehensive table below:
| No. | Park/Reserve Name | Citizen/Resident | Non-Resident | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult (KSH) | Child (KSH) | Adult (USD) | Child (USD) | ||
| 1 | Amboseli National Park | 860 | 215 | 60 | 35 |
| 2 | Bisanadi National Reserve | 250 | 100 | 20 | 10 |
| 3 | Central Island National Park | 300 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 4 | Chyulu Hills National Park | 300 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 5 | Hell’s Gate National Park | 300 | 215 | 26 | 17 |
| 6 | Kakamega Forest National Reserve | 300 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 7 | Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park | 215 | 125 | 17 | 13 |
| 8 | Kisumu Impala Sanctuary | 215 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 9 | Kiunga Marine National Reserve | 130 | 125 | 17 | 13 |
| 10 | Kora National Park | 300 | 215 | 52 | 35 |
| 11 | Lake Elementaita Wildlife Sanctuary | 215 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 12 | Lake Nakuru National Park | 860 | 215 | 60 | 35 |
| 13 | Mount Longonot National Park | 300 | 215 | 26 | 17 |
| 14 | Nairobi National Park | 430 | 215 | 43 | 22 |
| 15 | Tsavo East National Park | 515 | 215 | 52 | 35 |
| 16 | Tsavo West National Park | 515 | 215 | 52 | 35 |
| 17 | Malindi Marine National Park | 130 | 125 | 17 | 13 |
| 18 | Marsabit National Park | 300 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 19 | Meru National Park | 300 | 215 | 52 | 35 |
| 20 | Mombasa Marine Park | 130 | 125 | 17 | 13 |
| 21 | Mount Elgon National Park | 300 | 215 | 26 | 17 |
| 22 | Mt. Kenya National Park (Daily) | 430 | 215 | 52 | 26 |
| 23 | Mwea National Reserve | 300 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 24 | Mwingi Game Reserve | 250 | 100 | 20 | 10 |
| 25 | Nairobi Animal Orphanage | 215 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 26 | Nairobi Safari Walk | 215 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 27 | Nasolot National Reserve | 250 | 100 | 20 | 10 |
| 28 | Ndere Island National Park | 300 | 215 | 22 | 13 |
| 29 | Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park | 300 | 215 | 26 | 17 |
| 30 | Ruma National Park | 300 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 31 | Saiwa Swamp National Park | 300 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 32 | Shimba Hills National Reserve | 300 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 33 | Sibiloi National Park | 300 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
| 34 | South Island National Park | 300 | 125 | 22 | 13 |
Important Fee Structure Notes: The fee structure listed above is sourced directly from the official KWS Conservation Fees 2025. However, during peak tourism periods (traditionally July through December), some parks may implement higher rates due to increased visitor numbers, while off-peak periods (January through June) may offer more affordable access.
Additional Costs and Services
Apart from the basic entry fees, various additional charges apply depending on your activities and requirements. These supplementary costs help maintain park facilities and provide enhanced visitor experiences:
Security and Guided Tour Fees
| Duration | Rate (KSH) |
|---|---|
| Up to 4 hours | 1,720 |
| Over 4 hours | 3,015 |
Vehicle Entry Charges (Per Day)
| Vehicle Capacity | Rate (KSH) |
|---|---|
| Less than 6 seats | 300 |
| 6-12 seats | 1,030 |
| 13-24 seats | 2,585 |
| 25-44 seats | 4,050 |
| 45 seats and above | 5,000 |
Special Activities and Experiences
| Activity | Rate |
|---|---|
| Cycling per day (Hell’s Gate) | KSH 215 |
| Night Game Drive (Tsavo West) | KSH 2,155 per person |
| Lake Boating | KSH 1,290 per person per hour |
| Fishing (Mt. Kenya) | KSH 1,550 per line per day |
| Walking Safaris | KSH 1,500 per person per day |
| Horse Riding (KWS horses) | KSH 2,585 (excluding rider) |
| Private Horses | KSH 1,030 per day |
| River Rafting | KSH 1,720 per person |
| Bicycle Hire | KSH 500 per day |
| VIP Van Hire (Nairobi) | KSH 7,500 up to 3 hours |
Mount Kenya Special Package Rates
| Duration | Citizen/Resident (KSH) | Non-Resident (USD) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | Child | Adult | Child | |
| 3 Days | 1,290 | 645 | 156 | 78 |
| 4 Days | 1,720 | 860 | 208 | 104 |
| 5 Days | 2,150 | 1,075 | 260 | 130 |
| 6 Days | 2,580 | 1,290 | 312 | 156 |
Annual Passes and Corporate Packages
For frequent visitors and tour operators, KWS offers annual passes that provide significant cost savings while supporting long-term conservation funding:
- Adult Annual Pass: KSH 43,100
- Child Annual Pass: KSH 10,340
- Corporate Annual Pass: KSH 103,440
- Tour Driver Personalized Annual Pass: KSH 4,000
- Marine Parks Annual Pass: KSH 10,340
Group Discounts and Conference Rates
KWS offers substantial discounts for educational institutions, conferences, and large groups, promoting environmental education and sustainable tourism:
- 100+ participants: 30% discount
- 50-99 participants: 20% discount
- 30-49 participants: 10% discount
- 20-29 participants: 5% discount
How to pay KWS park fees
In January 2017, KWS transitioned to a completely cashless payment system, meaning that all payments to any park in Kenya must be made via the eCitizen government platform. This digital transformation has streamlined the entry process, reduced waiting times, and improved transparency in park revenue management.
To access the platform, you need to be registered and have your account verified with appropriate identification documents. If you are new to Kenya and do not know how to create an eCitizen account, the process is straightforward and can be completed online before your visit.
- Visit the office KWS Portal on Citizen via https://kws.ecitizen.go.ke/ and sign in
- Locate the Park Application form and start filling it out correctly. Select the park you want to visit, provide your details, and provide General with information as needed.
- Once you complete the application form, the final stage requires you to proceed and pay the entry fees through various payment methods provided, such as M-Pesa, Bank, or credit card.
- Choose the payment method that suits you. For local tourists, using M-Pesa is a preferred option, and for international travelers, using a Card to pay is also easy. Regardless of the method you choose, follow the instructions on the portal to avoid any issues with payment.
Important Payment Notes:
- The eCitizen portal charges an additional KSH 50 service fee for all transactions
- Payments must be completed at least 24 hours before your intended visit
- Booking confirmations are valid only for the specified dates and cannot be transferred
- Refund policies vary depending on cancellation timing and park policies
KWS Contact:
For immediate assistance, you can reach KWS via:
- Reservations: +254 726 610 533 or reservations@kws.go.ke
- Customer Service: 0800 597 000 or customerservice@kws.go.ke
- Website: www.kws.go.ke
FAQs
How much does it cost to enter Nairobi National Park?
The entry fee to Nairobi National Park varies depending on your citizenship status. As of 2025, Kenyan citizens and EAC residents pay KSH 430 for adults and KSH 215 for children. Non-resident international visitors pay $43 for adults and $22 for children. These charges are per person for a 24-hour access period.
What is the cost of visiting Lake Bogoria National Reserve?
Lake Bogoria is a national reserve managed differently from KWS parks, with entry fees of approximately $50 per person for a 24-hour visit. This fee provides access to the famous hot springs, geysers, and flamingo viewing areas that make Bogoria unique among Kenya’s protected areas.
How much does it cost to visit Mamba Village?
Lake Bogoria is a national reserve managed differently from KWS parks, with approximately $50 per person entry fees for a 24-hour visit. This fee provides access to the famous hot springs, geysers, and flamingo viewing areas, making Bogoria unique among Kenya’s protected areas.
How much does it cost to visit Mamba Village?
The entry fee to Mamba Village, a privately operated crocodile sanctuary in Nairobi, is KSH 200 for basic admission. Additional activities within the sanctuary, such as crocodile feeding demonstrations, cost extra (typically KSH 150 for adult crocodile viewing). This is separate from KWS-managed facilities.
What are the vehicle entry costs for KWS parks?
Vehicle entry fees range from KSH 300 to KSH 5,000 per day, determined primarily by the vehicle’s seating capacity. Standard passenger cars (less than 6 seats) pay KSH 300, while large buses (45+ seats) pay KSH 5,000. These fees support road maintenance and environmental impact management within the parks.
Conclusion
And there you have it. In this guide, we have walked you through the latest KWS charges for various parks and game reserves in Kenya, and we hope you understand how much they will cost you as of 2025. Let us interact in the comment section below if you need further clarification.
