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Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has announced that Kenyan citizens will enjoy free entry to 34 national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries on September 27, 2025, as the country marks the UNWTO World Tourism Day.
In a statement dated September 25, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) announced that the waiver is meant to appreciate Kenyans for their continued commitment to wildlife conservation, which remains one of the nation’s greatest prides.
“To observe the UNWTO World Tourism Day and Week, the Government of Kenya has waived entry fees for Kenyan citizens to National Parks, Reserves, and Sanctuaries on 27th September 2025 to appreciate Kenyans for their continued commitment to conserving wildlife in the country as one of Kenya’s Pride,” KWS stated.
“In view of the above, the following guidelines shall apply to ensure smooth facilitation of Kenyan citizens to enter National Parks, Reserves, Nairobi Animal Orphanage, Nairobi Safari Walk, and Kisumu Impala Sanctuary. The free entry shall apply only to national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service.”
In total, 34 sites will be accessible under the free-entry initiative.
Among the listed destinations are Nairobi National Park, Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, Mount Kenya National Park, Aberdare National Park, Tsavo East and West National Parks, Shimba Hills National Park, Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park, Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, and the Nairobi Safari Walk.
KWS Issues Guidelines to Kenyans
KWS clarified that access will only apply to facilities it manages, with gates opening at 6:00 a.m. and closing at 6:30 p.m.
Additionally, entry will be by vehicle for national parks and reserves, while visitors to the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, Nairobi Safari Walk, and Kisumu Impala Sanctuary will enter on foot.
KWS has reminded the public that the offer is strictly reserved for Kenyan citizens and their vehicles.
Adults aged 18 years and above will be required to present valid identification, such as a national ID or passport, at the gates for verification. While tour vehicles carrying non-citizen tourists will pay normal entry fees, Kenyan drivers will be exempted.
Visitors will also be expected to comply with park regulations, including bans on single-use plastics, obeying speed limits, avoiding off-road driving, and refraining from hooting, loud noise, or disturbing wildlife.
Special activities, such as camping, guided tours, and events, will not be covered under the waiver and will incur normal fees.
KWS further noted that citizens who had prepaid for entry on September 27 will still be processed in the system, with no rescheduling of tickets allowed.
The free-entry initiative is part of efforts to promote domestic tourism while celebrating Kenya’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage.
Also Read: Govt Announces Free Entry to National Parks
Full List of Parks And Reserves
| No. | Name of Park / Reserve / Sanctuary |
|---|---|
| 1 | Lake Nakuru National Park |
| 2 | Hell’s Gate National Park |
| 3 | Mount Longonot National Park |
| 4 | Lake Elementaita Wildlife Sanctuary |
| 5 | Amboseli National Park |
| 6 | Nairobi National Park |
| 7 | Nairobi Animal Orphanage |
| 8 | Nairobi Safari Walk |
| 9 | Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park |
| 10 | Tsavo East National Park |
| 11 | Tsavo West National Park |
| 12 | Chyullu Hills National Park |
| 13 | Mount Kenya National Park |
| 14 | Aberdare National Park |
| 15 | Mwea National Reserve |
| 16 | Meru National Park |
| 17 | Kora National Park |
| 18 | Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park |
| 19 | Malindi Marine Park |
| 20 | Watamu Marine Park |
| 21 | Mombasa Marine Park |
| 22 | Shimba Hills National Reserve |
| 23 | Kiunga Marine Park |
| 24 | Kisumu Impala Sanctuary |
| 25 | Mount Elgon National Park |
| 26 | Kakamega Forest National Reserve |
| 27 | Saiwa Swamp National Park |
| 28 | Ruma National Park |
| 29 | Central Island National Park |
| 30 | Ndere Island National Park |
| 31 | Marsabit National Park |
| 32 | Sibiloi National Park |
| 33 | South Island National Park |
| 34 | Malkamari National Park |
Also Read: How to Book Uber Drive to Nairobi National Park
What You Need to Know About World Tourism Day
World Tourism Day is observed annually on September 27 to celebrate the role of tourism in promoting cultural exchange, economic growth, and global understanding.
Established in 1980 by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the day raises awareness about the social, cultural, political, and environmental value of tourism, while encouraging more sustainable and inclusive practices worldwide.
The 7th World Tourism Conference will take place this year in Melaka, Malaysia, a UNESCO World Heritage City.
For World Tourism Day 2025, the theme is “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
This year’s focus is on the transformative potential of tourism as a force for positive change. Travellers are encouraged to adopt mindful practices such as choosing eco-friendly accommodations, reducing waste, and respecting local cultures.
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