Blog

You are currently viewing How much are national park fees in Kenya

How much are national park fees in Kenya

How much are national park fees in Kenya? Latest Updates 2025

Discover how much national park fees in Kenya cost, including rates for residents, non-residents, children, and vehicle entry. Plan your safari budget with ease.

Kenya, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, is a premier safari destination, home to 23 terrestrial national parks, 28 national reserves, four marine national parks, six marine reserves, four national sanctuaries, and over 140 private conservancies.

Managed primarily by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and local county councils, these protected areas offer unparalleled opportunities to witness iconic wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino).

However, visiting these natural treasures comes with entry fees that vary based on factors such as residency status, park classification, and season

Overview of Kenya’s National Parks and Reserves

Kenya’s protected areas are a cornerstone of its tourism industry, contributing significantly to the national economy through foreign exchange earnings and job creation.

The KWS oversees most national parks and marine protected areas, while national reserves, such as the Maasai Mara and Samburu, are managed by local county councils.

Private conservancies, often community-driven, work alongside these entities to promote sustainable tourism and conservation.

Each park and reserve has a unique pricing structure, reflecting its ecological value, infrastructure, and visitor demand.

The fee structure is designed to balance accessibility for local and regional visitors with the need to generate revenue for conservation. Fees are categorized based on residency status:

  • Citizens: Kenyan nationals with valid IDs/passports and citizens of East African Community (EAC) countries (Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan) with valid documentation.
  • Residents: Non-citizens residing in Kenya with valid work permits or government-issued documentation.
  • Non-Residents: International tourists who do not reside in Kenya.
  • Students/Children: Special rates apply for students (up to 23 years old from recognized institutions) and children (typically 3-11 or 3-17 years, depending on the park).

Additionally, fees vary by park classification (premium, urban, wilderness, or marine), season (high or low), and activity (e.g., camping, vehicle entry, or special services).

In 2024, a proposed fee hike by KWS was blocked by a High Court ruling due to public opposition, maintaining 2023 rates for many parks, particularly Nairobi National Park.

However, some parks and reserves, like the Maasai Mara, implemented revised fees starting January 2024.

Factors Influencing National Park Fees

Several factors determine the cost of entering Kenya’s national parks and reserves:

  1. Park Classification:
    • Premium Parks: High-demand parks like Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Tsavo, known for exceptional wildlife viewing, charge higher fees.
    • Urban Parks: Parks like Nairobi National Park, located near cities, offer lower fees to encourage domestic tourism.
    • Wilderness Parks: Remote parks like Sibiloi or Saiwa Swamp have lower fees due to fewer visitors and basic infrastructure.
    • Marine Parks: Coastal parks like Watamu and Kisite Mpunguti focus on marine biodiversity and have distinct fee structures.
  2. Residency Status:
    • Citizens and EAC nationals benefit from significantly lower fees to promote local tourism.
    • Residents pay intermediate rates, requiring proof of residency.
    • Non-residents face the highest fees, reflecting the premium placed on Kenya’s global tourism appeal.
  3. Seasonality:
    • High season (July to February) fees are higher due to peak tourist demand.
    • Low season (March to June) offers discounts, particularly for non-residents, to attract visitors during quieter periods.
  4. Visitor Type:
    • Children and students receive discounted rates, with student discounts requiring pre-approval from KWS for educational groups.
    • Infants under 3 typically enter free.
  5. Additional Charges:
    • Vehicle fees, camping fees, aircraft landing fees, and special activities (e.g., guided walks, night drives) incur separate costs.
    • Private conservancies may charge premium fees for exclusive experiences.
  6. Payment Systems:
    • KWS has shifted to cashless payments via the eCitizen platform (Mpesa, Visa, Mastercard, or bank deposits), streamlining transactions and enhancing accountability.
    • Some reserves, like the Maasai Mara, accept payments at the gate, but online pre-booking is encouraged.

Detailed Fee Structures for Key National Parks and Reserves

Below is a comprehensive breakdown of entry fees for some of Kenya’s most popular national parks and reserves, based on available data for 2024 and 2025.

Fees are subject to change, and visitors should consult the official KWS website (www.kws.go.ke) or park authorities for the latest updates.

  1. Nairobi National Park fees

Located just 7 km from Nairobi’s city center, Nairobi National Park is unique for its urban proximity and diverse wildlife, including rhinos, lions, and over 400 bird species. A 2024 fee hike was blocked by the High Court, maintaining 2023 rates.

Table 1: Nairobi National Park Entry Fees (2024-2025)

Category Adult Fee Child/Student Fee
Citizen (EAC) Ksh 430 Ksh 215
Resident Ksh 1,030 Ksh 515
Non-Resident (High Season) USD 60 USD 20
Non-Resident (Low Season) USD 40 USD 20
  • Notes:
    • Fees are valid for 24 hours for those staying inside the park, 12 hours for day visitors.
    • Students require KWS pre-approval (two weeks’ notice) and must be from recognized institutions, aged up to 23.
    • Payment is cashless via eCitizen or at the gate (Mpesa, Visa, Mastercard).
    • Vehicle fees: Ksh 350 (car with fewer than 6 seats), Ksh 1,200 (6-12 seats).

  1. 2. Maasai Mara National Reserve fees

Managed by Narok County Council, the Maasai Mara is world-famous for the Great Migration and abundant wildlife. Fees increased in January 2024, with a shift to a 12-hour validity period.

Table 2: Maasai Mara National Reserve Entry Fees (2024-2025)

Category Adult Fee Child Fee (3-11)
Citizen (EAC) Ksh 1,000 Ksh 200
Resident Ksh 2,800 (overnight) / Ksh 8,074 (day trip) 50% of adult fee
Non-Resident USD 100 (Jan-Jun) / USD 200 (Jul-Dec) USD 50
  • Notes:
    • Fees are per day, with a 12-hour validity (6 AM to 6 PM). Late exits (after 10 AM) incur an additional day’s fee.
    • Mara Triangle fees may differ (e.g., USD 126 overnight for non-residents).
    • Payment at gates (Sekenani, Talek, Oloololo) via credit card or Mpesa, or via Mara Conservancy for certain entries.
    • Vehicle fees: Ksh 400 (5 seats or less) to Ksh 5,000 (45 seats).
    • Guests at specific lodges (e.g., Mara Serena) may receive a USD 10 discount.

How much are national park fees in Kenya

  1. Amboseli National Park fees

Known for its elephant herds and views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is a premium park with higher fees reflecting its popularity.

Table 3: Amboseli National Park Entry Fees (2024-2025)

Category Adult Fee Child Fee (3-11)
Citizen (EAC) Ksh 800 Ksh 200
Resident Ksh 800 Ksh 200
Non-Resident USD 80 (high season) / USD 50 (low season) USD 20
  • Notes:
    • Fees are valid for 24 hours.
    • Special campsite fees: USD 30 (non-resident adults), Ksh 1,000 (citizens).
    • Public campsite fees: USD 20 (non-resident adults), Ksh 500 (citizens).
    • Payment via eCitizen or at the gate.

  1. Tsavo National Park (East and West) fees

Tsavo, one of the largest national parks, is divided into East and West, offering diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Table 4: Tsavo National Park Entry Fees (2024-2025)

Category Adult Fee Child Fee (3-11)
Citizen (EAC) Ksh 800 Ksh 200
Resident Ksh 800 Ksh 200
Non-Resident USD 35 USD 20
  • Notes:
    • Fees are per person, valid for 24 hours.
    • Gates open 6 AM to 7 PM; no entry outside these hours.
    • Vehicle fees apply, similar to Nairobi National Park.
    • Payment via credit card at the gate or pre-paid at KWS offices.

  1. Lake Nakuru National Park fees

Famous for its flamingos and rhino sanctuary, Lake Nakuru is a premium park with fees reflecting its high visitor demand.

Table 5: Lake Nakuru National Park Entry Fees (2024-2025)

Category Adult Fee Child Fee (3-11)
Citizen (EAC) Ksh 800 Ksh 200
Resident Ksh 800 Ksh 200
Non-Resident USD 80 (high season) / USD 50 (low season) USD 20
  • Notes:
    • Special campsite fees: USD 30 (non-resident adults), Ksh 1,000 (citizens).
    • Public campsite fees: USD 20 (non-resident adults), Ksh 500 (citizens).
    • Students must notify KWS two weeks in advance for discounted rates.

  1. Samburu National Reserve Fees

Managed by the local county council, Samburu is known for its unique species, like the Grevy’s zebra and Somali ostrich.

Table 6: Samburu National Reserve Entry Fees (2024-2025)

Category Adult Fee Child Fee (3-11)
Citizen (EAC) Ksh 800 Ksh 200
Resident Ksh 800 Ksh 200
Non-Resident USD 70 USD 40
  • Notes:
    • Fees are per 24 hours.
    • Payment at the gate via credit card or Mpesa.
    • Camping fees apply, similar to other parks.

  1. Hell’s Gate National Park Fees

Known for its geothermal activity and scenic gorges, Hell’s Gate is popular for cycling and hiking.

Table 7: Hell’s Gate National Park Entry Fees (2024-2025)

Category Adult Fee Child Fee (3-11)
Citizen (EAC) Ksh 250 Ksh 200
Resident Ksh 250 Ksh 200
Non-Resident USD 25 USD 15
  • Notes:
    • Fees are lower due to its classification as a wilderness park.
    • Bicycle hire and guided walks incur additional costs.
  1. 8. Marine Parks Fees  (e.g., Watamu, Kisite Mpunguti)

Marine parks focus on coral reefs, marine life, and water-based activities.

Table 8: Marine Park Entry Fees (2024-2025)

Category Adult Fee Child Fee (3-11)
Citizen (EAC) Ksh 300 Ksh 125
Resident Ksh 600 Ksh 225
Non-Resident USD 22 USD 13
  • Notes:
    • Fees cover snorkeling and boat tours.
    • Payment via eCitizen or at park offices.

Additional Charges and Considerations

Beyond entry fees, visitors may incur additional costs:

  1. Camping Fees

Camping is popular in parks like Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and the Maasai Mara. Campsites are divided into special (premium, with better facilities) and public (budget-friendly).

Table 9: Camping Fees for Premium Parks (2024-2025)

Category Special Campsite (Adult) Public Campsite (Adult)
Citizen (EAC) Ksh 1,000 Ksh 500
Resident Ksh 1,000 Ksh 500
Non-Resident USD 30 USD 20
  • Notes:
    • Private campsites require hiring two rangers for nighttime security (approximately USD 40 per day).
    • Reservation fees for special campsites are non-refundable.
  1. Vehicle Fees

Vehicles entering parks incur daily fees based on seating capacity.

Table 10: Vehicle Fees (2024-2025)

Vehicle Type Fee (Ksh)
Car (<6 seats) 350
Minibus (6-12 seats) 1,200
Bus (13-25 seats) 3,000
Bus (>25 seats) 5,000
  1. Special Activities

Activities like guided walks, night drives, or boat tours have separate fees, varying by park. For example:

  • Guided Walks: USD 20-50 per person.
  • Night Drives: USD 50-100 per person (available in private conservancies).
  • Aircraft Landing Fees: Paid at airstrips (e.g., Mara Conservancy, payable in Nairobi).
  1. Annual Passes

KWS offers annual passes for frequent visitors, granting access to all KWS-managed parks for one year. Costs vary by residency status (e.g., Ksh 10,000 for citizens, USD 150 for non-residents).

Payment Methods and Practical Tips

  • Cashless Payments: KWS mandates payments via the eCitizen platform (kws.ecitizen.go.ke) using Mpesa, Visa, Mastercard, or bank deposits. Some reserves accept gate payments, but online booking is recommended.
  • Documentation: Citizens and residents must present valid IDs, passports, or work permits. Non-residents need passports.
  • Pre-Booking: For parks like Ol Pejeta Conservancy, permits must be purchased online in advance.
  • Park Rules: Visitors must adhere to rules, such as staying in vehicles, respecting speed limits (40 km/h), and exiting by 6 PM unless camping.

Implications of Fee Structures

Conservation Benefits

Higher fees, particularly for non-residents, generate revenue for:

  • Anti-Poaching Efforts: Funding ranger patrols and surveillance.
  • Habitat Restoration: Reforestation and ecosystem management.
  • Infrastructure: Improved roads, visitor centers, and campsites.
  • Community Engagement: Supporting local communities through conservancy partnerships.

Challenges

  • Affordability: High fees, especially after proposed 2024 hikes, may deter local visitors, as seen in public opposition to Nairobi National Park’s planned increase from Ksh 430 to Ksh 2,000 for citizens.

 

  • Tourism Impact: Increased costs could reduce visitor numbers, affecting tour operators and local economies.
  • Equity: Balancing revenue generation with accessibility for EAC citizens remains a priority, as highlighted by the High Court ruling.

Sustainable Tourism

Kenya’s fee structure encourages sustainable practices by:

  • Limiting visitor numbers through higher fees in premium parks.
  • Promoting off-peak travel with low-season discounts.
  • Supporting private conservancies, which offer exclusive experiences while reducing pressure on public parks.

Case Study: Nairobi National Park Fee Controversy

In late 2023, KWS proposed tripling entry fees for Nairobi National Park (e.g., from Ksh 430 to Ksh 2,000 for adult citizens), citing the need for infrastructure upgrades and conservation funding.

The move faced strong opposition from Kenyan citizens, who argued it would limit access for local families and students, undermining domestic tourism.

A High Court ruling in early 2024 blocked the hike, maintaining 2023 rates (Ksh 430 for adult citizens, USD 60 for non-residents in high season).

This case underscores the tension between conservation funding and public access, setting a precedent for public participation in fee-setting processes.

Comparison with Neighboring Countries

Kenya’s park fees are competitive within East Africa. For example:

  • Tanzania: Serengeti National Park charges USD 70-100 per day for non-residents, similar to the Maasai Mara’s USD 100-200.
  • Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s gorilla trekking permit costs USD 700, far exceeding Kenya’s highest fees.
  • Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park’s gorilla permit is USD 1,500, reflecting a premium experience.

Kenya’s lower fees for citizens (e.g., Ksh 430 for Nairobi National Park) make it more accessible for locals compared to Tanzania’s flat rates.

Planning Your Visit

To optimize costs and experience:

  1. Travel in Low Season: Non-residents can save significantly (e.g., USD 40 vs. USD 60 at Nairobi National Park).
  2. Book Online: Use the eCitizen platform to secure permits and avoid gate delays.
  3. Choose Conservancies: Private conservancies like Mara North or Ol Pejeta offer exclusive experiences, sometimes with bundled fees.
  4. Verify Residency: Carry valid documentation to qualify for citizen/resident rates.
  5. Budget for Extras: Factor in vehicle, camping, and activity fees.

In conclusion Kenya’s national park fees reflect a delicate balance between conservation funding, tourism revenue, and accessibility.

With fees ranging from Ksh 250 for citizens at Hell’s Gate to USD 200 for non-residents at the Maasai Mara during peak season, the structure caters to diverse visitors while supporting critical wildlife protection efforts.

The 2024 High Court ruling on Nairobi National Park fees highlights the importance of public input in maintaining affordability, particularly for local communities.

As Kenya continues to refine its fee policies, visitors can contribute to sustainable tourism by respecting park rules, supporting conservancies, and planning trips strategically.

For the latest updates, consult www.kws.go.ke or contact reputable tour operators like Focus East Africa Tours or Mara Gates Safaris.

By understanding and budgeting for these fees, travelers can fully immerse themselves in Kenya’s unparalleled natural heritage, from the urban wilderness of Nairobi National Park to the vast savannas of the Maasai Mara, knowing their contributions help preserve these treasures for future generations.