The Kenyan government has announced that it will waive entry fees for citizens visiting national parks and reserves on September 28, 2024.
This initiative is part of the country’s observance of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Day and Week and aims to appreciate Kenyans for their immense and consistent support for wildlife conservation while celebrating World Tourism Day.
The announcement was made by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), which has laid out specific guidelines to ensure smooth access to the country’s stunning wildlife heritage.
The offer applies exclusively to Kenyan citizens, who must present valid identification, such as a national ID card or passport, upon entry.
Guidelines for Free Entry
To facilitate the free access, the following guidelines will be in effect:
- Eligible Locations: The free entry applies to national parks, reserves, and captive wildlife facilities managed by KWS, including the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, Nairobi Safari Walk, and Kisumu Impala Sanctuary.
- Entry Method: Access to national parks and reserves will be by vehicle, while visitors to the Nairobi Animal Orphanage and other facilities will enter on foot.
- Operating Hours: Parks will open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:30 PM, allowing citizens ample time to experience Kenya’s rich wildlife.
- Eligibility: Only Kenyan citizens over the age of 18 are eligible for free entry, and they must show valid identification for verification.
- Compliance: Visitors are required to adhere to park rules and regulations, which will be provided through pamphlets distributed to each vehicle. Key regulations include:
- Obeying instructions from KWS staff.
- Maintaining orderliness and avoiding plastic waste.
- Observing prescribed speed limits and staying on designated roads.
- Not disturbing wildlife or making loud noises.
KWS will also engage with local communities and schools to provide free interpretative tours of the parks, enhancing awareness of conservation efforts.
To manage the expected influx of visitors, KWS will deploy additional customer service personnel and coordinate with the national police for traffic control.
Security measures will be in place to ensure the safety of all visitors.
Exclusions and Special Activities
While the initiative allows free entry for game drives and wildlife viewing, it does not cover certain activities such as guided tours and camping, which will still incur applicable fees.
Tour vehicles with non-resident tourists will be required to pay the standard entry fees, although the Kenyan driver will be exempt.
In preparation for the day, KWS will track visitor numbers and vehicle entries to provide accountability and assess the program’s success.
For any emergencies, visitors can reach out to KWS through a toll-free number or WhatsApp.
This initiative not only emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation in Kenya but also encourages domestic tourism, allowing citizens to reconnect with the natural beauty and biodiversity of their homeland.
