New KWS Park Entry Fees Effective 1st October 2025 — Updated Guide for All Safari Travellers
Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) introduced new park entry and conservation fees effective 1st October 2025, marking one of the most significant updates in nearly two decades. These revised rates apply across Kenya’s national parks, national reserves, marine parks, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Whether you’re a local traveller, an East African citizen, an African visitor, or an international tourist, understanding these new fees is essential as you plan your next safari.
At Pleasant Adventures, we believe that the right information helps you plan better, budget more accurately, and enjoy a smoother safari experience. This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
Updated KWS Park Entry Fees (Effective 1st October 2025)
(Adult Rates – 24-hour ticket)
| Park / Category East | East African Citizen (KES) | Kenyan Resident (KES) | Non-Resident (USD) | African Citizen (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amboseli & Lake Nakuru National Parks | 1,500 | 2,025 | 90 | 50 |
| Nairobi National Park | 1,000 | 1,350 | 80 | 40 |
| Nairobi Package (Park + Orphanage + Safari Walk) | 1,300 | 1,750 | 105 | 55 |
| Tsavo East & Tsavo West National Parks | 1,000 | 1,350 | 80 | 40 |
| Meru, Kora & Aberdare National Parks | 800 | 1,100 | 70 | 40 |
| Tsavo West-Amboseli Park Package | 2,200 | 2,900 | 150 | 80 |
| Tsavo East + Tsavo West + Amboseli Package | 3,000 | 4,000 | 215 | 115 |
| Mt. Kenya National Park | 800 | 1,100 | 70 | 30 |
| Scenic Parks / Smaller Reserves (Hell’s Gate, Mt Longonot, Mt Elgon, Ol Donyo Sabuk, Lake Elementaita Wildlife Sanctuary, Shimba Hills, Kakamega NR, etc.) | 500 | 675 | 50 | 20 |
| Special-Interest Parks / Marine Parks / Sanctuaries (e.g., Nairobi Orphanage, Kisumu Impala, Marine Protected Areas) | 300–500 | — | 40–50 | 15–25 |
Why Did KWS Update the Park Fees?
KWS last carried out a major pricing review almost 20 years ago. Over time, conservation needs, infrastructure demands, and tourism growth have increased significantly.
The new fees aim to:
- Strengthen wildlife protection
- Improve roads, washrooms, gates, and visitor facilities.
- Support ranger welfare and anti-poaching efforts
- Modernize park management
- Ensure long-term sustainability of wildlife ecosystems
While the changes mean slightly higher costs, they also translate into better safari experiences for visitors.
Important Note: Temporary Court Suspension
Shortly after the new fees were introduced, the High Court issued temporary orders suspending full implementation pending further review.
What this means for travellers:
- Some parks may still use old rates until the case is resolved.
- Others may display the new fees but cannot enforce them until legally cleared.
- Always confirm the applicable rates before making payments.
At Pleasant Adventures, we keep track of all updates and ensure guests pay the correct and lawful rates.
How These Changes Affect Your Safari Planning
✔ Budgeting
Premium parks such as Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Nairobi National Park have seen notable adjustments. Planning ahead ensures there are no surprises on arrival.
✔ Choosing parks wisely
Kenya offers a variety of parks for different budgets. Scenic parks like Hell’s Gate and Mt. Longonot remain highly affordable while still offering world-class experiences.
✔ Multi-park packages
The new KWS combined packages (e.g. Tsavo + Amboseli) may offer good value for travellers planning extended safaris.
✔ Verification
Before travelling, confirm whether the old or new fees are currently in effect. This avoids confusion at the gate.
Should You Still Go on Safari? Absolutely!
Even with revised fees, Kenya remains one of the most rewarding safari destinations in the world. From close encounters with elephants in Amboseli to breathtaking rhino sightings in Lake Nakuru, the value you get from Kenya’s wildlife is unmatched.
Planning a safari with a trusted operator ensures you enjoy:
- Hassle-free park entry
- Clear communication about fees
- Well-coordinated itineraries
- Vehicle, driver-guide, meals & accommodation handled for you
Why Book with Pleasant Adventures?
While this guide serves every traveller, choosing a professional tour operator makes your trip seamless — and Pleasant Adventures is here to help.
With us, you enjoy:
- Up-to-date guidance on park fees and legal changes
- Tailor-made safari packages for every budget
- Reliable transport with experienced safari guides
- Flexible itinerary planning across all major parks
- Transparent pricing with no hidden surprises
Whether you’re planning a one-day Nairobi safari or a multi-day adventure to Amboseli, Mara, Tsavo, or Samburu, Pleasant Adventures ensures your safari is smooth, affordable, and unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
The new KWS park entry fees mark an important step in supporting Kenya’s wildlife conservation. While the pricing changes may require travellers to plan more intentionally, they help preserve the beauty of Kenya’s parks for future generations.
If you’re planning your next safari — solo, with family, or as a group — Pleasant Adventures is here to guide, plan, and deliver your perfect wildlife experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When did the new KWS park entry fees take effect?
The new Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) park entry fees officially took effect on 1st October 2025. All visitors—local, resident, and international—are required to follow the updated rates when entering any national park, reserve, or sanctuary.
2. Why did KWS increase park entry fees?
KWS reviewed the fees to improve wildlife conservation, enhance park infrastructure, support community programs, and strengthen sustainable tourism efforts across Kenya’s protected areas.
3. Do the new rates apply to both citizens and non-residents?
Yes. The updated fees apply to Kenyan citizens, East African residents, and international tourists, with different pricing tiers for each category.
4. How do I know which fees apply to me?
Your category—Citizen, Resident, or Non-Resident—is determined by your identification:
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Citizens: Kenyan ID or passport
-
Residents: Valid work permit or alien card
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Non-Residents: Passport from any other country
5. Are vehicle and camping fees also affected?
Yes. Apart from personal entry fees, KWS also revised vehicle entry, camping, and special activity charges. Always check the latest table before planning your trip.
6. Do children pay park entry fees under the new rates?
Yes. Children have revised discounted rates depending on their residency category. Age limits typically follow KWS guidelines:
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Children: 3–17 years
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Infants: 0–3 years (usually free)
7. Which parks are affected by the new KWS fees?
All KWS-managed protected areas are affected, including:
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Amboseli National Park
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Tsavo East & Tsavo West
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Lake Nakuru National Park
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Samburu National Reserve
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Nairobi National Park
…and all other national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries.
8. How can I avoid paying penalties or extra charges?
Make sure you:
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Pay via official KWS payment channels
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Carry the right ID for your category
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Confirm fees before travel
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Follow KWS park rules and guidelines
9. Can I book a safari that includes the new park fees?
Yes. Booking with a trusted tour operator ensures your trip is fully organized without unexpected costs. Pleasant Adventures offers packages where park entry fees are clearly included, so you enjoy a stress-free safari experience.
10. Why should I book my Kenya safari with Pleasant Adventures?
Pleasant Adventures provides:
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Transparent and updated packages based on the new KWS fees
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Professional guides and comfortable safari vehicles
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Tailor-made trips to any Kenyan park
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Support with planning, budgeting, and reservations
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Reliable customer service and on-ground assistance
Booking through Pleasant Adventures saves you time and ensures you get the best experience at the right price.
11. Where can I get help planning a safari under the new fee structure?
If you need help understanding the updated charges or planning a safari that fits your budget, Pleasant Adventures is ready to assist. You can contact us for personalized itineraries and accurate costing based on the official fee table.
Call/WhatsApp: +254 748 057 500
Email: info@pleasantadventure.com
Website: www.pleasantadventure.com

