This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
On July 2, 2020, Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) announced a significant reduction in park entry fees for both locals and foreigners in a bid to rescue the struggling tourism sector.
As a state corporation established to conserve and manage wildlife in Kenya, KWS oversees 22 National Parks, 28 National Reserves, and 5 National Sanctuaries.
Previously, KWS charged KSh 860 per adult citizen for entry into premium parks like Amboseli, KSh 515 for wilderness parks in Tsavo East and Tsavo West, and KSh 300 for entry into Meru, Kora, Aberdare, and Mt Kenya Wilderness parks, among others.
Local tourists paid KSh 215 for visits to Nairobi animal orphanage, Kisumu Impala, and Nairobi Safari Walk.
Following protests over a 300% hike in park fees, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala took the decision to slash entry fees by half.
According to KWS, the move comes in response to the prevailing circumstances occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic, which has led to a decline in visitor numbers.
The peak season for tourism in Kenya typically runs between July and March, while the low season falls between April and June.
Foreigners pay US$ 40 for entry into Nairobi National Park, while Amboseli and Lake Nakuru park entry fees for foreign visitors stand at US$80.
