Kenya’s national parks and reserves drew over 300,000 visitors during the December 2025 festive season, with locals leading the numbers, Kenya Wildlife Service reports. The holiday turnout demonstrates a strong interest in the country’s wildlife and protected areas, giving a noticeable boost to the tourism sector.
According to KWS, 231,000 of the visitors were Kenyans and residents, while 82,500 came from other countries. In a statement on Monday, the agency expressed gratitude to all tourists, praising the role of both domestic and international travelers in supporting Kenya’s tourism.
“As we close the Jiachilie in Kenya Parks Festive Season, we say asante sana to every visitor who chose Kenya Parks in December 2025. Over 300,000 visitors experienced our parks and reserves: 231,000 Kenyan citizens and residents, the true cornerstone of Kenya’s tourism, and 82,500 non-residents who joined us from across the world,” KWS said.
KWS highlighted that the high number of local visitors shows the growing contribution of Kenyans in sustaining tourism, even as global travel gradually returns to normal. The agency said local engagement is vital in keeping the country’s wildlife destinations thriving.
The agency also reaffirmed its support for government tourism goals, pledging to continue promoting wildlife, adventure, and sustainable tourism experiences nationwide.
“In line with the Government of Kenya and the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife’s vision to reach 5 million visitors by 2028, KWS remains committed to supporting Kenya’s tourism growth through wildlife, adventure, and sustainable tourism. 2026 is here. More experiences, more access, more conservation impact and more reasons to explore Kenya’s parks,” the statement added.
To encourage domestic tourism, KWS has continued initiatives offering free entry during special events. During World Tourism Day on September 27, 2025, Kenyans were allowed free access to all national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries managed by KWS.
The arrangement, announced on September 24, 2025, aimed to give Kenyans the opportunity to explore and appreciate the nation’s wildlife heritage.
The increase in park visitors came despite new entry fees introduced last year. Starting October 1, 2025, Kenyan visitors now pay between Sh200 and Sh3,000 to access different parks and reserves.
For instance, entry to Amboseli and Lake Nakuru National Parks was set at Sh2,025, while Nairobi National Park increased to Sh1,350 from Sh430. Visitors from other East African countries pay Sh1,500 for Amboseli and Lake Nakuru and Sh100 for Nairobi National Park.
KWS also introduced bundled conservation packages. Kenyans touring Nairobi National Park, Nairobi Animal Orphanage, and Nairobi Safari Walk pay Sh1,750, while East African citizens pay Sh1,300.
Tours to Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks cost Sh1,350 for Kenyans and Sh1,000 for East African visitors.
Entry fees for Meru, Kora, and Aberdare National Parks were set at Sh1,100 for Kenyans and Sh800 for East African visitors. Fees for Mt Kenya National Park are Sh1,100 for locals, while visitors to Hell’s Gate, Mt Longonot, Mt Elgon, Ol Donyo Sabuk, Lake Elementaita Wildlife Sanctuary, Shimba Hills, and Kakamega National Reserves pay Sh675.
