The County Government of Isiolo has announced a two-day waiver of park entry and vehicle fees across three wildlife reserves to encourage tourism and local travel during the Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
In a public notice issued Thursday, the county said a 100 percent waiver will apply to all visitors accessing Buffalo Springs National Reserve, Shaba National Reserve and Bisanadi National Reserve.
The directive, issued under the authority of the county executive, takes effect from 6:00 a.m. on March 20 and will run until 6:00 p.m. on March 21, after which normal charges will resume.
According to the notice, the waiver is intended to facilitate celebrations and promote domestic tourism during one of the most significant holidays in the Islamic calendar.
“A total waiver of one hundred percent (100%) is hereby granted on all park entry fees and vehicle transit fees for the purpose of celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr,” the county said in the statement.
The exemption applies to all categories of visitors, including Kenyan citizens, residents and international tourists, in a move that local officials say is designed to open up the region’s heritage to a wider audience.
However, authorities clarified that the waiver is limited strictly to entry and vehicle transit charges. Additional services such as camping, professional filming and aircraft landing will continue to attract fees as предусмотрено in the Isiolo County Finance Act 2025.
“This waiver applies strictly to entry and vehicle fees. Specialized services, including but not limited to camping, professional filming and aircraft landing, shall remain subject to prevailing rates,” the notice stated.
Visitors will also be required to comply with standard entry procedures despite the fee exemption. County officials emphasized that all guests must present valid identification documents, including national identity cards or passports, for mandatory registration at park gates.
“Security and registration remain mandatory. All visitors must present valid identification for statistical documentation and safety purposes,” the county said.
The administration further urged visitors to observe conservation laws and park regulations throughout the waiver period, warning against activities that could harm wildlife or the environment.
“All visitors must adhere to the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act. Off-roading, littering and harassment of wildlife remain prohibited and punishable by law,” the notice added.
County Executive Committee Member for Finance Luqman Ahmed directed all revenue officers, gate clerks and park wardens to ensure full compliance with the directive.
“All relevant officers are expected to implement this notice effectively. Regular billing and revenue collection shall resume promptly at 06:00 hours on 22nd March 2026,” he said.
The initiative is expected to attract increased visitor traffic to Isiolo’s प्रमुख reserves, which are part of the larger Samburu ecosystem and known for their unique wildlife species and scenic landscapes.
County officials expressed optimism that the temporary waiver will not only enhance holiday experiences for visitors but also stimulate local economic activity through increased tourism flows during the festive period.
