Written By Lisa Murimi
Starting January 2024, all children below the age of five will enjoy free access to parks throughout Kenya, expanding the previous age limit of three years.
This decision, announced by the Kenya Wildlife Service, aims to enhance conservation education.
Additionally, citizens aged 70 and above and Kenyan Persons living with Disabilities, as defined by the Persons Living with Disability Act, will also be exempt from park fees.
The adjustments came after nationwide public participation forums held from January 30 to February 23, seeking public input on revising conservation fees for national parks and reserves.
The East African Community (EAC) and resident adults will pay Sh2,000 to access the park during the high season, which runs from July to March, up from Sh430.
Adults from the rest of Africa and overseas destinations will pay $50 (Sh7,167) and $100 (Sh14,335) correspondingly during the high season, according to the proposed pricing.
The agency would charge EAC and resident adults Sh2,000 to access Nairobi National Park during the low season, which runs from April to June.
Adults from the rest of the world will pay between $20 and $100 (Sh2,867).
In response to recommendations from the public, a proposal to introduce discounted fees for residents of other African countries has also been put forward.
East African Community residents will benefit from reduced rates, while other EAC nationalities will be considered non-residents.
The introduction of seasonal rates, with a high season from July to March and a low season from April to June, aims to incentivize public visits during less busy periods.
The Kenya Wildlife Service is also exploring new tourism experiences like night game drives, virtual and drone experiences, water sports activities, animal tracking, and loyalty programs.
The insights gained from public engagement have informed the proposed conservation fees for January 2024 to December 2025.
