Kenyans and freebies: 84,000 storm parks for free entry
Those who visited Abedares National Park held a walk to commemorate the day. Photo/KWS.
The number of Kenyans who flocked national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries on Saturday has been confirmed — a staggering 83,932 citizens took advantage of free entry to mark World Tourism Day 2025.
The Nairobi Animal Orphanage recorded the highest turnout with 21,485 visitors, followed closely by the Nairobi Safari Walk at 20,818.
The Kisumu Impala Sanctuary welcomed 14,435, while Nairobi National Park and Hell’s Gate National Park hosted 6,431 and 3,077 visitors respectively.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said the government’s decision to open the gates at no cost was aimed at deepening Kenyans’ appreciation of their country’s natural heritage.
“We invite all Kenyans to take advantage of this opportunity to explore, learn, and celebrate the wonders of our parks, reserves, and sanctuaries, which are not just Kenya’s pride but the world’s heritage,” said Ms Miano.
She added:
“By opening the gates to these iconic spaces, we aim to foster a greater appreciation of Kenya’s rich biodiversity and inspire a shared responsibility to protect it for generations to come.”
Beyond the numbers, the mood across the country was one of joy and unity, with families, students, and nature lovers reconnecting with Kenya’s rich biodiversity.
From hiking and wildlife viewing to boating and cultural exchanges, local communities and service providers — guides, boat operators, and cultural hosts — enriched the experience.
On Friday evening, KWS joined hands with partners at Mombasa Serena Beach and other marine conservation champions for a turtle hatchling release.
“Every hatchling that makes it safely to the ocean is a step towards securing the future of endangered sea turtles,” KWS said.
The agency noted that through such collaborations with Serena Hotels and local conservation groups, it continues to protect nesting beaches, safeguard hatchlings, and ensure these ancient mariners survive for generations to come.
The events underscored the role of sustainable tourism in conservation.
As KWS put it:
“This was more than just free entry — it was a celebration of Magical Kenya, and a powerful reminder that our parks, reserves, and sanctuaries belong to all of us, and that conservation thrives when citizens and communities actively take part.”
And the celebrations are not over yet. KWS has announced an exciting build-up to the Magical Kenya Travel Expo 2025:
“Guess what… We’re bringing the wild to the city! The countdown to #MagicalKenyaTravelExpo2025 is ON and we are all set to take you on a truly unforgettable journey into the heart of nature... right from our stand at Uhuru Gardens!”
The three-day expo will run at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi, from 1st – 3rd October 2025, showcasing Kenya’s parks in an immersive city experience.