KWS issues guidelines ahead of Saturday's free-to-enter parks

In celebration of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Day, the Kenyan government has announced a one-day waiver of entrance fees to national parks and reserves for Kenyan citizens.

On Saturday, National Parks and Reserves will be free to Kenyan citizens to show appreciation to Kenyans for their conservation efforts and to celebrate World Tourism Day.

This gesture recognises Kenyans' continued support for wildlife conservation and marks World Tourism Day in style.

Kenyans will have the opportunity to explore the country's rich wildlife heritage without paying an entry fee.

This applies to all national parks and reserves managed by KWS, including Nairobi Animal Orphanage, Nairobi Safari Walk and Kisumu Impala Sanctuary.

KWS has also put in place a number of visitor guidelines to ensure the smooth running of the offer.

Free entry is only available to KWS-managed parks, reserves and captive wildlife facilities that have vehicle-only access to national parks and reserves.

It will apply to sites such as Nairobi Animal Orphanage, Safari Walk and Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, which are accessible on foot.

Gates open at 6am and all visitors must leave by 6:30pm.

This offer is exclusive to Kenyan citizens and adults aged 18 years and above who are required to show valid identification at the gates.

Visitors are required to follow the park rules provided upon entry, which include following the instructions of KWS staff, avoiding single-use plastics, obeying speed limits and designated roads, not disturbing wildlife or making loud noises, and not littering while in vehicles except in designated areas.

In addition, national parks with bus services will work with local communities and schools to provide free interpretive tours to enhance the learning experience for the younger generation.

KWS said it would also deploy extra customer service staff in parks that are expected to see an increase in visitors.

However, they said that free entry will be limited to game drives and wildlife watching, and that activities such as guided tours, camping and other special events will still require payment.

To ensure crowd management and smooth traffic flow, the KWS said it was working closely with the national police to increase security.

The KWS added that for those who have already purchased tickets for entry on 28 September, the system will process their visit as normal, but rescheduling of pre-paid tickets will not be allowed.

KWS stated that tour vehicles carrying foreign tourists will still be required to pay the applicable entry fees for the vehicle and visitors, although Kenyan drivers will be exempt from paying.

KWS encourages all visitors to enjoy this opportunity to reconnect with nature, celebrate the beauty of Kenya's wildlife and celebrate World Tourism Day.