Kenyans to Enjoy Free Entry to All National Parks on World Tourism Day

Nairobi, Kenya — September 23, 2025, 15:45 EAT.

Kenyans will enjoy free access to all national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries on Saturday, September 27, as the government marks the United Nations World Tourism Day with a bold move to boost domestic tourism and showcase the country’s natural heritage.

The Latest

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano announced the initiative on Tuesday via Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) social media platforms, calling it a rare opportunity for citizens to reconnect with nature while supporting conservation goals.

“The United Nations World Tourism Day is celebrated annually on 27th September, and this year’s theme, ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,’ reminds us of the power of tourism to drive positive change for communities, conservation, and the economy,” Miano said.

The free-entry day covers over 50 national parks, marine reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries, including iconic destinations like Amboseli, Maasai Mara, Tsavo, and Nairobi National Park.

Context in Brief

• Domestic tourism focus: The Ministry of Tourism has been pushing to grow local visitor numbers amid fluctuating international arrivals, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global travel.

• Economic importance: Tourism contributes about 10% of Kenya’s GDP, employing over 1.1 million people directly and indirectly, according to the 2024 Economic Survey.

• Global alignment: World Tourism Day 2025 focuses on sustainability and community-driven tourism, aligning with Kenya’s efforts to promote eco-tourism and conservation financing.

Law, Policy, and Process

• Wildlife Conservation and Management Act (2013): Provides for the protection and sustainable use of wildlife resources.

• Kenya Vision 2030: Identifies tourism as a key economic pillar, with initiatives like park infrastructure upgrades and community conservancies.

• Tourism Act (2011): Mandates government agencies to promote domestic and international tourism and oversee public–private partnerships in the sector.

Voices and Stakeholders

• Government: “We want Kenyans to explore their own country, understand the value of conservation, and support sustainable tourism,” said CS Rebecca Miano in the Tuesday statement.

• Tourism sector: Kenya Tourism Federation Chairperson Michael Musau welcomed the move, noting it would raise awareness about the role of tourism in job creation and environmental stewardship.

• Local communities: Residents near parks like Maasai Mara say free entry days also help demystify tourism as a preserve for the wealthy, making it accessible to ordinary Kenyans.

Evidence & Data

• Protected areas: Kenya has 23 terrestrial national parks, 28 national reserves, 5 marine parks, 4 marine reserves, and over 140 conservancies.

• Revenue trends: KWS reported KSh 22 billion in park revenues for 2024, with domestic tourists accounting for 45% of all visits.

• Conservation impact: Wildlife tourism finances up to 80% of Kenya’s anti-poaching operations and habitat restoration efforts.

Risks and Implications

• Economic: Short-term revenue loss for KWS on the free-entry day, but potential long-term gains from increased domestic visitation.

• Conservation: Larger crowds may pressure park ecosystems if not well managed, requiring strict visitor guidelines.

• Social: Greater public awareness could strengthen citizen-led conservation initiatives and demand for better park infrastructure.

What We Don’t Know

• Whether the government plans to institutionalise free-entry days annually or if this remains a one-off event.

• How KWS will manage visitor numbers to prevent overcrowding in sensitive areas like marine parks.

• Whether local transport and hospitality sectors will offer complementary discounts to maximise impact.

Timeline

• 2024: Kenya records 2.2 million international tourist arrivals, up 35% from 2023.

• Aug 2025: Ministry launches Tembea Kenya campaign targeting domestic travellers.

• Sept 23, 2025: Free-entry day announced ahead of World Tourism Day on September 27.

What to Watch

• Visitor turnout: KWS to release data on park attendance after September 27.

• Budgetary impact: Treasury to assess whether free-entry day affects park revenue projections.

• Policy adoption: Possibility of making free-entry days an annual national tourism tradition.

Editor’s Note: This story will be updated with visitor statistics and government feedback after World Tourism Day celebrations on September 27, 2025.