World Tourism Day Kicks Off with Free Park Access, Pomp and Colour in Mombasa

Mombasa, Kenya — September 27, 2025 (EAT). Kenya marked this year’s World Tourism Day in grand style, with national celebrations led by Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano in Mombasa, under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”

The global event, celebrated annually on September 27, highlights tourism’s role in driving economic growth, environmental conservation, and cultural exchange.

Free Entry to 33 Parks and Reserves

As part of the celebrations, the government announced free access to 33 national parks, game reserves, and sanctuaries across Kenya for the day, encouraging citizens to reconnect with nature and explore the country’s heritage.

However, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) clarified on Friday that Lake Nakuru National Park would be exempt from the offer and only visitors with prepaid eCitizen tickets would be allowed entry.

Mombasa Parade and Cultural Festivities

The celebrations featured a colourful street procession through Mombasa, led by CS Miano and KWS Director-General Erustus Kanga, joined by:

• Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir

• Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtuaa

• Senior officials from the Tourism and Wildlife Ministry

• Diplomats, hoteliers, travel agents, tour operators, and tourism students

Cultural performances, exhibitions, and showcases at Mama Ngina Waterfront will continue throughout the weekend.

Call to Explore Kenya’s Heritage

Speaking ahead of the event, CS Miano urged Kenyans to seize the opportunity to experience the country’s natural beauty:

“We invite all Kenyans 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,” she said.

World Tourism Day Background

• Established: 1980 by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

• Purpose: Raise awareness about tourism’s importance to economic growth, cultural diversity, and sustainability

• 2025 Theme: “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”