It has become a (not particularly welcome for tourists) tradition every second half of the year in Kenya: the Kenya Wildlife Service publishes its proposed new prices and entry requirements for national parks.
More expensive safaris is not just a rhyme, but almost a seasonal tradition, and the reason given is always that the revised rates will improve “the conservation and management of the environment and wildlife” as well as the fight against poaching. Ipse dixit.
But this year, among the proposed adjustments that will apply to popular destinations such as Nairobi National Park, Amboseli, Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Mount Kenya National Park, and marine parks including Malindi and Kisite Mpunguti (Diani), with considerable increases especially for Kenyan citizens and residents, there are also some insights that could attract a certain type of foreign tourist.
For example, one of the proposals provides for total exemption, i.e., free admission to the parks, for people over 70 years of age.
Another extends zero fees to people with disabilities and significant reductions for children and young people aged 5 to 17. In addition, to promote accessibility for regular visitors, annual passes will be introduced. An adult pass will cost 45,000 Kenyan shillings, a child's pass 10,400 Kenyan shillings, a family pass for two adults and up to five children 130,000 Kenyan shillings, and a pass for tourist drivers 6,000 Kenyan shillings.
Discounts are also planned for conferences, professional delegations, and school groups.
The proposal also includes extending the variable pricing formula to all parks at different times of the year, i.e., between the high season (July to March) and the low season (April to June).
If approved, the new rates will come into effect in January 2026.