Govt declares free entry to all national parks and reserves
By Kiprono Keileb, September 23, 2025Kenyans will have a rare chance to explore the country’s world-renowned wildlife destinations for free this month, as the government announced free entry to all national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries on Saturday, September 27, 2025.
The move, which coincides with the United Nations World Tourism Day, was announced by Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, through Kenya Wildlife Service X.
“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 in a statement.
She noted that to honour the global occasion, the government is opening the gates of all Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)-managed parks and reserves for free to Kenyan citizens.
“I am thrilled to announce that the Government of Kenya is offering free entry to all Kenyan citizens to visit Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)-managed national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries on Saturday, September 27, 2025,” she said.
The CS explained that the day presents a chance for Kenyans to connect with their natural heritage.
“This initiative is an opportunity for every Kenyan to reconnect with our breathtaking wildlife heritage, deepen our collective commitment to conservation, and experience the unparalleled beauty of our natural treasures,” she said.
Miano added that the offer is not just about free entry but about inspiring long-term care and responsibility for the country’s environment.
“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,” she said.
She urged citizens to use the opportunity to celebrate Kenya’s unique biodiversity, describing the parks and sanctuaries as treasures of both national and global importance.
“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,” Miano said.
The CS concluded by rallying the country to use the day as a celebration of conservation. “Let’s come together as a nation to celebrate the 2025 UN World Tourism Day and reaffirm our commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation,” Miano said.