KWS Park Fees 2025: Updated Entry Charges for All Kenyan Parks & Reserves

In this section we will look at

1.)About Kenya Wildlife Service

2.)KWS Park Fee 2024

3.)KWS history

4.)Establishment of KWS (1989)

5.)Functions of KWS

6.)KWS Tender

7.)KWS Recruitment

8.)Kenya Wildlife Service Achievement

9.)List of KWS Parks in Kenya

10.)Challenges Facing KWS

About Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)

Image of Kenya Wildlife service payment information

Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is a government parastatal established under the Wildlife act of Parliament; Wildlife Conservation and Management Act CAP 376, of 1989, now repealed and replaced by the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013.

Image of Hyenas and vultures by KWS post on Twitter

Kenya Wildlife Service play a crucial role in environmental cleanup by scavenging carrion and preventing the spread of diseases? With powerful jaws and stomachs capable of neutralizing harmful pathogens like anthrax and botulinum toxins,

KWS Vision is to be a world leader in wildlife conservation.

Image of Kenya wildlife service inclusivity poster

Its primary responsibility is conserving and managing Kenya’s wildlife resources in collaboration with stakeholders. This includes managing national parks and reserves, enforcing wildlife laws, and promoting tourism as a key contributor to Kenya's economy.

KWS Mission is to sustainably conserve and manage Kenya’s wildlife and its habitats.

KWS Park Fee 2025

KWS Premium Park Fees

Amboseli National Park and Nakuru National Park

Citizen Adult	860Ksh
Citizen Child	215Ksh
Resident Adult	860Ksh
Resident Child	215Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	60USD
Non-Resident Child	35USD

KWS Wilderness Park Fees (A)

Tsavo East and Tsavo West

Citizen Adult	515Ksh
Citizen Child	215Ksh
Resident Adult	515Ksh
Resident Child	215Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	52 USD
Non-Resident Child	35USD

KWS Wilderness Park Fees (B)

Meru National Park, Kora National Park and Aberdare National Park

Citizen Adult	300Ksh
Citizen Child	215Ksh
Resident Adult	300Ksh
Resident Child	215Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	52USD
Non-Resident Child	35USD

 Mount Kenya National Park

Citizen Adult	300Ksh
Citizen Child	215Ksh
Resident Adult	300Ksh
Resident Child	215Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	43USD
Non-Resident Child	26USD

KWS Urban Safari Park Fees

Nairobi National Park

Citizen Adult	430Ksh
Citizen Child	215Ksh
Resident Adult	430Ksh
Resident Child	215Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	43USD
Non-Resident Child	22USD

KWS Sanctuaries Park Fees

 Nairobi Animal Orphanage/Kisumu/Impala /Nairobi Safari Walk/Lake Elementatita

Citizen Adult	215Ksh
Citizen Child	125Ksh
Resident Adult	215Ksh
Resident Child	125Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	22USD
Non-Resident Child	13USD

KWS Scenic and special Interest (a) Park Fees

Hells Gate /Mount Elgon /Ol-Donyo Sabuk and Mount Longonot

Citizen Adult	300Ksh
Citizen Child	215Ksh
Resident Adult	300Ksh
Resident Child	215Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	26USD
Non-Resident Child	17USD

KWS Marine Parks Fees

Kisite Mpunguti

Citizen Adult	215Ksh
Citizen Child	125Ksh
Resident Adult	215Ksh
Resident Child	125Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	17USD
Non-Resident Child	13USD

KWS Marine Park Fees

Malindi/Watamu /Mombasa /Kiunga

Citizen Adult	130Ksh
Citizen Child	125Ksh
Resident Adult	130Ksh
Resident Child	125Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	17USD
Non-Resident Child	13USD

KWS Premium Parks Camping Fees

 Amboseli &Lake Nakuru

Citizen Adult	500Ksh
Citizen Child	250Ksh
Resident Adult	500Ksh
Resident Child	250Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	50USD
Non-Resident Child	25USD

KWS other Parks Camping Fees

Citizen Adult	250Ksh
Citizen Child	200Ksh
Resident Adult	250Ksh
Resident Child	200Ksh
Non-Resident Adult	35USD
Non-Resident Child	20USD

KWS rules and guidelines

• KWS daily fee is a single entry fee valid for 24 hours of continuous uninterrupted stay inside KWS National Park,National Reserve and Sanctuary

• East African Citizen is a native of East Africa countries such as Kenya,Uganda ,Rwanda ,Tanzania, Burundi ,somalia,South Sudanand Democratic Republic of Congo with valid identification documents and passport

• Kenya Resident refers to persons of other nationalities residing in Kenya with valid documentation from the Kenyan Government (ID)

• Student is herein defined as an individual from a recognized secondary government or private college/University aged up to 23 years old and visiting the park for purposes of learning about conservation through a documented and organized arrangement with that institution .It excludes students on personally arranged holiday ,KWS will require of 2 weeks notice in order to issue written authorization for student rates

• Children refers to persons from 3 years but below 18 years

KWS history

Image of Kenya Wildlife service Logo

Pre-Colonial Era

Wildlife was an integral part of traditional Kenyan communities, often governed by cultural norms and taboos that emphasized sustainable use as Indigenous communities coexisted with wildlife, respecting their habitats and ecosystems.

Colonial Era (1895–1963)

1895

Kenya became a British Protectorate, and early conservation efforts were driven by European settlers who wanted to preserve wildlife for sport hunting.

1900

Hunting laws were introduced to regulate the killing of wildlife. The 1907 Game Reserves Ordinance created some of the first game reserves.

1945

The National Parks Ordinance led to the establishment of Kenya’s first national park, Nairobi National Park, in 1946.

1956

The Wildlife Conservation and Management Department (WCMD) was established under the colonial government to oversee wildlife conservation efforts.

Image of KWS Canine Unit that plays an essential part in this mission, supporting efforts to combat wildlife crimes such as trophy trafficking and other related offenses

Post-Independence Era (1963–1989)

After independence in 1963, wildlife conservation faced challenges due to poaching, land pressure, and a lack of resources.

The Wildlife Conservation and Management Department continued to oversee wildlife, but inefficiencies and corruption limited its effectiveness.

1977

Kenya banned all forms of hunting to curb poaching and preserve its wildlife.

Image of a jackal ,it plays a crucial role in regulating the populations of small mammals, insects, and even carrion, keeping nature's food chain in check

Establishment of KWS (1989)

The Kenya Wildlife Service was officially established in the year 1989 as a parastatal organization under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act .It replaced the WCMD and was tasked with a more structured and professional approach to wildlife management. With Dr. Richard Leakey was appointed the first director, marking a turning point for conservation in Kenya. His leadership emphasized professionalism, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement.

Roles and Functions of KWS

Rhino notching exercise

Conservation of Wildlife

KWS safeguards Kenya’s rich biodiversity by managing national parks, marine parks, and reserves. The organization conducts anti-poaching operations and conserves endangered species such as elephants, rhinos, and lions.

Law Enforcement

KWS enforces laws to combat illegal wildlife activities such as poaching, trafficking, and habitat destruction. Rangers are trained to handle these challenges effectively.

Tourism Promotion

KWS develops and markets Kenya’s wildlife as a global tourism product, earning revenue for conservation efforts.

Community Engagement

KWS works with communities living around protected areas to minimize human-wildlife conflicts, ensuring harmonious coexistence.

Scientific Research

KWS conducts wildlife studies, collects ecological data, and shares research findings to support conservation strategies.

Innovative technologies being deployed in the notching exercise, including VHF and LoRa WAN-enabled transmitters which provide hourly updates to the Earth Ranger platform, offering greater efficiency to enhance the effectiveness of Rhino conservation strategies.

KWS Park fees 2024 PDF Download

KWS Tender

KWS routinely procures goods, works, and services through tenders, ensuring transparency and compliance with Kenyan procurement laws. These tenders range from infrastructure development and equipment supply to consultancy services

Tender Types

1. Open Tenders:These are advertised widely and open to all eligible suppliers.

2. Restricted Tenders:Involves inviting specific suppliers due to specialized needs or urgency.

3. Request for Proposals (RFPs):Common for consultancy services or technical projects.

4. Framework Agreements:These allow prequalified suppliers to provide goods or services over a specified period.

Tender Application Steps

1. Identify Opportunities:Tenders are published on the KWS website or local newspapers.

2. Prepare Bid Documents:Include all required documents, such as tax compliance certificates, registration details, and financial statements.

3. Submit Proposals:Follow instructions on timelines, submission formats, and venues.

4. Evaluation Process:KWS evaluates bids based on technical compliance, cost, and other criteria.

5. Award and Contract Signing:Successful bidders receive notification and sign contracts with KWS.

KWS Recruitment

KWS is one of Kenya’s most sought-after employers, offering opportunities for professionals in conservation, research, law enforcement, and administration.

Rangers

KWS rangers are the backbone of wildlife conservation and law enforcement. Their duties include patrolling, responding to threats, and assisting tourists.

Scientists and Researchers

Roles in wildlife research, ecological monitoring, and data analysis are available for professionals with scientific expertise.

Administrative Roles

Positions include finance, human resources, and marketing.

Tourism and Hospitality Staff

These include park guides, hotel management staff, and customer service representatives.

Internships and Graduate Trainee Programs

Designed to nurture young talent, KWS offers internships and training programs for students and recent graduates.

Recruitment Process

1. Job Advertisements:KWS announces vacancies on its website and in newspapers.

2. Application:Candidates submit applications via the KWS online portal or specified methods.

3. Shortlisting:Applications are reviewed, and shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews or tests.

4. Interviews and Selection:Depending on the role, candidates undergo interviews, physical tests, or aptitude assessments.

5. Onboarding:Successful candidates are onboarded and begin training or work immediately.

Requirements for Key Roles

• Rangers:

  • Kenyan citizenship

  • Minimum KCSE certificate

  • Physically and mentally fit

  • Pass rigorous physical and medical tests

• Researchers/Scientists:

  • Relevant degrees in conservation, biology, or related fields

  • Experience in research projects

• Administrative Staff:

  • Relevant academic qualifications and professional experience

Kenya Wildlife Service Achievement

Fun fact: A group of zebras is called a dazzle

Anti-Poaching Efforts

In the 1980s and 1990s, KWS implemented aggressive anti-poaching strategies, including the burning of ivory stockpiles to send a strong message against illegal wildlife trade.Poaching rates significantly declined during this period.

1. Expansion of Protected Areas:

   • KWS manages over 8% of Kenya’s landmass, including 23 national parks, 28 national reserves, and marine parks.

2. Community-Based Conservation:

   • Initiatives like community conservancies encourage local communities to benefit from tourism and wildlife conservation.

3. Tourism Development:

   • KWS plays a vital role in Kenya’s tourism industry by maintaining infrastructure in national parks and reserves.

List of KWS Parks in Kenya

Terrestrial Parks

Aberdare National Park

Amboseli National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park

Nairobi National Park

Meru National Park

Tsavo East National Park

Tsavo West National Park

Mount Kenya National Park

Kora National Park

Hell’s Gate National Park

Marine Parks

Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park

Mombasa Marine Park

Malindi Marine Park

Watamu Marine Park

Reserves

Samburu National Reserve

Masai Mara National Reserve

Shimba Hills National Reserve

Buffalo Springs National Reserve

Challenges Facing KWS

Human-Wildlife Conflict

Encroachment on wildlife habitats leads to conflicts, threatening both human and animal safety.

Image of a post on twitter by NTSA and KWS a hyena knocked by car

Poaching and Illegal Trade

Despite efforts, poaching of elephants and rhinos remains a concern.

Climate Change

Erratic weather patterns disrupt ecosystems and food chains.

Funding Constraints

Insufficient budgets hinder infrastructure development and research projects.

Tourism Dependency

Reliance on tourism revenue makes KWS vulnerable to global disruptions like pandemics.