Kenya National Parks & Protected Areas: 2026 Fee Guide

This guide covers State-managed National Parks (KWS), County-managed Reserves (Maasai Mara/Samburu), and Private/Community Conservancies.

1. State-Managed National Parks (KWS)

KWS utilizes a tiered system. Prices are per person, per 24 hours.

Tier 1: Premium Parks

Amboseli, Lake Nakuru

International: Adult $100 | Child $35

Citizen/Resident: Adult KSH 1,000 | Child KSH 200

Tier 2: Urban & Wilderness

Nairobi National Park

International: Adult $100 | Child $35

Citizen/Resident: Adult KSH 2,000 | Child KSH 500

Tsavo East, Tsavo West, Meru，Kora, Ruma, Chyulu Hills

International: Adult $80 | Child $20

Citizen/Resident: Adult KSH 500 | Child KSH 200

Tier 3: Scenic & Mountain Parks

Aberdare, Mt. Kenya, Mt. Elgon, Hell’s Gate, Ol Donyo Sabuk, Mount Longonot

International: Adult $70 | Child $20

Citizen/Resident: Adult KSH 400 | Child KSH 200

Tier 4: Remote, Forest & Marine Parks

Sibiloi, Central & South Island, Arabuko Sokoke, Saiwa Swamp, Malka Mari

International: Adult $50 | Child $20

Citizen/Resident: Adult KSH 300 | Child KSH 150

Marine Parks: Kisite Mpunguti, Malindi, Watamu, Mombasa Marine

International: Adult $35 | Child $20

Citizen/Resident: Adult KSH 300 | Child KSH 150

2. County-Managed & Specialized Reserves

These are managed by local governments or specific authorities and have independent pricing.

Maasai Mara National Reserve

International: Adult $200 (High Season) | $100 (Low Season)

East African Citizens: KSH 1,000 - 2,000

Note: Fees are per calendar day (6 AM to 6 PM), not 24 hours.

Northern & Rift Valley Reserves

Samburu, Buffalo Springs, Shaba, Lake Bogoria, Lake Naivasha, Rimoi

International: Adult $70 | Child $40

Citizen: Adult KSH 500 | Child KSH 200

Forest & Primate Reserves

Kakamega Forest, Shimba Hills, Tana River Primate Reserve, Mwea

International: Adult $50 | Child $25

Citizen: Adult KSH 400 | Child KSH 200

Remote Frontier Reserves

Arawale, Bisanadi, Boni, Dodori, Rahole

International: Adult $40 | Child $20

Citizen: Adult KSH 300 | Child KSH 150

Note: These areas often require KWS escorts; check security protocols before travel.

Coastal Forest & Marine Reserves

Witu Forest (Utwani), Kiunga Marine, Mombasa Marine Reserve

International: Adult $30 | Child $15

Citizen: Adult KSH 250 | Child KSH 100

3. Major Private & Community Conservancies

Private areas often include “Conservation Fees” that go directly to community development and anti-poaching.

4. Universal Admission Rules for 2026

Entry Requirements

1.Identification: You must carry a physical original ID or Passport. Digital copies are often rejected at remote gates.

2.eCitizen Account: All KWS park entries require a pre-signed-in eCitizen account for the "GavaPay" system.

3.Payment: 100% Cashless. Payments via M-Pesa, Credit/Debit cards, or eCitizen portal only.

4.Student Rates: Valid only for individuals under 23 years old with a recognized institution ID and a formal letter from the school/university submitted 2 weeks in advance.

Code of Conduct (The "Big 5" Rules)

1.The 25-Metre Rule: Do not approach any animal closer than 25 metres.

2.Silence is Golden: Loud music or shouting is grounds for immediate eviction.

3.Littering: Zero-tolerance policy. Fines start at KSH 50,000 ($350).

4.Alighting: You may only exit your vehicle at designated "Picnic Sites" or "Viewpoints."

5.Airstrip Priority: Always give way to aircraft landing or taking off.

Special Constraints

• Plastic Ban: Single-use plastics (bottles, straws) are strictly banned.

• Marine Rules: Do not collect shells, coral, or disturb marine life. Use of "Kifaru Marine" app is mandatory for boat operators.

• Drones: Strictly prohibited without KCAA and KWS permits.