KWS sets strict rules ahead of free national park entry on World Tourism Day
The notice reminded tourists that all KWS-managed parks, reserves and sanctuaries are plastic-free zones and urged visitors to respect the environment and wildlife.
As Kenyans prepare to enjoy free entry to national parks on World Tourism Day on Saturday, the Kenya Wildlife Service has outlined strict rules for visitors to protect animals, preserve habitats and maintain order in the parks.
In a statement on Thursday, the agency said visitors must follow all park regulations, avoid feeding wildlife and keep noise to a minimum to ensure both safety and conservation.
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The notice reminded tourists that all KWS-managed parks, reserves and sanctuaries are plastic-free zones and urged visitors to respect the environment and wildlife.
“Respect the privacy of the wildlife, this is their habitat,” the agency said, warning that wild animals are unpredictable and close encounters can be dangerous.
KWS also warned against crowding around animals, making sudden noises or movements and prohibiting car hooting inside the parks. Tourists must maintain a minimum distance of 20 metres from wildlife and pull over to allow other vehicles to pass.
“Don’t feed the animals, it upsets their diet and leads to human dependence,” KWS said.
Visitors have also been urged to remain quiet, stay inside vehicles except at designated areas, and avoid off-road driving, which can severely damage ecosystems. Speed limits within parks are capped at 40kph, with over-speeding punishable by potential bans from future visits.
Camping rules include not leaving fires unattended or discarding burning objects. Visitors are further reminded to respect Kenya’s cultural heritage by seeking permission before photographing local communities and dressing appropriately.
The agency further noted that Parks must be vacated by 6:00 pm unless overnight arrangements have been approved. Littering, especially cigarette butts, is strictly prohibited. Night game drives are allowed only at a fee and with prior park management approval.
KWS has provided a toll-free line, 0800597000, and an alternative contact, +254 726 610 509, for reporting issues or seeking assistance.
“By following park rules, you not only ensure your safety but also help conserve our natural spaces for generations to come,” the statement added.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano encouraged Kenyans to take advantage of the free entry initiative to experience the nation’s natural treasures and promote conservation awareness.
“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.
The 2025 World Tourism Day theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” highlights tourism’s role in positive change for communities, conservation, and economic growth. Miano urged citizens to explore, learn and celebrate the parks, reserves and sanctuaries, which she described as both Kenya’s pride and the world’s heritage.
The announcement comes amid plans to increase park entry fees to address a Sh12 billion funding deficit, from Sh430 to Sh1,000 for Kenyans and Sh10,360 for foreigners.
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