Kenya’s National Parks Fees and Permits – Your Complete 2025 Guide
A safari in Kenya is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences on Earth. From the Masai Mara’s golden plains to Amboseli’s elephant herds and the flamingo-lined lakes of the Rift Valley, every park offers something unique. To ensure sustainable tourism and wildlife protection, visitors are required to pay national park fees and obtain permits managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and respective county authorities. Understanding these costs helps travelers plan their safari better and ensures smooth entry into Kenya’s incredible natural heritage.
Overview of Kenya’s National Park System
Kenya has more than 50 national parks, reserves, and conservancies, each managed either by KWS, local counties, or community conservancies. Park fees contribute directly to wildlife protection, ranger salaries, community development, and maintenance of park infrastructure.
Fees are generally categorized by:
- Citizens (Kenyan nationals)
- Residents (foreigners with Kenyan work/residence permits)
- Non-residents (international tourists)
All fees are quoted in Kenyan shillings (KES) or US dollars (USD) and vary by park, season, and the visitor’s nationality category.
Kenya National Park Fees 2025 (Non-Residents)
Masai Mara National Reserve
- High Season (July – December): USD 200 per adult per day
- Low Season (January – June): USD 100 per adult per day
- Children (3–17 years): USD 50 per day
Note: Managed by Narok County; park fees apply separately from KWS-managed parks.
Amboseli National Park
- Adults: USD 70 per day
- Children: USD 40 per day
Amboseli is famous for large elephant herds and views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Lake Nakuru National Park
- Adults: USD 60 per day
- Children: USD 35 per day
A top destination for birdwatchers and rhino sightings.
Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks
- Adults: USD 60 per day
- Children: USD 35 per day
These parks together form Kenya’s largest protected ecosystem and are known for red elephants, lions, and rugged beauty.
Samburu, Shaba, and Buffalo Springs Reserves
- Adults: USD 70 per day
- Children: USD 40 per day
These semi-arid reserves host unique northern species like Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe.
Aberdare National Park
- Adults: USD 60 per day
- Children: USD 35 per day
Perfect for forest hiking, waterfalls, and spotting rare mountain wildlife.
Mount Kenya National Park
- Adults: USD 70 per day
- Children: USD 40 per day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its peaks and alpine beauty.
Nairobi National Park
- Adults: USD 60 per day
- Children: USD 35 per day
Located just 20 minutes from the city center, it’s the world’s only national park bordering a capital city.
Hells Gate National Park
- Adults: USD 30 per day
- Children: USD 20 per day
A great spot for hiking, cycling, and rock climbing, near Lake Naivasha.
Meru National Park
- Adults: USD 60 per day
- Children: USD 35 per day
A pristine wilderness known for rhinos, lions, and untamed landscapes.
Mount Longonot National Park
- Adults: USD 30 per day
- Children: USD 20 per day
A popular hiking park built around a dormant volcano with breathtaking crater views.
Kenya Wildlife Service Payment System
KWS now operates a cashless payment system for all park entries. Visitors can pay using:
- Visa or MasterCard debit/credit cards at park gates.
- Mpesa (mobile money) for local payments.
- Online booking via the official KWS eCitizen portal or at www.kws.go.ke.
Always confirm updated fees before travel, as rates may vary slightly depending on season or policy adjustments.
Vehicle and Camping Fees
Vehicle Entry Fees (Per Day)
- Saloon Car (5 seats or less): KES 400
- Minibus or Safari Van (6–14 seats): KES 1,000
- Tour Vehicle (over 14 seats): KES 3,000
Camping Fees
- Public Campsite: USD 30 per adult per night
- Special Campsite: USD 50 per adult per night
Children usually pay half the adult rate.
Special campsites must be pre-booked and offer more privacy and better facilities.
Climbing and Hiking Permits
Kenya’s mountain parks — like Mount Kenya, Mount Elgon, and Aberdare — require additional permits for climbers:
- Mount Kenya Climbing Fee: USD 70 per person per day (in addition to park entry)
- Guiding and porter fees depend on route and duration.
Booking through registered operators ensures safety and compliance with park rules.
Marine Park Fees
Kenya’s coastline is protected through marine parks and reserves managed by KWS. These include Watamu, Kisite-Mpunguti, and Malindi Marine Parks.
- Adults: USD 20 per day
- Children: USD 15 per day
Fees cover snorkeling, swimming, and conservation of coral reefs and marine life.
Annual Park Passes
For frequent visitors, KWS offers annual park passes valid for all KWS-managed parks (excluding Masai Mara and private conservancies).
- Adults (non-residents): USD 350 per year
- Adults (residents): KES 43,000 per year
- Children: Half the adult rate
These passes are ideal for long-term travelers, researchers, or residents exploring multiple parks.
Private Conservancy Fees
Private and community-run conservancies often charge separate entry fees. These areas usually limit visitor numbers for exclusivity and better conservation funding.
Examples include:
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy: USD 90 per adult per day
- Lewa Wildlife Conservancy: USD 130 per adult per day
- Naboisho Conservancy (Masai Mara): USD 100 per adult per day
- Ol Kinyei Conservancy: USD 90 per adult per day
Conservancy fees support local communities and wildlife protection, ensuring sustainable tourism.
Tips for Visitors
- Carry ID or passport: Required at all park entry gates.
- Keep receipts: Proof of payment may be checked at exit points.
- Observe park rules: Avoid littering, feeding wildlife, or off-road driving.
- Plan ahead: Some parks limit daily visitor numbers in peak season.
- Travel early: Park entry closes around 6:00 p.m. in most areas.
Why Park Fees Matter
Every shilling or dollar you spend on park fees helps fund:
- Anti-poaching patrols and ranger training.
- Habitat restoration and wildlife monitoring.
- Education programs for local communities.
- Research and conservation initiatives.
Your visit directly contributes to Kenya’s long-term environmental sustainability and community welfare.
Why Choose GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS
At GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS, we handle all national park fees and permits on behalf of our guests, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Our safari packages include park entries, conservancy access, and all logistics, so you can focus on enjoying Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes without stress. We also prioritize responsible travel that supports conservation and community projects.
Conclusion
Understanding Kenya’s national park fees and permits ensures a smooth, ethical, and well-prepared safari adventure. Each fee supports the protection of the country’s rich biodiversity — from lions in the Masai Mara to rhinos in Ol Pejeta and flamingos at Lake Nakuru.
When you travel responsibly, you help preserve these treasures for future generations. For guided safaris, hassle-free bookings, and expertly planned itineraries that include all necessary permits, inquire and book your Kenya adventure with GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS, your trusted partner for authentic African experiences.