KWS, Kenya Railways Hike Charges For Tourists Starting January 2024

• Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) announced an increase in park entry fees for tourists starting January 2024
• Kenya Railways 50% Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) fare increase is also set to take effect from January 1, 2024
• Tourists using these two services are expected to experience a two-fold increase in expenses

TUKO.co.ke journalist Wycliffe Musalia brings over five years of experience in financial, business, and technology reporting, offering deep insights into Kenyan and global economic trends.

Tourists using Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) commuter services to access the Kenya Wildlife Parks could be with double expenses following changes in fees.

Kenya Railways announced an increase in the Madaraka Express fare from Nairobi to Mombasa to offset high pump prices.

What are the new SGR fare charges?

The corporation raised the economy class fare in November 2023 from KSh 1,000 to KSh 1,500, effective January 1, 2024.

In a post on the X platform on December 21, 2023, the corporation reminded Kenyans about the changes.

Based on the new fares, first-class tickets will now cost KSh 4,500 from KSh 3,000.

What are the new KWS park entry fees?

In August 2023, Kenya Wildlife Service Service (KWS) announced changes to the national parks, reserves and sanctuaries' entry fees.

KWS said tourists visiting Nairobi National Park will have to pay KSh 2,250, up from the current KSh 450.

KWS said the price change is expected to attract more visitors to the parks during the low seasons.

Businesses closing in Kenya

The move came as a blow to the sector players who argue that the increase in fees will lead to loss of business.

“The revised prices surpass those of our neighbouring competitors like Tanzania, Rwanda, and South Africa. This disparity may divert tourists to these countries, where similar packages are available at more affordable rates. This poses a significant obstacle to the growth of our tourism sector and overall economic progress," said Diani Hospitality Owners Association Chairman, Mohammed Hersi, as quoted by NTV.

Several Kenyan and foreign companies exited the market in 2023 amid harsh economic conditions worsened by high taxes.

Kenya's banknote printer, De La Rue, announced the closure of its Nairobi unit due to the low market demand.