Kenyans Scoff At KWS For Raising Park Entry Fees To KSh 2k From KSh 450: "Nilipe KSh 2k Kuona Fisi?"

• 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
• The move sparked debate among Kenyans, who raised concerns that KWS was killing local tourism in the country

Kenyans have dismissed new park fees proposed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), saying they will kill local tourism.

KWS released the new charges for tourists visiting national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries on Wednesday, August 9.

In the new changes, tourists visiting Nairobi National Park will be required to pay KSh 2,250 to gain entry to the park in the middle of the capital, a rise from the current KSh 450.

World's tourist destination

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

"The high seasons will span from July to March, with the low season running from April to June. This strategy aims to incentivise the public and attract more visitors during the less busy months," said KWS.

The prices sparked debate among social media users, with most Kenyans arguing that they will lock them out.

@j_mokaya cried out;

"KSh 2k for Nairobi National Park? Just say you don't want us there."

@Maccoscyrus said;

"Siezi lipa elfu 2 kuona fisi mimi ( I can't pay KSh 2,000 to see a hyena)".

@ArapWalta argued;

"At that rate, the only people that will be visiting parks will be poachers."

Moving to Tanzania and Uganda

Some Kenyans threatened to consider visiting parks in the neighbouring countries of Tanzania and Uganda.

@oh_taz noted;

"Sounds like Tanzania and Uganda will be cheaper options."

@TuJadili replied;

"If you're doing KSh 2,000 per Kenyan citizen to visit Nairobi National Park, just forget about it. You can make it KSh 700 but not beyond that. Improve your services first."

@JoelNaburuk said;

"We have since moved on."

@Mariana2_22 claimed;

"This increment is very steep. It will discourage local tourism."

Kenya shifts focus on magical tourism

This came even as the country announced a shift in its tourism focus from beaches and wildlife to culture, history, and natural beauty.

The government said it plans to foster sustainable growth, create memorable visitor experiences, and support and empower local communities.

Ministry of Tourism embarked on plans to collaborate with influencers and tourism ambassadors to capture and amplify the essence of Kenya's landscapes.