Nature lovers and adventure seekers have a reason to celebrate! The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has announced free entry to select national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries on 27th September 2025 in honor of World Tourism Day.
This year’s global theme, Tourism and Sustainable Transformation, highlights the role of tourism in protecting biodiversity, supporting local communities, and creating opportunities for sustainable growth. By opening up parks to Kenyans free of charge, KWS hopes to inspire more people to reconnect with the country’s breathtaking wildlife heritage.
Why You Need This Getaway
- Perfect Break From Routine
If you’ve been stuck in traffic, deadlines, or endless city noise, a park visit is the reset you didn’t know you needed. Fresh air, open skies, and nature’s calm will leave you recharged. - Quality Family Time
A Day in the Wild offers a chance to bond without distractions. Children get to see animals they’ve only read about in books, while parents can enjoy a wholesome, budget-friendly outing. - Affordable Adventure
Safaris are often perceived as expensive, but with free entry, you only need to consider transport and food. It’s the most affordable way to tick a national park visit off your bucket list. - Boost Your Wellbeing
Research indicates that spending time outdoors reduces stress, improves mood and sparks creativity. Think of this day as therapy in nature at no cost.
How to Make the Most of the Day
- Arrive early to maximize your time.
- Pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a good camera.
- Choose your destination wisely whether it’s Nairobi National Park for a quick safari, Amboseli for elephants, or Lake Nakuru for flamingos.
- Respect nature by following KWS park rules and avoiding littering.
KWS Parks You Can Visit for Free
- Aberdare National Park (Nyeri/Nyandarua) – Misty forests, waterfalls, and rare wildlife such as the bongo antelope.
- Amboseli National Park (Kajiado) – World-famous for elephants and sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Central Island National Park (Lake Turkana) – A volcanic island with crocodile breeding grounds and unique birdlife.
- Chyulu Hills National Park (Kibwezi) – Rolling green hills and lava tubes, known as the “Green Hills of Africa.”
- Hell’s Gate National Park (Naivasha) – Hiking, rock climbing, and geothermal features in dramatic gorges.
- Kakamega Forest National Reserve (Kakamega) – Kenya’s only tropical rainforest, rich in butterflies and bird species.
- Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park & Reserve (Shimoni, Kwale) – Stunning coral reefs, dolphins, and snorkeling adventures.
- Kisumu Impala Sanctuary (Kisumu) – A lakeside haven for impalas, zebras, and rescued animals.
- Kiunga Marine National Reserve (Lamu) – A pristine marine paradise with mangroves, coral reefs, and sea turtles.
- KWS Kora National Park (Meru/Tana River) – Remote wilderness once home to George Adamson, ideal for off-the-beaten-path safaris.
- Lake Elementaita Wildlife Sanctuary (Elementaita) – Flamingos and pelicans thrive on this soda lake.
- Lake Nakuru National Park (Nakuru) – Famous for rhinos, lions, and flamingos.
- Malindi Marine National Park & Reserve (Malindi) – Coral gardens perfect for diving and snorkeling.
- Malka Mari National Park (Mandera) – Remote, semi-arid park on the Daua River, home to rare desert species.
- Marsabit National Park (Marsabit) – Crater lakes, forested mountains, and elephants.
- KWS Meru National Park (Meru/Tharaka Nithi) – Lush landscapes, rivers, and the story of Elsa the lioness.
- Mombasa Marine National Park & Reserve (Mombasa) – White sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs.
- Mount Elgon National Park (Bungoma/Trans-Nzoia) – Caves, cliffs, and highland forests on an extinct volcano.
- Mount Kenya National Park (Nyeri/Nanyuki/Chogoria) – Africa’s second-highest mountain with glaciers and alpine forests.
- Mwea National Reserve (Mbeere) – Floodplains rich in birdlife, crocodiles, and hippos.
- Mwea Hills National Park (Mbeere) – Rolling hills with scenic views and walking trails.
- Nairobi Animal Orphanage (Nairobi) – A rescue and rehabilitation center for injured wildlife.
- Nairobi Safari Walk (Nairobi) – Raised boardwalks where you can see lions, cheetahs, and rhinos up close.
- Nairobi National Park (Nairobi) – Lions, giraffes, and rhinos just minutes from the city center.
- Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park (Machakos) – A single mountain with forest trails and sweeping views of Mt. Kenya and Kilimanjaro.
- Ruma National Park (Homa Bay) – The only place in Kenya to see the endangered roan antelope.
- Saiwa Swamp National Park (Kitale) – Kenya’s smallest park, home to the elusive sitatunga antelope.
- Shimba Hills National Reserve (Kwale) – Rainforest landscapes and the rare sable antelope.
- Sibiloi National Park (Turkana) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for fossil discoveries and Lake Turkana’s shoreline.
- South Island National Park (Lake Turkana) – An island park with crocodiles, fish, and bird colonies.
- Tsavo East National Park (Voi) – Vast savannahs with elephants and the spectacular Yatta Plateau.
- Tsavo West National Park (Mtito Andei) – Scenic volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear Mzima Springs.
- Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve (Watamu) – Coral gardens, sea turtles, and vibrant marine life.
By Ruth Gachau
