List of KWS parks and reserves you can visit for free on Saturday

Kenyans will have a rare opportunity to explore the country’s most iconic wildlife treasures for free this weekend.

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has announced that in celebration of World Tourism Day 2025, all its managed national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries will be open to citizens at no cost on Saturday, September 27, 2025.

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In Nairobi and Central Kenya, the waiver will cover iconic sites such as Nairobi National Park, Aberdare National Park, and Mount Kenya National Park. These areas offer city residents and travellers an opportunity to experience wildlife and scenic landscapes within easy reach.

Across the Rift Valley region, attractions such as Hell’s Gate National Park, Mount Elgon National Park, Saiwa Swamp National Park, and Lake Bogoria National Reserve will also be accessible at no cost. These destinations are popular for hiking, birdwatching, and cultural heritage experiences.

At the Coast, Kenyans will be able to explore Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks, Shimba Hills National Reserve, and Arabuko Sokoke National Reserve, as well as several marine parks and reserves, including Mombasa Marine, Malindi Marine, Watamu Marine, and Kisite Mpunguti. This region blends savannah, forest, and ocean attractions, making it one of the richest ecological zones in the country.

Northern Kenya will not be left out, with Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba National Reserves all part of the free-entry offer. Visitors can also tour Sibiloi National Park and South Turkana National Reserve, both known for their rich archaeological and wildlife heritage.

In Western Kenya and the Lake Basin, Ruma National Park, Kakamega Forest National Reserve, and Ndere Island National Park will be open. These destinations provide lush forest environments and unique wildlife that are rare elsewhere in the country.

However, in a statement on Friday, September 26, 2025, KWS clarified that Lake Nakuru National Park will not be part of the free-entry programme. Instead, entry will only be allowed to visitors with prepaid eCitizen tickets, who must use the Nderit Gate between 6:00 am and 6:00 pm.

According to KWS, the initiative is meant to give Kenyans a chance to reconnect with nature, appreciate biodiversity, and deepen their role in conservation.

“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,” KWS stated.