A Nairobi high court has temporarily blocked a significant increase in entry fees to Kenya’s national parks, following a legal challenge from the country’s tourism private sector.
Michael Umoh/Unsplash
According to Tourism Update, on October 3, the Milimani High Court in Nairobi granted an injunction to the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF), halting the fee hike until a full hearing is held on November 25. The decision came just days after the government approved the new rates under the Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access, Entry and Conservation) (Fees) Regulations Act 2025.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) had planned to implement the new fees on October 1. This left little time for the travel industry or tourists to adjust.
Industry pushes back on timing
KTF Chairperson Fred Odek clarified that the industry wasn’t objecting to the idea of higher fees in principle. The concern, he said, was about how quickly the changes were introduced.
“Our protest isn’t necessarily about the increase, but about the extremely short notice given before implementation was due to come into effect,” Odek told Tourism Update.
The federation argued that the abrupt rollout would disrupt bookings, confuse travellers, and potentially hurt local operators who rely on international guests planning months in advance.
Risking Kenya’s safari popularity
Tourism stakeholders have warned that sudden and significant price hikes could make Kenya less attractive to international travellers. Earlier this year, a Tourism Update reader survey found that 93% believed Kenya risked ‘outpricing itself’.
Kenya is renowned for its world-class safari experiences, with destinations like the Maasai Mara, Amboseli and Tsavo drawing thousands of visitors each year. Tour operators fear that raising costs without clear communication could drive tourists to more affordable alternatives in the region.
For now, visitors will continue paying current park entry fees. The court’s decision gives the industry a chance to prepare. It opens the door for dialogue between stakeholders and the government on how future changes should be handled.
Tourists planning a Kenyan safari in the coming weeks can proceed without any price surprises.
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