🌍 Overview
As of October 1, 2025, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) implemented a new nationwide fee structure — the first significant revision in nearly two decades — designed to strengthen wildlife protection and improve park infrastructure across Kenya’s national parks and reserves.
At Lake Nakuru National Park, one of Kenya’s most visited and biologically rich protected areas, these new rates apply to all categories of visitors: East African citizens, Kenyan residents, African citizens from other countries, and non-residents.
This guide summarizes the official 2025 entry fees, vehicle and activity charges, payment procedures, and key park regulations so visitors can plan responsibly and support conservation efforts while enjoying a seamless safari experience.
💰 2025 Entry Fees — Lake Nakuru National Park
| Visitor Category | Adult | Child (5–17 yrs) | Currency |
|---|---|---|---|
| East African Citizen | 1,500 | 750 | KES |
| Kenya Resident | 2,025 | 1,050 | KES |
| African Citizen (other countries) | 50 | 25 | USD |
| Non-Resident (International) | 90 | 45 | USD |
Notes:
- Entry fees are valid for 24 hours from the time of entry.
- Proof of identity or residency (national ID, passport, or work permit) is required.
- Children under 5 years enter free.
- Student rates apply to recognized educational institutions by prior arrangement.
🚗 Vehicle & Transport Charges
Private Vehicles
- Vehicle fees are charged separately based on seating capacity (typically KES 400 – 4,500).
- Applies to self-drive visitors and tour operators.
- Park-operated safari vehicles already include the necessary permits.
Bus / Shuttle Fees
| Category | Adult | Child | Currency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citizens / Residents | 1,000 | 500 | KES |
| Non-Residents | 70 | 35 | USD |
Tip: Larger vehicles (safari vans, tour buses, or school groups) must register at the gate; ensure all passengers are listed on your eCitizen receipt.
⛺ Camping & Accommodation Fees
Public Campsites
| Category | Adult | Child | Currency |
|---|---|---|---|
| EA Citizen | 250 | 200 | KES |
| Kenya Resident | 350 | 250 | KES |
| African Citizen | 15 | 13 | USD |
| Non-Resident | 30 | 25 | USD |
Special Campsites
| Category | Adult | Child | Currency |
|---|---|---|---|
| EA Citizen | 500 | 250 | KES |
| Kenya Resident | 700 | 350 | KES |
| African Citizen | 25 | 15 | USD |
| Non-Resident | 50 | 25 | USD |
Camping Notes:
- Public campsites (e.g., Makalia, Naishi, Rhino) provide basic amenities: pit latrines, water points, and fire rings.
- Special campsites offer privacy and must be reserved in advance through KWS.
- Campers must bring their own tents, bedding, and supplies.
🏢 Conference & Event Charges
| Category | Adult | Child | Currency |
|---|---|---|---|
| EA Citizen | 1,050 | 525 | KES |
| Kenya Resident | 1,620 | 735 | KES |
| African Citizen | 35 | 20 | USD |
| Non-Resident | 63 | 36 | USD |
Conference Hall Hire: KES 3,000 per session
Kitchen Hire: KES 2,000
Event Security (per section):
- EA Citizen / Resident: KES 87,000
- African Citizen / Non-Resident: USD 1,000
Parking During Events:
- EA Citizen / Resident: KES 1,000
- African Citizen / Non-Resident: USD 30
🌊 Special Activities & Guided Experiences
| Activity | EA Citizen / Resident | African Citizen / Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Boating | KES 1,500 | USD 15 |
| Night Game Drive | KES 3,000 | USD 50 |
| Security-Guided Tour (up to 4 hrs) | KES 2,000 | — |
| Security-Guided Tour (over 4 hrs) | KES 4,000 | — |
| Vehicle Recovery Service (inside park) | Charged as assessed | Charged as assessed |
Note:
Night drives and boating require advance booking and approval from the Senior Warden, Lake Nakuru National Park, as they are controlled activities.
💳 Payment Methods (eCitizen Procedure)
- All KWS parks, including Lake Nakuru, are 100% cashless.
- Visitors must pay entry and vehicle fees through the eCitizen platform before arrival or at the gate using digital payment.
- Accepted methods: Mpesa, Credit/Debit Card (Visa/Mastercard), Bank Transfer (RTGS).
- After payment, download your digital park ticket/receipt to present at the gate.
Guest FAQs:
- Can I still pay in cash? → No, KWS phased out cash payments.
- Do I need separate payments for camping or night drives? → Yes; these must be added individually under “Special Activities.”
- What happens if the eCitizen portal is down? → Keep proof of payment or use the on-site eCitizen terminal at the main gate.
📅 Opening Hours & Gate Timings
- Park Gates: Open 6:00 AM – Close 6:00 PM daily.
- Entry & Exit: Visitors must exit before closure unless staying overnight in a lodge or campsite.
- Main Gates:
- Main Gate – closest to Nakuru City.
- Lanet Gate – eastern access from Nairobi highway.
- Nderit and Naishi Gates – southern entries for private safaris and campsites.
Re-Entry Policy:
- Entry tickets are valid for one 24-hour period and single entry only.
- If staying overnight, your accommodation provider must record your ticket details for verification at exit.
🚙 Vehicle Restrictions & Speed Limits
- Speed Limit: 40 km/h maximum throughout the park.
- Off-Road Driving: Strictly prohibited — vehicles must stay on marked roads and loops.
- Sound & Light Pollution: No hooting, loud music, or excessive lights during night hours.
- Wildlife Priority: Always give animals right of way; never approach closely or block movement.
Fines for Violations:
- Off-road driving: up to KES 20,000 fine or ejection.
- Littering or feeding wildlife: fines from KES 5,000 – 50,000.
- Speeding or reckless driving: fine or permanent vehicle ban.
🎓 Discounts & Special Categories
- Children: 5 – 17 years pay child rate; under 5 free.
- Students: Recognized institutions can apply for student rates via official letters at least 7 days in advance.
- Educational Groups: Must provide participant list and institution ID.
- Persons with Disability: KWS policy allows complimentary or reduced entry on presentation of valid identification.
📷 Drone, Filming & Photography Permits
- Drones: Not allowed without a KWS filming permit issued by Nairobi Headquarters.
- Professional Filming: Requires prior application, a filming license, and additional daily fees.
- Casual Photography: Allowed for personal use only; avoid flash near wildlife.
⚖️ Fines & Penalties for Rule Violations
KWS enforces regulations to protect the park’s wildlife and visitors. Offences include:
- Feeding or disturbing animals.
- Exceeding speed limits or leaving your vehicle in restricted zones.
- Carrying weapons or alcohol into the park.
- Littering or lighting unauthorized fires.
Penalties may include on-the-spot fines, vehicle impoundment, or legal prosecution under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act (2013).
✅ Visitor Tips & Best Practices
- Download your eCitizen receipt and keep it handy throughout your visit.
- Carry your national ID / passport — identity verification is mandatory.
- Obey all instructions from KWS rangers.
- Do not exceed your ticket’s 24-hour validity period.
- Always remain inside your vehicle except at designated viewpoints or picnic areas.
- Report any accidents, stranded vehicles, or lost property to the nearest ranger post.
🌅 In Summary
The new 2025 KWS fee structure underscores Kenya’s commitment to financing wildlife conservation sustainably. At Lake Nakuru National Park, the updated rates reflect the park’s premium status and the true cost of preserving its rhinos, flamingos, and habitats for future generations.
By adhering to park regulations, paying fees digitally, and respecting wildlife, every visitor becomes a partner in protecting one of Africa’s most extraordinary natural treasures.
For inquiries or activity bookings:
📞 KWS Customer Service Hotline: 0800 597 000
📧 customerservice@kws.go.ke
📊 Expert Analysis: Comparing Old vs. New KWS Entry Fees (2024 vs. 2025)
The October 2025 KWS fee revision marks the most comprehensive adjustment in nearly 20 years, aligning park fees with inflation, conservation funding needs, and international tourism benchmarks.
1. Magnitude of Increase
| Category | Old Rate (Approx.) | New Rate (Effective Oct 2025) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| EA Citizen – Adult | KES 860 | KES 1,500 | ↑ 74% |
| EA Citizen – Child | KES 215 | KES 750 | ↑ 249% |
| Kenya Resident – Adult | KES 1,200 | KES 2,025 | ↑ 69% |
| Non-Resident – Adult | USD 60 | USD 90 | ↑ 50% |
| Non-Resident – Child | USD 35 | USD 45 | ↑ 29% |
Interpretation:
- The largest percentage increases occurred for East African citizens and residents, reflecting KWS’s effort to standardize domestic rates across premium parks.
- Non-resident rates now more closely match other high-value African destinations such as Serengeti or Kruger, positioning Kenya competitively in the global safari market.
2. Economic Rationale
- Conservation Funding Gap: KWS reported a national shortfall exceeding KES 12 billion annually. The new rates are projected to recover a significant portion of this by channeling visitor revenues directly into park management and ranger operations.
- Inflation Adjustment: Park fees had remained largely static since 2004. Accounting for inflation and currency depreciation, real fees had fallen dramatically over two decades.
- Tiered Pricing: The new structure differentiates EA citizens, residents, African citizens, and international visitors, ensuring fairness while acknowledging different income levels and travel motivations.
3. Visitor Impact
- Domestic Travelers: Citizens now face higher costs, especially for families, but still enjoy heavily subsidized rates compared to foreign tourists.
- International Visitors: The new USD 90 fee remains competitive regionally and is justified by Nakuru’s premium wildlife viewing, rhino sanctuary, and flamingo spectacle.
- Group & Educational Visits: KWS continues to provide discounted student rates and institutional group bookings to maintain accessibility for local learners.
4. Operational Improvements Expected
- Enhanced ranger patrol coverage and anti-poaching programs.
- Improved road networks and signage within high-traffic parks such as Nakuru and Amboseli.
- Better waste management, campsite maintenance, and digital payment systems.
5. Overall Assessment
The 2025 revision moves KWS toward a financially sustainable conservation model. While short-term visitation by low-income domestic tourists may dip, the long-term effect is positive: greater revenue stability, better infrastructure, and stronger protection for Kenya’s wildlife heritage.