Setback for KWS as High Court Halts Increase in Park Fees


The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has encountered a challenge after the Milimani High Court issued a temporary suspension on the enforcement of new park entry fees, pending a mention scheduled for November 25, 2025.

  In his decision, Justice J. Chigiti granted the first three requests of an application submitted on September 30 by the Kenya Tourism Federation against the State Law Office and KWS. "The Respondents are required to file and serve their response within 7 days from the date of service of the substantive Motion," stated Justice Chigiti. "The Applicant must file and serve their submissions within 7 days following the service by the Respondent." KWS had initiated the enforcement of new conservation fees on September 30, based on the Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access, Entry and Conservation) (Fees) Regulations 2025, which were approved by Parliament on September 25. The agency contended that the fee adjustments were the result of a year-long consultation process, highlighting that the last thorough review occurred 18 years ago, despite increasing management expenses. According to the new fee structure, entry fees for residents at Nairobi National Park were set to increase from Sh430 to Sh1,000, while foreign visitors would be charged $80 (Sh10,360), up from $43 (Sh5,570). Premium parks such as Amboseli and Lake Nakuru were to impose charges of Sh1,500 for locals and Sh11,660 for foreigners. Mid-tier parks like Meru and Aberdare would cost Sh800 for locals and $70 (Sh9,070) for foreigners, while Hell’s Gate fees were set at Sh500. Exemptions from these fees include licensed guides, porters, community guides, boat crew, children under five, senior citizens over 70, and individuals with disabilities.

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