The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) free-entry initiative for Kenyans at national parks, reserves and sanctuaries on Saturday, September 27, 2025, quickly became a trending topic online after thousands streamed into the country’s protected areas.
On social media, many dubbed the day “understanding girlfriends’ day” or “broke men’s day,” teasing couples and families who seized the chance for a budget-friendly outing.
Richkid Wizzy joked on Instagram: “Jana sema wanyama kuona watu.”
Another user, Tyllen, added: “Kumbe ni pesa ya kuenda park hamnanga.”
Meanwhile, Antony Kigo wrote: “Kumbe Kenya kila mtu ni tourist. Shida ni ganji.”
KWS announced the one-day waiver in celebration of UN World Tourism Day and Week, describing it as a gesture of appreciation to Kenyans for their role in wildlife conservation.
“To observe the UNWTO World Tourism Day and Week, the Government of Kenya has waived entry fees for Kenyan citizens to National Parks, Reserves and Sanctuaries on 27th September 2025 to appreciate Kenyans for their continued commitment in conserving wildlife in the country as one of the Kenya’s pride,” the agency stated on its website.
Couples, families and groups of friends turned up in droves, arriving on foot, motorbikes, taxis and tour vans. However, visitors without valid Kenyan identification cards were turned away.
Ordinarily, entry to KWS-managed parks is not free.
Citizens pay Sh430 for adults and Sh215 for children, while East African Community residents living in Kenya are charged the same with valid IDs.
Non-residents, however, pay in US dollars — $43 (Sh5,553) for adults and $22 (Sh2,841) for children at Nairobi National Park.
The waiver not only drew record numbers but also reignited debate on the accessibility and affordability of Kenya’s world-renowned wildlife heritage.
