The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officially gazetted new park entry fees in late September 2025 under the Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access and Conservation) (Fees) Regulations, 2025. This is the first major fee revision in nearly 20 years, replacing rates that had remained unchanged since 2007.
The new fees took effect on October 1, 2025, but were temporarily suspended by a High Court order on October 2, 2025, following a petition by the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF). Despite the injunction, the KWSPay system on eCitizen continues to display and charge the new 2025 rates, pending the court’s final decision expected in November 2025.
This guide provides a breakdown of the entrance fees for Tsavo East and Tsavo West, covering citizens, residents, and non-residents, as well as important details on payment, exemptions, and additional charges.
📈 The Big Picture: How Much Have Tsavo Park Fees Increased?
The 2025 revision represents a sharp yet strategic adjustment in KWS pricing — designed to reflect true conservation costs, align with regional benchmarks, and sustain infrastructure and security operations in Kenya’s largest protected area.
| Category | Old Rate (2023/24) | New Rate (2025) | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| East African Citizen (Adult) | KES 430 | KES 1,000 | +133% |
| Kenya Resident (Adult) | KES 515 | KES 1,350 | +162% |
| Non-Resident (Adult) | USD 43 | USD 80 | +86% |
| Child (All Categories) | 50% of adult | 50% of adult | — |
In short, the average increase across all categories ranges between 80% and 160%, depending on nationality — a move KWS describes as necessary for maintaining financial sustainability in the face of rising management costs, climate-related restoration projects, and anti-poaching patrol expenses.
Even after the revision, Tsavo’s rates remain significantly lower than the Masai Mara, where non-resident fees now reach USD 200 per day in peak season, and at par with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, which charges USD 71 per adult per day. Tsavo Parks now charge $10 lower than Nairobi National Park whose non-resident adult rates currently stand at $80 for as per NairobiPark.org.
🏞️ Why Tsavo’s Entry Fees Are Changing
The Tsavo ecosystem, covering over 21,000 km² (roughly the size of Wales), is the largest protected wildlife area in Kenya, encompassing both Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks. Together, they form one of Africa’s most vital wildlife corridors and elephant habitats.
Yet, despite their vastness, Tsavo’s gate fees had remained unchanged for nearly two decades — a period marked by rising operational costs, inflation, and the need for improved ranger infrastructure and vehicle maintenance.
The 2025 KWS fee adjustment modernizes the system by:
- Introducing a four-tier pricing model: East African Citizens, Kenya Residents, African Citizens (non-EAC), and Non-Residents.
- Charging per 24-hour stay, rather than per calendar day.
- Harmonizing vehicle, camping, and activity fees across parks.
- Recognizing African Citizens (non-EAC) for the first time, supporting regional tourism growth.
💰 Summary Table of New Entry Fees for Tsavo East & Tsavo West National Parks (2025)
| Visitor Category | Adult (24 hrs) | Child (3–17 yrs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| East African Citizens | KES 1,000 | KES 500 | Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan nationals. |
| Kenya Residents | KES 1,350 | KES 675 | Valid work/residence permit required. |
| African Citizens (non-EAC) | USD 40 | USD 20 | Visitors from other African countries. |
| Non-Residents (International Visitors) | USD 80 | USD 40 | Applies to all other foreign visitors. |
Below is a PDF Document released by KWS on the new Park Entry fees for all parks, reserves, sanctuaries, marine parks. Both Tsavo West NP and Tsavo East NP are on the schedule in the document under Wilderness Parks A.
1️⃣ Current Tsavo East & West Parks Entrance Fees (2025)
Under the new 2025 tariff, Tsavo East and Tsavo West are both classified as Wilderness A Parks, sharing the same rate structure.
🚶 Citizens & Residents (Kenyan and East African Citizens)
| Category | Adults (KES) | Children / Students (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Wilderness Parks (A) – Tsavo East & Tsavo West | 1,000 | 500 |
🏠 Kenya Residents (Foreign Nationals Residing in Kenya)
| Category | Adults (KES) | Children / Students (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Wilderness Parks (A) – Tsavo East & Tsavo West | 1,350 | 675 |
🌍 Non-Residents (Tourists from Outside Africa)
| Category | Adults (USD) | Children / Students (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Wilderness Parks (A) – Tsavo East & Tsavo West | 80 | 40 |
🌍 African Citizens (Non-EAC)
| Category | Adults (USD) | Children / Students (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Wilderness Parks (A) – Tsavo East & Tsavo West | 40 | 20 |
💡 Note:
- Children are classified as those aged 3–17 years.
- Students must present a valid institutional letter and receive KWS approval for educational trips.
- Children under 5 years old enter free.
- Fees apply per 24-hour visit window.
2️⃣ Tsavo East & West National Parks Entrance Fees for Children (Ages 5–18) – 2025
Children’s entry fees at Tsavo East and West follow the same 2025 KWS schedule, based on nationality and residency category.
| Category | High Season (July–March) | Low Season (April–June) |
|---|---|---|
| Citizen Child (Ages 5–18) | 500 KES | 500 KES (No seasonal change) |
| Resident Child (Ages 5–18) | 675 KES | 675 KES |
| African Citizen Child (Ages 5–18) | 20 USD | 20 USD |
| Non-Resident Child (Ages 5–18) | 40 USD | 40 USD |
💡 Important Notes:
✔ Children under 5 years old enter free of charge.
✔ Educational groups qualify for discounted educational rates with prior KWS approval.
✔ Rates apply for a 24-hour stay, regardless of time of entry.
3️⃣ Additional Fees & Activities at Tsavo East & West
The 2025 revision harmonized charges for camping, guided activities, and vehicle entry across all major KWS parks.
| Activity / Service | East African Citizens | Kenya Residents | African Citizens | Non-Residents |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Campsite | 200 / 150 (Adult/Child) | 300 / 200 | 10 / 8 (USD) | 20 / 15 (USD) |
| Special Campsite | 250 / 200 | 350 / 250 | 20 / 10 (USD) | 35 / 20 (USD) |
| Night Game Drive | 3,000 | 3,000 | 50 (USD) | 50 (USD) |
| Walking Safari (Guided) | 3,000 | 3,000 | 50 (USD) | 50 (USD) |
| Guided Tour (Up to 4 hrs) | 2,000 | 2,000 | 25 (USD) | 25 (USD) |
| Guided Tour (Over 4 hrs) | 4,000 | 4,000 | 40 (USD) | 40 (USD) |
| Overnight Rhino Viewing (Tsavo West) | 3,000 | USD 35 | USD 35 | USD 70 |
4️⃣ Vehicle Entry Fees
| Vehicle Type | Rate (KES) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private Vehicle (≤6 seats) | 600 | Charged per vehicle per 24 hours. |
| Tour Van / Minibus (6–12 seats) | 1,500 | Standard safari van. |
| Tour Bus (13–24 seats) | 3,000 | Applies to small groups. |
| Tour Bus (25–44 seats) | 4,500 | Medium groups. |
| Tour Bus (45+ seats) | 5,000 | Large organized or school groups. |
5️⃣ Who Is Exempt from Paying Tsavo East and Tsavo West Park Fees (2025)
Under the 2025 KWS Conservation Fee Regulations, certain individuals and groups continue to qualify for free or discounted entry to Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks. While the new tariff structure introduced updated park categories and digital payment enforcement through KWSPay, these exemptions remain consistent with KWS’s conservation and educational access policies.
✔ Children Under 5 Years – Enjoy free entry to all KWS-managed parks.
✔ KWS Staff & Official Government Guests – Exempted from fees upon presentation of valid identification or authorization letters.
✔ Registered Tour Guides – Must hold a valid Tour Guide License issued by the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA).
✔ Students on Official Educational Trips – Granted discounted entry or free access when trips are pre-approved by KWS and accompanied by an official institutional letter.
💡 Expert Tip: Always carry your valid identification, permit, or authorization letter when entering the park to ensure smooth access. Even exempt visitors must be registered digitally via KWSPay for park security and visitor tracking compliance.
6️⃣ Best Time to Visit Tsavo East and Tsavo West (Based on Fees & Seasons)
Under the 2025 KWS tariff, Tsavo East and Tsavo West maintain flat entry rates throughout the year — there are no longer separate “high” or “low” season park fees. This means your choice of visit depends entirely on wildlife conditions, weather, and visitor traffic, not ticket price fluctuations.
✔ Dry Season (June–October & January–February) – Considered the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around permanent water sources like Athi-Galana River, Aruba Dam, and Mzima Springs. Roads are drier and easier to access.
✔ Green/Wet Season (March–May & November–December) – Offers lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower accommodation rates. Some roads, especially in Tsavo East’s southern sections, may become muddy or temporarily impassable, adding a sense of off-road adventure.
💡 Travel Tip: For budget-conscious travelers, visiting outside major holiday months (August and December) helps reduce overall safari costs, since park fees remain constant but lodging and vehicle hire prices fluctuate seasonally.
Even with the 2025 fee adjustments (KES 1,000–1,350 for locals; USD 80 for non-residents), Tsavo remains one of Kenya’s best-value safari destinations, offering immense landscapes, fewer crowds, and timeless wilderness experiences year-round.
💳 How to Pay for Tsavo Park Entry via KWSPay
All KWS park entry fees are paid online only through KWSPay, the official eCitizen subdomain for park payments. Cash payments are not accepted at park gates.
Step-by-Step:
- Visit the KWSPay link for your preferred park:
- Log in or create an eCitizen account.
- Enter your details — visitor names, nationality, entry and exit dates, and gate of entry (Voi, Manyani, Buchuma, Mtito Andei, Chyulu, etc.).
- Add vehicle details and select activities like camping or guided tours.
- Pay using MPesa, Visa/MasterCard, or eCitizen Wallet.
- Download and save your receipt (with QR code) and present it at the gate with your valid ID or passport.
Expert Tip: If the page appears blank or unresponsive, wait 2–3 minutes before refreshing. Never pay anyone in cash or outside eCitizen. For assistance, contact customerservice@kws.go.ke or call 0800 597000.
⚖️ Court Suspension & Refund Guidance
On October 2, 2025, the High Court issued a temporary injunction halting the enforcement of the new 2025 KWS fees following a petition by the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF).
- The court hearing is scheduled for November 25, 2025.
- Despite the injunction, KWSPay continues to charge the new rates, and KWS has directed all visitors to proceed with payment.
- Should the court later invalidate the new tariff, visitors can request a refund by emailing customerservice@kws.go.ke with their payment receipt attached.
📊 Expert Comparative Analysis: Old vs New Fees for Tsavo East & West
| Visitor Category | 2023/24 Rate | 2025 Rate | % Increase | Commentary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East African Citizen (Adult) | KES 430 | KES 1,000 | +133% | Aligns with conservation cost realities; still affordable for domestic visitors. |
| Kenya Resident (Adult) | KES 515 | KES 1,350 | +162% | Reflects inflation correction and park infrastructure costs. |
| African Citizen (non-EAC) | — | USD 40 | New Category | Encourages intra-African tourism. |
| Non-Resident (Adult) | USD 43 | USD 80 | +86% | Brings Tsavo closer to regional standards but remains far cheaper than Serengeti (USD 150) and Masai Mara (USD 200 peak). |
Insight: The 2025 increase modernizes pricing after nearly 20 years of stagnation, ensuring Tsavo’s conservation programs are adequately funded while keeping the parks regionally competitive and accessible for domestic and African visitors.
🌍 Why the New Fees Matter for Conservation
The Tsavo ecosystem faces growing challenges — from rising climate pressures and drought, to poaching threats and infrastructure strain. The 2025 tariff is part of KWS’s long-term Conservation Funding Strategy, which seeks to:
- Reinforce ranger operations and patrol logistics.
- Maintain over 3,000 km of park roads and water points.
- Improve visitor facilities and gate infrastructure.
- Support community-based conservation around Tsavo’s buffer zones.
💡 How Tsavo Compares to Other Parks
| Park / Reserve | Non-Resident Adult (USD) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Masai Mara National Reserve | 200 (Peak) / 100 (Low) | County-managed premium reserve |
| Amboseli National Park | 90 | KWS premium park |
| Lake Nakuru National Park | 90 | KWS premium park |
| Tsavo East / Tsavo West | 80 | Wilderness A (KWS) |
| Hell’s Gate National Park | 50 | Scenic & Adventure park |
Even with the new rates, Tsavo remains one of Kenya’s most affordable premier wildlife destinations, offering vast wilderness experiences and exceptional value for money.
Why Tsavo East Should Command Higher Park Fees Than Tsavo West
While both parks are part of the same ecosystem, Tsavo East offers a distinctly superior safari experience, and its value arguably warrants a higher entry fee than Tsavo West. Treating both as equal under the 2025 KWS tariff overlooks key differences in wildlife density, accessibility, visitor experience, and conservation costs.
1️⃣ Superior Wildlife Viewing
Tsavo East consistently delivers better wildlife visibility and higher game densities. Its open savannahs and permanent water sources—Galana River, Aruba Dam, and Mudanda Rock—create ideal conditions for viewing elephants, buffalo, lions, and cheetahs in large numbers. Tsavo West, though scenic, is more wooded and volcanic, making animal sightings less frequent.
2️⃣ Easier Accessibility
Tsavo East’s Voi and Bachuma gates sit right off the Nairobi–Mombasa Highway, making it far more accessible for both domestic and coastal tourists. Travel time from Mombasa averages just 2–3 hours, with relatively well-maintained internal roads leading to major attractions. Tsavo West’s rugged terrain, by contrast, appeals more to seasoned adventurers than first-time visitors.
3️⃣ More Iconic Landmarks
Tsavo East boasts Kenya’s most recognizable natural features—the Yatta Plateau, Mudanda Rock, and Lugard Falls—alongside thriving elephant herds along the Galana River. Tsavo West’s Mzima Springs and Shetani Lava Flow are impressive but less diverse. Tsavo East’s scale and photo-rich landscapes provide a stronger international draw deserving of premium pricing.
4️⃣ Greater Conservation Needs
At 13,747 km², Tsavo East is 50% larger than Tsavo West, demanding far greater resources for anti-poaching, ranger patrols, and infrastructure upkeep. Its vastness and history of elephant poaching mean that maintaining ecological balance and security comes at higher cost.
📊 Expert View:
Given its scale, wildlife richness, visitor appeal, and management costs, Tsavo East fits the profile of a Premium Wilderness Park, much like Amboseli or Lake Nakuru. A differentiated pricing model—charging slightly more for Tsavo East—would better reflect its true ecological and tourism value, while channeling additional funds toward its long-term conservation.
✅ Key Takeaways
- New rates (effective October 1, 2025): KES 1,000–1,350 (East Africans/Residents), USD 80 (Non-Residents).
- Applies to both Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks.
- Children pay 50%, and under 5s enter free.
- All payments online via KWSPay (eCitizen).
- Court case pending November 25, 2025 — refunds available if rates are nullified.
- Tsavo remains cheaper than the Mara and Serengeti, yet among the best-value safari experiences in Africa.
Tsavo East & Tsavo West National Park Entry Fees – Comprehensive FAQs
⚖️ 1. What are the new 2025 entry fees for Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks?
Under the 2025 Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access and Conservation) Regulations, both Tsavo East and Tsavo West are classified as Wilderness A Parks with harmonized entry fees per 24-hour visit:
| Visitor Category | Adult | Child (3–17 years) |
|---|---|---|
| East African Citizens | KES 1,000 | KES 500 |
| Kenya Residents | KES 1,350 | KES 675 |
| African Citizens (non-EAC) | USD 40 | USD 20 |
| Non-Residents (International Visitors) | USD 80 | USD 40 |
Children under 5 years enter free.
🧾 2. When did the new park fees take effect?
The new tariff was gazetted in late September 2025 and officially took effect on October 1, 2025 under the Wildlife Conservation and Management (Access and Conservation) (Fees) Regulations, 2025.
However, enforcement was temporarily halted on October 2, 2025 by a High Court order, pending a judicial review scheduled for November 25, 2025.
⚖️ 3. Why is there a court case about the new KWS park fees?
The Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) filed a petition claiming that the 2025 fee changes were implemented without adequate consultation and with short notice, causing disruptions to pre-booked safaris and tour contracts.
The High Court issued a temporary injunction pausing enforcement until the matter is heard and determined.
💰 4. Which rates are currently being charged at Tsavo East and West gates?
Despite the court suspension, KWSPay (the eCitizen payment portal) continues to display and charge the new 2025 rates, as the system has not reverted to the previous 2022/2023 schedule.
KWS has advised that all visitors should proceed with payment at the displayed rates, and if the court later overturns the new tariff, affected guests can request refunds via customerservice@kws.go.ke with a copy of their payment receipt.
🧭 5. How can I pay for park entry to Tsavo East or Tsavo West?
All park entry fees are paid online only through KWSPay, a subdomain of eCitizen.
No cash payments are accepted at park gates.
Steps to pay:
- Visit the official KWSPay link:
- Log in or create an eCitizen account.
- Fill in visitor names, gate of entry, nationality, dates, and vehicle details.
- Add optional activities (e.g., camping, walking safari).
- Pay via MPesa, Visa/MasterCard, or eCitizen Wallet.
- Download your QR-coded receipt and present it at the park gate with your ID or passport.
⏳ 6. What should I do if the KWSPay page doesn’t load or seems stuck?
KWSPay sometimes experiences slow loading or blank screens during peak usage.
- Wait 2–3 minutes before refreshing.
- Avoid double-clicking or restarting payment to prevent duplicate transactions.
- Check your eCitizen “My Applications” section for confirmation.
- If the issue persists, contact customerservice@kws.go.ke or call 0800 597000.
Never pay anyone in cash or outside eCitizen.
🧒 7. Do children pay to enter Tsavo East or Tsavo West?
Yes.
- Children aged 3–17 years pay half the adult rate.
- Children under 5 years enter free.
This applies across all visitor categories.
🌍 8. What are the differences between the 2022/2023 and 2025 fees?
| Category | 2022/23 (Old) | 2025 (New) | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| East African Citizen (Adult) | KES 430 | KES 1,000 | +133% |
| Kenya Resident (Adult) | KES 515 | KES 1,350 | +162% |
| Non-Resident (Adult) | USD 43 | USD 80 | +86% |
The 2025 update brings Tsavo’s pricing in line with regional norms after nearly 20 years of stability, ensuring sustainable conservation funding while keeping the parks affordable for East Africans and cheaper than Serengeti (USD 150) or Masai Mara (USD 200 peak).
🏕️ 9. How much are camping and activity fees in Tsavo?
| Activity / Service | East African Citizens | Residents | African Citizens | Non-Residents |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Campsite | KES 200 / 150 | KES 300 / 200 | USD 10 / 8 | USD 20 / 15 |
| Special Campsite | KES 250 / 200 | KES 350 / 250 | USD 20 / 10 | USD 35 / 20 |
| Night Game Drive | KES 3,000 | KES 3,000 | USD 50 | USD 50 |
| Guided Tour (4 hrs) | KES 2,000 | KES 2,000 | USD 25 | USD 25 |
| Walking Safari | KES 3,000 | KES 3,000 | USD 50 | USD 50 |
| Overnight Rhino Viewing (Tsavo West) | KES 3,000 | USD 35 | USD 35 | USD 70 |
🚐 10. What are the current vehicle entry fees?
| Vehicle Type | Rate (KES) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private vehicle (≤6 seats) | 600 | Per vehicle. |
| Tour van/minibus (6–12 seats) | 1,500 | Common for safaris. |
| Tour bus (13–24 seats) | 3,000 | Medium groups. |
| 25–44 seats | 4,500 | Larger organized groups. |
| Over 45 seats | 5,000 | School or expedition vehicles. |
🏞️ 11. What is the difference between Tsavo East and Tsavo West?
- Tsavo East is larger (13,700 km²) and known for its open savannahs, red elephants, and the Yatta Plateau.
- Tsavo West is smaller but more scenic (9,000 km²), featuring Mzima Springs, Shetani lava flows, rhino sanctuary, and volcanic landscapes.
Both parks charge the same entry fees under the 2025 regulations.
🕐 12. How long does a park entry ticket remain valid?
All park entry tickets are valid for 24 hours from the time of entry.
Visitors exceeding this duration will need to pay for an additional 24-hour period.
🌐 13. Can I pay on arrival at the park gate?
No.
All KWS parks require advance payment through eCitizen (KWSPay) before entry. Park gates are cashless and will only allow entry after your digital receipt is verified.
💸 14. Can I get a refund if the court cancels the 2025 park fees?
Yes.
If the High Court invalidates the 2025 rates, visitors who paid the new fees can request refunds by emailing customerservice@kws.go.ke with:
- A copy of the payment receipt.
- The eCitizen transaction reference number.
Refunds will be processed directly by KWS.
🛡️ 15. Why are KWS park fees increasing now?
KWS notes that entry fees have remained largely unchanged since 2007, while the cost of ranger operations, infrastructure, and anti-poaching patrols has increased sharply.
The 2025 adjustment is meant to:
- Fund wildlife protection and park maintenance.
- Improve visitor infrastructure and digital systems.
- Align Kenya’s pricing with regional conservation models.
🦁 16. Are Tsavo East and West still cheaper than other major parks?
Yes.
Even after the 2025 increases, Tsavo remains more affordable than the Masai Mara (USD 200 peak season) or Serengeti (USD 150).
This keeps Tsavo among the best-value safari destinations in East Africa, especially for multi-day safaris and domestic travelers.
📆 17. What happens after the November 2025 court ruling?
If the court upholds the 2025 regulations, the new rates will become fully enforceable nationwide.
If it quashes the regulation, KWS will revert to the 2022/23 rates, and visitors who paid the higher fees can seek refunds.
Either way, the KWSPay platform will update automatically.
💡 18. Why are there differences between “East African Citizens” and “Kenya Residents”?
- East African Citizens are nationals of EAC member countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan).
- Kenya Residents are foreign nationals legally living in Kenya on valid permits.
Residents pay higher fees than EAC citizens but lower than non-residents.
🧳 19. What documents do I need to show at the park gate?
Visitors must present:
- A valid ID or passport (to confirm nationality).
- A printed or digital eCitizen receipt with QR code.
- A vehicle logbook or registration if self-driving.
🧠 20. How do Tsavo’s 2025 rates compare regionally?
| Destination | Non-Resident Adult (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tsavo East/West (Kenya) | 80 | Wilderness category |
| Amboseli (Kenya) | 90 | Premium KWS park |
| Lake Nakuru (Kenya) | 90 | Premium KWS park |
| Masai Mara (Kenya) | 200 (peak) | County-managed |
| Serengeti (Tanzania) | 150 | TANAPA premium park |
Tsavo’s new rates position it as a mid-tier, high-value destination—affordable yet globally competitive.
✅ Final Takeaway
- Current fees (as of Oct 2025): KES 1,000–1,350 for locals; USD 80 for non-residents.
- All payments online: via KWSPay on eCitizen.
- Court injunction: temporarily suspending enforcement until Nov 25, 2025.
- Refunds: available if the court overturns new rates.
- Tsavo remains one of Africa’s most affordable and authentic wilderness experiences.
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