Tsavo East & West National Parks, two of Kenya’s largest and most visited wildlife parks, requires an entrance fee for both local and international visitors. These fees contribute to park maintenance, conservation efforts, and community projects.
Although the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) proposed fee changes in 2023 under LEGAL NOTICE NO. (The Wildlife (Conservation and Management) Act, 2013)—introducing seasonal pricing with higher fees in peak months—the proposal was challenged in court due to a lack of public participation. As a result, the 2025 park entry fees remain unchanged, using the rates from the 2022/2023 period.
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.
1. Current Tsavo East & West Parks Entrance Fees (2025)
Since the 2023 proposed fee hike was not implemented, the entry fees applicable in 2025 remain at the 2022/23 rates:
🚶 Citizens & Residents (Kenyans & East African Residents)
| Category | Adults (KSH) | Children/Students (KSH) |
|---|---|---|
| Wilderness Parks (A) – Tsavo East & Tsavo West | 515 | 215 |
🌍 Non-Residents (Tourists from outside East Africa)
| Category | Adults (USD) | Children/Students (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Wilderness Parks (A) – Tsavo East & Tsavo West | 52 | 35 |
💡 Note:
- Children are classified as those under 18 years old.
- Students must be on an officially recognized educational trip and have a valid letter from their school or institution.
Tsavo East and West National Parks Entrance Fees for Children (Ages 5 to 18) – 2025
The entrance fees for children aged 5 to 18 years at Tsavo East National Park remain unchanged from the 2022/23 rates, as the 2023 proposed fee increase was not implemented.
| Category | High Season (July–March) | Low Season (April–June) |
|---|---|---|
| Citizen Child (Ages 5–18) | 500 KSH | 250 KSH |
| Non-Resident Child (Ages 5–18) | 35 USD | 20 USD |
| Resident Child (Ages 5–18) | 20 USD | 10 USD |
💡 Important Notes:
✔ Children under 5 years old enter for free.
✔ Students on educational trips qualify for discounted rates (must provide a valid school letter and prior KWS approval).
✔ Rates remain unchanged for 2025 , as the 2023 proposed fee revision was not implemented due to legal challenges.
2. Breakdown of the 2023 Proposed Fee Structure (Not Implemented)
In 2023, KWS proposed a major restructuring of park fees, introducing a high season (July–March) and low season (April–June). These changes aimed to increase revenue during peak periods but were blocked by the High Court.
If the 2023 proposal had been approved, the fees for Tsavo West and East would have been:
| Visitor Category | High Season (July–March) | Low Season (April–June) |
|---|---|---|
| East African Citizen (KSH) | 2,000 | 1,500 |
| Non-Resident (USD) | 50 | 35 |
| Resident / Rest of Africa (USD) | 50 | 35 |
💡 Key Takeaway:
These proposed rates DID NOT take effect, meaning that in 2025, the old 2022/23 fees still apply.
3. How to Pay for Entry Fees at Tsavo East and West:
KWS has strictly implemented cashless payments at Tsavo East and all other national parks in Kenya. The following payment methods are accepted:
✔ M-Pesa (Mobile Money)
✔ Debit & Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
✔ Bank Transfers (For bulk/group bookings – must be done in advance)
🚫 Cash payments are NOT accepted at the gates.
💡 Tip: If paying via M-Pesa, ensure your mobile wallet is loaded before arrival, as network coverage at park entrances can sometimes be weak.
4. Additional Costs & Fees in Tsavo East and West:
Aside from entry fees, some additional charges apply for specific activities:
| Activity / Vehicle Type | Charge (KSH/USD) |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Entry (Under 6 seats) | 300 KSH |
| Vehicle Entry (6-12 seats) | 1,030 KSH |
| Vehicle Entry (13-24 seats) | 2,585 KSH |
| Vehicle Entry (25-44 seats) | 4,050 KSH |
| Vehicle Entry – 45 seats and above | 5,000 KSH |
| Camping Fees (Per Night – Public Campsites) | 250 KSH (Citizens), 30 USD (Non-Residents) |
| Camping Fees (Private Campsites) | 500 KSH (Citizens), 40 USD (Non-Residents) |
| Filming Fees | Special permit required |
💡 Tip: If you are bringing a personal or rented safari vehicle, ensure you check its seating capacity as this determines the vehicle entry fee.
5. Who is Exempt from Paying Tsavo East and West Parks Fees?
Certain individuals and groups qualify for free or discounted entry:
✔ KWS Staff & Official Guests – With valid identification.
✔ Children Under 5 Years – Free entry.
✔ Registered Tour Guides – Must have a valid tour guide license.
✔ Students on Official Educational Trips – With prior KWS approval.
💡 Tip: Always carry valid identification or authorization letters if you believe you qualify for discounted or free entry.
6. Best Time to Visit Tsavo East and West (Based on Fees & Seasons)
Since park fees remain constant throughout the year, the best time to visit Tsavo Parks depends on wildlife viewing conditions.
✔ Dry Season (June–October & January–February) – Best for wildlife as animals gather around water sources.
✔ Wet Season (March–May & November–December) – Fewer tourists, cheaper accommodations, and lush scenery, but some roads may be muddy and difficult to access.
💡 Tip: For budget-conscious travelers, visiting outside peak tourist months (August, December) can help you save on lodging and safari packages.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Tsavo Parks Fees
1. Can I buy park entry tickets in advance?
💡 Answer: Yes, you can pay for entry in advance via M-Pesa, credit card, or bank transfer. Many tour operators include park entry fees in their safari packages.
2. Can I use my Tsavo East ticket to enter Tsavo West?
💡 Answer: No, Tsavo East and Tsavo West have separate entrance fees. If you plan to visit both, you’ll need to pay for each park separately.
3. Are re-entry and multiple-day passes available?
💡 Answer: A single entry ticket is valid for 24 hours. If you are staying at a lodge inside the park, you don’t need to exit daily. Multiple-day passes are not offered—you must pay daily.
4. Do I need to pay extra for a guided safari?
💡 Answer: Yes, guided safaris are not included in the park entry fee. Safari costs vary based on vehicle type, guide experience, and duration.
5. Are there discounts for large groups or families?
💡 Answer: KWS does not offer group discounts for standard visitors. However, schools and educational groups may qualify for reduced student rates.
Final Thoughts: Is Tsavo National Parks Worth the Entry Fee?
Absolutely! For just 515 KSH ($52 for non-residents), you gain access to one of Kenya’s most incredible wildlife parks, featuring:
✔ Large herds of elephants
✔ Iconic predators like lions and cheetahs
✔ Scenic landmarks like the Galana River & Yatta Plateau
✔ Unforgettable game drives and photography opportunities
💡 Pro Tip: To maximize your experience, consider staying inside the park at one of its affordable lodges or campsites, allowing early morning and late evening game drives when wildlife is most active.
Why Tsavo East Should Have Higher Fees Than Tsavo West
Having explored both Tsavo East and Tsavo West, I strongly believe that Tsavo East deserves a higher entry fee than Tsavo West, and KWS should have factored this into its pricing structure. The fact that both parks are currently priced the same undermines the unique value that Tsavo East offers in terms of wildlife density, accessibility, and overall safari experience.
Here’s why Tsavo East should command a higher fee than Tsavo West:
1. Tsavo East Has Better Wildlife Viewing
While both parks are known for their incredible biodiversity, Tsavo East consistently offers better wildlife sightings. It is home to one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, massive herds of buffalo, and iconic predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
- Tsavo East has vast open savannas, making wildlife easier to spot, whereas Tsavo West has denser vegetation, which can make game viewing more challenging.
- The Galana River, Aruba Dam, and Mudanda Rock provide reliable water sources year-round, attracting animals in large numbers.
- Big cat sightings are more frequent in Tsavo East, while Tsavo West is more famous for its rugged landscapes than predator density.
With better wildlife visibility and high game density, Tsavo East delivers a superior safari experience, justifying a higher entrance fee than Tsavo West.
2. Tsavo East is More Accessible for Tourists
If we’re talking ease of access, Tsavo East is the clear winner. The park’s main entry points—Bachuma Gate and Voi Gate—are easily accessible via the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, making it a popular stop for both self-drive tourists and guided safaris.
- From Mombasa, it takes only 2-3 hours to reach Tsavo East, making it a prime destination for short safaris.
- The roads within Tsavo East are better maintained, especially the routes leading to key attractions like Lugard Falls and Yatta Plateau.
- In contrast, Tsavo West has rougher terrain, volcanic landscapes, and more challenging driving conditions, making it less suitable for first-time safari-goers.
Since Tsavo East is easier to visit and offers a more seamless safari experience, KWS should have priced it higher than Tsavo West to reflect its accessibility advantage.
3. Tsavo East Has More Iconic Attractions
While Tsavo West has stunning landscapes, Tsavo East boasts some of the most iconic natural landmarks in Kenya, making it a bigger draw for tourists.
✅ Galana River – A permanent water source that attracts massive wildlife congregations.
✅ Mudanda Rock – A breathtaking viewpoint where herds of elephants gather.
✅ Lugard Falls – Stunning rapids offering dramatic scenery and crocodile sightings.
✅ Yatta Plateau – The longest lava flow in the world, a geological wonder exclusive to Tsavo East.
Tsavo West’s Shetani Lava Flow and Mzima Springs are impressive, but they don’t match the sheer scale and diversity of Tsavo East’s attractions. Premium experiences justify premium pricing, and Tsavo East should be recognized as a higher-tier park.
4. Tsavo East Requires More Conservation Funding
Tsavo East’s vast size (13,747 km²) means higher conservation costs compared to Tsavo West (9,065 km²).
- Larger parks require more rangers, more patrols, and more anti-poaching resources. Tsavo East is a high-risk area for elephant poaching, meaning conservation efforts need significant financial backing.
- Maintaining infrastructure, roads, and visitor facilities across such a massive park comes with greater logistical challenges than Tsavo West.
- KWS already charges more for premium parks like Masai Mara and Amboseli due to their conservation importance, so why isn’t Tsavo East given the same recognition?
Increasing Tsavo East’s fees above Tsavo West would help fund its greater conservation needs, ensuring long-term sustainability for its wildlife.
Final Thoughts: KWS Needs to Rethink Its Pricing Strategy
KWS missed an opportunity to differentiate Tsavo East and Tsavo West based on their actual value to visitors. By keeping both parks at the same entry fee, they have undervalued Tsavo East and missed a chance to boost conservation funding where it is needed most.
- Tsavo East offers better wildlife viewing, easier accessibility, and more iconic attractions, making it the superior safari destination.
- Higher entrance fees for Tsavo East would ensure more resources for conservation, infrastructure maintenance, and anti-poaching efforts.
- Tourists who visit Tsavo East are already willing to pay for premium experiences, meaning a price adjustment would not reduce demand.
💡 KWS needs to revise its pricing structure and recognize Tsavo East as a higher-tier park. Keeping it at the same fee level as Tsavo West is a mistake that undervalues one of Kenya’s greatest safari gems.