Tourism Stakeholders Warn Park Fee Hike Could Hurt Kenya’s Travel Industry

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Tourism stakeholders have expressed concern over the government’s decision to raise national park entry fees, warning that the move could undermine Kenya’s competitiveness as a global tourist destination.

The Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) is expected to address the issue at a press conference on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the Stanley Hotel in Nairobi. The federation, which represents key industry players including tour operators, hoteliers, and conservation groups, says the fee hike will likely discourage both domestic and international visitors.

“The timing of the increase could not be worse,” said one industry source ahead of the meeting. “The sector is still recovering from economic pressures and declining tourist arrivals, and higher park fees will make Kenya less attractive compared to destinations like Tanzania and South Africa.”

Kenya’s tourism industry is a key economic driver, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings and employment. However, stakeholders argue that unpredictable policy changes—such as abrupt fee adjustments—risk destabilizing the sector.

Conservationists have also cautioned that while raising fees can boost funding for wildlife protection, it must be balanced with accessibility and affordability to maintain visitor numbers.

The KTF press briefing is expected to call on the Ministry of Tourism and the Kenya Wildlife Service to engage with industry players in finding a sustainable approach that safeguards both conservation goals and the sector’s economic viability.

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