You’ve likely heard about the majestic Big Five, the breathtaking wildebeest migration in the Mara, the ‘red elephants’ of Tsavo, the vibrant marine life along the Kenyan coast, and the sitatungas of Kitale. But have you experienced them firsthand? We are renowned worldwide for our stunning wildlife, attracting millions of tourists to this part of Africa every year.
If you’ve been meaning to visit any of our parks, then this is an exciting opportunity for you. In a bold move, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Tourism announced free entry to all national parks and reserves on 28th September 24, 2024, mere days away. The day will mark the culmination of the UN World Tourism Week celebrations and aims to encourage domestic tourism while highlighting our conservation efforts.
Kendirita Tours is honored to be associated with this event as the world marks the role of Tourism in fostering peace and reconciliation among communities and nations of the world. Here’s what you need to know as you get ready to visit and enjoy our wildlife heritage this Saturday.
How to Prepare
To take advantage of this entry-free day, here are some tips to help you enjoy your day:
- Arrive Early: Given the significance of the day, expect a higher number of visitors. Arriving early will give you the best chance to enjoy the parks without large crowds.
- Pack Essentials: Remember to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and any personal items you might need for a day in the wild. Binoculars and cameras are a must for capturing wildlife sightings.
- Respect the Wildlife: While the parks are open for free, it’s important to remember that these are protected areas. Maintain a safe distance from animals and adhere to park regulations to ensure a responsible and respectful visit.
What to Expect in Kenya’s National Parks
Kenya is home to 23 terrestrial National Parks, 28 terrestrial National Reserves, 4 marine National Parks, 6 marine National Reserves, and 4 national sanctuaries each offering unique experiences for visitors. Below is a sneak peek into five of the most famous ones.
- Maasai Mara National Reserve: Renowned for its annual Great Migration, the Maasai Mara is a must-visit for witnessing the breathtaking sight of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes crossing the Mara River.
- Amboseli National Park: Famous for its large herds of elephants, this park also provides stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak.
- Tsavo National Parks (East and West): These two parks together form the largest national park in Kenya, with an incredible diversity of wildlife, including the “red elephants” and the mane-less lions of Tsavo.
- Mount Kenya National Park: Offering hiking trails, scenic landscapes, and a chance to summit Africa’s second-highest mountain, this park is a haven for adventurers.
- Lake Nakuru National Park: This Rift Valley Lake is known for its thousands of flamingos that line the shores of the lake, Lake Nakuru is also home to rhinos, giraffes, and lions.
This upcoming initiative on 28th September 2024 marks one of the most prominent efforts by Kenya to open its parks for free on a large scale, highlighting a continuing trend aimed at increasing access and raising awareness about Kenya’s natural wonders.
We trust you will take advantage of your free day at the park and at Kendirita Tours, we are ready to answer any further queries you may have. Feel free to give us a call! Happy Tourism Week!
Writer: Winnie Wekesa