The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has announced that while Kenyans will be granted free entry into all national parks on Saturday, September 27, 2025, Lake Nakuru National Park will not be part of the initiative.
In a statement on Friday, KWS clarified that the park’s main entrance at the Flamingo area and the Lanet Gate will remain closed throughout the day. However, visitors who had already purchased prepaid tickets via eCitizen will still be allowed to access the park, but only through the Nderit Gate between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
The agency emphasized that the exemption applies to Lake Nakuru alone, while all other national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries across the country will remain open free of charge to Kenyan citizens during the one-day program.
Lake Nakuru is one of Kenya’s most visited parks, globally recognized for its spectacular flamingo populations and diverse wildlife. The park’s exclusion from the free-entry initiative has therefore drawn attention, with some observers noting that it may inconvenience locals who had planned visits.
Although KWS did not give detailed reasons for the exemption, the decision appears to be linked to logistical and operational factors. By allowing only prepaid ticket holders to access the park through one designated gate, the service seeks to regulate movement while still accommodating a section of visitors.
The free-entry initiative is part of KWS’s ongoing effort to promote wildlife conservation and encourage Kenyans to explore the country’s natural heritage. The agency also reminded the public to respect park rules and guidelines during their visits to ensure the protection of both wildlife and visitors.
For many Kenyans, the initiative offers a rare chance to enjoy the beauty of national parks without the usual cost barriers. Still, for those hoping to visit Lake Nakuru without prior booking, the restriction may mean rescheduling their plans or choosing alternative destinations.
