No gate fee! Nakuru residents to get free access to national parks on World Tourism Day
Residents of Nakuru County will have yet another opportunity this Saturday on September 27, to explore some of the region’s top natural attractions free of charge following a government directive waiving entry fees to all Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) managed National Parks, Game Reserves, and Sanctuaries.
This Saturday, September 27, residents of Nakuru County will have another opportunity to explore some of the region’s top natural attractions free of charge, following a government directive to waive entry fees to all Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)-managed national parks, game reserves and sanctuaries.
The announcement was made by Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, who said that this was part of the celebrations for United Nations World Tourism Day observed annually.
In a phone interview with Mtaa Wangu, Stephene Kuria, the Nakuru County Tourism Executive, welcomed the directive, saying it would encourage more locals to experience and appreciate the treasures on their doorstep.
“Many residents shy away from visiting our parks because of the entry fees. This initiative gives our people the chance to connect with nature without that barrier,” he says.
He mentions that some of the area’s residents could visit Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingos and rhino sanctuary, as well as other iconic sites.
Lake Elementaita Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is rich in birdlife. Hell's Gate National Park is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, gorges and geothermal features.
Menengai Crater, one of the world's largest calderas, offers panoramic views and hiking trails. Mount Longonot is a popular hiking destination offering breathtaking views of the Rift Valley.
According to Emmanuel Koech, Assistant Director of Lake Nakuru National Park, the park gates will open at 6am and close at 6pm.
“We welcome residents to come and visit the park. All types of cars will be allowed in, but they must not exceed their capacity or the speed limit. Vehicles carrying more passengers than the stated capacity will not be permitted entry," he says.
Mr Kuria noted that, although the county does not currently have transport arrangements in place to take residents to the sites, locals should still take advantage of the opportunity. He also mentioned that there are plans to repair county buses for future events.
"This is not just about a single day. We are working with the national government to make such initiatives a regular occurrence. Next time, we hope to provide transport so that even those who are less fortunate can enjoy the beauty of our parks,” he says.
He explained that the aim of the initiative is to boost domestic tourism by encouraging residents to embrace the natural and cultural wealth of Nakuru and its neighbouring counties.