Kenya Worldlife Service (KWS) has issued a directive prohibiting free entry to Nakuru National Park on Saturday 27th September 2025.
In a communique released on Friday, KWS announced that all National Parks, Reserves and Sanctuaries across the country shall remain open and accessible on Saturdy, under the free entry initiative for Kenyan citizens, with the exception of Lake Nakuru National Park.
However, KWS noted that customers with prepaid eCitizen tickets will be allowed to access the park from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
According to the state corporation, the main gate of the park (at flamingo area) and Lanet Gate shall remain closed on Saturday, with customers advised to use the Nderit Gate.
“Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) wishes to provide an update on the free entry to National Parks, Reserves, and Sanctuaries earlier communicated through the Public Notice dated 23rd September 2025,” KWS noted.
“The public is hereby notified that there shall be no free entry to Lake Nakuru National Park Saturday, September 27, 2025,” it added.
KWS, nonetheless, did not provide an explanation for the impromptu cancellation of free entry to the park.
The move has sparked public debate, with some questioning it in light of the case of fisherman Brian Odhiambo, who went missing and was last seen at the Lake Nakuru National Park.
Brian’s disappearance still remains unresolved, with suspicion falling on KWS officers over allegations of abduction.
On Tuesday 23rd September 2027, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano announced free entry to National Parks, Reserves and Sanctuaries on Saturday, to celebrate the annual UN Wold Tourism Day.
She reiterated that this would give Kenyans the opportunity to “explore, learn and celebrate the wonders of the country’s parks.”
