Kenya’s tourism sector criticizes KWS’s new park fee system over high costs, lack of consultation and threats to global appeal

Published October 31, 2025

The recent overhaul of the Kenya Wildlife Service’s park fee payment platform has sparked an unprecedented level of anger within the travel and tourism industry. The Kenya Tourism Association, joined by dozens of tour operators and other stakeholders, expressed anger over the changes that are perceived to be detrimental to the efficiency of operations and the overall visitor experience. Industry players claim that the newly implemented system will create unnecessary financial stress, complicate the payment process, and ultimately harm Kenya’s position as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations.

Payment restrictions and their impact on large group transactions

Under the new system, Kenya Wildlife Service He restricted park fee payments to Credit cards, debit cards or Mpesa– Payment methods that many players in the industry are considering insufficient To handle large group transactions or Corporate reservations. Previously, large groups and corporate clients could easily process payments through it Bank transfersThis is a feature that is now available It has been removedleaving operators scrambling to find alternative solutions.

For the tourism industry, which often deals with large-scale bookings, the inability to use traditional… Bank transfer options He submitted New logistical challenges. the Lack of flexibility It has been particularly detrimental to International travel operatorswho work with tourists from areas where credit cards are not always preferred or inaccessible. loss Multiple payment gateway options It now threatens to make Kenya a less attractive destination for mass travellers, especially those from the luxury or corporate sectors.

Unjustified high processing fees add to the burden

In addition to payment restrictions, Kenya Wildlife Service It was presented 8.5 percent processing fee On all card payments, it is the price that is considered Excessive and out of line With other government payment systems. These exorbitant fees caused widespread discontent, especially among its ranks Tour operators Who argue that it adds unnecessary costs to Safari packages are really expensive.

Tourism experts point out this High processing fees Making Kenya less competitive compared to other destinations in Africa And outside, where processing costs are usually Much less Or does not exist. These are likely to be additional financial burdens Drive the tourists away to Competing safari destinations Like Tanzania, or South Africa, or Botswana, where payment systems are still more Affordable and effective.

Moving away from the eCitizen platform raises concerns about transparency

One of the most controversial issues raised by the new regime is the shift away from the formal system in Kenya Electronic citizen platformwhich has been used for a long time Government payments. the Electronic citizen system It was widely regarded as a hit Transparency, Accountabilityand Ease of use. With this shift, stakeholders are now wondering who benefits from the fees, especially given… Lack of clarity About the beneficiaries of the payments.

This has sparked a shift Legal concernswhere KWS is suspected of violating a Judicial order Which hindered the implementation of the park fee increase. The court ruling explicitly stated this All payments Park fees must continue to pass Electronic citizen Until further notice, after KWS He overstepped the ruling By routing payments elsewhere. this Failure to comply with legal provisions It only adds to the growing frustration and legal uncertainty within the industry, especially among Tour operators Who they feel they are Amidst legal and regulatory challenges.

Financial pressure on operators and tourists

A new payment system was introduced Unexpected costs For both Operators and touristsas it was previously stable and predictable Park fee structure It has been turned upside down. Tour operatorswhich had already concluded its rates and contracts with international tourists, now faced a problem Additional burden of unplanned costs. These new fees threaten to erode profits and jeopardize existing partnerships with international travel companies.

Many operators, especially those who deal with them Large international groupsare now forced to reconsider them Pricing modelsWhich were determined months in advance according to previous payment terms. these Losses not included in the budget It can lead to Canceled tours, Unfulfilled reservationsand even Losing long-term customers Who may feel that the new regime has made Kenya a more difficult destination to visit.

Moreover, tourists themselves may encounter Higher costs Due to the combined effect of Processing fees and fluctuating exchange rateswhich may lead to Reduction in repeat visits. like Tourism sector in Kenya The oil industry remains highly sensitive to global economic conditions, and industry insiders warn that any disruption to the industry would be disruptive Affordability or accessibility It could significantly damage Kenya’s global appeal.

The discrepancy in exchange rates further complicates the situation

In addition to changes in payment methods and processing fees, KWS sets the exchange rate for international payments in 135 shillings per dollarwhich is significantly higher than Official rate of the Central Bank of Kenya to Sh 129. This discrepancy means that foreign tourists actually pay Too much For park entrance fees, they increase Total cost From their experience on safari. this Artificially high rate It can make Kenya’s gardens look like A less affordable option Compared to other African countries that have more Favorable exchange rates.

This exchange rate has been criticized by industry players as an example of Economic mismanagement. It also raises questions about Justice and transparencywith stakeholders demanding Unification of exchange rates Through government platforms to ensure equal opportunities Foreign visitors and Local companies.

KTF calls for immediate action and dialogue

the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF)the leading industry body representing the private sector, is calling KWS and Kenyan government to comment Existing payment system and engagement in it Consultations With industry stakeholders. KTF urges this further Fair solution Develop it to ensure its continuity Growth of the tourism sector in Kenya While keeping access to the park affordable and straightforward for all visitors.

Fred Odek, Chairman of the Board of Directors of KTF, confirmed that Tourism sector He is Cornerstone of Kenya’s economycontributes greatly to National revenues, Foreign exchange earningsand Local employment. Any policies that hinder the smooth operation of this vital sector pose a danger And undermine years of progress In building Kenya’s reputation as The premier destination for wildlife and safaris.

Restoring Kenya’s global competitiveness

However, competing alongside other African safaris, there are unnecessary financial and regulatory barriers that may see Kenya lose its competitive edge. Kenyan tourism operators and international tourists expect ease, transparency and affordability in booking tours, and Kenya’s intended direction may alienate important stakeholders.

They are calling for a review of the payment system to be more in line with industry requirements and affordable for tourists. As the industry continues to struggle with new regulations, what is clear in the complaints is the need for a return to stability in payment processes and close coordination between KWS and the private sector. Only through this can the country maintain its position as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations.