The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has announced swift measures to improve visitor access to Nairobi National Park following a surge in weekend traffic that resulted in extended wait times at entry points.

In a statement released Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano acknowledged the recent challenges faced by visitors due to high volumes, particularly over the weekend, and affirmed the government’s commitment to delivering a seamless and enjoyable park experience.

“The surge in visitor numbers is a testament to Kenya’s growing appeal as a premier tourism and conference destination,” Miano said. The increase is largely attributed to the influx of international guests attending ongoing global conferences in Nairobi, as well as successful tourism promotion campaigns.

To address the congestion and improve overall visitor satisfaction, the ministry is implementing several key improvements. These include the introduction of express lanes for visitors who purchase tickets in advance, aimed at significantly reducing entry times. In addition, two major park entry points — the East Gate off Mombasa Road and the Mbagathi Gate opposite Multimedia University — are now fully operational to help disperse visitor traffic more evenly.

Looking ahead, the ministry is also exploring the creation of a new access point via the Southern Bypass, which would further streamline entry and ease pressure on existing gates.

Miano praised the public’s positive response to the prepaid ticketing system, with over 60% of Sunday’s visitors using the platform to secure their tickets in advance. She encouraged all future visitors to make use of the eCitizen portal (kws.ecitizen.go.ke) for a smoother experience.

“These enhancements are part of our commitment to creating a world-class experience for you while preserving the park’s incredible wildlife,” Miano added.

Nairobi National Park, a rare wildlife reserve located within a capital city, continues to be a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists. With these new improvements, the government aims to ensure that every visit to the park is not just efficient, but truly memorable.

The Ministry thanked visitors for their patience and ongoing support, promising continued efforts to enhance the tourism experience across the country.