Govt Introduces 30% Discount to Boost Cruise-to-Park Tourism

Cruise tourists arriving at the Coast will now enjoy cheaper access to Kenya’s national parks after the government introduced a 30 per cent group discount to encourage more inland travel.

The new incentive, rolled out in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), is targeting visitors docking at the Port of Mombasa and aims to link coastal tourism with wildlife experiences. Popular parks under the programme include Tsavo East National Park, Tsavo West National Park and Amboseli National Park.

The move was announced as the cruise ship Viking Sky docked in Mombasa carrying 795 passengers and 473 crew, underlining the growing role of cruise tourism in the country.

KWS Director General Erustus Kanga said the plan is designed to make park visits more attractive for cruise travellers.

“The discounted rates are expected to make Kenya’s parks more accessible and enhance visitor experience,” he said.

Currently, only about 20 per cent of cruise passengers extend their stay to visit parks and reserves. The government is now aiming to raise that number to 40 per cent through the new pricing model.

The Kenya Ports Authority noted that the Port of Mombasa continues to serve as a key gateway for international tourists, with an increasing number of cruise ships calling at the port. The rise in arrivals is boosting business for tour operators, transport providers and hotels along the Coast.

To implement the programme, KWS will first work with Pollmans Tours & Safaris before bringing on board global operators such as Abercrombie & Kent.

Tourism Principal Secretary June Chepkemei said the cruise segment is gaining momentum and is now one of the fastest-growing areas in the industry.

“The cruise segment is among the fastest-growing in the country’s tourism industry, positioning Kenya as a key destination along the Indian Ocean circuit,” she said.

The incentive, which will run from March to May 2026, is also expected to increase park revenues, improve visitor movement and support conservation efforts through higher funding.

Officials say the initiative is part of a broader push to maximise the value of cruise tourism by encouraging visitors to explore beyond the Coast and experience Kenya’s wildlife.