MOMBASA, Kenya, Mar 21 – The government has introduced a 30 percent group incentive for cruise travellers visiting national parks, in a bid to strengthen the “cruise-to-park” tourism experience and increase inland visits.
The initiative, rolled out in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service, targets visitors arriving along the coast and encourages excursions to key destinations such as Tsavo East National Park, Tsavo West National Park and Amboseli National Park.
The announcement coincided with the docking of the Viking Sky at the Port of Mombasa carrying 795 passengers and 473 crew.
Erustus Kanga said the discounted rates are expected to make Kenya’s parks more accessible and enhance visitor experience.
Currently, about 20 percent of cruise passengers extend trips to parks and reserves. The government is targeting to double this to 40 percent through the new pricing model.
The Kenya Ports Authority said the Port of Mombasa remains a key entry point for international tourists, with growing cruise ship calls boosting the sector.
To implement the programme, KWS will pilot it with Pollmans Tours & Safaris, with plans to later onboard global operators such as Abercrombie & Kent.
June Chepkemei said 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.
The incentive, running between March and May 2026, is also expected to boost park revenues, improve visitor logistics and support conservation efforts through increased funding.
