East Africa’s new tourism levies risk pricing out visitors

Tourists at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park.

Photo credit: File

Kenya and Tanzania are introducing new levies on tourists to boost conservation funding and modernise travel systems, but industry players warn the higher costs could deter visitors from East Africa’s renowned destinations.

Kenya will raise park entry fees starting October 1, 2025, while Tanzania is preparing to impose new travel insurance and development charges on air tickets.