In an effort to boost the tourism industry of the country, Kenya has reduced the entrance fees to its national parks as well as landing charges at Mombasa and Malindi airports. This is also in light to recover any tourism damage from Foreign & Commonwealth Office’s (FCO) to parts of the country.
Fees have been reduced from US$90 to US$80 while landing charges are now 40% at Mombasa and 10% at Malindi. Air ticketing services by travel agents are also now exempt from VAT.
Many holidays have continued with smaller operators since the announcement, which was made after extremists linked to the Al Shabaab group carried out attacks in Kenya. The FCO still has the warning in place for Mombasa island and within five kilometres of the coast from Mtwapa creek down to and including Tiwi, as well as low income areas of Nairobi, the Garissa District, Kiwayu and coastal areas of Pate Island and areas within 60km of the Kenya-Somali border.
Vivian McCarthy, general manager of tour operator Acacia Africa said: “Security issues have affected travel to Kenya, but most of the country including its parks and reserves is safe for travel. We are optimistic about the new initiatives as they will undoubtedly help to boost bookings, and it shows the Kenyan government is responsive to issues affecting the tourist industry.”
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