Visiting national parks can be delightful given the scenery and the experience that comes with it. However, there are mistakes that can land a tourist - whether local or international jail time and hefty fines.
For starters, disobeying a directive by a Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officer can earn a person a fine of Ksh100,00 or a jail term of not less than six months.
Under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act of 2013, it is noted that officials at game parks hold authority in the park as they are trained to protect animals.
On the other hand, endangering the lives of animals through the spilling of harmful substances such as oil can earn an individual jail term not less than five years.
"Any person who pollutes wildlife habitats and ecosystems contrary to the provisions of this Act or any other written law commits an offence and shall be liable upon conviction to a fine of not less than two million shillings," read the Act in part.
Being in possession of game meat is also punishable. The fine prescribed for this is a prison term of one year or a Ksh200,000. This includes the meat of a carcass.
Additionally, there are certain activities that are not allowed at national parks before without the approval of KWS officials.
For example, the use of aircraft is limited to certain areas as KWS aims to protect wildlife. In addition, aircraft can only fly at a certain height as prescribed by KWS.
Other activities that require authorisation include commercial filming of the wildlife at the park, which is allowed at a fee determined by the KWS.
Respect the cultural heritage of Kenya, never take pictures of the local people or their habitat without asking their permission, respect the cultural traditions of Kenya and always dress with decorum," KWS stated.
Unknown to many, Kenyans are only allowed in the parks from 6 am to 6 pm unless camping.
Night game driving is not allowed while cars must Keep below the maximum speed limit of 40 kilometres per hour.
