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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Kenya
Kenya
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Kenya
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Kenya
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Kenya
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Kenya?
Kenya, the land of safaris, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a destination that beckons exploration. While organised tours offer a glimpse, renting a car provides unparalleled freedom to discover Kenya’s hidden gems at your own pace. From the bustling streets of Nairobi to the serene savannahs, a rental car is your key to unlocking the true essence of Kenya.
Unmatched Flexibility. Public transport can be limiting in terms of schedule and accessibility. With a rental car, you dictate your itinerary, stopping wherever and whenever you desire.
Access to Remote Locations. Kenya’s most breathtaking attractions, like the Masai Mara or Lake Nakuru, require venturing off the main roads. A rental car, especially a 4x4, allows you to navigate these challenging terrains.
Comfort and Convenience. Kenya’s vast distances can make travelling by public transport tiring. A rental car offers a comfortable and convenient way to move between destinations, especially for families or groups.
Cost-Effective for Groups. For families or groups, renting a car can be more economical than paying for multiple tour packages or individual transport tickets.
Driving in Kenya: Rules, Tips & Local Regulations
Drive on
Left hand side
Speed limit within city centre
50 km/h or 31 mph
Languages
Swahili, English
Average petrol price
£0.96 per litre or £4.35 per gallon
Speed limit outside the city
80-110 km/h or 50-68 mph
Currency
Kenyan Shilling
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.08%
Score
7.8/10
Dialling Code
+254
Driving in Kenya can be an adventurous experience, but understanding the local rules and regulations is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey. Here’s what you need to know before you hit the road.
1. Nairobi to Masai Mara Experience the iconic wildlife of the Masai Mara, driving from Nairobi. Witness the Great Migration (seasonal) and encounter lions, elephants, and more.
- Distance: 270 km – Duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Route: Nairobi – Narok – Sekenani Gate (Masai Mara)
2. Nairobi to Amboseli National Park Drive to Amboseli National Park for stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and abundant wildlife, including large herds of elephants.
- Distance: 240 km – Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Route: Nairobi – Namanga – Amboseli
3. Nairobi to Lake Nakuru National Park Visit Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its pink flamingos and diverse birdlife. Also, spot rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife.
- Distance: 160 km – Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Route: Nairobi – Nakuru
4. Mombasa to Malindi Enjoy a coastal drive from Mombasa to Malindi, exploring beautiful beaches, historical sites, and marine parks along the way.
- Distance: 120 km – Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Route: Mombasa – Kilifi – Malindi
5. The Great Rift Valley Route Explore the stunning landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, passing through viewpoints, lakes, and volcanic features.
- Distance: Varies – Duration: 3 to 7 days
- Route: Nairobi – Lake Naivasha – Lake Bogoria – Lake Baringo
Top drives in the Kenya:
Kenya is a country that must be seen to be believed, and there’s no better way to see it than by car.
Kenya is best experienced on your own time, and car hire is the perfect solution when your holiday is short and you want to see as much as possible. That is why car rental is well developed in Kenya, and you can hire any vehicle, from a compact car to a 4x4. Since the Republic’s land area is expansive, a few weeks with a car can be enough to explore it all.
Car Rental Prices in Kenya – Cost Breakdown
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45
Electric:
Not available
Classic:
from £15 / $19 / €17
Executive:
from £35 / $44 / €40
7 Seater:
from £45 / $56 / €51
Automatic:
from £25 / $31 / €28
SUV:
from £30 / $38 / €34
Hire price
Average price for hiring a car per day in the Kenya
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (July to September): Prices start at approximately £50 / $63 / €58 per day*. This period coincides with the Great Migration, driving up demand.
Low season (April to May): Discounts available from around £30 / $38 / €35 per day*. These months are the rainy season, resulting in fewer tourists and lower prices.
Shoulder season (June & October): Expect moderate prices, with rates around £38 / $48 / €44 per day*. This is a good balance of favourable weather and reasonable prices.
*Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as vehicle type, rental duration, and location
Tips for saving money when renting a car in Kenya
Renting a car in Kenya offers flexibility to explore its wonders, but costs can accumulate. Here’s how to save money while ensuring a great experience.
1. Book Early: Booking well in advance secures better rates and a wider selection of vehicles.
2. Compare Prices: Use comparison websites to find the best deals. Check for discounts on longer rentals or with specific rental companies.
3. Choose the Right Car: Opt for a smaller, fuel-efficient car if you don't need a large vehicle. SUVs are pricier, especially 4x4s.
4. Decline Unnecessary Insurance: Check if your existing travel insurance or credit card covers car rental insurance to avoid extra charges at the rental desk.
5. Refuel Before Returning: Refill the tank before returning the car to avoid inflated refuelling charges from the rental company.
6. Avoid Airport Pickups: Rental locations at airports often have higher fees. Consider off-airport locations for better prices.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Kenya?
Renting a car in Kenya is straightforward, but meeting specific requirements is essential. Here's what you’ll need.
Valid Driver’s Licence – You'll need a valid driver's license. An international driving permit is recommended for non-residents.
Minimum Age – The minimum age is typically 23 years old, but this can vary. Some companies charge extra for drivers under 25.
Credit Card – A credit card in the primary driver's name is required for the security deposit.
Passport or ID – Essential for identification purposes, particularly for tourists.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Kenya as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Kenya was breathtaking! Having a car made exploring the national parks and smaller villages so much easier. The wildlife was incredible, and I'll cherish the memories forever.
Katherine Davis
Reviewed: 25.09.2024
Spontaneous weekend in Kenya was incredible! Driving around was so easy, and the scenery was breathtaking. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 06.03.2025
Kenya exceeded expectations! Getting around with a rental car was a breeze, making my quick business trip efficient and enjoyable.
David Lee
Reviewed: 22.12.2024
Pretty chill, overall.
Chloe Garcia
Reviewed: 27.07.2025
Absolutely loved Kenya! Having a car was perfect for exploring at our own pace. The wildlife was incredible, and the people were so welcoming.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 23.08.2024
Amazing impromptu trip! Kenya's beauty was stunning, though the food wasn't always great.
Ava Brown
Reviewed: 03.04.2025
Kenya's landscapes were stunning during our summer holiday! Having a car made exploring the national parks so much easier. Wildlife viewing was unforgettable.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 04.10.2024
Exploring Kenya by car was an absolute dream. The freedom to stop and discover hidden gems along our route was invaluable. Such stunning landscapes!
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 21.03.2025