Visiting Nairobi for the first time and thinking of renting a car? Whether you’re heading to business meetings in Westlands or exploring national parks like Nairobi National Park, renting a car gives you unmatched freedom. But before you hit the road, there are a few important things you need to know.
This Nairobi car rental guide is packed with practical tips to help you stay safe, avoid scams, and enjoy a smooth self-drive or chauffeur-driven experience in Kenya.

1. Can Tourists Drive in Nairobi?
Yes! Tourists can legally drive in Kenya using their home country’s driver’s license for up to 90 days, provided it’s in English. If not, you’ll need to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Tip: Even if your license is in English, some rental companies may still request an IDP as a formality. Always confirm in advance.
Make sure you also carry:
- A copy of your passport (for ID verification)
- Printed rental agreement
- Emergency contacts and insurance info
2. Driving Rules in Nairobi: What You Should Know
Kenya follows British road rules, which means:
- Drive on the left-hand side
- The steering wheel is on the right
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers
- Speed limits are in km/h (typically 50 km/h in cities and 100 km/h on highways)
But here’s the real challenge — Nairobi traffic. Expect:
- Matatus (public minibuses) to change lanes without warning
- Boda bodas (motorcycle taxis) weaving aggressively between cars
- Limited signage in some areas, especially outskirts
- Random police stops checking for insurance, ID, or vehicle condition
Best for newcomers: Hire a chauffeur-driven vehicle to avoid the learning curve.
3. What’s the Best Car to Rent in Nairobi?
The “right” car depends on your itinerary, group size, and driving comfort level.
Travel Plan | Ideal Vehicle Type |
---|---|
City travel, short trips | Compact cars – Toyota Vitz, Axio, Nissan Note |
Safari parks or hilly terrain | 4×4 SUV – Toyota RAV4, Vanguard, Land Cruiser |
Luxury business or diplomatic use | Premium SUVs – Land Cruiser V8, Prado, Mercedes |
Group or family trips | 7-seaters – Noah, Alphard, or Toyota Wish |
Killowen Rides provides a wide fleet of self-drive and chauffeur-driven options suitable for tourists, families, and business travelers alike.
4. Rental Costs and What to Watch Out For
Car rental prices in Nairobi vary depending on:
- Vehicle type (compact vs SUV)
- Duration (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Self-drive or chauffeur service
- Location (airport pickup may cost more)
Average daily rates:
- Compact cars: KES 4,500–6,500
- Mid-size SUVs: KES 7,500–10,000
- Large 4x4s: KES 12,000–20,000
- Chauffeur service: +KES 1,500–3,000/day
Ask about:
- Insurance (comprehensive or third-party?)
- Fuel policy (full-to-full is ideal)
- Mileage limits (unlimited vs capped)
- Deposit (refundable? how long does it take?)
Pro Tip: Reputable companies like Killowen Rides have transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
5. Avoiding Rental Scams in Nairobi
Unfortunately, not every “car rental” you see online is legit. Scammers often use fake social media pages or classifieds.
Red flags include:
- Prices that are too good to be true
- No physical office location or Google listing
- No deposit or ID required
- Demands for full payment via M-Pesa upfront
How to stay safe:
- Book directly through reputable websites like killowenrides.com
- Verify Google reviews and location
- Ask for official terms and conditions
6. Navigation & Safety While Driving in Nairobi
Google Maps works well in Nairobi, but traffic updates may not always be reliable. Waze is a good alternative, especially during rush hour.
Avoid driving in these conditions:
- At night in poorly lit or rural areas
- During heavy rains (flash floods are common)
- In unfamiliar neighborhoods without directions
Tips for safety:
- Always lock the car and close windows in traffic
- Don’t leave valuables on seats
- Avoid stopping at unofficial checkpoints
- Use fuel stations for safe restroom and snack stops
Bonus: Ask your rental provider if the vehicle has GPS, dashcam, or mobile hotspot add-ons.
7. Need Airport Pickup? Book in Advance
If you’re flying into JKIA (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) or Wilson Airport, pre-book your rental so you’re not stuck negotiating at the arrivals gate.
What you can request in advance:
- Airport pickup/drop-off
- Delivery to your hotel or Airbnb
- Child seats, phone chargers, extra fuel
- Chauffeur to meet you with a name sign
Killowen Rides offers same-day airport delivery, with pre-verified documents ready for fast handover.
Bonus: Explore More of Kenya by Car
Once you’re comfortable driving in Nairobi, consider exploring Kenya’s stunning getaways:
- Naivasha (1.5 hrs): Lake views, boat rides, Crescent Island
- Nanyuki (3 hrs): Mt. Kenya hikes, wildlife conservancies
- Aberdares: Forest cabins, waterfalls, scenic drives
- Diani or Malindi (fly and drive): Coastal relaxation with a self-drive option from Ukunda or Mombasa airports
A reliable rental car makes these adventures not just possible — but unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Renting a car in Nairobi is one of the best ways to experience Kenya at your own pace. Whether you’re in town for work, a wedding, or a weekend safari, knowing the basics can help you avoid stress and drive with confidence.
Ready to Rent a Car in Nairobi?
Visit KillowenRides.com to explore our trusted fleet
Call/WhatsApp: +254 799 620 379
Email: nancy@killowenrides.com for custom quotes