Hiring a car in Kenya is useful when you want to connect Nairobi, the Mombasa coast, Diani, Malindi and inland regions. On Rent.it you can compare the offers available for your travel dates and choose a pick-up location that suits your itinerary.
Start your car hire search in Kenya and compare the available options.
Where can you hire a car in Kenya?
Locations currently listed on Rent.it include Nairobi airport and downtown, Nairobi Wilson, the Nairobi and Mombasa SGR termini, Mombasa and its airport, Bamburi, Likoni, Diani/Ukunda, Malindi and Nanyuki. Actual availability depends on dates, times and rental length: a location appearing on the country page does not guarantee that every office or vehicle category will be available for every search.
How to compare and book on Rent.it
Enter realistic pick-up and drop-off times, then compare the total price, vehicle category and office location. Open the vehicle details to check mileage, fuel policy, cover, excess, deposit, accepted cards and collection procedure. The model displayed usually represents a category and may be replaced with an equivalent vehicle.
- confirm the exact office address and opening hours
- check the requirements for the main and any additional drivers
- read the rules for delays, out-of-hours returns and one-way rentals
- keep the voucher and supplier contact details during the trip
Driving licence, documents, card and deposit
Kenya recognises certain foreign licences and International Driving Permits for a limited period. A 90-day period may apply to visitors, but you must confirm that your document is valid and accepted by the supplier. At the desk you will normally need an original valid driving licence, a passport or accepted identity document, the voucher and an accepted card in the main driver's name. Minimum age, licence-holding period and surcharges depend on the supplier and vehicle group.
Online payment does not prove that the same card is valid for the security deposit. Credit, debit or prepaid cards may be accepted or excluded by a particular offer; the card scheme, name, physical format and available funds may also matter. Check the amount and handling of the deposit in the rental conditions and do not assume that one supplier's policy applies to all offers.
Which car should you choose in Kenya?
A compact or intermediate category can suit Nairobi and the coast. For parks, tracks or remote areas, ask exactly which vehicle and roads are authorised: an SUV is not automatically a safari vehicle and does not automatically cover damage on unpaved roads. Consider passengers, luggage, transmission, air conditioning, fuel use and conditions along the whole route, not only at the pick-up point. A larger vehicle is not always better: a compact category may be more convenient on narrow roads or in towns.
Driving in Kenya: rules and road conditions
Traffic drives on the left. Conditions differ greatly between city arteries, intercity roads and tracks. Allow for congestion, speed bumps, animals, long distances and the additional risks of night driving. Plan fuel and rest stops away from major centres. Follow posted signs and limits, wear seat belts and never drink and drive. Check weather, closures and mandatory equipment before setting off; navigation apps do not override road signs.
Routes, borders and restrictions
Nairobi and Mombasa are also connected by the SGR railway, with pick-up points listed on the site. Travel to parks or reserves requires checks on gates, opening times, roads and contract cover. Do not cross into Tanzania or another country without written permission. Do not take the vehicle on a ferry, across a border, onto unpaved roads or into restricted areas without checking permission. The rental contract can be stricter than the law and may require advance notice, documents or a fee.
Pick-up and return checks
At collection, compare the car with the condition report, have every mark recorded and photograph the bodywork, glass, wheels, interior, mileage and fuel. Return it to the agreed place and time under the stated fuel policy. For an out-of-hours return, follow the supplier's instructions exactly and retain photographs and receipts.
Choose your location, dates and times on Rent.it to compare cars, prices, categories and rental conditions in Kenya.
Frequently asked questions about car hire in Kenya
Where can I hire a car in Kenya?
On Rent.it you can search available locations including Nairobi, Mombasa, Diani/Ukunda, Malindi and Nanyuki. Enter your dates and times to see the offices and categories that can actually be booked.
What documents do I need at pick-up?
You will normally need an original valid driving licence, a passport or accepted identity document, the voucher and an accepted card in the main driver's name. Always check the conditions of your offer.
Do I need an International Driving Permit in Kenya?
Kenyan rules provide limited validity for certain foreign licences or International Driving Permits, commonly up to 90 days from entry. Confirm that your document is recognised and accepted by the supplier.
Can I hire a car without a credit card?
It depends on the supplier and rate. Some offers may accept a named debit or prepaid card, while others require a credit card. Check the vehicle details, deposit and accepted card schemes.
How much is the security deposit?
There is no single national amount. It varies by supplier, vehicle, cover and card, and is stated in the conditions of the selected offer.
Can I cross a border or take the hire car on a ferry?
Only with written permission. Suppliers may prohibit borders, parks, tracks or ferries and require specific documents and insurance.
Which vehicle category should I choose?
A compact can suit cities and the coast; parks and remote areas require a category expressly authorised for the roads you plan to use.
