Car Rentals in Nairobi, KEN

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Nairobi

Renting a car in and around Nairobi offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans, a rental car is ideal for those looking for outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. You can visit key attractions such as Nairobi National Park, located just a short drive away, where you can enjoy wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Karura Forest and Uhuru Park are also conveniently accessible by car, providing excellent opportunities for outdoor activities and family outings.

Additionally, having a rental car allows you to explore popular neighbourhoods like Westlands, Syokimau, and Kilimani. In Westlands, you can visit the Nairobi National Museum and Arboretum, while Syokimau offers attractions like the African Heritage House. Kilimani features Uhuru Park and the Nairobi Gallery, making it easy to experience the vibrant culture of Nairobi. Whether you are travelling with family or planning a day trip, a rental car ensures you can navigate the city comfortably and make the most of your journey.

Most popular car hires in Nairobi

• Economy: The Economy car is an excellent choice for those seeking a cost-effective option while exploring Nairobi. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and allowing for up to 2 medium suitcases, it is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families. This car type provides the perfect balance of comfort and practicality, making it easy to navigate the city's roads and manage your luggage efficiently.
• Midsize: For travellers looking for a bit more space, the Midsize car is a popular choice in Nairobi. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and has room for up to 3 large suitcases, making it particularly suitable for couples or families with more luggage. The Midsize option offers a great blend of comfort and versatility, allowing you to enjoy your journey while having ample room for all your belongings.
• Premium SUV: The Premium SUV is the preferred option for business travellers visiting Nairobi. With the capacity to accommodate 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases, this car type combines luxury with practicality. The Premium SUV offers a comfortable ride while ensuring you have enough space for both passengers and business essentials. Ideal for those who appreciate a touch of elegance during their travels, this option elevates your car hire experience in Nairobi.

Top rated car suppliers in Nairobi

• Greenmotion: Greenmotion operates 1 rental location in Nairobi, making it a convenient choice for travellers seeking flexibility. This supplier is particularly popular for its Premium SUVs and Compact cars, which are great options for navigating both the city and surrounding areas. With their focus on eco-friendly vehicles, Greenmotion also appeals to environmentally conscious travellers looking to explore Nairobi sustainably.
• AutoUnion: With 2 rental locations within Nairobi, AutoUnion provides excellent accessibility for those wanting to hire a vehicle. Their most booked options include Fullsize Vans and Compact Vans, making them ideal for families or groups travelling together. The variety of vehicles ensures that you can manage your luggage with ease while enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace.
• Europcar: Europcar has 1 rental location in Nairobi, offering a straightforward solution for car hire needs. Their most popular vehicles are Premium SUVs and Standard cars, which are perfect for both urban adventures and excursions to nearby attractions. Europcar's reputation for quality vehicles and reliable service makes them a trusted choice for visitors looking to make the most of their time in Nairobi.

Where to stay in Nairobi

• Nairobi West: Nairobi West is a vibrant neighbourhood ideal for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. It offers a scenic experience with attractions like Uhuru Park, perfect for family outings, and City Square, which immerses visitors in local culture. The area boasts convenient access to shopping malls and centres, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore urban life while being near nature reserves and national parks.
• Westlands: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Westlands is a bustling neighbourhood catering to both business and leisure travellers. It features numerous shopping centres and dining options, including cafes and bars. Key points of interest include the Nairobi National Museum, which showcases local history, and the Arboretum, ideal for outdoor activities. The area is also close to City Hall, a historic civic building, enriching the cultural experience.
• Syokimau: Syokimau offers a blend of family-oriented and business-themed experiences, making it a convenient base for various travellers. With easy access to shopping centres and a selection of dining options, visitors can enjoy both comfort and convenience. Notable attractions nearby include Nairobi National Park, which is renowned for its outdoor adventures, and the African Heritage House, a museum that provides cultural insights. The area's proximity to nature reserves enhances its appeal for those seeking scenic adventures.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Nairobi

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in bustling areas. Mid-size rentals offer a reasonable compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to evade additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Nairobi

The best value period to rent a car in and around Nairobi is July, when prices are at their lowest and demand is minimal. August also offers moderately low prices and average demand, making it a good option as well. On the other hand, June tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand that can push prices up. March is particularly busy, with high demand and moderately high prices, which can make it less ideal for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	67.1°F (19.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
February	68.9°F (20.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
March	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
April	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
May	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	64.2°F (17.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
August	64.8°F (18.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
September	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
October	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
November	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average