Nairobi Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Nairobi

Renting a car in Nairobi offers visitors the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage while visiting key attractions such as Nairobi National Park, which is perfect for outdoor adventure and scenery. Additionally, Karura Forest provides an excellent setting for those seeking outdoor experiences, while Uhuru Park is ideal for family-friendly activities within the city.

Having a car allows you to easily access popular neighbourhoods like Westlands, where you can visit the Nairobi National Museum and Arboretum. You can also explore Syokimau, home to the African Heritage House and City Square, or Kilimani, which features Uhuru Park and the Nairobi Gallery. The convenience of a rental car means you can plan your day trips and sightseeing without relying on public transportation, enabling you to fully enjoy your adventure in and around Nairobi.

Most popular car rentals in Nairobi

• Standard SUV: This car option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. It's an ideal choice for couples, families, or groups who wish to explore Nairobi together. The Standard SUV offers a combination of comfort and practicality, making it great for navigating both city roads and more rugged terrains in the vicinity.
• Compact: The Compact car is suitable for up to 5 travellers and has the capacity for 3 medium suitcases. This makes it a versatile option for solo travellers, couples, or families looking to manage their luggage easily while enjoying the flexibility of exploring Nairobi. Its size also allows for easier parking and maneuverability in the busy city streets.
• Premium SUV: Designed for business travellers, the Premium SUV accommodates up to 5 passengers with room for 2 medium suitcases. This option combines luxury with practicality, making it a great choice for those who require a more upscale travel experience while navigating Nairobi. The Premium SUV offers comfort and a touch of sophistication, ideal for those travelling for work or special occasions.

Top rated car suppliers in Nairobi

• Hertz: With 2 rental locations in Nairobi, Hertz provides a convenient option for travellers seeking flexibility during their explorations. Known for its reliable service, the most popular vehicles rented from Hertz are the Standard SUV and Compact models, perfect for navigating both city streets and off-road adventures.
• Avis: Located in Nairobi, Avis is a great choice for those looking for premium options. With a focus on customer satisfaction, this supplier offers the Premium SUV and Compact as the most booked vehicles. Avis ensures that you can travel in style and comfort while enjoying the stunning sights of Nairobi.
• Europcar: Europcar has one rental location in Nairobi and is well-regarded for its selection of vehicles. The Economy and Premium SUV models are the most popular choices among customers. This supplier offers a great balance of affordability and quality, making it an excellent option for those exploring Nairobi and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Nairobi

• Nairobi West: Nairobi West is a vibrant neighborhood known for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. It is home to popular attractions such as Uhuru Park, ideal for family outings and outdoor holidays, and City Square, a cultural hub. The area also boasts convenient shopping malls and centers, making it a great base for exploring the nearby national park and nature reserve.
• Westlands: Westlands is a bustling area perfect for families and business travellers alike. With numerous shopping centres, food options, and bars, it offers a lively urban experience. Key points of interest include the Nairobi National Museum, showcasing rich history, and the Arboretum, a beautiful spot for outdoor activities. The proximity to the national park and convention centre adds to its appeal for both leisure and business trips.
• Syokimau: Syokimau is a family-friendly city that combines outdoor fun with business opportunities. It features various shopping malls and dining options, catering to diverse tastes. Notable attractions include Nairobi National Park, known for its scenery and adventure, and the African Heritage House, which offers cultural insights. The local nature reserves provide an excellent backdrop for exploration and relaxation, making it a worthwhile stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, use Expedia's filters to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your travel date. By booking early, 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 manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might 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 rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance while booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
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 June, when prices are low and demand is moderate. July also offers low prices, but with even less demand, making it a quiet time for rentals. While August sees average prices and demand, April stands out as the most expensive month, with high prices and average demand. May follows closely with similarly high costs and moderately high demand, making these months less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

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