DRIVING GUIDE

What to know before driving in Kenya

Driving in Kenya requires planning, especially off the main roads. A thorough briefing and reasonable daily distances matter more than an overly ambitious itinerary.

A Land Cruiser on a track during a Kenyan self-drive trip

Licence and documents

Travel with the documents confirmed before departure. Requirements may change and depend on the national licence presented. We will request the information needed for your rental contract.

  • Permis valide
  • Identification
  • Contract and assistance contacts
  • Prior authorisation for any border crossing

Traffic and pace

Traffic drives on the left. Keep your distance, anticipate slowdowns and avoid night driving. Pedestrians, animals, motorcycles and slow vehicles require constant attention.

Paved roads and tracks

Main roads do not always reflect conditions over the final kilometres. A track can change quickly due to rain, roadworks or other vehicles.

  • Ask for current road conditions
  • Do not blindly follow an app’s suggested shortcut
  • Adjust speed to visibility
  • Avoid a track if conditions exceed your experience

Fuel and range

Fill up before remote areas and do not plan with a minimal fuel reserve. Distances, diversions and station opening hours can affect actual consumption.

In wildlife areas

Stay on authorised routes, keep a respectful distance and follow ranger instructions. A 4x4 never gives you priority over animals or permission to leave the tracks.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Questions about your rental

Which side of the road do you drive on in Kenya?

Traffic drives on the left.

Can you drive at night?

We recommend planning stops to arrive before dark.

Can I cross a border with the vehicle?

Only with prior authorisation and confirmed documents for the countries concerned.

YOUR SAFARI STARTS HERE

Receive a proposal tailored to your trip

Dates, vehicle, camping and route explained clearly in English.

Get my quote