Nairobi Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Nairobi

Renting a car in Nairobi provides the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for those looking to visit popular attractions such as Nairobi National Park, which offers outdoor adventure experiences, or Karura Forest, ideal for scenic walks and exploration. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and plan flexible travel routes to these sites without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Additionally, having a car allows you to discover neighbourhoods like Westlands, with its Nairobi National Museum and Arboretum, or Kilimani, home to Uhuru Park and Nairobi Gallery. You can also venture to Syokimau, where you can appreciate both the African Heritage House and the natural beauty of Nairobi National Park. For families or groups, a rental car provides ample space for everyone and their belongings, making it convenient to travel together. Overall, renting a car in Nairobi enhances your adventure and exploration, enabling you to experience the vibrant culture and stunning scenery of this metropolis with ease.

Most popular car rentals in Nairobi

• Midsize: This car option is perfect for accommodating 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples or families. With a midsize vehicle, you can enjoy a comfortable ride while having ample space for your luggage, allowing you to explore Nairobi and its surroundings with ease and convenience.
• Compact SUV: Suitable for 5 travellers and capable of carrying up to 3 medium suitcases, the compact SUV is a versatile choice. Whether you're travelling solo, with a partner, or as a family, this vehicle offers a balance of space and manoeuvrability. It's particularly well-suited for navigating both urban and rural areas around Nairobi.
• Fullsize Van: Ideal for larger groups, the fullsize van accommodates up to 10 travellers and can handle up to 6 large suitcases. This option is perfect for large families or groups seeking to travel together. With plenty of room for everyone and their belongings, you can comfortably embark on your adventures around Nairobi without worrying about space constraints.

Top rated car suppliers in Nairobi

• Greenmotion: Greenmotion is a popular choice for travellers in Nairobi, offering a single rental location in the city. Known for its excellent value, the most booked vehicle with this supplier is the Compact car, which is perfect for navigating urban areas. Customers appreciate the flexibility and convenience of renting from Greenmotion, making it a solid option for those looking to explore Nairobi and its surroundings at their own pace.
• AutoUnion: AutoUnion stands out with two rental locations within Nairobi, providing travellers with more accessibility. This supplier is favoured for its Economy and Mini cars, which are ideal for budget-conscious visitors or those seeking a nimble vehicle for city driving. AutoUnion's reputation for customer service and a diverse fleet makes it a reliable choice for a seamless rental experience during your stay in Nairobi.

Where to stay in Nairobi

• Nairobi West: Known for its outdoor adventures and scenic experiences, Nairobi West is an excellent choice for families and nature lovers. This neighbourhood is close to key attractions like Uhuru Park, ideal for family outings, and the national parks, perfect for an adventure holiday. The area also features various shopping centres and malls, catering to all your retail needs.
• Westlands: A vibrant neighbourhood popular among families and business travellers, Westlands offers a blend of culture and city life. Explore the Nairobi National Museum for a taste of local history or enjoy the serene Arboretum for outdoor activities. With numerous shopping areas, cafes, and bars nearby, Westlands provides a convenient and lively atmosphere for your stay.
• Syokimau: As a growing city within Nairobi County, Syokimau is perfect for families and those seeking outdoor pursuits. The nearby Nairobi National Park is a significant highlight, showcasing the stunning scenery and adventure opportunities. With shopping centres and dining options readily available, Syokimau offers a balanced blend of leisure and convenience for your trip.

10 tips to save on your car rental 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 those summer days, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover 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're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally 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 the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—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 before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, 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 should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to bypass extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting 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 moderately low and demand is low. This is closely followed by July, which tends to have the lowest demand of the year. April and May also offer fair prices with average demand levels. However, February is typically the most expensive month, featuring moderately high prices and average demand, making it a busy time for rentals. March usually sees high demand, further contributing to the overall price increase.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	67.1°F (19.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	68.9°F (20.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
March	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
April	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
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	High	Moderately Low
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 High
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	Average	Moderately High
November	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average