A Guide to Driving in Kenya: All you need to know

Planning to have a self drive road trip in Kenya? Knowing and following the traffic rules and regulations on Kenyan roads will guarantee you a safe and convenient driving experience.

Kenya, being an amazingly adventurous destination, exploring such a tourist rich country becomes easier with a 4×4 rental car. However, before you attempt to book a rental car to self drive Kenya, you must familiarize yourself with the following guidelines.

Generally, Kenya offers an extensive road network with well paved and maintained routes making it easy for local and International travelers to navigate and explore its diverse landscapes. Below are the essential guidelines of self driving in Kenya for a safe and reliable experience.

What are the road conditions in Kenya?

Kenya is composed of well paved roads, smooth highways and on the other hand rugged terrains and potholes especially outside the cities and busy towns. In the remote areas of Kenya, travelers must be so cautious as they drive since most of the routes have very rough road conditions.

In busy towns, cities and highways, driving in Kenya happens to be easier given to the smoothness of the road networks. However, travelers need to exercise a high level of patience while driving through busy towns and cities due to heavy traffic especially in peak hours.

Do I need an International Driver's License to self drive in Kenya?

No, you don’t need an International driver’s license to self drive in Kenya. Your valid National Driving Permit is enough to allow you drive in Kenya. However, if your national driving license is not in English, you should then move with an International Driver’s License just in case you get disturbed by the traffic police.

On what side of the road should I drive in Kenya?

Driving in Kenya is done on the Left.