10 Cheapest Car Hire Services In Nairobi
Are you planning a trip to Nairobi and need a reliable car hire service? Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or local resident, finding the cheapest car hire services in Nairobi can make all the difference in your travel experience. This comprehensive guide will help you discover best companies, compare pricing, and choose the perfect vehicle for your needs.
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For many, the appeal of driving in Nairobi is flexibility. Renting a car lets you visit city attractions and distant parks at your own schedules. Local companies compete on price: e.g., Kenan Travel & Tours (CBD office) charges just KSh3,000/day for a Toyota Premio or Corolla. Self-drive rentals give tourists independence, while businesses may arrange chauffeurs or corporate packages. In the sections below we compare Nairobi’s most affordable car hire companies and share expert tips to score a great deal on your next rental.
Top 10 Cheapest Car Hire Services in Nairobi
Discover best logistics companies in Nairobi for fast, affordable, and reliable delivery, freight, and warehousing solutions. Compare services and get the best deals.:
1. Metro Car Hire Services
It’s located on the 5th Floor of Standard Street in Rehema and can be reached at +254 721 271503. This Travelers’ Choice award–winning agency holds a perfect 5.0-star rating from 59 customer reviews, reflecting its dedication to timely airport pickups and drop-offs, transparent pricing, and a fully wheelchair-accessible facility. With a diverse fleet of compact cars, SUVs, and vans, Metro Car Hire Services caters to both corporate and leisure travelers seeking an affordable car hire solution in Nairobi.
2. Isura Car hire and Tours Limited
They operates from Marsabit Plaza on Ngong Road and is available at +254 769 532480 or via its user-friendly website at isuracarhire.com. Boasting a 4.9-star rating from 92 reviews, Isura emphasizes transparent pricing with no hidden fees and offers a wide range of vehicles from compact city cars to rugged 4x4s ideal for safari excursions. Their automated booking system and comprehensive support make them a top choice for budget-conscious travelers.
3. TWIXT CAR RENTAL, LEASING & LOGISTICS KENYA
They services Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu from its Lotus Plaza office. Contactable at +254 768 218962, this provider maintains a solid 4.8-star rating from 48 reviews. TWIXT specializes in both short-term rentals and long-term leasing, offering well-maintained vehicles, professional logistics support, and flexible packages tailored for corporate clients and group travel.
4. Hire N’ Drive Kenya Ltd.
It is situated in Milimani Business Park and can be reached at +254 722 417475. With a 4.3-star rating from 111 reviews, Hire N’ Drive offers both standard car rentals and recreational vehicle hires, complete with assistive hearing loops, gender-neutral restrooms, and multiple free parking options. Their versatile fleet and inclusive accessibility features deliver value for families and business travelers alike.
5. Kellymax Tours and Car Hire
They are stationed at Parklands Road and is accessible at +254 701 504082. Earned a 4.9-star rating from 304 reviews, Kellymax is renowned for affordable self-drive cars and chauffeur-driven services. Leveraging deep local knowledge, they craft custom travel itineraries and maintain competitive pricing for both urban transfers and extended safari trips, making them a go-to for budget-savvy tourists.
6. ROYAL UMBRELLA RENT CAR
They operates from Fourth Parklands Avenue and a second location on Riara Close, both reachable via +254 743 330251. This women-owned business has garnered a 4.9-star rating from 501 reviews, highlighting its exceptional customer service and a fully wheelchair-accessible office. Royal Umbrella’s fleet spans economy models to premium SUVs, with attractive long-term rental and corporate leasing discounts.
7. Instant Drives Rental
It is based on Fourth Parklands Avenue and can be contacted at +254 712 054450. With a 4.9-star rating from 174 reviews, Instant Drives Rental is praised for its seamless booking process, punctual vehicle delivery, and modern amenities such as NFC mobile payments. Their commitment to vehicle quality and customer convenience makes them a top affordable option in Nairobi.
8. Unicorn Rent a Car Limited
It is located on Muthithi Road and available at +254 717 600100. This agency holds a 4.6-star rating from 149 reviews and offers a broad spectrum of services including airport shuttles, chauffeur-driven tours, and self-drive rentals. Unicorn’s well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicles and family discount packages provide reliable and budget-friendly transport solutions.
9. Porto Car Hire Kenya
Porto Car Hire Kenya operates from Moktar Daddah Street and can be reached at +254 723 607140. Rated 4.9 stars by 132 reviewers, this women-owned agency distinguishes itself with clear pricing, hassle-free booking, and a diverse fleet suited for both city travel and off-road adventures. Porto’s attentive customer support and transparent policies make for a smooth budget car hire experience.
10. Avenue Car Hire & Leasing
Avenue Car Hire & Leasing is based on Westlands Road and reachable at +254 722 827440. Earning a 4.7-star rating from 89 reviews, Avenue combines clean, well-serviced vehicles with dependable pickup and drop-off services. Specializing in both leasing and short-term rentals, Avenue Car Hire & Leasing offers straightforward pricing and flexible contracts that accommodate the needs of Nairobi’s local businesses and international visitors alike.
Why Rent a Cheap Car in Nairobi?
- Flexibility & Freedom: Renting a car offers complete control over your itinerary. You can explore Nairobi’s sites (like National Park or Karen Blixen Museum) on your own schedule, avoiding the wait times of public transport or taxis.
- Budget-Friendly Travel: Good research pays off. Local agencies often have lower rates than international chains, with economy cars starting around KSh3,000–4,000 per day. Booking online or in advance can get you discounts.
- Convenience: Hotels, airports and downtown all have car rental desks. For example, Kenan Travel quotes JKIA-to-city transfers at ~KSh3,000 for an 8-seater van. Many of these companies offer 24/7 airport pickup.
- Variety of Vehicles: Even on a budget, you can find a range of cars. Nairobi rental fleets include compact hatchbacks, family sedans and SUVs. Vendors like Vismart offer economy models (e.g. Honda Fit, Nissan Note) from KSh3,000/day, while larger vehicles (e.g. Mazda CX-5) start around KSh7,000.
Comparison of Key Cheap Car Hire Services
| Company | Location | Typical Price Range | Services | Contact |
| Twixt Logistics | Parklands, Nairobi | KSh3,000–25,000/day | Self-drive rentals (cars/SUVs) | +254 768 218962 |
| Kenan Travel & Tours | Nairobi CBD | KSh3,000/day – KSh5,000/day | Car hire, airport shuttles, tours | +254 020 2212298 |
| Bamm Tours & Safaris | Nairobi | KSh5,000–10,000/day | Car hire, self-drive rentals | +254 712 004 003 |
| Vismart Car Rentals | Nairobi | KSh3,000–7,000/day | Car hire (self-drive, airport) | +254 799 913 533 |
Tips for Finding Cheapest Car Hire Services In Nairobi
- Compare Multiple Companies: Use online portals or call several agencies to compare quotes. Local vendors often undercut international brands. For example, Economy Bookings notes drivers can be hired from about $45/day (≈KSh5,000) with Kenyan firms. Read customer reviews and ask about mileage limits or hidden fees.
- Book Early and Off-Peak: Advance booking (notably outside holiday seasons) often yields lower rates. Weekday rentals or longer-term deals may be cheaper per day. In general, prices tend to rise as the pickup date approaches.
- Check Policies Carefully: Always review insurance, deposit and mileage terms. Some agencies offer unlimited mileage, while others charge extra beyond a limit. Confirm what insurance is included (full coverage is worth the peace of mind). Always carry a valid driver’s license and ID in Kenya.
- Look for Discounts & Perks: Many companies run promotions (e.g. discounts for weekly rentals, credit card deals or group bookings). Ask if the agency offers free upgrades or additional drivers for local contacts. Consider signing up for loyalty programs
- Verify Company Credentials: Choose reputable, licensed firms. Reliable companies will have clear fleet listings and contact info. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true (especially unmarked mini-dealer ads). A quick check: established firms often have offices near Westlands, CBD or JKIA, and allow online reservations.
Type of Services Offered In Accordance To Needs
- For Tourists & Self-Drive: Self-drive rentals are ideal for sightseeing. Most companies (above) rent out 2WD cars to SUVs for Nairobi road trips. Make sure the car is suitable for city traffic and any off-road excursions (GPS recommended).
- Airport Car Hire: If you’re arriving at Jomo Kenyatta or Wilson airports, pre-book a pickup or meet-and-greet. Many car rentals companies offer airport drop-off/pickup, sometimes bundled with a car hire package. For example, Kenan Travel lists a JKIA-to-city transfer at ~KSh3,000 (in an 8-seater van). Always specify your flight details to avoid delays.
- Car Hire for Business: Business travelers often need reliable sedans or SUVs with drivers. Companies like Call A Ride specialize in corporate rentals and can handle staff airport transfers and office commutes. Expect daily corporate rates in the KSh4,500+ range. These services may include extras like meet-and-greet and flexible billing.
- Rentals in Nairobi CBD: If you’re in the city center (CBD, Westlands, Parklands), many of these car rental companies have local branches. Walk-in inquiries at offices can sometimes get last-minute deals, but prices are generally higher than online. Consider a pickup outside peak traffic hours. Also check for car rental desks at major shopping malls (e.g. Yaya Centre) which may offer weekend specials.
Conclusion
Renting a car in Nairobi doesn’t have to break the bank. By comparing rates and booking smartly, you can find economy rentals from KSh3,000–5,000 per day. For added value, explore package deals (like weekly rates or including airport transfer). Always read reviews and confirm what’s included before paying.
Ready to hit the road? Check out our related blog posts on [Traveling in Kenya] and [Kenya Safari Tips] for more ideas. When you’re set, book your Cheapest Car Hire Services In Nairobi today: contact one of the listed providers or use our online booking portal for instant quotes. Safe travels!
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