
Driving or Road Traffic Rules and Regulations in Kenya 2024:
Driving/Traffic rules and regulations in Kenya are must to be observed whether you on a self-drive tour or driver guided safari. Kenya is an amazing destination with plenty for you to explore and experience.
Observing the country’s set rules and regulations guarantees you a safe and smooth road trip. Before you embark on actual road trip is important that you acquaint yourself to some or even all the driving or traffic rules in Kenya.
Here are Some of the Traffic Rules and Regulations in Kenya to Observe:
- Talking/texting on a mobile phone when driving is highly prohibited.
- Driving when drunk is against the laws of Kenya.
- Overtaking is not allows, especially when there is oncoming traffic.
- Avoid blocking other drivers while at the roundabout.
- If you want to overtake, ensure that you are not close to the next car.
- Traffic movement at the roundabout should take clockwise direction.
- Do not create traffic congestion or obstruction.
- Respect the set speed limits while driving regardless of the region you intend to visit for a vacation.
- Avoid driving in the middle of the road.
Safety/Health Regulations;
- Do not drive the car when you are tired. When you feel tired, find a place to park and have a short rest or even a nap. In case your colleague knows how to drive, feel free to exchange and this will allow you to rest too.
- Be mindful of other road users like cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.
- While at the roundabout, indicate to show your intention to turn right or left prior entering.
- Observe the driving speed limits at the roundabout which is normally 30km per hour. This can save you from traffic fines/get your license revoked.
- Avoid driving with poor defective vision.
- Do not drink and drive while in Kenya- it is highly prohibited.
- Safety belts should be on at all times when you are behind the wheels.
- Avoid any medication that can result in sleepiness.
- Make the best use of your horns to alert the rest of the road users of the car’s presence/approach or even to call attention to some hazard.
- Never be tempted to call or talk on phone when driving.
How is Driving in Kenya like – is it Right or Left?
Kenya is a left-hand drive nation and you should adjust before you embark on actual road trip. Kenya happens to be among the 13 countries in Africa that drive on this side of the road. In case you are not familiar with this, feel free to hire both a car and driver.
Important tips for first timers;
- Keep check of the blind spot before changing lanes and do this at all times.
- Be ready for any unexpected obstacles while on road for instance animals/fallen trees, etc.
- Respect the displayed speed limits and the rest of the traffic rules.
- When driving on narrow road/winding mountain passes, be extra cautious.
Driving Requirements
Driving in Kenya is open to everyone provided that you have the required documentation. Even if you are interested in a self-drive safari, you have a chance to embark on your journey to explore your desired destination. The essentials include a valid international driving/driver’s license or foreign driving license.
A valid passport plus other useful documents like car insurance papers shouldn’t be left out. Take note that the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) does provide foreign up to 90 days (approximately 3months) to drive on Kenyan roads without obtaining a local license. When this period elapses, a valid driver’s license will be required which you can obtain from the NTSA.
Whereas visitors have privilege to drive in Kenya with a foreign license, it is important that you also cross check your travel insurance to be certain that it is valid, especially for cases of accidents. Where incidents like accidents occur, do not hesitate to reach out to police or your local expert for quick assistance. Be aware of those who may want to exploit during such situations.
Can a tourist drive in Kenya?
Yes, driving in Kenya is open to everyone even if you are a tourist interested in a self-drive tour. What is important is that you should have a valid driver’s license/foreign driving license.
In case of road assistance
Where breakdown occurs, we have 24 hour customer service and before you set off we provide details of contact person you can get in touch for quick assistance. We respond to roadside emergencies as quickly as possible and please, don’t be tempted to repair/move the car to avoid further damage/injury.
Is it really safe to drive in Kenya?
Kenya is one of the safest destinations for short or long distance road trips. Whether you are on a self-drive or driver guided safari, you are rest assured for memorable vacation. While behind the wheels of your favorite rental car, always observe the road safety rules and regulations.
What is the speed limit in Kenya?
When driving in Kenya, keep the maximum speed limit of 100km/hr on highways in case of private car users. On rural and national routes, keep driving speed limit of 80km/hr and when you get to urban routes, keep your speed within 50km/hr. Failure to observe these speed limits may come with fines/penalties.
For tourist vehicles also considered to be Public Service Vehicles –PSVs, acceptable driving speed limit should be kept at 80km/h on highways, 60km/h on rural routes. In the National Parks, drive at least below 50km/h and to be on a safer side, don’t go beyond 35km/h.
Right of way in Kenya
Be aware of categories that should be granted right of way. These include police cars with sirens, emergency vehicles like fire truck/engine and ambulances, presidential convoy.
How can I rent a car in Kenya?
Renting a car for a road trip in Kenya shouldn’t stress you. Contact our team for to book your preferred rental car that suits your kind of adventure or road trip in Kenya.