Traveling with a large group or family in Kenya can be an exciting and rewarding experience, especially when exploring the country’s breathtaking national parks, scenic highlands, and vibrant cities. To make the most of your journey, choosing the right car rental option is essential. Whether you are heading out on a safari, taking a road trip along the coast, or navigating city streets, having a spacious, reliable vehicle ensures comfort, convenience, and flexibility for everyone. Kenya offers a wide range of rental vehicles suited for group travel, including vans, minibuses, and 4x4s with extended seating. These options provide enough room for passengers and luggage while allowing families and groups to travel together without splitting up. With the right rental, you can enjoy quality time on the road, share experiences, and create lasting memories. In this guide, we explore the best Kenya car rental options for large groups or families.
Car Rental Options
- Safari Van
A safari van is specifically designed for adventures, particularly in wildlife areas. These vehicles are built to accommodate larger groups while providing comfort and a good view of the surroundings. A key feature of a safari van is its open roof or pop-up roof design, which allows passengers to stand and observe wildlife. This feature is invaluable when you’re on a safari, as it provides an unobstructed view of animals in their natural habitat. Inside a safari van, you will find comfortable, spacious seating designed to ensure passengers are comfortable even during long journeys.
The large windows enhance visibility, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenic views outside. Moreover, safari vans often come with ample storage space, accommodating luggage, food supplies, and equipment needed for an adventure. This design makes them ideal for group travel, allowing you to pack everything you need without worrying about space. In addition to their practical features, some safari vans are often equipped with conveniences such as air conditioning, charging ports for devices. These amenities enhance the travel experience, making long drives more enjoyable. Renting a safari van is an excellent choice for families or groups planning a trip to national parks or wildlife reserves.
- 6-Seater Vehicle
A 6-seater Vehicle is a versatile option for smaller families or groups. These vehicles are slightly smaller than safari cars but still provide ample space for passengers and luggage. One of the primary benefits of a 6-seater Vehicle is its comfort. Designed to seat six passengers comfortably, these cars often feature spacious legroom and headspace, ensuring a pleasant journey even during longer trips. In terms of storage, 6-seater Vehicles offer a decent amount of space for luggage, making them a practical choice for family trips or group outings.
Another advantage of renting a 6-seater Vehicle is its mobility. Their smaller size makes them easier to drive through city streets or navigate narrow roads, which can be especially helpful in urban areas. This convenience, combined with their cost-effectiveness, makes 6-seater Vehicle a popular choice for families or small groups looking for a reliable and comfortable mode of transportation.
- 8-Seater Vehicle
An 8-seater vehicle is an excellent option for larger families or groups. With seating for eight passengers, this vehicle is ideal for family members, group vacations. Like the 6-seater, the 8-seater vehicle also offers comfortable seating and enough space for passengers to enjoy the ride without feeling uncomfortable. One of the standout features of an 8-seater vehicle is its flexibility. While it accommodates more people, it often comes with enough storage space for luggage, sports equipment, or any other gear you might need during your trip. This makes it a convenient choice for families or groups who want to travel together while bringing along everything they need.
Additionally, many 8-seater vehicles are equipped with modern amenities, such as air conditioning, a fridge, charge sockets, with a pop-up roof for excellent game viewing and photographing. These features can make long journeys more enjoyable, especially for kids. Renting an 8-seater Vehicle ensures that everyone travels together, fostering a sense of unity and making shared experiences more memorable.
What to Consider When Renting a Vehicle for Group Travel
When choosing the right vehicle for your group, there are several factors to consider to ensure you select the best option for your needs.
- Group Size: Understanding how many people will be traveling with you is crucial in choosing the right vehicle. If you have a large family or group, a safari van or an 8-seater Vehicle may be the best choice. For smaller groups, a 6-seater Vehicle might suffice. Make sure to count everyone who will be traveling to avoid any surprises when it’s time to get in the vehicle. For a group of 7 to 8 people, a standard van may be enough. Keep in mind that passengers will also bring bags, so don’t fill all available seats without considering luggage space.
- Luggage Space and Storage Options: Large groups usually travel with a lot of luggage especially on longer trips or when heading to the airport, safari, or a coastal holiday. Therefore, it’s important to consider the amount of luggage space available in the vehicle. Choose a vehicle with a spacious trunk or additional storage space, such as roof racks or trailers. Always ask the rental company how many large suitcases the vehicle can carry comfortably, and if roof racks or trailers are available if you need them.
- Type of Trip: The nature of your trip can also influence your vehicle choice. If you are going on a safari or heading into rugged terrain, a safari van may be more suitable due to its specialized design and features. If your trip is more urban, a 6-seater or 8-seater vehicle will provide comfort and convenience without needing the specific features of a safari van. However, if you plan to visit national parks like Maasai Mara or Samburu or take a road trip to remote regions, a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended. Vehicles like extended Land Cruisers or 4WD safari vans with pop-up roofs are perfect for off-road travel. They offer better ground clearance, stronger suspension, and more durability on bumpy or unpaved roads. Always match your vehicle to your route to avoid breakdowns and discomfort.
- Budget: Budgeting is a major part of group travel. Although larger vehicles may cost more to rent, the cost per person can be quite low when split among the group. Always ask for a full quotation that includes all costs, such as rental fees, insurance, driver fees (if applicable), mileage limits, and taxes. Avoid companies that offer very low rates but add hidden fees later. It’s also a good idea to compare prices from multiple providers and check what’s included in the package. A transparent rental agreement will help you avoid surprises and stay within budget.
- Rental Duration: Think about how long you will need the vehicle. Most rental companies offer daily, weekly, or monthly rates. Longer rentals often come with discounts, so check if that applies to your situation. Planning your trip’s duration can also help you save on costs and ensure you choose the best vehicle for the length of your trip.
- Fuel Efficiency: Fuel costs can add up quickly when you’re traveling long distances or using a large vehicle. That’s why it’s important to ask about the vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Diesel-powered minibuses and 4x4s are more fuel-efficient than petrol models and are widely used in Kenya for group travel. Confirm whether the vehicle uses petrol or diesel, and budget for fuel based on your estimated mileage. You can also ask the rental company about the average kilometres per litre (km/l) for the vehicle you’re considering. This helps you plan better and avoid overspending during your trip.
- Insurance and Safety: Ensure that the rental company provides comprehensive insurance coverage. It’s essential to understand what is included in the insurance policy and whether you need additional coverage. Safety features in the vehicle, such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control, are also important to consider, especially when traveling with family or a group.
- Rental Company Reputation: Choose a reputable rental company with good customer reviews. Look for one that offers reliable vehicles, excellent customer service, and transparent rental agreements. Reading reviews from other customers can give you insight into their experiences and help you make an informed decision.
- Comfort and Onboard Features: When traveling as a group, comfort is a top priority especially on long drives. Look for vehicles that offer comfortable seats with enough legroom for all passengers. Air conditioning is a must in Kenya’s hot climate, particularly if you are traveling to coastal areas or during the dry season. Entertainment systems, such as music players or video screens, can help keep children and passengers entertained. Other useful features include USB charging ports, reclining seats, and large windows for scenic views. For safaris, a pop-up roof allows everyone to enjoy wildlife sightings without having to leave the vehicle.
- Hiring a Driver vs. Self-Drive: Another key decision is whether to hire a professional driver or go for a self-drive rental. For large groups, hiring a driver is often the safer and more convenient option. A local driver knows the roads, handles navigation, and can offer helpful travel tips. They also take the stress off group members and allow everyone to relax and enjoy the journey. On the other hand, a self-drive option can offer more flexibility and privacy, but only if someone in your group is comfortable and experienced driving in Kenya. Always consider your route, driving conditions, and group dynamics before making this decision.
- Early Booking and Availability: Large vehicles are not as common as smaller ones, and during Kenya’s peak travel seasons such as Christmas, Easter, and the great migration period in July to October demand increases sharply. To avoid disappointment, book your vehicle early, preferably several weeks or months in advance. Early booking also gives you a wider selection of vehicles, better rates, and enough time to clarify terms with the rental company. Some companies also offer discounts for early reservations or long-term rentals. Always confirm your booking in writing and keep all receipts and agreements for reference.
Conclusion
When traveling with a large group or family in Kenya, choosing the right rental vehicle is essential for comfort, safety, and convenience. From spacious safari vans and minibuses to full-sized 4×4 Land Cruisers and tour buses, there are plenty of options to suit different group sizes and travel needs. Whether you are exploring national parks, heading to the coast, or attending a special event, planning ahead and selecting a reliable vehicle ensures a smooth journey. Consider your group size, luggage, terrain, and budget, and work with a reputable rental company to enjoy a hassle-free and memorable trip across Kenya.
