Self-Drive means that you hire or rent a car to drive yourself, as opposed to getting a driver to chauffeur you around. Self-drive is ideal for individuals going for a business meeting, family vacations, or executive retreats. Below is a step-by-step guide on how one can hire a self-drive car in Kenya.
Safari Imports offers premium car hire in Nairobi and beyond, from refined executive vehicles for business travel to capable 4x4s built for unforgettable off-road adventures. The right car, for the right journey. Call/ WhatsApp 0717200956 or email info@safarimports.co.ke
- Choose the Vehicle
Here, you get to select a vehicle based on the trip you are about to undertake and your planned budget. Whether you will be driving in town or going off-road, you will be advised accordingly on why a particular car is best for a certain terrain or not.
- Make a Reservation
You will provide us with your;
- Name
- Telephone number
- Pick-up location
- Pick-up date & time
- Return date & time
- Vehicle category (hatchback, sedan, compact SUV, full-size SUV, Minivan)
- Intended destination
- Provide Your Documents
For Kenyan citizens, the requirements are;
- A valid Kenyan driving license
- National ID or Passport
- Contact details
- Security deposit
- Payment for the rental
For foreign visitors, the requirements are;
- Passport
- Valid driving license from the country of residence
- International driving permit (Where Applicable)
- Security deposit
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- Make the Payment
Partial deposit when booking and balance at collection
- Pay the Security Deposit
The security deposit protects the rental company from;
- Vehicle damage
- Missing equipment
- Traffic fines
- Parking fines
- Fuel shortages
- Late-return charges
- Lost keys
- Interior damages
- Inspect the Vehicle Before Leaving
Before driving away, inspect the exterior, interior, engine bay, tires, and the suspension system.
- Sign the Rental Agreement
This is effectively the agreement between you and the rental company. It normally states;
- Vehicle registration
- Rental period
- Daily rate
- Security deposit
- Insurance terms
- Insurance excess
- Fuel policy
- Mileage restrictions
- Permitted destinations
- Additional driver rules
- Late return charges
- Accident procedure
- Breakdown procedure
- Traffic-fine responsibility
- Cancellation terms
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- Collect the Vehicle and Drive it Yourself
Once the vehicle is handed over to you, you become responsible for operating it according to the rental agreement and Kenyan traffic laws.
- What Happens if the Car Breaks Down?
Contact the rental company immediately. The company may provide;
- Roadside assistance
- Recovery
- Replacement vehicle
- Mechanical support
- Towing
- What Happens After an Accident?
If you are involved in an accident;
- Stop and check whether anyone has been injured
- Contact the rental company
- Notify the police where required
- Photograph the accident scene
- Photograph damage to the rental vehicle
- Record the other vehicle’s registration number
- Obtain witness information where possible
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- Watch Out For Late Returns
You might be charged an extra fee for not keeping to your side of the agreement when the car is returned past the agreed date.
Safari Imports offers premium car hire in Nairobi and beyond, from refined executive vehicles for business travel to capable 4x4s built for unforgettable off-road adventures. The right car, for the right journey. Call/ WhatsApp 0717200956 or email info@safarimports.co.ke
To buy spare parts, accessories, and body kits, visit: SAFARI SPARES






