Kenya is a land of incredible beauty, and a self-drive adventure is the best way to experience it. However, Kenyan roads can present unique challenges, especially for first-time visitors. At Bamm Tours, your safety is our priority. Use this guide to understand the essential rules, local road etiquette, and tips for a confident and stress-free journey.

1. The Golden Rules: Laws & Regulations.

These are the non-negotiable legal requirements for driving in Kenya.

Rule	Details
Driving Side	Kenya drives on the LEFT (left-hand traffic), and the steering wheel is on the right side of the car (like in the UK, Australia, and South Africa).
Documents	Always carry your valid original driver’s license (home country or International Driving Permit) and your passport/ID. Your Bamm Tours rental contract and the car’s insurance documents should remain in the car.
Seatbelts	Mandatory for all occupants, front and back seats.
Mobile Phones	Strictly prohibited to use a mobile phone (handheld) while driving. Use a hands-free kit or pull over safely to make a call.
Drinking & Driving	Zero tolerance. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and heavily penalised.

2. Kenyan Speed Limits (Private Vehicles)

Traffic police are strict about speed limits, often using mobile speed cameras. Adhere to these limits to avoid fines:

Area	Speed Limit	Notes
Urban Roads (Cities, Towns, Trading Centres)	50 km/h	The most common area for speed traps. Slow down as soon as you see a town sign.
Rural Roads / National Routes	80 km/h	Applies to main roads passing through smaller areas.
Highways (Single Carriageway)	100 km/h	The maximum speed limit for private vehicles on major highways.
National Parks / Safaris	35 km/h to 50 km/h	Varies by park; often lower than 50 km/h. Slow speeds protect wildlife and passengers.

3. Road Hazards & Defensive Driving

The most successful drivers in Kenya are those who drive defensively and are constantly alert.

Watch Out For:

1. Potholes & Bumps: Unmarked speed bumps (often called rumble strips) are very common near towns, villages, and construction sites. Always anticipate them, as hitting one at speed can severely damage the car’s suspension or tyres (damage that is often not covered by standard insurance).

2. Pedestrians & Livestock: People, cyclists, motorcycles (Boda Bodas), and livestock (cows, goats, donkeys) frequently use the side and even the middle of the road, especially in rural areas. Slow down and give them a wide berth.

3. Matatus & Trucks: Public service vehicles (Matatus) and large trucks often overtake aggressively or stop abruptly without warning. Give them extra space and anticipate sudden moves. Be predictable, not courteous.

Key Safety Practices:

1. Avoid Night Driving: We strongly recommend avoiding driving long distances outside of major cities after dark. Visibility is poor, and hazards are difficult to spot.

2. Over-Taking: Only overtake when you have absolute visibility and are certain the vehicle you are passing is not simultaneously being overtaken itself. When overtaking a large truck, flash your lights briefly to signal your intention.

3. Keep Your Distance: Maintain a larger following distance than you might at home to account for unexpected stops and obstacles.

4. Understanding Road Etiquette.

Local drivers communicate using their headlights and indicators in specific ways.

1. The Overtaking Signal: When you are driving slowly, and a car behind you wants to pass:

   • Flash your left indicator: Tells the driver behind you that the road ahead is clear and they can overtake.

   • Flash your right indicator (or turn it on/off): Means the road ahead is NOT clear, and they must wait.

2. The Horn/Hoot: Used more frequently than in many Western countries. It is generally used to:

   • Alert other drivers to your presence (e.g., around a blind corner).

   • Warn another driver of an impending hazard (e.g., they are swerving).

   • Do NOT use it aggressively.

5. Navigating Roundabouts.

Roundabouts are common in Kenyan cities. Like the UK system, traffic already in the roundabout has the right of way.

• Entering: Yield to traffic coming from your right.

• Lane Discipline: Choose the correct lane before entering. Stick to the outside lane if turning left or taking the first exit; use the inner lane if continuing straight or turning right.

• Signals: Indicate your intended exit before you reach it.

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Bamm Tours Driver Support:

Remember to always stay calm, be patient, and drive defensively. Should you encounter a police stop or have any confusion on the road, your Bamm Tours 24/7 Roadside Assistance number is always available for support and guidance.

Ready to rent a reliable car and hit the road with confidence?

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