Budgeting for a Kenyan road trip or safari requires planning beyond the daily car rental rate. Hidden costs can quickly inflate your total budget.
At Bamm Tours, we believe in full transparency. This guide breaks down the three core variable costs you need to factor into your trip budget.
1. Car Hire Costs (The Foundation).
Your vehicle choice is the largest fixed daily cost. This is the fee paid to Bamm Tours and covers the vehicle, insurance, and maintenance.
Key Cost Components:
| Component | What it Covers | Budgeting Tip |
| Daily Rate | The price of the vehicle itself (e.g., KES 5,000 for a Saloon, KES 10,000+ for a 4×4 SUV). | The 4×4 Factor: If your trip involves serious off-roading (e.g., deep into the Maasai Mara), a proper 4×4 (like a Toyota Land Cruiser) is an essential, worthwhile investment. |
| Mileage | Ensure you understand if your quote is for Unlimited Mileage (best for long tours) or Limited Mileage (suitable for city drives). | Confirm with Bamm: Always confirm your mileage allowance to avoid unexpected per-kilometre fees. |
| Security Deposit | A one-time, refundable fee held against potential damages or breach of contract. | Plan for the Hold: Factor this into your initial cash flow, even though it is fully returned upon safe return of the vehicle. |
| Chauffeur Fee (Optional) | If you opt for a driver, you pay a daily fee (e.g., KES 2,500 – 4,500 per day), plus their accommodation/meals outside of major cities. | Tipping: Factor in a modest daily tip for your driver/guide (see Section 4). |
2. Fuel Costs (The Variable Expense)
Fuel is a major variable cost, especially on long safaris. Fuel prices are regulated by the government (EPRA) and can change monthly.
Current Approximate Fuel Prices in Nairobi (Nov 2025):
| Fuel Type | Approximate Price (Nairobi) |
| Super Petrol | KES 184.52 per litre |
| Diesel | KES 171.47 per litre |
Note: Fuel is slightly cheaper at the coast (e.g., Mombasa) and more expensive in remote upcountry locations. Always confirm current prices at the pump.
How to Estimate Your Fuel Budget:
- Check Your Car’s Efficiency: Ask Bamm Tours for the estimated fuel economy of your chosen vehicle (e.g., a standard SUV might consume 1 litre per 8-10 km).
- Estimate Distance: Use an online map tool to calculate your total round-trip distance (e.g., Nairobi to Maasai Mara and back is approximately 550km).
- Calculate: Total Distance / Fuel Efficiency times / Price per Litre = Estimated Fuel Cost.
| Example: Nairobi to Maasai Mara (Round Trip) | Calculation | Estimated Cost |
| Distance: | 550 km | |
| Fuel Efficiency: | 9 km per litre | |
| Fuel Needed: | 550/ 9 approx 61 litres | |
| Fuel Cost: | 61 litres X KES 184.52 | KES 11,255 |
3. Park and Conservancy Entry Fees.
For safari trips, these fees are a mandatory and significant daily cost, charged per person and per vehicle, per 24-hour period.
General KWS (Kenya Wildlife Service) Fees (Non-Resident Adult per Day):
| Park Category | Non-Resident Adult (USD) | Notes |
| Premium Parks (Amboseli, Lake Nakuru) | 90$ | Highest fees due to popularity and conservation value. |
| Urban Park (Nairobi National Park) | 80$ | Conveniently located but priced higher. |
| Wilderness Parks (Tsavo East/West, Meru) | 80$ | Standard fee for major safari parks. |
Vehicle Entry Fees (Per Vehicle, Per Day):
- Vehicles Less than 6 seats (most Bamm Tours SUVs) typically pay KES $600 per day for KWS parks.
Crucial Tip: 24-Hour Rule
KWS fees are calculated per 24 hours from the time of entry. You save money by entering as early as possible on Day 1 and exiting before the same time on your final day.
4. Other Budget Factors.
- Tolls: Kenya uses electronic tolls (e.g., Nairobi Expressway). Bamm Tours will advise on the best way to manage tolls for your hire.
- Accommodation: This is a major variable. Budget camping can be cheap, while a luxury lodge is several hundred USD per night.
- Gratuities (Tipping): Tipping is customary in Kenya. Budget approximately KES 500 – 1,000 per person, per day for your driver/guide, and smaller amounts for hotel staff.
Ready to budget with accuracy?
Contact Bamm Tours today with your itinerary and chosen vehicle, and we will provide a precise, all-inclusive budget estimation tailored to your trip!