Top Scenic Drives in Kenya
Exploring Nature’s Beauty Behind the Wheel
Kenya, with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture, is a perfect destination for scenic road trips. Whether you're navigating rugged terrain, winding through lush forests, or driving along the coast, Kenya offers some of the most picturesque drives in Africa. In this blog, we’ll highlight the top scenic drives in Kenya and recommend the ideal cars from RentNRide’s fleet for an unforgettable road trip experience.
1. The Nairobi to Maasai Mara Drive
Route: Nairobi – Narok – Maasai Mara (Approx. 270 km)
This drive takes you from the bustling city of Nairobi through the Great Rift Valley and into the heart of the Maasai Mara. The route offers panoramic views of rolling savannahs, dramatic escarpments, and the vastness of the Mara plains, where wildlife roams freely.
Recommended Car: For a trip to the Maasai Mara, you need a tough and reliable vehicle. The Toyota Land Cruiser is your best bet. It’s built for off-road driving, offering comfort and durability, ensuring you enjoy the rough terrain without any hiccups.
2. The Nairobi to Nanyuki Drive
Route: Nairobi – Thika – Karatina – Nanyuki (Approx. 195 km)
This scenic drive leads you to the foothills of Mount Kenya, passing through tea and coffee plantations and offering stunning views of the mountain and the expansive Laikipia plains. The fresh mountain air and picturesque farmlands make it an ideal escape from the city.
Recommended Car: The Mazda CX-5 is perfect for this drive, blending luxury with functionality. It’s ideal for cruising on highways and offers enough versatility for the slightly rougher roads near Nanyuki, all while providing a comfortable, stylish ride.
3. The Nairobi to Mombasa Drive (Mombasa Road)
Route: Nairobi – Athi River – Voi – Mombasa (Approx. 485 km)
This is one of the most popular road trips in Kenya, connecting the capital to the coastal city of Mombasa. As you drive along Mombasa Road, you’ll pass through vast plains, wildlife corridors, and rolling hills. You can even make a pitstop at Tsavo National Park to spot elephants and other wildlife.
Recommended Car: The Toyota Noah is ideal for families or groups making this journey. It offers ample space for passengers and luggage while ensuring a smooth drive on both highways and coastal roads.
4. The Rift Valley Circuit
Route: Nairobi – Naivasha – Nakuru – Baringo (Approx. 320 km)
For a scenic road trip with breathtaking landscapes, the Rift Valley circuit offers it all—sparkling lakes, towering cliffs, and wildlife galore. You can explore Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru’s flamingos, and Lake Baringo’s tranquil shores on this unforgettable drive.
Recommended Car: The Toyota Fielder is a great option for this circuit. It’s fuel-efficient, perfect for long distances, and offers ample space for your travel gear. Plus, it’s easy to navigate on both highways and dirt roads leading to the lakes.
5. The Nairobi to Amboseli Drive
Route: Nairobi – Emali – Kimana – Amboseli National Park (Approx. 240 km)
Driving to Amboseli National Park offers unparalleled views of Mount Kilimanjaro as the park is located at the foot of Africa’s highest mountain. The drive itself is scenic, with expansive plains and occasional wildlife sightings along the way.
Recommended Car: For this trip, the Toyota Wish is a reliable and comfortable option, offering enough space for passengers and gear. It’s perfect for the smooth highways and manageable on the park’s gravel roads.
6. The Nairobi to Lamu Coastal Drive
Route: Nairobi – Garissa – Garsen – Lamu (Approx. 460 km)
If you’re up for a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path journey, the drive to Lamu offers a unique coastal experience. Passing through remote areas and eventually reaching the historic Swahili town of Lamu, this route offers both coastal views and a chance to explore Kenya’s northern coastline.
Recommended Car: The Mazda Demio is a compact, fuel-efficient option for this drive. It’s great for maneuvering through narrow town roads and is ideal for solo travelers or couples seeking a low-cost, scenic adventure.
7. The Nairobi to Mount Elgon Drive
Route: Nairobi – Eldoret – Kitale – Mount Elgon (Approx. 400 km)
If you’re looking for a less-traveled route, a road trip to Mount Elgon on the western side of Kenya is perfect. The drive takes you through lush, forested areas and the fertile highlands of the Rift Valley, providing picturesque views of both agriculture and nature.
Recommended Car: For a mix of highway and rugged terrain, the Nissan Note is a fantastic choice. It’s compact and efficient on fuel but offers enough power to handle hilly and uneven terrain.
Conclusion
Kenya’s scenic drives offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, allowing you to explore the country’s diverse landscapes from the comfort of your vehicle. At RentNRide, we have the ideal cars to match your journey, from the rugged Toyota Land Cruiser for off-road adventures to the compact Mazda Demio for solo travels. Whatever the destination, our fleet ensures that your road trip is smooth, safe, and memorable.
So, pack your bags, choose your route, and let us provide the perfect car for your next scenic drive through Kenya! Contact RentNRide today to book your ride.
