Rent a Car at Eldoret International Airport

Convenient Car Rental Pick‑Up at Eldoret Airport

Eldoret International Airport (IATA: EDL, ICAO: HKEL) is located just northeast of Eldoret city in Kenya’s Uasin Gishu County, making it a convenient gateway to the Rift Valley region. Car rental desks are typically located in or near the arrivals hall of the terminal.

With a booking through Final Rentals, your vehicle will be ready for collection soon after you land—helping you skip the delays of taxis or shuttle lines.

Renting a car from EDL gives you immediate freedom to drive towards scenic destinations like Eldoret town, Kitale, Mount Elgon, or onward to Nairobi at your own pace.

Proximity to Key Destinations

• Eldoret City Centre: Approx. 8 km (about 10–15 minutes) via the A104/Moi Road, perfect for shopping, cafés, and local culture.

• Kitale and Eldoret‑Kitale Road: Roughly 60 km (≈1 hour) northwest for excursions into green highland landscapes.

• Mount Elgon National Park: Around 120 km (2–2½ hours) east via well‑marked roads; ideal for nature and hiking adventures.

• Nairobi via Highway A104: About 290 km (≈3½–4 hours) south on the main dual carriageway—make it a self‑drive journey with a rental from EDL.
  Having your own rental car from EDL lets you explore beyond the city, stop when you like, and avoid fixed transport schedules.

About Eldoret International Airport (EDL)

Airport Code: IATA EDL | ICAO HKEL
Location: Near Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya — the airport serves both domestic and international flights, positioned at an elevation of approximately. 2,150 m.

Facilities and Services

While smaller than some Kenyan hubs, EDL offers arrivals halls, car rental counters, parking zones, and good road links into the region. Public facilities include the basic amenities you need to launch your rental journey smoothly.

Car Hire at Eldoret Airport (EDL)

Once you have collected your baggage, follow the signage for “Car Rental / Car Hire” to reach the relevant desks. With your Final Rentals booking in hand, you’ll present your driver's licence, passport, and payment card, inspect your vehicle, and drive off. When returning your rental, follow the “Car Rental Return” signage, park in the dedicated area, refuel if required, and drop off keys as instructed by your rental provider.

Transportation Between the Airport and the Region

• Driving: Renting a car is the most flexible and comfortable way to access Eldoret, Kitale, Mount Elgon, and rural Rift Valley destinations, especially if you intend to stop at multiple locations.

• Public Transport: Buses and matatus do operate, but they tend to follow fixed routes and schedules, and may not serve remote destinations or allow for spontaneous stops.

• Taxi / Ride‑share: Options exist from the airport to the city or nearby towns, but can become expensive for longer drives and less practical for sightseeing stops.

• Car Rental: Provides independence, value, and convenience—especially useful if you have luggage, plan multi‑point trips, or want to explore off the beaten track.

Other Features and Travel Tips

• Driving Side: Kenya drives on the left; the vehicle steering wheel is on the right‑hand side.

• Speed Limits: Typically around 50 km/h in urban zones; main highways allow up to 100–110 km/h—always check posted signs and road conditions.

• Road Conditions: The main routes from EDL (like the A104) are paved and well‑used. If you’re venturing onto secondary or dirt roads (to rural areas or mountain tracks), consider a vehicle with higher clearance or 4×4.

• Parking: In Eldoret city or smaller towns, use secure parking lots; avoid leaving valuables visible in the car when parked overnight.

• Fuel Availability: Fuel stations are widely available along major highways; most car rental agreements operate on a “full‑to‑full” fuel policy — return with a full tank to avoid extra charges.

• Booking Advice: Rental demand may rise during holidays or business events. Early online booking via Final Rentals secures better vehicle choice and rates.

• Extras: When renting at EDL, you may want to add GPS or mobile Wi‑Fi if your route takes you through rural zones with limited signal.

Contact Information

Address: Eldoret International Airport (EDL), Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya
Phone: +254 (0)53 2039000
Website: https://www.kaa.go.ke/

How to Book Your Rental Car at Eldoret Airport (EDL)

Step 1: Visit the Final Rentals website or open the app. Enter “Eldoret International Airport (EDL)” as your pickup location, along with your pickup and drop‑off dates and times.

Step 2: Select your vehicle category based on your travel needs:

• Compact/Economy Cars: Great for city and short trips.

• Intermediate/Sedans: More comfort, luggage space for longer drives.

• SUVs/4×4s: Recommended if exploring rural tracks or highland areas around Eldoret.

• Vans/7‑Seaters: Ideal for families, groups, or if you have substantial luggage.

• Premium/Luxury Cars: For business travel or stl‑focused trips.

Step 3: Enter your personal and payment details. A credit card in the main driver’s name is usually required for the deposit. Confirm your booking and receive instant email confirmation.

Step 4: Review the rental terms — age requirements (often minimum 21 years; some vehicles require 25+), insurance details (Collision Damage Waiver, theft protection), fuel policy (typically full‑to‑full), mileage allowances, and any geographical restrictions (off‑road driving may be prohibited).

Step 5: On arrival at EDL, head to the rental desk, present your booking confirmation, driver’s licence, passport, and payment card. Carry out a vehicle inspection (noting any existing damage), ensure the correct fuel level is recorded, and drive away ready to explore.

FAQs About Rental Cars at Eldoret International Airport

How do I book a rental car at Eldoret International Airport?

You can reserve a rental car online in advance through the Final Rentals website and mobile app. Early booking ensures better rates and more vehicle choices. Many companies offering car rental at Moi International Airport also operate in Eldoret, giving travelers consistent service. Booking ahead helps avoid last-minute price increases and limited availability during peak travel seasons.

How much does a car rental at Eldoret International Airport cost?

Rental prices depend on car type, rental duration, demand, and insurance. Economy cars start from $30/day, while SUVs and 4x4s cost more due to the road conditions in the region. Booking early and comparing providers—similar to car rental at Moi International Airport—helps secure the best deal. Always check for taxes, security deposits, and fuel policies.

What documents are required to rent a car at Eldoret Airport?

You’ll need a valid driver’s license, national ID or passport, and a credit or debit card for the security deposit. Some companies request an International Driving Permit for foreign drivers. Requirements are similar to car rental at Moi International Airport, so preparing documents in advance speeds up the pickup process and avoids delays at the rental counter.

Is insurance included when renting a car at Eldoret International Airport?

Most car rentals offer basic insurance such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). However, it may not cover all damages or theft. You can upgrade to comprehensive coverage for peace of mind, especially for long drives or rough roads. Insurance options mirror those offered for airport car hire at Moi International Airport—clarify coverage before signing.

Can I get airport pickup for my rental car?

Car hire companies at Eldoret Airport provide convenient airport pickup and drop-off services. Your vehicle is usually parked near the terminal for quick collection. This is similar to car rental at Moi International Airport and saves time, especially for travelers on tight schedules. Always confirm pickup instructions in your booking confirmation.

What types of cars are available for rent at Eldoret Airport?

You can rent economy cars, sedans, SUVs, 4x4s, luxury cars, and vans, depending on the purpose of your trip. Travelers heading to rural areas often choose 4x4 vehicles for better road handling. 

Do rental cars at Eldoret International Airport come with unlimited mileage?

Some providers offer unlimited mileage, while others limit daily distance. Exceeding mileage caps can result in extra charges. If you plan long drives to towns like Iten, Eldama Ravine, or Kapseret, choose an unlimited mileage plan. This feature is also common with car rental at Moi International Airport, especially for tourists exploring wide areas.

Is it safe to rent and drive a car around Eldoret?

It’s generally safe if you follow local traffic rules and choose reliable rental companies. Many roads are well-maintained, though some rural areas require a 4x4. Choose a car with good tires and working lights. Similar to airport car hire at Moi International Airport, verifying safety features before driving ensures a stress-free experience.

How do fuel policies work when renting at Eldoret Airport?

Most rentals follow a full-to-full policy: pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. Some companies offer prepaid fuel options. Always check the fuel type—diesel or petrol—to avoid penalties. Fuel policies are similar to those used in car rental at Moi International Airport, where incorrect refueling leads to extra charges.

Can I hire a driver with my rental car?

Car rentals at Eldoret Airport offer chauffeur services for travelers unfamiliar with local routes. This is useful for business trips or long-distance travel. Hiring a driver adds an extra daily fee but provides convenience and safety. The service is also common with car rental at Moi International Airport, especially for visitors wanting a stress-free journey.

Are there hidden fees when renting a car at Eldoret International Airport?

Possible extra fees include late returns, additional drivers, insurance upgrades, child seats, GPS, and mileage caps. To avoid surprises, review the rental agreement carefully. Final Rentals outlines all charges clearly, similar to reputable car rentals at Moi International Airport.

Can I return the rental car outside business hours?

Some rental companies allow after-hours drop-off using key-drop boxes. However, the car is inspected the next day, so make sure you document its condition with photos. Policies resemble those of airport car hire at Moi International Airport. Always confirm after-hours rules to avoid charges for late returns or unverified vehicle condition.

Can I drive my rental car across different counties in Kenya?

Most rental agreements allow travel across counties. If you plan long trips to Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, or the Rift Valley, inform the provider in advance. Some may charge inter-county or long-distance fees. The same applies to car rental at Moi International Airport, where long-range travel often requires extended insurance.

What happens if the rental car breaks down?

You will get 24/7 roadside assistance, replacement cars, or repairs depending on the issue. Before leaving the airport, confirm emergency contacts and coverage terms. Breakdowns are rare with well-maintained cars, but planning avoids stress.

How do I get the best deal on rental cars at Eldoret Airport?

Book online with Final Rentals early, choose economy models, and avoid unnecessary extras. Look for weekly discounts or long-term rental offers. Renting during off-peak seasons also reduces costs. Similar strategies apply to car rental at Moi International Airport, where availability and demand significantly influence pricing.