Rent a Car in Moi International Airport

Convenient Car Rental Pickup at Moi International Airport

Located just 10 km (6 miles) west of Mombasa Island, Moi International Airport (IATA: MBA, ICAO: HKMO) is the second-busiest airport in Kenya, serving as the main entry point for travelers heading to the Kenyan coast. 

It features a modern terminal, efficient immigration clearance, and clearly marked car rental counters just after baggage claim.

A car rental at Moi International Airport gives you full control of your coastal itinerary—especially valuable when public transport is slow and taxis become expensive for long distances.

Final Rentals ensures a fast pickup experience—book your rental online and skip the paperwork queues. With your vehicle ready on arrival, you can hit the road minutes after landing, whether heading to Diani Beach, Watamu, or downtown Mombasa.

Proximity to Key Destinations

• Mombasa Town Centre: ~10 km (20 minutes) via Airport Rd and Makupa Causeway—historic old town, Fort Jesus, local markets.

• Nyali Beach: ~17 km (30 minutes) north—popular beach resorts, restaurants, and water parks.

• Diani Beach: ~40 km south (2+ hours due to Likoni Ferry)—idyllic white sand beach, ideal for longer stays.

• Haller Park: ~15 km—nature park with giraffes, reptiles, and walking trails.

• Watamu & Malindi: ~120–130 km (3–4 hours) north—scenic coastal drives, marine parks, coral reefs.

Having your own vehicle makes these destinations easily accessible, especially early mornings or off-peak hours when taxis or shared vans are unavailable or unreliable.

About Moi International Airport (MBA)

Airport Code: IATA MBA | ICAO HKMO

Location: Port Reitz area, Mombasa County, Kenya

Opened: Originally a WWII airbase, now a major civilian airport handling over 1.5 million passengers annually

Terminals: Two terminals (domestic and international) connected through a central lobby

Facilities & Services

• On-site car rental counters

• ATMs, Forex exchange, and mobile money (M-Pesa) kiosks

• Wi-Fi hotspots in lounge areas

• Airport café, snack stalls, and duty-free shopping

• Ample shaded parking bays for pickups, drop-offs, and returns

• Accessibility services are available upon request

• Short wait times compared to Nairobi, making it ideal for seamless car rental pickup
  
  

Car Hire at Moi International Airport (MBA)

After you exit customs, look for the “Car Rental” signs within the arrivals hall. Final Rentals representatives will assist you with documentation, vehicle walkaround, and explain return instructions. Booked in advance, your vehicle is cleaned, fueled, and ready in the nearby parking lot.

For returns, signage directs you to the designated rental area near the terminal. Ensure you refill the tank (full-to-full policy) and allow buffer time for inspection. Drop-boxes for after-hours returns are also available.

Transportation Between the Airport and Nearby Areas

• Driving: Your own rental gives unmatched convenience—especially useful if you're staying outside the main city or exploring multiple beach towns.

• Public Transport: Matatus (minibuses) and tuk-tuks operate on irregular schedules, often overloaded and without luggage space.

• Taxi / Ride-Hailing: Taxis are available, but can be expensive for long distances. Apps like Bolt operate, but surge pricing and wait times can vary during busy seasons.

• Car Rental: Offers a blend of flexibility, comfort, and savings for day trips or longer regional drives.
  
  

Other Features & Travel Tips

• Driving Side: Kenya drives on the left (right-hand steering wheel).

• Speed Limits: 50 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on open roads, and up to 110 km/h on highways.

• Road Conditions: Generally good near Mombasa, though potholes and uneven surfaces appear in rural routes. A 4x4 or SUV is ideal for beach resorts off main roads.

• Parking: Paid parking is available in Mombasa town and beach areas; many resorts offer free guest parking.

• Fuel Prices: Fuel is widely available—expect to pay around $1.40–$1.50 USD per litre (check local rates).

• Navigation: GPS or Google Maps works well; downloading offline maps is useful for rural trips.

• Busy Periods: December holidays and August school breaks—book early to secure your preferred vehicle.

• Extra Add-ons: Consider booking a child seat, mobile Wi-Fi, or additional insurance coverage for stress-free travel.

Contact Information

Address: Moi International Airport (MBA), Port Reitz Rd, Mombasa, Kenya
Phone: +254 (0)41 343 1008
Website: https://www.kaa.go.ke/

How to Book Your Rental Car at Moi International Airport (MBA)

Step 1: Go to Final Rentals’ website or mobile app. Enter “Moi International Airport (MBA)” as your pickup location and set your dates.

Step 2: Choose from available vehicles:

• Economy: Ideal for city driving, fuel-efficient

• Sedans: Comfortable for couples or business travelers

• SUVs / 4x4s: Recommended for long-distance or off-road routes (like Diani or rural areas)

• Vans / 7-Seaters: Great for groups or families with beach gear

• Luxury Cars: Premium experience for business or special events

Step 3: Add extras if needed (child seat, GPS, mobile hotspot), review rental terms, and proceed to secure payment.

Step 4: Receive confirmation instantly with pickup bay location and local contact info.

Step 5: Upon arrival, show your booking confirmation, a valid driver’s license, a passport, and a payment card. Complete vehicle inspection and you're set to explore Mombasa and beyond.

Car Rental at Moi International Airport:  FAQs

What do I need to rent a car at Moi International Airport?

For car rental at Moi International Airport, show your driver's license (you've had it for 2 years or more), your passport, and a credit card to pay a deposit. If you're from another country, bring an International Driving Permit too. You should have one year of driving practice to avoid trouble. This makes it easy to drive to Mombasa's beaches right away, without waiting at the Mombasa airport car hire spot.

How old do I have to be for a car rental at Moi International Airport?

You need to be 23 or older for car rental services at Moi International Airport. Some Mombasa airport car rental places say okay to 21, but they add money for the tricky roads by the sea. If you're under 25, you might pay extra. Check the rules first so you don't get turned down. It helps keep things safe for family fun at the ocean.

Do I need a special permit to drive when renting a car at Moi International Airport?

Get an International Driving Permit with your regular license for easy car hire at Moi International Airport. It's important that your license is in English, so police won't fine you during checks. It lasts three months and makes stops less scary. This fixes paper problems, letting you go to places like Fort Jesus after your Mombasa flight without worry.

What papers do I need for car rental at Moi International Airport?

To rent a car at Moi International Airport, bring your real driver's license, International Driving Permit, passport with visa, and a credit card in your name. If you're from Kenya, add your national ID. Keep copies on your phone for safety. This list stops silly errors at the desk, so you can reach Mombasa's fun markets fast after landing for a great coastal trip.

How much does it cost to rent a car at Moi International Airport?

Car rental at Moi International Airport costs start at $41 a day for small, fast cars like the Nissan Note, $70-$120 for strong SUVs for Shimba Hills fun, and $200 or more for pretty open-top cars. Rent for more days to save 15-25%, plus 16% tax. Book early in busy seasons for good prices.

Does the car rental at Moi International Airport come with insurance?

Your car rental package at Moi International Airport includes basic cover for crashes and theft, but you might pay $2,000-$3,000 for big repairs. Pick extra insurance with no out-of-pocket cost for bumpy rides to the Likoni Ferry. Feel free to help any time if you get stuck. It makes you feel safe checking out Mombasa's mangrove paths. 

What are the fuel policies for car rental at Moi International Airport?

Cars come with a full tank—give it back full to skip big gas bills. Use apps to find gas places, since some spots run out. This simple rule stops fights when you return it, good for coast trips.

What if I have an accident with my rental car?

If there's an accident, stop in a safe spot, call the police for a paper report, and ring the company quickly. Take pictures, share phone numbers, but don't say who did wrong. They fix things fast and give a new car the next day.

Do I pay extra to drop off my rental car somewhere else from Moi International Airport?

For one-way car rental at Moi International Airport, add some fees to leave it in a city like Nairobi, because they bring it back. Not every place lets you—check for your path. Bring it back to save money, no surprises for trips.

Where do I get my rental car at Moi International Airport?  

Pick up a car rental at Moi International Airport just after you arrive, at booths in the welcome area or a short ride away. Show your booking note. They work from morning till night. No hot waits, so you head fast to Mombasa's sea path for right-away beach joy. 

What tips help me drive safely after renting a car at Moi International Airport?  

After car rental at Moi International Airport, drive on the left, keep under 80 km/h on sea roads, and watch for people on foot. Rain makes puddles, camels cross paths—skip night drives without lights. Lock doors from thieves, use phone maps.

What happens if I cancel my car rental booking at Moi International Airport?  

Cancel car rental at Moi International Airport two days early for all money back; one day loses 10%, nearer takes half—no cash after you start. Send an email for changes. This fair way helps with late planes or rain, keeping your money safe.

How early should I book a car rental at Moi International Airport?

It’s best to book a car rental at Moi International Airport online as early as possible—especially in high season. Advance booking ensures the preferred vehicle class, better pricing, and availability. Last‑minute bookings often mean fewer choices or higher costs.

Is it safer to pick up a rental car at Moi International Airport rather than downtown?

Renting a car at Moi International Airport provides direct access right after landing—no need for additional transfers, luggage drags, or waiting for taxis. The car rental desks at MBA are in or near the arrivals terminal, so you can be on the road quickly. It means less hassle and more control of your schedule.

What should I inspect before leaving Moi International Airport with a rental car?

Before driving off from Moi International Airport, inspect your rental car for pre‑existing damage (scratches, dents, and interior condition). Confirm mileage, fuel level, and ensure return instructions are clear. If you spot any issues, document them and alert the rental provider. This protects you from being held responsible later.