A right 4×4 vehicle is very suitable when you are planning a safari in Kenya. It will
determine the enjoyment you will get and also determine the less trouble you will find as you
navigate the rough terrain that you may encounter when having an off-road safari.
Car hire with a driver or a self-drive in Kenya requires a 4×4 because these often have a high
ground clearance that enables smooth navigation on rugged terrain without damaging the
under carriage and big tyres that have power in all of them.
All 4×4 are very good for an off-road safari in Kenya but the choice that will bring you
enjoyment on your adventure will matter. Here are some factors that will guide you on your
choice of a 4×4.
Number of people: The 4×4 you choose can always depend on the number of people
intending to explore Kenya and also the choice of either self-drive or car hire with a driver. A
14-member group will need to hire a safari van, a group of 8 will require a land cruiser
extend and 7 a land cruiser hard top.
The choice you making will also determine your clear view especially during game drive in
national parks so if it is a large group, you ought to opt for a car with a pop-up roof
modification or with large windows.
The budget: All 4×4 safari vehicles are priced differently depending on the car hire company.
Large 4×4 safari vehicles are often expensive compared the small ones. For example, a safari
van goes for $100 per day for both self-drive or with a driver.
For those who would love a luxurious trip, a land cruiser extended is a good alternative that is
only hired with a driver at a fee of $200 per day. Therefore, your budget will determine the
4×4 vehicle that will suit your adventure.
Vehicle condition: One should ensure they browse well through the vehicle options and come
up the very best alternative to fit their trip. It is wise to choose a well-maintained vehicle that
will not keep breaking down during the adventure thus ruining enjoyment
Vehicle features: For one to choose the right 4×4 vehicle, consider the activities you intend to
do in the field. Such as, if you are intending to do game drives, choose a 4×4 with a pop-up
roof, large windows and comfortable seats. The adventure will therefore be safer and more
enjoyable.
4x4 Vehicles you can choose from for a safari in Kenya
Land Cruiser Hard Top
This is also a large vehicle that can contain 5-10 persons with fuel capacity of 90-130litres
and consumption of 10-14 litres per 100 kilometres depending on the engine type and driving
conditions. It also has a 4-wheel drive train.
Land Cruiser Prado
With a seating capacity of 7 passengers, with a fuel capacity of 87 to 110 litres. It has a well-
appointed cabin with soft touch materials, advanced climate, control, and ambient lighting to
create a serene atmosphere with adjustable seats.
Hiace Safari Van.
It is a KDH 206V, with 3.0-litre 1KD-FTV diesel engine, for fuel efficiency, with a
transmission of 9 to 12km/l and translates to approximately 8.3 to 11.1 L/100km. It has a
good fuel economy depending on the terrain and driving style and when well maintained, has
a very low fuel consumption.
Land Cruiser Extended
It is a large vehicle that can harbour seven to eight persons, having 5 doors. It has a 4-wheel
drive train and 5 speed manual transmission, modified with a pop-up roof to a better
experience during game drives. It can be rented at a pocket friendly price of $180 per day.
Toyota RAV4
It is compact cross over SUV having a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, having a capacity of -folding
rear for cargo, with bucket seats on the interior. The Toyota RAV4 also has both front wheel
drive and full time 4-wheel drive with an agility and driving enjoyment on various terrains,
very excellent in crossover.
In conclusion, for one to enjoy a safari in Kenya, whether on or off road, their choice of a
vehicle will highly determine it for every vehicle has its own level of capacity of navigation
of the different terrains.