What documents do I need to rent a car at Ukunda Airport?

To secure a car rental at Ukunda Airport, drivers must present an unexpired national driving licence held for over two years. International travellers must show a valid passport along with official Kenyan entry visa documentation. Additionally, a major credit card under the primary driver’s name is mandatory for processing security deposit pre-authorisations and completing total rental payments.

Is an International Driving Permit required for car hire at Ukunda Airport?

An International Driving Permit is not legally mandatory if your domestic licence is printed entirely in English. However, if your home driver's credentials use foreign scripts or other languages, an International Driving Permit paired with your original licence card is strictly required by Kenyan traffic law enforcement and Final Rentals to complete official identity verification upon arrival.

What is the minimum driver age for Ukunda Airport rental cars?

The standard minimum age for operating rental cars at Ukunda Airport is 23 years, provided the driver has held a full licence for at least two years. Drivers aged 21 to 24 may incur a daily young driver surcharge, while premium 4x4 categories or high-capacity minivans often require the primary operator to be 25 or older.

How does the rental car airport pickup procedure work at Ukunda Airport?

Upon landing at Ukunda Airport, proceed through the compact arrivals area to clear exit doors. Handover points for rental car pickup at Ukunda Airport operate directly outside the terminal gate. A designated representative meets you to verify credentials, perform a joint vehicle condition walkaround, collect the security deposit authorization, and deliver your vehicle keys for immediate departure.

How far is Ukunda Airport from Diani Beach and surrounding resorts?

Ukunda Airport is situated in Kwale County, directly adjacent to the main coastal strip. Driving a rental car around to nearby Diani Beach resort properties takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes over a brief 3-kilometre distance. Popular destinations such as Tiwi Beach to the north or Msambweni to the south are reachable within 15 to 30 minutes.

What types of vehicles are available for SUV car rental at Ukunda Airport?

Options for SUV car rental at Ukunda Airport include compact crossover models like the Suzuki Jimny alongside full-sized 4x4 options like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and RAV4. These elevated four-wheel-drive vehicles provide indispensable ground clearance, durable suspension, and high traction needed for navigating unpaved coastal resort tracks, sandy access roads, and nearby safari nature reserves.

Which vehicle class is best suited for budget travel around Diani?

Choosing an economy car hire offers an economical solution for localized coastal driving along paved thoroughfares. Compact hatchbacks such as the Toyota Vitz or Nissan Demio feature excellent fuel efficiency, affordable daily rates, and easy maneuvering through bustling trade centres. They comfortably suit couples or solo travellers sticking primarily to bitumen roads surrounding the beach strip.

What are the estimated daily, weekly, and monthly costs for car hire at Ukunda Airport?

Daily vehicle rental rates at Ukunda Airport start around $40 to $60 USD for compact hatchbacks. Weekly hires generally average between $250 and $400 USD depending on seasonality and vehicle class. Monthly rentals provide substantial long-term discounts, ranging from $850 to $1,500 USD, excluding optional protection packages, additional equipment, or excess reduction add-ons.

What insurance coverage is included with rental vehicle insurance at Ukunda Airport?

Standard rental vehicle insurance at Ukunda Airport includes basic Third-Party Liability along with a Collision Damage Waiver. Because standard coverages retain non-waivable financial excess responsibilities, travellers can select Super Collision Damage Waiver or Theft Protection add-ons to lower their personal financial exposure for chassis damage, windscreen cracks, or tyre punctures during their trip.

How are security deposits and excess charges handled for Ukunda Airport rentals?

During vehicle collection, a temporary security deposit hold is authorized on the primary driver's credit card. Depending on the selected vehicle class and insurance tier, deposit amounts range from $500 to $1,500 USD. This pre-authorisation covers potential excess claims or fuel imbalances and automatically releases following undamaged vehicle return to Final Rentals.

What are the road conditions and traffic rules near Ukunda and Diani?

Vehicles drive on the left side of the road throughout Kenya. While the main Diani Beach Road and Likoni-Lunga Lunga highway are paved, secondary side roads often consist of unpaved coral dirt or sand. Speed limits are strictly 50 km/h in urban areas and 100 km/h on highways. Drivers must remain watchful for speed bumps, pedestrians, and livestock.

How do fuel stations and refuelling policies work around Ukunda Airport?

Rental vehicles are typically provided with a full tank of fuel and must be returned full to avoid refueling surcharges. Major full-service fuel stations such as Total, Rubis, and Shell line the main A14 highway through Ukunda town. Station attendants handle fuel dispensing, and payments are accepted via cash, mobile money services, or standard debit and credit cards.

How do seasonal weather conditions impact driving around Ukunda?

Ukunda experiences warm coastal tropical weather, with average temperatures ranging between 24°C and 32°C year-round. The primary rainy season occurs from April to June, occasionally creating muddy conditions on unpaved resort lanes. The dry period from December to March brings clear skies and dry roads, making it ideal for smooth coastal driving and outdoor sightseeing trips.

Can I arrange a one-way rental or cross the Likoni Ferry?

You can pre-arrange one-way rentals from Ukunda Airport to Moi International Airport in Mombasa or Malindi, though one-way drop fees apply. If taking a road trip from Ukunda Airport toward Mombasa Island, vehicles must cross the Likoni Ferry channel. Make sure your rental agreement explicitly permits maritime ferry crossings before embarking on northbound coastal routes.

Is it better to book in advance or hire a car upon arrival at Ukunda Airport?

Reserving your vehicle online in advance guarantees model availability, locks in competitive daily rates, and expedites handover. Because Ukunda Airport is a regional airfield with limited on-site fleet storage, walk-up vehicle availability during peak holiday seasons can be severely constrained. Pre-booking through Final Rentals ensures seamless terminal handovers without unexpected rates or delay.

Ukunda Airport Car Rental (Diani Beach)

Rent a Car at UKA and Explore Kenya and South Coast Your Own Way

Pickup

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
Nairobi
Moi International Airport
Mombasa
Ukunda Airport
Ukunda
Malindi International Airport
Malindi
Nairobi Downtown
Nairobi
Nairobi SGR Terminus
Nairobi
Mombasa SGR Terminus
Mombasa

Drop-off

Please select pickup location first.

Date &Time

11/15/2026 10:00 AM 11/16/2026 10:00 AM

Driver Age

Free Cancellation

Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Final Rentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.

Fair Fuel Policy

You can return the car at the same fuel level as it was handed over to you and there will be no charges at all.

No Hidden Charges

Pay full rental amount at the counter. No need to pay online. We work on clear pricing policy, what you see is what you pay.

Easy Rental Car Pickup at Ukunda Airport

Welcome at Ukunda

When you step out of your small plane at Ukunda Airport, a Final Rentals team member is ready to meet you. They hold a sign with your name, so finding us is easy. We check your booking, give you the keys, and show you how the car works. Then your beach holiday can begin.

We Follow Your Plane

Many flights to Ukunda are on small planes, and times can change with the weather. Final Rentals watches your flight all the way. If your plane lands early, we get your car ready sooner. If it lands late, we move your pickup time. You never wait for no reason.

Quick Counter for Online Bookers

Book online first, and you can use our quick counter at UKA. You skip the wait and go straight to a special desk. Your papers are ready, and your keys come fast. We still walk around the car with you and write down any small marks.

Return the Car Before Your Flight

Giving your car back at Ukunda Airport is simple. Drive to the final rental return spot. Our team checks the car in a few minutes. You get a return confirmation, and then you walk to the small terminal. Roads near Diani can be busy, so we help you plan extra time.

Early and Late Flights

Some flights land late in the afternoon or leave early in the morning. Final Rentals can meet you at these times too. Tell us your flight time when you book. We can set up a safe key handover or key drop and a short car check with you.

Help With Beach Bags

We help you carry your bags at the curb when you pick up or return the car. We put your suitcases in the trunk and take them out at the end. This helps families with kids, divers with gear, and anyone with heavy luggage.

Your First Drive to Diani Beach

Before you leave the airport, we show you the best road to Diani Beach, your hotel, or the main road to Mombasa. We tell you about speed bumps, busy turns, and road work. We also remind you that Kenya drives on the left. This helps first-time visitors feel calm and ready.

Pay at Our Desk

You can pay for your rental at our desk. Final Rentals takes major credit cards. We show you the full price and any extras before you sign. The local currency is the Kenyan shilling (KES), and our team can answer easy questions about money. No hidden fees show up later.

Your Car Waits Right There

Some companies make you ride a bus to a car lot far away. With Final Rentals, your car is close to the small terminal. You do not need a shuttle or a long wait. This saves time after your flight.

Ask Our Local Team

The Final Rentals desk at Ukunda Airport is your place for help. Need an extra driver, a child seat, or a bigger car for a family trip? Ask us. Our team knows the airstrip and the South Coast roads well, so we can answer right away.

What to Know Before You Rent a Car at Ukunda Airport

Getting Your Car at the Airport

After you land at Ukunda Airport (UKA), get your bags and walk to the exit. A Final Rentals team member waits near the car rental area. Bring your driving licence, your passport, and a credit card in the main driver's name. A photo or phone copy is not enough.

Papers for Tourists and Residents

Visitors from outside Kenya should bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) with their home licence, mainly if the licence is not in English. Visitors from East African countries can usually drive on their own licence for a short stay. Keep your passport and rental papers in the car, because police checks are common on coastal roads.

Credit Card Rule

The rental company holds a deposit on your credit card at pickup. It is usually between USD $200 and $500, based on the car and the insurance you pick. You get the money back after you return the car. Cash, debit cards, and prepaid cards do not work for this deposit.

Child Seat Rules

Kenya's rules say young children should ride with a proper child restraint. Final Rentals suggests a safe, approved child seat for any child under about 135 cm tall. Ask for it when you book online, and it will be ready when you arrive.

Driving Rules and Traffic Rules

In Kenya, you drive on the LEFT side of the road. Speed limits are about 50 km/h in towns and up to 80 to 100 km/h on main roads, so follow the signs. The alcohol limit is about 0.08%, but the safest rule is not to drink and drive. Everyone must wear a seatbelt. Do not hold a phone while driving.

Tuk-Tuks, Motorbikes, and Animals

Coast roads are busy with tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis (called boda-bodas), minibuses (called matatus), bikes, and people on foot. Cows, goats, and monkeys sometimes cross the road too. Drive slowly, leave extra space, and watch for speed bumps on Diani Beach Road. Try not to drive at night.

The Likoni Ferry and Driving From Mombasa

If you drive from Mombasa to Diani, you may cross the Likoni ferry or use a bypass road. The ferry can have long lines, and it charges a small fee for cars. Ask us which way is best on your travel day. Plan extra time so you do not miss your flight.

Tolls, Fuel Costs, and Money

There are no toll roads between Ukunda and the beaches. Petrol costs about USD $1.30 to $1.50 per liter, and gas stations are easy to find in Ukunda. Many people use the mobile money service M-Pesa, but cards work at hotels and big shops. Keep some Kenyan shillings (KES) for small shops and markets.

Insurance and CDW

Every car rental in Kenya comes with basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and third-party cover. If the car gets damaged, you pay a set amount first. This is called the excess. Potholes, sandy tracks, and heavy traffic can cause damage. We suggest Super CDW (Zero Excess) so you worry less.

Age Rules for Renting

You usually need to be at least 23 years old to rent a car. Drivers under 25 may pay a young driver fee of about USD $10 to $20 per day. Bigger 4x4 cars may require drivers who are 25 years old. Please ask us before you book.

Border Trips and If Your Flight Is Late

The Tanzania border at Lunga Lunga is about 50 km south. If you want to drive across, ask Final Rentals first, because you need written approval and special papers. If your flight is late, we usually keep your car for one to two hours after your first pickup time.

About Ukunda Airport (UKA)

Full Name: Ukunda Airport, also called Diani Beach Airport or Ukunda Airstrip. It is a small airport for local flights, in Kwale County on Kenya's south coast.

IATA / ICAO Code: UKA / HKUK

Location: Ukunda town, about 4 km (2.5 miles) from Diani Beach and about 30 km south of Mombasa Island. Moi International Airport in Mombasa is about 45 km to the north.

What You Can Find at the Airport

Ukunda Airport is small, so its services are simple. It is easy to walk around and very close to the beach hotels. At the airport, you can find:

● A small terminal building with check-in and security

● A cafe or kiosk with drinks and snacks

● Restrooms

● Car rental counters, including the Final Rentals counter near the exit

● A parking area close to the terminal

● A taxi and tuk-tuk stand outside

● A cash machine (ATM) and shops in Ukunda town, a short drive away

● Wi-Fi may be limited, so download maps before you go

Help for Passengers With Limited Mobility

Ukunda Airport is small, so please ask for extra help early. Tell your airline when you book your flight. They can plan wheelchair help and boarding support for you. Tell us too, so we can talk about the best car for you and have it ready near the exit.

Contact Details for the Airport

For flight news, lost bags, or airport questions, check the website or ask your airline. Final Rentals also puts a local phone number on your booking confirmation. You can call our team before you land or after you arrive.

Why This Airport Is Special: It is the closest airport to Diani Beach, one of the best-known beaches in Africa, with soft white sand and warm blue water. A small plane from Nairobi lands here in about an hour, so you skip the long drive from Mombasa. From here, you can reach monkey forests, the Shimba Hills, and boat trips to see dolphins.

Car Rental Prices at Ukunda Airport by Season and Car Type

Car Class Low Season (Mar–Jun, Nov) High Season (Jul–Oct, Dec–Feb)
Economy / Small (e.g., Toyota Vitz, Suzuki Alto) USD 30–40/day USD 45–60/day
Compact SUV (e.g., Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail) USD 55–75/day USD 80–110/day
4x4 Pickup / Large SUV (e.g., Toyota Hilux, Toyota Land Cruiser) USD 85–115/day USD 120–160/day
Minivan / Large Van (e.g., Toyota Noah, 9-seat van) USD 80–110/day
USD 110–150/day
Prices go up in the dry months (July to October) and in the holiday months (December to February), when many visitors come to the coast. A small car works well on Diani Beach Road, and a compact SUV is better for rough roads and the Shimba Hills. Always check if the price includes insurance and airport fees.

Car Class	Low Season (Mar–Jun, Nov)	High Season (Jul–Oct, Dec–Feb)
Economy / Small (e.g., Toyota Vitz, Suzuki Alto)	USD 30–40/day	USD 45–60/day
Compact SUV (e.g., Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail)	USD 55–75/day	USD 80–110/day
4x4 Pickup / Large SUV (e.g., Toyota Hilux, Toyota Land Cruiser)	USD 85–115/day	USD 120–160/day
Minivan / Large Van (e.g., Toyota Noah, 9-seat van)	USD 80–110/day	USD 110–150/day

From Ukunda Airport: Where to Drive

Place Distance from UKA Drive Time Road Type Best Car Type
Diani Beach 4 km 10 min Paved beach road Economy / Any
Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest 10 km 20 min Paved and dirt road Economy / Any
Tiwi Beach 15 km 25 min Paved road Economy / Any
Shimba Hills National Park 30 km 45 min Paved and gravel road Compact SUV recommended
Shimoni (Boats to Wasini Island) 55 km 1 hr 15 min Paved highway Compact / Any
Mombasa Old Town 40 km 1 hr 15 min–2 hr Highway and ferry route Compact / Any
Picking up your car at UKA puts you just minutes from Diani Beach, with wildlife and boat trips close by. Distances are approximate, and the Likoni ferry can add a long wait on the way to Mombasa. Rain can make dirt roads slippery, so choose a compact SUV for the Shimba Hills and drive in daylight.

Place	Distance from UKA	Drive Time	Road Type	Best Car Type
Diani Beach	4 km	10 min	Paved beach road	Economy / Any
Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest	10 km	20 min	Paved and dirt road	Economy / Any
Tiwi Beach	15 km	25 min	Paved road	Economy / Any
Shimba Hills National Park	30 km	45 min	Paved and gravel road	Compact SUV recommended
Shimoni (Boats to Wasini Island)	55 km	1 hr 15 min	Paved highway	Compact / Any
Mombasa Old Town	40 km	1 hr 15 min–2 hr	Highway and ferry route	Compact / Any

Ukunda Airport Car Rental: Why Choose Us

We Match the Lowest Price

Final Rentals promises low prices for car rentals at UKA. If you find a lower price for the same car, we will match it. The price you see at checkout is the price you pay. We never add forced extras at the counter. Your budget stays safe from booking day to return day.

Flight Delayed? Free Changes and Cancellation at UKA

Free Cancellation Plans can change fast, especially with small flights and coast weather. That is why we offer free cancellation before you travel. If your flight to UKA is late, we move your booking at no extra cost. Our team can change your dates any time.

Local South Coast Experts

When you book with Final Rentals, you work with a local Kenyan coast team. Our staff knows the Likoni ferry, the Diani roads, and the best times to drive. We give kind, personal service, and we treat every guest like a friend. You get honest local advice and clean, safe cars.