Getting Around Diani Beach. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation in Diani

Public transport in Diani centers around shared minibuses, offering a genuine and economical way to travel.

Matatus are the main form of public transport. They follow fixed routes but have no designated stops; you can flag them down anywhere and alight anywhere along the route. Matatus are low-cost however crowded.

Matatu Travel Guide

No official route maps exist; inquire with locals or hotel staff for routes.
Pay cash directly to the conductor ("makanga") once seated. Fares are fixed.
Operate early morning (5-6 AM) until late evening (9-10 PM), running frequently when full.
Not wheelchair accessible; may be challenging for mobility issues.

Main Routes

Main route runs along Diani Beach Road, connecting Ukunda to resorts.

Efficiency Tips

Confirm fare before boarding. Be ready for a crowded journey. Watch your belongings.

Fare Payment

Cash payment to conductor. Fares fixed but could be different slightly by demand.

Navigating with Ease

Tuk-tuk Etiquette

Consistently haggle fare upfront before beginning your journey.
Fares vary by distance; expect KES 100-300 for short rides.
Generally safe during the day, less advisable late at night for solo travelers.

Ride-Sharing Insights

Bolt and Uber are available in Diani Beach.
Pay via app or with cash; check driver and vehicle match.
Safer in general due to tracking and rating systems.

Rental Vehicle Considerations

Car Rental

Requires IDP, national license, credit card. Costs US$40-80/day.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Local vendors offer rentals; requires valid motorcycle license.

Bicycle Rental

Some resorts offer; local shops may also possess options.

Driving Safety

Drive on left. Road quality varies. Night driving not recommended. Hiring driver is safer.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

For more comfort and direct travel, taxis and ride-sharing apps offer good options in Diani.

Licensed Taxis

Taxis are typically white or yellow, usually with a yellow stripe, displaying a "taxi" sign.
Always agree on the fare before starting; meters are seldom used.
Short rides within Diani might cost KES 500-1,000. Cash is the main payment.
Find taxis at stands near resorts and shopping centers, or hail them.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Bolt (formerly Taxify) and Uber are available in Diani Beach.
Fares are typically cheaper than traditional taxis and provide price transparency.
Verify driver and vehicle details match the app before entering.
Usually safer due to driver tracking and rating systems.

Walking & Cycling

The beach provides an excellent surface for walking, especially when the tide is out.
Diani Beach Road has pavements in some sections, but walking requires be wary of vehicle traffic.
Some area guides provide walking tours of nearby villages or nature spots.

No dedicated bicycle lanes; cycling happens on the main thoroughfare alongside vehicle traffic.
Safety is a concern due to vehicle traffic and absence of dedicated cycling infrastructure.
Avoid walking or cycling alone on deserted streets or beaches after dark.

Specialized Transportation

Boat Taxis & Water Transport

Traditional dhows and smaller motorboats for hire for snorkeling trips to the coral reef or sunset cruises.

Glass-Bottom Boats

Offer reef viewing without getting wet, providing a window into the underwater world.

Limited Accessibility

Limited infrastructure. Public transport is not accessible. Higher-end resorts may possess better features.

Vehicle Rental Considerations

Renting a vehicle offers freedom but comes with considerations. Understand the requirements and local conditions for driving before deciding.

Rental Procedures

Valid national driving license, International Driving Permit (IDP), and credit card for deposit.
Minimum age for rental usually 23-25 years.
Local and international agencies operate from Mombasa (MBA) and Ukunda (UKA).
Prices start from US$40-80 each day for a basic saloon car.

Self-Driving & Alternatives

Self-driving is generally not recommended for first-visitors for the first time due to challenging road conditions.
Hiring a car with a driver is a popular and safer alternative.
Motorcycle/Scooter rentals available, but road safety is a significant concern.
Boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) are fast but less safe instead of recommended for tourists.

Road & Driving Information

Driving Laws

Drive on the left side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas.

100 km/h on highways. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.

Road Conditions

Road the quality differs, with potholes common. Speed bumps are frequent and often unmarked.

The Likoni ferry crossing may encounter long lines, particularly during rush hour.

Parking

Most hotels and resorts offer free parking for guests. Public parking in towns can be limited.

Local Transport Choices

Tuk-tuks

Inexpensive for short distances. Negotiate fare beforehand.
Widely available and a common way to travel.
A fun, open-air experience.

Bicycle Rentals

Good for short distances or casual rides within the holiday resort area.
Ensure proper locks if parking your bicycle.
No dedicated cycling lanes.

Safety on the Road

Avoid walking or cycling alone on deserted paths or beaches after dark.
Be careful in crowded market areas, where pickpocketing is a risk.
Be cautious of aggressive driving and overloaded vehicles.
Unmarked obstacles and wildlife on roads are possible.

Night operating a vehicle is not recommended due to poor lighting.
Carjackings are rare but keep doors locked and windows up.
Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing apps, notably at night.
Hide your valuables.

Walk, Bike & Specialized Options

Explore Diani's coastal setting with a variety of transit methods, from leisurely walks to special water tours.

Pedestrian & Cycling Routes

The beach offers an excellent surface for walking, especially when the tide is out.
Diani Beach Road has some pavements, but cycling shares the road with vehicles.
Avoid walking or cycling alone on deserted areas or after dark.