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Home/Ethiopia/to Kenya
Cross-border route

Ethiopia Kenya

Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Ethiopia into Kenya, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Kenya expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1968 Vienna format. Important: Ethiopia drives on the right and Kenya drives on the left, so the side of the road changes at the border — take extra care. Plan your border crossing in advance and keep your passport, national licence and IDP together.
⚠ Driving side changes at the border: Ethiopia drives on the right, Kenya on the left.
Get my permit for Kenya Kenya requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance
FromEthiopia
ToKenya
IDP in KenyaRequired
Accepted format1968 Vienna
Driving sideChanges (right → left)
Currency in KenyaKES
Ethiopia → Kenya

Crossing the border

Ethiopia and Kenya share a land border you can cross by car. Keep your passport, national driving licence and International Driving Permit together, and check opening hours and any toll or vignette requirements before you travel.

Driving rules in Kenya

  • Drive on the left.
  • Carry licence, IDP and passport.
  • Wildlife and pedestrians near roads.
  • Police checkpoints are routine.

What to see when you arrive in Kenya

  • the Maasai Mara National Reserve
  • Amboseli National Park with Kilimanjaro views
  • Lake Nakuru's flamingos
  • the beaches of Diani and Mombasa
  • Nairobi National Park

Common questions

01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Ethiopia to Kenya?
Yes — Kenya requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Kenya recognises the 1968 Vienna format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Ethiopia and Kenya?
Yes. Ethiopia drives on the right and Kenya drives on the left. Adjust carefully once you cross the border.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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