Scroll to top
Welcome To Grekkon Eldoret.

Borehole Drilling in Kenya


Grekkon - October 10, 2024 - 64 comments

Borehole Drilling Prices in Kenya

Borehole Drilling Company in Kenya
Water well drilling in Kitale (Maili Nne)

Borehole Drilling in Kenya is carried out to satisfy the growing demand for water in Kenya, mainly for domestic use, irrigation, industrial and livestock needs. Borehole drilling in Kenya is done efficiently using latest state of the art borehole drilling machines (known commercially as borehole drilling rigs). Manual borehole drilling is is also done using manual digging tools. Currently, Grekkon Limited is one of the largest borehole drilling companies in Kenya with years of experience in drilling and equipping.

Over the years, Grekkon Limited has built a reputation as one of the best borehole drilling companies in Kenya and the entire East Africa. Being one of the leading well drilling companies in Kenya, we always strive to give our clients the best and prompt services. Our borehole drilling services in Kenya are top notch, always meeting customer needs.

Cost of Drilling Borehole in Kenya (Per meter per County)

CountyCost (Min)Cost (Max)
NairobiKES 6,100KES 9,500
KajiadoKES 6,500KES 9,500
MachakosKES 6,500KES 9,500
KituiKES 6,600KES 9,500
MakueniKES 6,500KES 9,500
KiambuKES 6,500KES 9,500
NakuruKES 6,500KES 9,500
KisumuKES 6,500KES 9,500
TurkanaKES 8,000KES 9,500
BungomaKES 6,500KES 9,500
BusiaKES 7,700KES 9,500
NarokKES 6,800KES 9,500
MombasaKES 7,000KES 9,500
KilifiKES 7,500KES 9,500
KwaleKES 7,600KES 9,500
BaringoKES 6,900KES 9,500
SiayaKES 6,500KES 9,500
HomabayKES 6,500KES 9,500
Uasin GishuKES 6,500KES 9,500
BudalangiKES 6,500KES. 11,000
Note this is cost for air drilling in Kenya

Loose soils are generally more costly than rocky soils. This is technically referred to as wet and dry drilling respectively. All our drilling covers actual drilling, casing, test pumping and water analysis.

Borehole drilling in Kenya
Borehole drilling in Kisumu by Grekkon Limited

Requirements for drilling a borehole in Kenya

In order to drill a borehole in Kenya, the following are required:

1. Hydrogeological survey

This is done to determine the underground water potential. A hydrogeology survey report will give an estimate of the drilling depth, site location and the nature of rock and soil formation which will assist in determining casing materials and the cost of drilling. This survey must be done with an independent, qualified and registered hydrogeologist. The cost of hydrogeological survey in Kenya ranges between Kes. 95,000 to Kes. 110,000 depending on the location.

2. WRA (Water Resource Authority) Permit.

Water Resource Authority is state cooperation that regulates use of all water resources. They issue borehole drilling license and authorize drilling once the hydrogeologist report is ready. For you to be licensed by the WRMA, an application needs to be done online or physically visit their offices located across the country. WRA gives authorization licenses which is a green light to drill a borehole. They then issue a water permit that gives you permission to access the water resources as much as you want.

3. NEMA (National Environment Management Authority) Permit

This assesses the effect of drilling on the environment. The report gives both positive and negative impacts on the environment incase drilling is done. If the project will not have negative impacts that may be hazardous to the environment, then a green light permit is given by them

Once all the above are met, drilling will proceed.

Borehole drilling rig at work
Borehole drilling rig at work

Borehole Drilling Procedure in Kenya

1. Hydrogeological survey

This is to establish the soil formation, depth and location of where the actual drilling will be done. It also assists in getting the required government approvals such as NEMA and WARMA certificates.

2. Actual Drilling

Actual drilling involves machine (drilling rig) mobilization and drilling. Drilling begins from above ground upto the recommended depth by the hydrogeologist. During drilling, casing is also done using steel or plastic casings. Borehole casing helps in preventing the borehole from collapsing and prevents impurities from contaminating the borehole water.

3. Test Pumping

Once drilling is complete, test pumping is done to determine the borehole yield or capacity in m3 per hour (m3/hr) This is done by continuously pumping water out of the borehole for 24 hours. Test pumping also helps in selecting the right pump for the borehole.

Watch video of entire borehole drilling procedure

4. Water Chemical Analysis.

This is done to determine the suitability of the borehole water for drinking, irrigation or any other use. Some boreholes produce pure neutral water while others may produce salty water which may require treatment before use.

5. Borehole Equipping.

This entails installation of pvc plastic casings, pumps . Electric submersible, solar submersible or diesel pumps may be installed depending on expert advise. Pipes immersed into the borehole may be uPVC pipes or HDPE pipes, depending on the depth.

pvc casings

6. Auxiliary Services

Includes optional extra services such as installation of pipes, plumbing, irrigation, tank tower construction, tank installation etc. There is a separate quotation for these additions.

Borehole drilling timelines

ActivityAppox No of Days
Hydrogeological survey & report writing7 days
WRMA/NEMA Permits15-30 days
Actual Drilling4- 10 days
Equipping (Pump Installation)1-2 days
Time taken to drill a borehole in Kenya

Applications and uses of borehole water.

Drilled water has several uses including:

Free borehole drilling in Kenya

Free borehole drilling in Kenya is done by local and national governments to communities. In this type of arrangement, the government pays service providers who then carry out the drilling. Grekkon Limited is a powerhouse and offers cheap borehole drilling in Kenya.

Borehole Drilling FAQ

What is the average depth of a borehole in Kenya

The average depth of a borehole in Kenya is 100m-300m depending on the location.

What is the cost of drilling a borehole in Makueni?

It ranges between Kes. 6,500 to Kes. 8,000 per m

What are borehole casing prices in Kenya

They range between Kes. 4,000 to Kes. 7,000 per pc (4m long)

What is the cost of drilling a borehole in Kajiado?

It ranges between Kes. 7,000 to Kes. 8,500 per m

Is there Free borehole drilling in Kenya

This is usually done by local and national governments.

What is the cost of drilling a borehole in Kisumu?

Between Kes. 7,000 to Kes. 8,500 per m

What is the cost of drilling a borehole in Kitale?

Between Kes. 6,500 to Kes. 8,500 per m

What is the cost of drilling a borehole in Nyeri?

Between Kes. 6,000 to Kes. 8,500 per m

What is the best borehole drilling company in Nairobi, Kenya?

Grekkon Limited

Which is the best borehole drilling company in Kisumu?

Grekkon Limited

Related posts

64 comments

  1. John

    Hello, have you drilled a borehole in Lema, Machakos County?

    • Admin

      Dear John,
      Do you have a hydrogeological survey report? If yes please share so that we prepare a quotation for you.
      Regards,
      Grekkon Limited

  2. Paul

    Hi do you do borehole deepening for already existing at at what cost? Location is Kitengela.

    • Admin

      Dear Paul,
      Yes, we carry out borehole deepening services. Could you please share with us the depth of your borehole?

      Regards,
      Grekkon

  3. Muia

    I have a hydrogeological survey report though – in the process of applying WRMA certification. having said that i want to check with you guys how much it will cost to drill to a maximum of 150m as per the report . interpretation of the VES 3 Sounding Curve recommended site.
    Depth (m) resistivity Ohms Formation
    00 – 2.0 156 Top dry soil,
    2.0 – 13 84 Weathered sub-surface soil
    13- 40 107 slightly weathered granitoid gneiss
    40-130 144 Highly weathered granitoid gneiss
    >130 450 Fractured gneiss

  4. Kiraison

    Im in Narok, what is estimated range of borehole depth in my county?. Tell me the cost of hydrogeological survey.

    • Admin

      Dear Kiraison,

      The average depth of boreholes in Narok is 150-200m. A full hydrogeological survey will cost Kes. 120,000
      Looking foward to doing business with you.

      Regards,
      Grekkon Limited

  5. Faustin

    Hello,

    Am from Kilifi County, a hydrological expert surveyed the location i was interested to drill a borehole and the water was found at a depth of 698ft which is equivalent to 213M.
    What will be the actual cost of drilling a borehole if the tender given to you?

  6. Ronnie

    We are a nonprofit relief organization. We need to dig a well for a community near Bisil. The borehole site was tested by World Vision, and according to the elders in the area, several years ago. The site was positive for water and they verified there was no obstruction or rock layer. The soil is semi-arid. Any experience drilling in this region? The use will be mixed livestock, including 100 head cow and 200 gòats as well as a 100 acre vegetable garden. Any idea on what we will need? Costs? Time frame? Let me know and I can call you.

    • Admin

      Dear Ronnie,
      Yes we have done several boreholes in Kajiado and we will be glad to assist you on this. Please share your contacts or reach us on 0711 895 635
      Regards,
      Grekkon Limited

  7. Kennedy Musyoka

    I would like to drill borehole in kitui county, kitui Central mulutu just a request in which maximum depth in this area.

    • Admin

      Hello Kennedy. Thanks for your inquiry.To determine the exact depth of a borehole, you first of all need to carry out a hydrogeological survey

  8. What's the total cost of drilling a borehole in wajir, especially West of wajir if you have ever done one.

    What’s the total cost of drilling a borehole in wajir, especially West of wajir if you have ever done one.

    • Admin

      Hello Yusuf, the cost of drilling is determined once you have a hydrogeological survey report. Have you done the survey?
      Regards,
      Grekkon

  9. Richard

    Hey There,
    So happy that I arrived at your site. And just as echoed on other comments, you guys seem to be very transparent. I met a company last year on Facebook and contacted them. They came to my home and conducted the hydrological survey and assisted me to get the permit to drill from the water authority in Eldoret. The only seemed interested in drilling the borehole … I requested them to provide a quotation which would actually help me have a full picture of the total investment and any other likely processes. They simply left and have never got back to me since then… in your site I see the steps clearly… Preliminary steps include Hydro survey (I have completed), WRA Permit (I have it), NEMA Permit (I do not have it). Then I do not have an actual quotation giving step by step costs on Drilling, well construction including piping, well development and testing, test pumping and chemical analysis, pumping generator mounting and water tank mounting including the cost for the water tank etc. Is your organisation willing to assist me here?

    • Admin

      Dear Richard,
      So unfortunate what you went through in your quest to have a borehole drill through that company. Your right, most drillers are not transparent with information to their customers and we will be very glad to assist you with the remaining part. You can get in touch with us on 0711895 635.
      Regards,
      Grekkon

  10. Josiah

    What is the average drilling depth in Nakuru?
    Please email me including steps to engage with you guys

    • Admin

      Hello Josiah, the depths in Nakuru range from 150m to 220m depending on the area. A hydrogeological survey report will reveal the exact depth.
      We have emailed you all the steps needed.
      Regards,
      Customer Care.

  11. Nicholas

    what is the aprox depth of a borehole in isiolo region and how much does it cost for drilling

    • Admin

      Hello, isiolo borehole depth ranges between 190-200m. For an exact quotation, you need to have a hydrogeolocal survey report.
      Regards

  12. Mohamud

    what is the estimates of depth for a borehole in Garissa area, what are the costs for drilling and how can i be certain water will be available before drilling/how much water and whether salty or fresh. how many days will it take to complete work and have water?

    • Admin

      Hello Mohamud and thanks for contacting us.
      Majority of borehole depths in Garissa range between 250m-300m. The cost of drilling is dependent on the survey report obtained. To be sure of water availability, a geology survey has to be done to determine ground water potential.
      Duration of drilling ranges between 4-7 days once all the machinery are on site.
      Regards,
      Grekkon Limited.

  13. Keizar Allan

    Am located in lugari District,how much fee is for borehole drilling

    • Admin

      Hello Allan, the cost of drilling a borehole in Vihiga starts from Kes. 6,500 per m. Have you conducted a hydrogeological survey?

  14. Edith mulwa

    Do you take a measure of the water fast before you go for drill if yes how much

    • Admin

      Hello Edith,
      Yes a survey has to be done to determine the exact water location and depth. The survey (called hydrogeological survey) cost starts from Kes. 90,000
      Regards,
      Sales.

  15. Kibiriti Mwenyewe

    Thanks for providing this information and for being transparent about the process. Not many companies in Kenya are this transparent about their work as you guys. I appreciate that and hats off to you! I am looking to drill in the Mumias/Bungoma area. How much would you think the cost of drilling would be? I will be doing the hydrogeological survey but given I am familiar with the site; I am assuming the right aquafer to be about 80m depth or less. Here is my question though. Is there a minimum depth you recommend drilling? Also, I’m assuming your cost per meter includes everything? In that case, I would like to provide my own pump if possible. So, what would the cost be if I provided the pump? Thanks in advance for your time.

    • Admin

      Dear Kibiriti,
      Thank you for the positive review.
      The average of drilling a borehole in Mumias/Bungoma area is Kes. 6,500 per m. This cost covers drilling, casing , test pumping and chemical analysis. The cost does not include pump installation, reason being we need to determine the actual drilling depth and know the yield of the borehole (yield is how much water your borehole has) so as to select the right pump. We also have various pumps i.e electric and solar and you can only select once you have drilled the borehole.

      The depth of drilling is per the hydrogeologist recommendation, but in most cases, deep is better.

      Best Regards,
      Grekkon

  16. Cecilia Ermini

    What is the average depth of a borehole to get freshwater around Kilifi aerea? What is the average price to drill such borehole?

    • Admin

      Hello Cecilia and thanks for contacting us. The average borehole drilling depth in Kilifi ranges between 140-200m while the cost of drilling in Kilifi as at February 2023 is Kes. 6,500 to 7,000 per m.
      Regards,
      Grekkon Limited.

  17. Humphrey Mwangi

    want your services from hydrogeological survey upto borehole drilling at Nyandarua County
    Ndaragwa sub-county Mbuyu Location kindly assist with approximate cost please

    Regards
    H Mwangi
    0723868202

    • Admin

      Hello Humphrey, thanks for the inquiry. Our Nyahururu office will get in touch with you.
      Best Regards,
      Grekkon Limited.

  18. samuel

    What would be the cost of drilling in Nyamira county Gesima ward

  19. James Chiaga

    I need your services in Ongata Rongai.

  20. Mary

    I would like to know whether there is any charges when visiting NEMA and WRMA

  21. liz

    good morning, i certain company did a survey for me for the water drilling in kilifi and found out that water is 200ft. they started doing the work but unfortunately they did not finish the job,because the company had hired the machine. is it possible for u to continue where they started, they did some casing. what will you advise me. my farm is in mavueni.

    • Admin

      Hello Liz thanks for contacting us. We will not continue from where they left but start a new borehole.
      Regards,
      Grekkon Limited.

  22. Charles Leshore

    I want a quatation for suervy and drilling a borehole in Rombo in Loitoktok .

    • Admin

      Hello Leshore and thank you for contacting us. Do you have a hydrogeological survey report to help us in quoting?
      Regards,
      Customer Care

  23. James Mwangi

    I can only see the cost of sinking the hole but nothing on geo survey report, casing, pump, etc. Give an actual sample cost say, Laikipia Central, Naro Moru area, Solio. The average total cost. I know most boreholes in this area are average of 120m

    • Admin

      Hello, before drilling, a hydrogeological survey is conducted which is done by independent hydrogeologists. The cost of pump installation will depend on borehole yield once drilling is done. This will also depend on whether it is solar or electric pump.
      Regards,
      Customer Care

  24. Meshack James

    Hi , how many meters do I need to drill in order to get 3.7million liters per year

    • Admin

      Hello Meshack, for you to determine the actual borehole capacity, you need to carry out a hydrogeological survey. This will give you the depth and approximate capacity. Actual capacity will be done once actual drilling is done.
      Regards,
      Grekkon Team

  25. Onesmus Munyao

    I’m in Kitui County, Ikutha Sub-County, I would like to drill water, pls advice me accordingly.

    • Admin

      Hello Onesmus and thanks for contacting us. For you to drill a borehole, you first need to do a hydrogeological survey, after which drilling is done. The drilling cost will depend on the recommended depth. Do you already have a hydrogeological report?

  26. Leenie

    What is the range of charges for drilling boreholes in Nyandarua specifically Ol Kalau?

    • Admin

      Hello Leenie, the cost of drilling a borehole in Nyandarua starts from Kes. 6,700 per m. Please share your hydrogeological survey report for a detailed quotation.

  27. Stephen

    do you do hydrological survey services within Kajiado? and what would be the cost kindly share on email

    • Admin

      Hello Stephen, yes we carry out hydrogeological services in Kajiado. We have shared with you the rates on email.
      Regards,
      Grekkon Limited

  28. Ondego Norman

    Kindly what is the approximate quote for drilling a borehole around Muhoroni in Kisumu county.

    • Admin

      Hello Ondego and thank you for contacting Grekkon Limited. The cost of drilling a borehole in Muhoroni, Kisumu starts from Kes. 6,500 per m. However for a detailed quotation, please share your hydrogeological survey report with us on kisumu@grekkon.co.ke. If you dont have the report yet, we will be glad to help you in surveying the land.
      Regrards,
      Customer Service

  29. Michael Kanogu

    What is the cost of drilling a borehole in Nyandarua county?

    • Admin

      Hello Michael, the cost of drilling a borehole in Nyandarua ranges between Kes. 6,500 to Kes. 8,500 per m. Do you have a hydrogeological survey report for a comprehensive quotation? Please share it on nyahururu@grekkon.co.ke

  30. Joseph

    Hello
    All the information about the drilling is clear,
    Can I get my own summary for drilling in Malindi and Kilifi

  31. Nicholas

    I would like to drill a borehole in Eldoret, how much does it cost?

  32. […] water pumps in Kenya are a type of pump that use the power of the sun to draw water from deep borehole wells, shallow wells, rivers or dams and pump them up to a storage tank or to certain destination. Solar […]

  33. […] Grekkon Limited is your trusted borehole drilling company in Kenya with many years of experience in drilling and equipping. As a leading borehole drilling company in Kenya, we have always strived to give our clients unmatched services. We have won several awards for exemplary borehole drilling services in Kenya. […]