Best Betting Sites in Kenya: Reviews, Comparison, and Features for Kenyan Punters

Kenya has a thriving and competitive gambling market. Local players can choose from a range of local and international gambling brands. Finding the best betting site in Kenya means looking at payment options like M-Pesa and Airtel Money, bonuses, the range of markets, and securing gambling licenses. This guide aims to present you a fair analysis of Kenya’s top betting websites to help you make a choice that best fits your needs and preferences.

Check out our comprehensive review of the best betting sites in Kenya with licences, bonuses and a wide selection of sports markets

Best Betting Sites in Kenya: A Quick Comparison

The table below provides a snapshot of the most popular and highly-rated betting sites in Kenya. These operators stand out for their robust platforms, competitive odds, and localization efforts, such as direct support for Kenyan Shilling (KES) and mobile money options.

1.Mozzartbet

mozzartbet logo
9.8
  • Focus on Daily Jackpots & In-House Games;
  • Licensing – BCLB (Kenya).
Welcome Bonus

20% Free Bet up to KES 2,000

  • mpesa logo
  • visa logo
  • mastercard logo

2.22Bet

22bet logo
9.7
  • High, Competitive Odds & Vast Sportsbook (50+ sports);
  • Licensing – BCLB (Kenya).
Welcome Bonus

100% up to KES 19,000

  • mpesa logo
  • airtel money logo
  • visa logo
  • mastercard logo
  • skrill logo
  • neteller logo
  • crypto logo

3.1xBet

1xbet logo
10
  • Largest Market Depth and High-Res Live Streaming;
  • Licensing – Curacao.
Welcome Bonus

200% up to KES 20,000

  • mpesa logo
  • airtel money logo
  • visa logo
  • mastercard logo
  • skrill logo
  • neteller logo
  • crypto logo
  • bank transfer logo

4.HelaBet

helabet logo
9.6
  • Mobile-first design and fast M-Pesa payouts;
  • Licensing – BCLB (Kenya).
Welcome Bonus

100% up to KES 10,000

  • mpesa logo
  • airtel money logo
  • visa logo
  • mastercard logo

5.1win

1win logo
9.9
  • Aggressive bonus structure and great eSports coverage;
  • Licensing – Curacao.
Welcome Bonus

500% on first four deposits

  • mpesa logo
  • visa logo
  • mastercard logo
  • crypto logo

6.Betwinner

betwinner logo
9.8
  • Excellent Bet Builder and varied promotions;
  • Licensing – Curacao.
Welcome Bonus

100% up to KES 15,000

  • mpesa logo
  • airtel money logo
  • visa logo
  • mastercard logo
  • skrill logo
  • neteller logo
  • crypto logo

7.Melbet

melbet logo
9.9
  • 24/7 Customer Support and extensive casino;
  • Licensing – Curacao.
Welcome Bonus

200% up to KES 20,000

  • mpesa logo
  • airtel money logo
  • visa logo
  • mastercard logo
  • skrill logo
  • neteller logo
  • crypto logo

8.Dafabet

dafabet logo
9.5
  • Highly reliable, established international brand;
  • Licensing – BCLB (Kenya).
Welcome Bonus

50% up to KES 1,000

  • mpesa logo
  • visa logo
  • mastercard logo

9.BC Game

bcgame logo
9.2
  • Leader in Cryptocurrency Betting and innovative features;
  • Licensing – Curacao.
Welcome Bonus

Multi-Tier Crypto Bonus

  • mpesa logo
  • crypto logo

10.Lucky Star

lucky star logo
9.3
  • User-friendly platform, great for beginners;
  • Licensing – Curacao.
Welcome Bonus

500% up to KES 44,000

  • mpesa logo
  • airtel money logo
  • visa logo
  • mastercard logo

Essential Features of Top Betting Sites in Kenya

When evaluating a betting site, the successful ones operating in Kenya share a core set of features that cater directly to the local market’s needs. These are the elements that separate a functional platform from the best betting site for betting in the region.

Sports Betting on Betting Sites in Kenya

Among all sports in Kenya, football is the most popular, even when it comes to sports betting. However, all the top betting websites will provide other types of sports to bet on. The most distinguishing features of excellent sportsbook quality is the offering of competitive odds, as well as the betting options on different local and international football leagues.

Sport CategoryPopular Leagues/EventsRecommended Sites for this SportKey Betting Market
Football (Soccer)English Premier League (EPL), La Liga, UEFA Champions League, Kenyan Premier League (KPL)1xBet, Mozzartbet, 22Bet1X2, Over/Under Goals, First Goalscorer
BasketballNBA, EuroLeague, Local Leagues22Bet, BetwinnerHandicap, Total Points (Over/Under), Quarter Betting
TennisGrand Slams (Wimbledon, US Open), ATP/WTA ToursMelbet, DafabetMatch Winner, Total Games, Set Betting
eSportsDota 2, League of Legends, CS:GO1win, BC GameMatch Winner, Map Handicap, First Blood/Tower
RugbyRugby Sevens World Series, Six Nations, Super RugbyMozzartbet, 1xBetMargin of Victory, Match Winner
Virtual SportsVirtual Football League, Virtual Horse RacingHelaBet, Lucky StarMatch Result, Exact Score

The Top 10 Betting Sites in Kenya: Detailed Review

A deeper look at the recommended betting sites provides clarity on their specific strengths, helping players make an informed decision on their best site for betting.

Mozzartbet

Mozzartbet is one of the most prominent Kenya betting sites, known for its massive Daily Jackpots which frequently exceed KES 10 million. It is a BCLB-licensed operator that focuses heavily on football and a strong retail presence, backing its digital operations with tangible trust. Their “Mozzart Bet Happy Monday Bonus” is a key retention promotion.

22Bet

22Bet is a globally recognized platform offering an unparalleled betting experience in Kenya. It excels with high odds—often better than competitors—across thousands of markets daily. Its strength is its sheer volume: over 50 sports, instant M-Pesa transactions, and a very competitive welcome bonus that immediately boosts a new player’s bankroll.

1xBet

The 1xBet betting site is a titan in the industry, offering maximum possibilities for the serious bettor. It is often cited as a top betting website due to its market depth, which includes unique and niche betting options, high-definition live streaming, and a massive 200% welcome bonus. The platform supports a vast array of global and local payment methods.

HelaBet

HelaBet is a mobile-focused and locally adapted platform. It offers a fast, no-frills betting experience ideal for those using older or lower-spec smartphones. It consistently receives praise for its simple registration and the efficiency of its M-Pesa payouts, making it a reliable betting site for everyday punters.

1win

1win is rapidly growing in popularity, driven by one of the most generous welcome offers in the market: a 500% bonus across the first four deposits. This aggressive promotion, combined with a clean, modern interface and excellent coverage of eSports and casino games, positions it as an attractive option, particularly for younger, bonus-hunting players.

Betwinner

Betwinner offers a comprehensive, all-in-one gambling platform. It’s a versatile choice known for its Bet Builder feature, allowing punters to create customized, high-odds multi-bets within a single match. Its wide selection of ongoing promotions, including reload bonuses and accumulator boosts, ensures existing users are well-catered for.

Melbet

Melbet is a top contender among the best betting sites in Kenya for its huge coverage of events and high-value bonuses, often mirroring the offerings of 1xBet and Betwinner but with a distinct user interface. Its 24/7 customer service and combined sports/casino welcome package make it an excellent choice for diverse gaming needs.

Dafabet

Dafabet is an internationally renowned betting site with a strong reputation for reliability and security. While its welcome bonus may seem smaller, it often comes with more favourable wagering requirements. It’s a trusted brand for players prioritising a dependable platform and a clean, professionally run sportsbook.

BC Game

BC Game stands out as a market innovator, specifically catering to the growing demographic interested in cryptocurrency betting. While it accepts KES via mobile money, its primary feature is the ability to deposit and bet using dozens of cryptocurrencies, coupled with a highly complex and potentially massive multi-tier welcome bonus.

Lucky Star

Lucky Star aims for simplicity and a friendly user experience, making it a great entry point for new bettors. It provides a generous 500% welcome bonus to help beginners start with a large bankroll. Its combination of a user-friendly design and support for local payment methods makes it a highly accessible betting site in Kenya.

How to start betting in Kenya?

Starting your journey on the Kenya betting sites is straightforward, thanks to the localized registration and deposit processes. You can usually register and deposit in a matter of minutes, and in most cases, you can do everything from your mobile phone.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Choose a Licensed Betting Site: Select one of the reliable and BCLB-compliant betting sites in Kenya (e.g., Mozzartbet, 22Bet, 1xBet). Prioritise security and a good welcome bonus;
  2. Registration: Navigate to the site’s homepage and click the “Register” or “Sign Up” button. You will typically only need to provide your Kenyan mobile number and a preferred password. Some sites, like 1xBet, offer one-click registration;
  3. Account Verification: The site will usually send an SMS code to the registered mobile number. Enter this code to verify your account, completing the sign-up process;
  4. Make a Deposit (Via M-Pesa):
    • Log in to your account;
    • Go to the “Deposit” or “Payments” section;
    • Note the operator’s official M-Pesa Paybill Number and the required Account Number (often your registered phone number);
    • Go to your M-Pesa menu, select “Lipa Na M-Pesa,” then “Pay Bill”;
    • Enter the Paybill Number, the Account Number, and the amount you wish to deposit (usually KES 100 minimum);
    • Confirm with your M-Pesa PIN. The funds should reflect instantly on your chosen betting site in Kenya.
  5. Place Your Bet: Navigate the sportsbook, select your preferred sport (e.g., football), choose a league, and click on the odds for your desired outcome. This adds the selection to your bet slip. Enter your stake amount (in KES) and click “Place Bet.”

Deposit and Withdrawal Methods on Betting Sites in Kenya

Offering local payment methods helps provide a positive user experience. For your convenience, we have listed the different payment systems across the leading betting sites in Kenya, giving priority to the most important mobile money options.

Betting SiteM-Pesa SupportAirtel Money SupportCards/E-Wallets/Crypto SupportKey Payment Feature
MozzartbetCards (Visa/MasterCard)Focus on simplicity via M-Pesa Paybill
22BetVisa, MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, CryptoWide variety of fast international e-wallets
1xBetVisa, MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, Crypto, Bank TransferSupports the most extensive range of methods
HelaBetVisa, MasterCardExcellent local mobile money processing
1winVisa, MasterCard, CryptoCrypto deposits are a major option
BetwinnerVisa, MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, CryptoHigh flexibility with both local and global methods
MelbetVisa, MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, CryptoReliable support for most major global e-wallets
DafabetVisa, MasterCardFocuses on reliable local bank card and M-Pesa use
BC GameCrypto (Dozens)Specializes in blockchain/cryptocurrency payments
Lucky StarVisa, MasterCardUser-friendly for basic mobile money transactions

Bonuses and Promotions on Betting Sites in Kenya

One of the most important factors for new players when selecting the top betting site is bonuses. Below is a table that offers a side-by-side comparison of the welcome bonuses available for each site as well as the variety of other promotions each site provides.

Betting SiteWelcome Bonus (KES)Bonus TypeKey Recurring Promotions
MozzartbetFree Bet up to KES 2,000Free Bet / MatchDaily Jackpots, Happy Monday Bonus, Mozzart Refund
22Bet100% up to KES 19,000Matched DepositFriday Reload Bonus, Weekly Rebate/Cashback, Accumulator Boost
1xBet200% up to KES 20,000Matched DepositHyper Bonus, Accumulator of the Day, Advancebet, Birthday Free Bets
HelaBet100% up to KES 10,000Matched DepositAccumulator Bonuses, Cashback Offers
1win500% (High Max Value)Multi-Deposit MatchCasino Cashback, Leaderboard Prizes, Express Bonus
Betwinner100% up to KES 15,000Matched DepositAdvancebet, Loyalty Program, Birthday Bonus, Bet Builder Promos
Melbet200% up to KES 20,000Matched DepositGo For Longer, Fast Games Day, Free Bet Offers
Dafabet50% up to KES 1,000Matched DepositRefer-a-Friend, Loyalty Rewards
BC GameHigh Value (Tiered)Crypto/Matched DepositShitcodes, Rain Bonus, Task Bonuses (Innovative Crypto promos)
Lucky Star500% up to KES 44,000Multi-Deposit MatchCashback, Reload Bonuses, Daily Missions

Legality of betting sites in Kenya

Betting in Kenya is fully legal and regulated. The industry falls under the jurisdiction of the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), established under the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act (Cap 131 of the Laws of Kenya).

Conclusion

The market for betting sites in Kenya is highly competitive, resulting in exceptional choices for the average punter. The best betting site ultimately depends on individual priorities:

Before placing your bets, make sure that your selected betting site in Kenya has a valid BCLB license, and don’t forget to gamble in moderation. Kenyan bettors can guarantee a safe and satisfying localized betting experience by selecting any of the premium sites highlighted here.

FAQ

Is online betting legal in Kenya?

Is online betting legal in Kenya?

Yes, online betting is legal and regulated in Kenya by the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB).

Which is the best betting site in Kenya for a beginner?

Which is the best betting site in Kenya for a beginner?

Lucky Star or HelaBet are often considered the best betting sites in Kenya for beginners due to their simple interfaces and easy M-Pesa integration.

Do I have to pay tax on my winnings from betting sites Kenya?

Do I have to pay tax on my winnings from betting sites Kenya?

Yes, a 20% Withholding Tax (WHT) on net winnings is deducted by the betting site before your withdrawal is processed.

Which payment methods are used for deposit and withdrawal on Kenya betting sites?

Which payment methods are used for deposit and withdrawal on Kenya betting sites?

The most common and popular methods for both deposit and withdrawal are M-Pesa and Airtel Money.

Which betting sites in Kenya offer the highest welcome bonus?

Which betting sites in Kenya offer the highest welcome bonus?

Sites like 1win (500% tiered bonus) and 1xBet (200% up to KES 20,000) offer the largest initial welcome bonus amounts.