Useful tips for car rental in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar, an archipelago in East Africa, is renowned for its stunning beaches, rich history and unique traditional culture. Known as the "Spice Island" due to its historic spice trade, Zanzibar has a unique blend of African, Arab, Indian and European influences.

Turquoise waters, pristine beaches and coral reefs make the place ideal for diving and snorkeling. The island is also famous for its local cuisine, festivals and picturesque boat sailing experiences.

Let’s read further all necessary tips for renting a car in Tanzania and tips for driving in Zanzibar in order to be fully prepared for your journey!
 

Renting a car in Zanzibar is a simple procedure. The guide to renting a car in Zanzibar consists of the following:

1. Choose from Abbycar’s easy platform or in person in one of our rental locations the car type that meets your criteria according to your needs, travel plan and budget.
2. Provide a valid driving license, passport or ID and credit card.
3. A deposit amount will be blocked in your credit card, but not charged. This deposit will be charged only in case of damage.
4. You take the car after inspecting its situation and take photos to prove the existence of any pre-existing damage. You should also check the mileage and gas mileage.
5. You return the car at the drop-off point.

The car rental requirements in Zanzibar are: 

• Driving license (International Driving Permit)
• Passport or ID
• Credit card under your name (the main driver’s name).

Although many companies accept US driving license to rent a car in Zanzibar, it is advisable to have an International Driving Permit in order to avoid the hassle in the frequent police checks that are made.

Age requirements for renting a car in Zanzibar: The minimum age is 24 years and the maximum age is 70 years.
 

Although car hire in Zanzibar takes place often in popular areas, such as Nungwi and Paje, the best place to rent a car in Zanzibar is the airport. There are many car rental options at Zanzibar airport, but the key is to find the right car rental agency in terms of prices as well as security.

The best tips for choosing the right rental agency at Zanzibar airport are:

• Price comparisons and deals: Check the offers and discounts for the car category you want.
• Hidden fees: Read thoroughly the rental agreement to avoid hidden charges.
• Car fleet: Choose a rental company with new and safe vehicles and great variety to find the perfect car for you.
• Customer service and reliability: A worldwide reliable company is your safe option.
• Online booking: The easy and straightforward process of booking online in a user-friendly platform is the best choice to perfectly organize your trip and find the best deals.

Abbycar is one of the most affordable car rental companies in Zanzibar, with worldwide reputation, offering great deals all-year-long. Plus, it has great variety in new and modern vehicles, 24/7 road assistance and excellent customer service.

With Abbycar, you can book your car rental online, but you are also welcome at our station at Zanzibar airport, where we operate 24/7 to serve our clients that arrive during the night.
 

The pros of renting a car in Zanzibar are:

• Freedom and flexibility: Renting a car allows you to explore the island at your own pace, visiting less accessible areas like remote beaches or spice farms without being tied to public transport schedules.
• Convenience: You can drive directly to your destination, avoiding the hassle of limited public transportation.
• Cost-effective for groups: If you are traveling as a group of friends or family members, renting a car is more economical than paying for multiple taxis or tours.
• Comfort: You’ll have the comfort of a private vehicle, especially useful for longer trips across the island.

The cons of renting a car in Zanzibar are:

• Difficult road condition: Roads in Zanzibar are poorly maintained, with potholes, dirt roads and few signs, making navigation tricky, especially for first-time visitors.
• Driving culture: The driving style in Zanzibar is chaotic and sometimes aggressive from local drivers.
• Parking difficulty: In busy areas like Stone Town, parking can be challenging.
• Cost: The total budget for car hire in Zanzibar, including gas and insurance, is more expensive than public transportation.

However, keep in mind that Abbycar is one of the most affordable car rental companies in Zanzibar, giving you the opportunity to find budget as well as totally safe car rentals in Zanzibar.

The alternatives to car rental in Zanzibar are:

• Taxis: They are convenient for short distances, but they can be expensive for longer journeys or frequent use. 
• Dala-Dala (local minibuses): They are affordable and a great way to experience local culture, but they are overcrowded and uncomfortable for visitors.
• Bicycles: Biking is a nice idea to explore local areas, but they are not suitable for long distances, and roads can be unsafe for bikers.
• Motorbike rentals: This is the most affordable vehicle rental, but there are many safety concerns due to heavy traffic and aggressive driving style of the locals.

With car rental, you can discover off-the-beaten-path destinations as well as places that are not accessible by public transportation. The best day trips you can make are:

• Stone Town: The historic streets of Stone Town are UNESCO World Heritage site. From there, you can take the boat to Prison Island, which is known for its giant tortoises.
• Spice farms: About 30 minutes from Stone Town, in the spice farms you can learn about the island’s spice trade and taste fresh spices like cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon.
• Jozani Forest: 45 minutes’ drive from Stone Town, this tropical rainforest is ideal to enjoy walking trails and see the rare red colobus monkeys.
• Nungwi and Kendwa beaches: 1.5 hours’ drive from Stone Town, these pristine beaches offer white sand, emerald waters and activities, such as snorkeling.

The cost of car rentals in Zanzibar start from 34.99 USD per day, but you may expect variations in seasonal car rental prices in Zanzibar. In middle season, you can rent a car on average at 20-50€, while during the high season, average prices are 40-70€ for small cars.

The insurance options for rental car are:

• Collision Damage Waiver: This type covers the financial liability for damage to the rental car, but it includes a deductible. This is the amount, which is blocked in your credit card.
• Theft Protection: It covers the rental car in case of theft.
• Third-Party Liability Insurance: It covers damage to other people’s property and injuries to others.
• Personal Accident Insurance: It covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
• Super Collision Damage Waiver: This type covers all damages to rental car and others, so it reduces or eliminates the deductible. If it eliminates the deductible, you are not obliged to provide a credit card, as no security amount is blocked.
• Roadside Assistance: Road assistance provides help 24/7 in case of emergency.

These types of insurance can be offered both individually and in packages. The mandatory basic coverage includes Third-Party Liability Insurance and Collision Damage Waiver. Additional coverage is not mandatory, but you may find it useful, especially if you travel to Zanzibar as a first-time visitor.
 

Driving in Zanzibar can be a rewarding way to explore the island, but it is important to consider a few safety aspects. The roads in rural areas can be poorly maintained, with potholes and limited signage. This can make driving challenging, particularly for those unfamiliar with the island. Additionally, street lighting is minimal in many areas, so avoid driving at night if possible. 

Another tricky issue is car theft. It is advisable to park in secure areas or use guarded parking lots, especially in places like Stone Town. Theft protection in your insurance package is also advisable.

The tips for driving in Zanzibar you should remember are:

• Navigation: Use a reliable GPS or offline map app, as many roads have no signs. If using internet data is not affordable due to roaming, please ask from Abbycar to provide your car with GPS.
• Fuel: Ensure you have enough fuel, as gas stations are rare outside major areas like Stone Town and Nungwi.
• Drive with caution: Local drivers may follow an aggressive traffic behavior, so maintain a defensive driving style and give way when necessary.

The traffic rules in Zanzibar you should take into consideration are:

• Drive on the left: Like in mainland Tanzania, Zanzibar follows the British system, so cars drive on the left side of the road.
• Speed Limits: The speed limit is 40 km/h in towns and villages and 60 km/h outside city. 
• Documents: Always carry your driver’s license, passport, and vehicle rental documents. 
• Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for both the driver and passengers.

Understanding these safety tips and local traffic rules will ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience in Zanzibar.

Explore the sights of Zanzibar with Abbycar and get ready for an unforgettable journey!