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Car Rental in Tanzania

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Rent a Car in Tanzania: Essential Tips

Book a rental car in Tanzania online before your trip to lock in the best deals. Early booking ensures better rates and vehicle availability, especially during the peak dry season from June to October.

Drivers must be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Tanzania. If you’re under 25, expect possible surcharges.

Always bring a valid driver’s license and check if an international driving permit (IDP) is required. Some rental companies in Tanzania may ask for both.

To streamline the process of picking up your rental car, have your original photo ID or passport ready along with your booking confirmation voucher.

Use a credit card in your name with sufficient funds for the security deposit. You'll need the card at the rental desk even if you prepaid online. Third-party cards are not accepted.

If you’re traveling with children under eight, you must reserve a child seat in advance, as Tanzanian traffic laws require it.

For competitive pricing, convenience, and access to various vehicles, consider booking a rental car at Zanzibar International Airport (Abeid Amani Karume International Airport). November offers the cheapest car hire rates, averaging €25.80 per day.

Tanzanians drive on the left side of the road, which might require adjustment if you’re visiting from a country where people drive on the right.

Traffic laws in Tanzania are strict about alcohol limits, with a BAC cap of 0.08%. The legal drinking age in Tanzania is 18, and drinking and driving can lead to heavy fines.

Many car rentals in Tanzania offer unlimited mileage, making exploring the country’s diverse landscapes easier without worrying about extra charges.

hire Free Cancellation

Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Finalrentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.

hire Fair Fuel Policy

You can return the car at the same fuel level as it was handed over to you and there will be no charges at all.

hire No Hidden Charges

Pay full rental amount at the counter. No need to pay online. We work on clear pricing policy, what you see is what you pay.

Car Hire at Zanzibar International Airport (Abeid Amani Karume International Airport)

Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ), officially named Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, is the main entry point to the Zanzibar Archipelago and is conveniently located just 7.7 kilometers from Stone Town.

The airport connects to various international destinations and offers modern facilities. You can rent cars ranging from economy to SUVs, priced between $22 and $100 per day. 

Booking with Finalrentals ensures competitive pricing, no hidden fees, and a user-friendly online reservation process. With Finalrentals, you can trust that the vehicle will be ready for you upon arrival, and our customer service team is always available to assist you during your trip.

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  •   Abeid Amani Karume International Airport

Car Rental in Tanzania: FAQs

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  • How much does it cost to rent a car in Tanzania?
    Renting a car in Tanzania typically costs between $22 and $100 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration. Economy cars are generally cheaper, while SUVs and luxury vehicles are at the higher end of the price spectrum.
  • What are the most popular rental cars in Tanzania?
    In Tanzania, popular rental cars include compact cars for city travel and SUVs for safaris and rural exploration. Brands like Toyota and Nissan are preferred for their reliability on varied terrain.
  • Is insurance included in car rentals in Tanzania?
    Most car rentals in Tanzania include basic coverage, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection (TP). However, checking if additional coverage is needed for peace of mind is advisable.
  • What documents are required to rent a car in Tanzania?
    To rent a car in Tanzania, you’ll need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport for identification, and a credit card for the rental deposit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is also recommended and sometimes necessary.
  • What are Tanzania’s road conditions like for driving?
    Road conditions in Tanzania vary widely. Major cities and tourist spots often have well-maintained roads, but rural and remote areas can have challenging, unpaved roads. Some roads may be impassable without a 4x4 vehicle during the rainy season.
  • Can I drive a rental car in Tanzania with my foreign license?
    You can drive a rental car in Tanzania with a foreign license, but it’s advisable to have an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP translates your license details into multiple languages and facilitates communication with local authorities.
  • Where should I go with a rental car in Tanzania?
    You can explore iconic destinations like the Serengeti National Park for a safari, the Ngorongoro Crater for breathtaking landscapes, or the sandy beaches of Zanzibar. Driving yourself allows for a flexible schedule to enjoy these attractions fully.
  • What are the fuel prices in Tanzania?
    As of January 2025, fuel prices in Tanzania are approximately $1.20 per liter. Prices can vary slightly depending on the region and global oil market.
  • Is it safe to rent a car in Tanzania?
    Renting a car in Tanzania is generally safe, but it's essential to be aware of local driving conditions and customs. Opt for comprehensive insurance and consider a 4x4 vehicle for rural areas. Always secure your belongings and avoid driving at night in unfamiliar places.
  • Why should I get a vehicle to rent in Zanzibar?
    Renting a vehicle in Zanzibar eliminates the reliance on public transport and tour schedules, providing a more personal and flexible travel experience.
  • What are the child seat laws in Tanzania?
    Tanzania's child seat laws require that all children under five years old use appropriate child restraints while traveling in a vehicle. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone, and securing children in suitable child seats is essential, especially on Tanzania's diverse roads, from busy city streets to rural areas. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone, so securing children in suitable seats is essential, especially given Tanzania's diverse road conditions.
  • How far in advance should I book my car rental in Tanzania?
    It’s wise to book your car rental online at least a few weeks in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak tourism seasons or require a specific type of vehicle, like a 4x4 for safari tours. Booking with Finalrentals allows you to secure competitive rates and ensures a broader selection of vehicles, making it easier to find one that best suits your needs and budget. Early booking also reduces last-minute hassles, giving you more time to prepare for your adventure in Tanzania.

Best Time to Rent a Car in Tanzania

The best time to rent a car largely depends on your travel plans and the regions you intend to visit.

Peak Season: Tanzania's peak tourist season coincides with the dry seasons, which run from June to October and from late December to February. The weather is generally dry and sunny during these months, ideal for wildlife safaris and beach holidays. The Great Migration, typically peaking between June and September, attracts many tourists to the Serengeti. Consequently, car rental demand spikes in Tanzania, and rates can be higher.

Low Season: The low season falls during the long rains from March to May and the short rains in November. Many travelers avoid this period due to heavier rainfall, which can affect travel plans, particularly in rural areas where roads are less navigable. However, this is an excellent time to find lower rental prices and fewer crowds. If you’re visiting coastal areas like Zanzibar, the rains are usually brief, so you can still enjoy much of the day outdoors.

Shoulder Season: Late February to early June and November are considered shoulder seasons. These months offer a sweet spot for travelers looking to avoid the highest prices and the largest crowds. The weather is generally good, with less rainfall than the low season, making it suitable for road trips and outdoor activities.

Always check local road conditions, especially if traveling during the rainy season (March to May), as some areas might be difficult to access.

Considering these seasonal nuances, you can plan your rental accordingly to get the best out of your trip to Tanzania, whether for the wildlife, the beaches, or the bustling city markets.

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Finalrentals is Clear in Terms of Rental Policy

"Picking up the car at Zanzibar Airport started our trip off on the right foot, and the return process was just as straightforward. We will use Finalrentals again for our next vacation."

Mark Burch. Finalrentals customer in the Tanzania.