How to find a cheap car rental deal in Zanzibar
Need a cheap rental car in Zanzibar? With an average price of AED 1,048 a day, big savings are just around the corner. Whether you're wanting a go-anywhere compact, a spacious SUV, or something else entirely, we round up all the best deals to help you spend less.
The cheapest daily price for a rental in Zanzibar is AED 91.
Staying a little longer? Grab a weekly rental from AED 443 and explore more than just the top attractions.
Timing makes all the difference when it comes to finding the best price on a Zanzibar car hire. Try booking around one week before you go.
Check out the offers available with Auto-Union, KARIBU KWETU ZANZIBAR and Green Motion. They're among the top-rated providers in the city.
Whether you go with Auto-Union or another supplier, make sure you understand the coverage on your Zanzibar car rental. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as a paid extra.
Booking a one-way car rental is often a great hack for cheaper deals. Simply check 'Return car to a different location.' Providers often need to move vehicles from one location to another, which means you can snag some great one-way prices on a car for rent in Zanzibar.
Avoid any unexpected charges by booking a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start and end your trip with a full tank, paying only for what you use.
Pack more into your journey by choosing a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you need without paying more.
Best value car rental options right now
You'll get the best value with this company. Prices average AED 311 a day.
Next up is this provider, which offers daily rates of around AED 283.
The third option also performs well on price. Ride away in one of their rentals for roughly AED 313 a day.
Want a car that makes sense for everyday trips? The Full-size rental category comes in as the leading choice for travelers visiting Zanzibar.
Flying to Zanzibar? Think about an airport pick-up
Start exploring Zanzibar sooner by picking up a car rental at Zanzibar Airport. The city center is about 8 kilometers away from this airport, which is a drive of around 15 minutes.
Compare car rental types in Zanzibar
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap rental car in Zanzibar makes getting around affordable and hassle-free. These compact, fuel-efficient rides are ideal for city driving and short trips.
Medium: Not too big, not too small, this just-right ride is calling your name. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of fuel efficiency and interior space and are good for couples and small families.
Large: You've got the bags, the kids, the snacks, the works. Large vehicles have got the space to carry it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance journeys, this Zanzibar car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: When wanderlust strikes, an SUV is ready to roll. It's your perfect road trip buddy, ready for highways, backroads, and everything in between. These sports utility vehicles also come with extra space and improved safety features.
Van: If you're searching for a car for rent in Zanzibar that can handle a small crowd (and all their gear), a van is the roomy ride you need. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a solid pick for group trips, business use or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Choosing excess insurance for your Zanzibar car rental offers peace of mind. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of theft or a collision. Insurance policies can vary between rental providers, so always compare your options.
From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi, the right extras can seriously level up your drive. Consider which features will help you make the most of your trip when you rent a car in Zanzibar.
Good to know
Age requirements often vary by company and even car type, so know the rules before you book. Some suppliers in Tanzania may rent to younger drivers for an extra fee. If you're outside the typical age range, simply uncheck 'Driver aged between 25–70' and then enter how old you are to explore your options.
Kids coming with you? Car seat laws vary from one location to another, and the right setup may depend on their age, weight and height. Confirm whether you need to add one to your Zanzibar car rental booking.
Come prepared and keep pick-up quick and easy. You'll generally need your physical driver's license (no copies) and a second photo ID. Have a credit card ready for the deposit too. If extra requirements apply, your booking will list them.
If you've never driven in Tanzania, keep in mind that traffic here sticks to the left side of the road.
Local speed limits are often about 45kph through built-up areas and around 95kph on highways. Road signs will indicate if the limit is different.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Tanzania is 0.08%. Since alcohol's effects vary from person to person, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink anything at all.
Around 7am is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination. Try to avoid busy hours generally for a smoother drive.
The Tanzanian shilling (TZS) is the currency you'll be using for general expenses and activities. Use cards when it's possible, but carry a little cash when electronic payments aren't accepted.
Best hotels in Zanzibar for drivers
Pull in and enjoy your stay at Best Point Hotel Zanzibar. Offering parking as well as an airport shuttle and shuttle services, this hotel is around 3 kilometers from central Zanzibar.
Zanzibar View Hotel is another practical pick for a trip that's big on driving. It features parking, along with luggage storage and a laundry. Make this your base and you'll be roughly 5 kilometers from the city center.
Like some more inspiration? Browse the lineup of hotels in Zanzibar. You can fine-tune your search with the filters — try 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' or 'Valet parking.' If you're driving electric, there's also an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter.
It's time to start sightseeing now you've found a car rental deal in Zanzibar and your hotel. From House of Wonders to Zanzibar travel tours and Tanzania Attractions, there's plenty to keep you busy here.
