IslandGuide — Zanzibar
🇹🇿 Tanzania

Car rental in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a large island (1,666 km2) and the beaches span the entire coastline -- Nungwi and Kendwa in the north, Matemwe and Paje on the east coast, Jambiani and Bwejuu in the south. Public dala-dala minibuses exist but are slow and infrequent on secondary routes. A hire car gives you flexibility to reach Stone Town, spice farms, the Jozani Forest, and any beach without negotiating taxi fares for every journey. Drive on the left (UK style).

Pickup locations

ZNZ Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
Rent a car — DiscoverCars

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a hire car to explore Zanzibar?
Yes -- Zanzibar is large and the best beaches are spread across the island. Dala-dala minibuses connect main towns but are slow and infrequent on secondary routes. A hire car or private driver lets you reach Nungwi in the north, Paje on the east coast, and the Jozani Forest without relying on slow minibuses or expensive taxis for every journey.
Do I need an international driving licence in Zanzibar?
Yes. An international driving permit (IDP) is required alongside your national licence to drive in Tanzania (which includes Zanzibar). Traffic drives on the left. Road conditions vary -- main roads are good, but some coastal roads to remote beaches are unpaved.
Is it safe to drive in Zanzibar?
Yes, with care. Main roads to Nungwi and the east coast are well-maintained tarmac. Secondary roads can be potholed or unpaved. Driving at night is not recommended. Police checkpoints are common -- carry your licence, IDP, and car papers at all times.
Can I pick up a hire car at Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)?
Yes -- several car rental companies operate at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), 6 km south of Stone Town. Booking online before arrival is strongly recommended, as vehicle availability on the island is limited, especially in the peak December-February season.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a hire car to explore Zanzibar?
Yes -- Zanzibar is large and the best beaches are spread across the island. Dala-dala minibuses connect main towns but are slow and infrequent on secondary routes. A hire car or private driver lets you reach Nungwi in the north, Paje on the east coast, and the Jozani Forest without relying on slow minibuses or expensive taxis for every journey.
Do I need an international driving licence in Zanzibar?
Yes. An international driving permit (IDP) is required alongside your national licence to drive in Tanzania (which includes Zanzibar). Traffic drives on the left. Road conditions vary -- main roads are good, but some coastal roads to remote beaches are unpaved.
Is it safe to drive in Zanzibar?
Yes, with care. Main roads to Nungwi and the east coast are well-maintained tarmac. Secondary roads can be potholed or unpaved. Driving at night is not recommended. Police checkpoints are common -- carry your licence, IDP, and car papers at all times.
Can I pick up a hire car at Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)?
Yes -- several car rental companies operate at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), 6 km south of Stone Town. Booking online before arrival is strongly recommended, as vehicle availability on the island is limited, especially in the peak December-February season.