Driving in Zanzibar. Rules, Requirements, Safety All To Know
Zanzibar is replete with remarkable hidden jewels awaiting your exploration. Regrettably, numerous tourist attractions are frequently inaccessible without personal vehicles due to inadequate public transportation infrastructure.
To fully appreciate Zanzibar, it is essential to rent a car and explore the island alone. Renting a vehicle in a foreign nation might be somewhat daunting; but, rest assured, we are here to assist you.
This guide provides comprehensive information for renting a car and driving safely in Zanzibar, including rental locations, pricing, and further tips. Here is a comprehensive guide on automobile rental in Zanzibar.
Should I Rent A Car in Zanzibar
If you intend to travel the island and visit various tourist spots instead of predominantly remaining at the beach or in Stone Town, renting a car is unequivocally advisable.
If your sole intention in Zanzibar is to unwind at the beach, you may just depend on taxis for transportation between the airport and the beach. Driving can be cumbersome and is only advantageous if one seeks to venture further inland.
Should you choose to rent a vehicle, ensure you possess proficient driving skills, as the roads in Zanzibar are substandard, with certain regions, such as Nungwi, being unpaved.
They drive on the left, which can be disorienting for novices; so, it is advisable to take a few moments to acclimatise to the reversed orientation. If you have driven in developing nations such as Thailand previously, you should manage well in Zanzibar.
In summary, if you intend to spend a minimum of two days touring the inland tourist destinations, renting a car in Zanzibar will undoubtedly provide excellent value for your investment. If your sole intention is to spend time at the beach, then the inconvenience is, in my view, unwarranted.
How Much To Rent A Car in Zanzibar
The cost of car rental in Zanzibar varies from 35 USD to 100 USD per day, contingent upon the vehicle and the desired level of comfort. The most economical choice is a Toyota RAV4-3 SPECIAL, a 3-door 4WD vehicle equipped with air conditioning, ideal for individual travellers and couples alike.
For $40 to $45 USD daily, you can receive a newer model of the Toyota RAV4, offering increased room, ideal for groups beyond two individuals. For $100 USD daily, you will receive a Toyota Land Cruiser accommodating up to 7 passengers in comfort.
Renting a car in Zanzibar necessitates an additional payment of 10 USD for a temporary local driving licence, which must be presented if stopped by traffic authorities while operating the vehicle.
Your total expenditure will range from approximately 35 to 100 USD per day, contingent upon your vehicle selection, in addition to a fee of 10 USD for a local driving licence, and that concludes the costs.