Car rental in Zanzibar: what you need
A rental car gives you freedom on Unguja, the main island. You can reach the east coast around Paje, the forest at Jozani and villages in the south at your own pace. It also asks more of you than a car at home. Traffic drives on the left, roads vary in quality, and you need a local permit before you drive.
Many travellers find that a mix works best: a taxi from the airport, a few organised trips, and a car for one or two days. The rules below apply to every rental, whichever company you choose. If you only want the quickest start, read the airport guide for taxi prices first.
Driving licence and local permit
The documents you carry in the car.
Your own licence
Bring your valid driving licence from home. Travellers from Germany need an international driving permit together with their national licence.
The local Zanzibar permit
On top of a foreign licence you need a local Zanzibar driving permit. The rental company can arrange it. Ask what it costs and how long it is valid before you book, so the total is clear on the day you collect the car.
Insurance and contract
Read the rental contract before you sign. Check what the vehicle cover includes, who pays in case of damage and what happens if you return the car late. Photograph the car at pick-up.
Our pick: a road transfer instead of driving
If you would rather not drive on the island, a road transfer from Stone Town to the southeast coast is the alternative.
Hand-picked tours, booked through Viator. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Zanzibar tours without driving
Dhow trips, Jozani Forest, dolphins, spice farms and Stone Town walks, with live prices and availability.
Roads, fuel and night driving
What the road conditions mean for your plans.
Road quality
Roads can be poor, and the surface gets worse in the rain. The rainy seasons are covered on the weather page. After heavy rain, allow more time and be ready to turn back.
Fuel
The network of fuel stations has gaps. Fill up in the larger towns before a long drive, and do not assume that every village has a station that is always supplied.
Night driving
Avoid driving at night outside the bigger towns. Plan day trips so that you are back before dark, especially on the east and south coasts.
Police checks and fines
How to handle a stop.
Frequent checks
Police checks are common, so keep your licence, the local permit and the rental papers within reach. Stay calm and polite, and answer questions simply.
Paying a fine
If you are fined, you receive an official control number for the payment. You do not pay on the spot at the roadside. Keep the paper the officer gives you.
Parking
Ask your accommodation where to leave the car. For the airport, confirm parking with the rental company before you travel.
Rental car, taxi or organised trip
Which one fits your plans.
| Option | Best for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Rental car | Moving between coasts on your own schedule | Local permit, left-hand traffic, rough roads, fuel gaps |
| Taxi | Airport transfers and single trips | Agree the price before you get in |
| Organised trip | Boat trips, forest visits and a full day out | Fixed route and times |
For most visitors who stay on one coast, a taxi from the airport plus a few organised trips is simpler and less stressful than a rental car. A car makes sense if you move between coasts, are used to left-hand traffic and are comfortable with poor roads. Compare the options on the tours page before you decide.
Plan the rest of your trip
Places you can reach by car or taxi.
Zanzibar car rental: frequently asked questions
Do I need a special permit to drive in Zanzibar?
Yes. In addition to your foreign licence you need a local Zanzibar driving permit. The rental company can arrange it.
Which side of the road do they drive on?
Traffic drives on the left.
Do I need an international driving permit?
Travellers from Germany need an international driving permit together with the national licence. Check the rule for your own country before you travel.
What happens if the police fine me?
You get a control number for the payment. You do not pay on the road.
Is it safe to drive at night?
Avoid night driving outside the bigger towns, because of the road conditions.
Where can I park a rental car?
Ask your accommodation where to leave the car. For the airport, confirm parking with the rental company before you travel.