Zanzibar Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Zanzibar

Renting a car in Zanzibar allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore the island and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families and those with luggage, making it easy to manage your belongings while discovering various attractions. You can drive to the historic Slave Market, located 14 km away, or embark on an adventure in Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, just 11 km from Zanzibar. If you prefer beach experiences, Marumbi Beach is also a mere 14 km away.

A rental car enables convenient trips to nearby cities like Zanzibar Town, which is 13 km away and features notable sites such as Forodhani Gardens and Shangani Beach. You can also visit Kibele, only 2 km from Zanzibar, where you can find the Slave Market and Christ Church Cathedral. Additionally, exploring the high-level region of Unguja, 8 km away, lets you enjoy beautiful beaches like Kiwengwa and Michamvi Kae. Overall, having a rental car enhances your travel experience, allowing you to tailor your itinerary to your interests and schedule.

Most popular car rentals around Zanzibar

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for many travellers visiting Zanzibar. This compact option accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. Its efficient use of space and fuel makes it a cost-effective and practical option for exploring the beautiful island at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is a fantastic option. This versatile vehicle can comfortably accommodate 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. It's perfect for families, couples, or small groups who may have more luggage or gear. With its ample room and higher ground clearance, you'll find it well-suited for both city driving and exploring Zanzibar’s diverse landscapes.
• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV offers a great balance between space and manoeuvrability. Similar to the Midsize SUV, it accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a comfortable ride that remains easy to handle on Zanzibar’s roads. With a compact design, you'll enjoy the agility needed to navigate busy areas while still having room to carry your essentials.

Top rated car suppliers around Zanzibar

• NÜ Car Rentals: NÜ Car Rentals has a convenient location situated 11 km away from Zanzibar, making it accessible for travellers. This supplier is particularly popular for its Economy and Compact SUV vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the diverse landscapes and attractions of Zanzibar. With a focus on flexibility and convenience, renting from NÜ allows you to explore at your own pace while managing your luggage effortlessly.
• AutoUnion: AutoUnion also offers a rental location 11 km from Zanzibar, appealing to many visitors with its reliable service. The most booked vehicles from AutoUnion are Economy and Midsize SUVs, perfect for both solo adventurers and families looking to enjoy the island’s beauty. The company's focus on customer satisfaction ensures a positive rental experience, making it a preferred choice for many travellers.
• ACE Rent A Car: Located 11 km away from Zanzibar, ACE Rent A Car is another top option for those seeking to rent a vehicle. This supplier is known for its Midsize SUV and Economy SUV offerings, which provide comfort and versatility for exploring the region. ACE Rent A Car’s commitment to providing quality vehicles and excellent service makes it a strong contender for your car rental needs while visiting Zanzibar.

Where to stay around Zanzibar

• Zanzibar Town: Located 13 km away from Zanzibar, this vibrant city is an ideal destination for families seeking beach and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include the urban park of Forodhani Gardens, the historic Slave Market, and the beautiful Shangani Beach. The area also offers a variety of dining options, particularly seafood, making it a great choice for food lovers. Enjoy the local culture and relax on the beach during your stay.
• Kibele: Situated 2 km from Zanzibar, Kibele is a charming location for beach enthusiasts and culture seekers. The historic Slave Market is a must-see, along with the serene Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, which is perfect for adventure lovers. Christ Church Cathedral adds a cultural touch to your visit. Kibele provides a quieter alternative while still being close to the attractions of Zanzibar.
• Unguja: This picturesque island is located 8 km from Zanzibar and is known for its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the pristine Kiwengwa Beach, Marumbi Beach, and Michamvi Kae Beach, each offering unique landscapes and relaxation opportunities. Unguja is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in water sports and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Zanzibar

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also affect renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the additional cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is a requirement for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Zanzibar

The best value period to rent a car in and around Zanzibar is May, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. April is another good option, as both prices and demand remain average. From June through August, prices tend to stay slightly low while demand is moderate. In contrast, January and February are the most expensive months, with high demand making rentals pricier. March and November see average pricing and demand, while October and December remain busier periods with higher prices.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
February	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
March	82.9°F (28.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
May	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
June	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	77.0°F (25.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
October	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
November	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average