How to find a cheap car hire deal in Tanzania
Pick up a cheap rental car in Tanzania from RM162 a day and drive off happy. We do the hard work for you by searching all the top rental companies, putting amazing deals at your fingertips.
RM474 is the lowest available rate for a weekly rental if your trip is more than just a quick visit.
Browse the car rentals in Arusha and stretch your spending power across your trip. It's the most affordable place in Tanzania to book a set of wheels.
Zanzibar is the most popular city for car rentals.
When comparing providers, check out what's on offer from Auto-Union. It's a leading name in Tanzania.
Collect your ride from the airport if you're flying in. Zanzibar Airport, Dar Es Salaam Airport and Arusha Airport offer car hire pickup locations either at the terminal or nearby.
Set yourself up with a set of wheels in convenient cities such as Zanzibar, Dar Es Salaam and Arusha.
A one-way rental could work in your favor. Providers often lower prices when they need to move cars between sites. When searching for a car for rent in Tanzania, select 'Return car to a different location' to access those deals.
Planning a multi-week rental? It could be cheaper to book a full month, so test a few date combinations to find out what works best.
Avoid extra costs by choosing a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up the car full and return it full, so you pay only for the fuel you've used.
Select 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and let the map decide where you end up. You can roam wherever the road takes you without added mileage charges.
Best time to book a car hire in Tanzania
Timing makes all the difference when it comes to finding the best price on a car hire in Tanzania. Try booking around one week before you go.
Think about heading over in October to lock in average daily rates of RM136. It's the most affordable month to rent a car.
January is typically the most expensive.
Compare car hire types in Tanzania
Economy: If you want something reliable and affordable, economy is a smart pick. With lower daily rates and strong fuel efficiency, this option helps keep both upfront and ongoing costs manageable.
Small: This category covers mini and economy cars that focus on doing the basics well. Compact size, fuel-efficient engines and easy manoeuvrability make it a reliable choice when looking for a cheap rental car in Tanzania.
Medium: If you want something more spacious without going all out, this is the answer. Medium rentals offer more room for people and luggage, as well as a good mix of efficiency and performance. You'll find compact and intermediate models here.
Large: No elbow battles. No stuffing bags under seats. Also known as full-size, large cars offer real passenger space and the luggage capacity to match. Choose this level when you're covering some serious distance or bringing everyone with you.
SUV: Road trips across Tanzania are a dream in one of these. The higher seating position offers a better view of what's ahead and helps you stay aware of your surroundings. Designed for versatility, they can take you from main highways to off-the-radar stretches without missing a beat.
Van: For business use or large group travel, this category of car for rent in Tanzania has the extra carrying power you need. These commercial vans and trucks feature generous cargo space and practical layouts that make loading more efficient.
Luxury: Want to step into something next level? From bold good looks to cutting-edge tech and powerful performance, luxury vehicles kick the entire driving experience into high gear. This is what you book when only the best will do.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but it's something to think about. If you're in a collision, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a hefty excess fee. Different providers have varying insurance policies and cover levels, so check the terms before booking.
From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi, the right extras can make all the difference. Weigh up which features could make your trip more comfortable when you rent a car in Tanzania.
Driving in Tanzania: What you need to know
Rental age requirements aren't always the same everywhere. Providers can set their own policies, and if you're a younger driver, you could face extra fees or restrictions. Check what rules apply with each supplier before booking your car hire in Tanzania.
If you're travelling with kids, check if you should add a child car seat to your car hire reservation in Tanzania. Whether a legal requirement or not, they're always the safest way for little ones to travel.
Come prepared to keep the pick-up process smooth. You'll generally need your physical driver's licence (no copies) and a second photo ID. Also bring a credit card that can cover the deposit. If there's anything extra, it'll be listed in your booking.
Driving in Tanzania can take some adjustment if it's your first time. Don't forget all vehicles travel on the left side of the road.
Local speed limits can vary, but it's normally around 45kph in built-up areas and 95kph or so on highways. Always go with what's posted on the road signs.
In Tanzania, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. If you intend to have a couple of drinks, pass the keys to someone else or arrange a ride-share or taxi instead.
The Tanzanian shilling (TZS) is the currency you'll be using for general expenses and activities. Pay with a credit or debit card when it's convenient, but have some cash ready when electronic payments aren't available.
The language most widely spoken in this country is Swahili.
