Car Rental Zanzibar

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Zanzibar

Renting a car in Zanzibar offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the island and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the historic Slave Market, located 9 miles away, and Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, just 7 miles away, which is perfect for outdoor adventures. Families will appreciate the ease of managing luggage and travel plans, ensuring everyone stays together while exploring the beautiful Marumbi Beach, also 9 miles from Zanzibar.

A car rental allows for easy travel to popular destinations like Zanzibar Town, situated 8 miles away, where you can enjoy Forodhani Gardens and Shangani Beach. Kibele, only 1 mile from Zanzibar, features attractions such as Christ Church Cathedral and the Slave Market. Additionally, Unguja, 5 miles away, offers stunning spots like Kiwengwa Beach and Michamvi Kae Beach. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or seeking beach and outdoor experiences, having a rental car makes it simple to discover the diverse offerings of Zanzibar and create your own itinerary.

Most popular car rentals around Zanzibar

• Economy: This car option accommodates 5 travelers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. The Economy car is a great choice for solo travelers, couples, or families who want to explore Zanzibar at their own pace. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver on local roads while providing enough space for your luggage, making it a popular pick for those looking for both affordability and convenience.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, this Midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 travelers with room for 3 large suitcases. It offers a spacious interior and is perfect for those who value comfort while traveling. With its larger size, you can enjoy a more comfortable ride and have ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it a favored option for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Zanzibar.
• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is another excellent choice for up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. It strikes a balance between size and maneuverability, making it well-suited for a variety of travel needs. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this option provides flexibility and comfort, allowing you to navigate Zanzibar's roads and manage your belongings efficiently.

Top rated car suppliers around Zanzibar

• NÜ Car Rentals: NÜ Car Rentals has a location 7 miles away from Zanzibar, making it convenient for travelers seeking a reliable and accessible option. They are particularly popular for their Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, which provide ample space and comfort for exploring the beautiful sights of Zanzibar. Customers appreciate their efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a smooth rental experience as you navigate the island.
• ACE Rent A Car: With a rental location also located 7 miles away from Zanzibar, ACE Rent A Car is known for its excellent selection of vehicles. Travelers favor their Midsize SUVs and Economys, which are ideal for both solo adventures and family trips. ACE Rent A Car is recognized for its friendly staff and straightforward rental process, making it an appealing choice for those looking to enjoy the freedom of exploring Zanzibar at their own pace.
• AutoUnion: AutoUnion, located 7 miles from Zanzibar, offers a great selection of vehicles that cater to a range of traveler needs. Their Midsize SUVs and Economys are among the most booked options, providing comfort and flexibility for your journey. Customers report positive experiences with AutoUnion, highlighting their commitment to quality service and well-kept cars, which enhances your exploration of Zanzibar's stunning landscapes and attractions.

Where to stay around Zanzibar

• Zanzibar Town: Located 8 miles away from Zanzibar, this vibrant city offers a mix of beach, outdoor, and family experiences. Travelers can enjoy activities such as water sports and dining at local seafood restaurants. Key attractions include Forodhani Gardens, ideal for family outings, and the historic Slave Market, perfect for those interested in culture. Shangani Beach is also nearby, providing a beautiful spot for relaxation and leisure.
• Kibele: Just 1 mile from Zanzibar, Kibele is a charming city known for its proximity to beautiful beaches and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore the historic Slave Market or enjoy the natural beauty of Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, which is great for outdoor adventures. Additionally, Christ Church Cathedral offers a glimpse into the local culture and history, making it a worthwhile stop during your stay.
• Unguja: Situated 5 miles away from Zanzibar, Unguja is an island that attracts travelers seeking beach, outdoor, and adventure experiences. The area is known for several stunning beaches, including Kiwengwa Beach, Marumbi Beach, and Michamvi Kae Beach, all of which are perfect for sunbathing and water activities. Visitors can also engage in thrilling water sports and explore the local parks, making it an excellent destination for adventure enthusiasts.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to find the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to book your car well ahead of your trip. Reserving early often secures lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a great compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is often the most cost-effective option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable too, but ensure that you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides added 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’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent 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 January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately high. April and May also offer good opportunities, with average prices and lower demand. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately low demand. This pattern continues as demand peaks in December, making it a busier time for rentals.

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

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Zanzibar

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Zanzibar into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Zanzibar and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Zanzibar

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Zanzibar. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Zanzibar

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals