This guide is designed to make your car rental journey in Tanzania smooth and enjoyable. From understanding the requirements to navigating Tanzanian roads, we’ve compiled all necessary information in one place.
Yes, US travelers can legally drive in Tanzania with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may vary by rental company.
Form of ID:
A valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP).
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 18 and 99 years old. Young drivers aged 20-22 may incur an additional fee of US$ 11.75 per day.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Select from well-established international brands or local providers tailored to Tanzania's unique travel needs.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands

Europcar
Locations:
25Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
Green Motion
Locations:
4Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Eco-conscious travelers and budget-friendly options
Hertz
Locations:
2Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Autounion
Locations:
20Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking local insights and personalized service
Cargini
Locations:
2Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local residents
ABBYCAR
Locations:
2Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local exploration
ACE Rent A Car
Locations:
3Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
KARIBU KWETU ZANZIBAR
Locations:
2Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking local experiences and personalized service
SURPRICE RENT A CAR
Locations:
4Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local explorationChoosing the right rental car can make your travel more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group size, your destinations, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Perfect for city driving and short trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Comfortable for longer distances
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Ideal for families and group travel
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in the USA
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most Polish drivers prefer automatic for USA road trips
Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability
Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
Theft protection
Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
Personal insurance
Check if your Polish insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation
Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
Change fees
Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
Limited mileage
Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full
Return with the same fuel level, most economical option
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for a full tank, convenient but often more expensive
Same-to-Same
Return with the same level as pickup, fair pricing
Pre-purchase fuel options
Compare costs with local gas station prices
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar CityMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Cross-country exploration across TanzaniaConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
National parks, beaches, and tourist hotspotsCompare with Confidence on QEEQ
Tanzania offers breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife reserves, and cultural experiences. Popular destinations include Serengeti National Park, Zanzibar Island, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Ngorongoro Crater. Rent a car to explore these iconic locations at your own pace.
You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Tanzania (TZ), but for peace of mind when exploring unfamiliar roads, additional coverage is highly recommended. Insurance requirements can vary, and understanding what is included in your rental agreement is crucial for avoiding unexpected costs.
Covers damage to the rental car caused by collisions or theft.
Provides coverage in case of theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers damages or injuries caused to other people or their property.
Covers medical costs for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Tanzania. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Travelers from the US to Tanzania can save significantly by choosing the right rental options. Timing, policies, and booking strategies make all the difference.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Tanzania.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
US and Tanzanian traffic rules vary in driving sides, road condition expectations, and enforcement levels.
Driving Side
Drive on the left-hand side of the road
Drive on the right-hand side of the road
Speed Limits
Speed limits are generally lower and measured in kilometers per hour
Higher speed limits and measured in miles per hour
Road Conditions
Uneven road conditions, especially in rural areas
Generally well-maintained roads
Pedestrian Right of Way
Pedestrian crossings not always respected
Pedestrian crossings are generally observed
Seatbelt Laws
Mandatory for all occupants
Mandatory for all occupants
Alcohol Limits
Limit is 0.08% blood alcohol content
Limit is 0.08% blood alcohol content
Mobile Phone Usage
Hands-free usage only
Hands-free usage only
Common questions for travelers from United States renting a car in Tanzania