Renting a car in Zanzibar can be an exciting way to explore the island, but you should understand the deposit and refund policies. As a traveller, you might worry about hidden fees or whether you’ll get your money back easily. This guide explains everything about car rental policies in Zanzibar.
We’ll cover what a deposit is, how much you might pay, and how to ensure you get your deposit refunded smoothly. By the end, you’ll feel confident renting a car, whether you pick it up in Stone Town or opt for a car rental at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport.
A car rental deposit in Zanzibar is a sum of money the rental company holds as security when you pick up the car. It’s usually a refundable amount that protects the company in case something goes wrong during your rental. Nearly all Zanzibar car hire companies require this deposit for each rental. In most cases, the deposit is not an extra fee. It’s a temporary hold that you get back if the car is returned in good condition. For example, the deposit covers the following:
How much is a car rental deposit in Zanzibar? The deposit amount can vary widely depending on the vehicle you choose and the rental company’s policy. Generally, the more valuable the car, the higher the deposit. For instance, an international rental brand might charge an average deposit of about €800 (around $800) for a mid-range car in Zanzibar. On the other hand, a local rental agency with older cars might charge only a few dollars. Always check the specific amount when booking so you’re prepared.
Some Zanzibar car rental terms and conditions note that younger drivers from under 25 or those with a very new licence may be required to pay a higher deposit or additional fee. This is because less experienced drivers may be at higher risk. Not all companies do this, but it’s wise to check.
Now that you know the typical deposit amounts, the next question is, how do you pay the deposit? In Zanzibar, as in many places, rental companies have specific rules about payment methods for the security deposit. Here are the common methods and what to consider with each:
Insurance affects how much deposit a rental company blocks on your card. In Zanzibar, every rental car comes with basic insurance by law. This basic insurance only covers damage or injury you cause to other people or their property. It does not cover damage to the rental car itself.
Because the car itself is not covered, the rental company protects itself by taking a large security deposit. This amount is called the deductible or excess. It is usually between $500 and $1,000 or more. The deposit they hold on your card is usually about the same amount. If you return the car undamaged, the deposit is released. If the car is damaged or stolen, they can use some or all of that deposit to pay for repairs.
If you want more protection, you can choose extra or full insurance when booking. This may be Collision Damage Waiver, Theft Protection, Full Damage Waiver, or Super CDW. These options reduce or completely remove the amount you would have to pay if the car is damaged.
When you buy full insurance, the rental company takes on most of the risk, so they usually reduce the deposit. Instead of holding $800 or more, they may only hold a few hundred dollars.
After your trip, you’ll want your deposit back. Refund policies in Zanzibar are generally straightforward, but it’s good to know how the process works so you’re not left in the dark. Each company may have slight differences in timing or method, but here’s what usually happens:
When you return the rental car, the staff will inspect it carefully. They check fuel level, look for new damage, and confirm all accessories are returned. If the car matches its original condition, your deposit is cleared. Cash deposits are usually returned immediately. For credit cards, the company releases the card hold electronically and may give written or email confirmation. If the deposit was charged instead of held, such as with some debit cards, the company processes a refund to your account.
One important thing to know is that credit card deposit releases are not always instant. Even if the rental company releases your deposit as soon as you return the car, your bank may take time to show the funds again. Usually, the money is returned to your account within 5 to 15 business days. Often it’s faster, but weekends, holidays, international cards, or debit cards can cause delays. If you’re worried, contact your bank to confirm the release.
Nobody rents a car hoping to lose their deposit. The good news is that by being a bit cautious and organized, you can almost guarantee a full deposit refund.
When you first pick up the car, take time to do a thorough inspection together with the rental agent. Walk around the vehicle and note any existing scratches, dents, or other damage. Ensure every existing flaw is noted on the rental agreement or checkout form.
Use your smartphone to protect yourself when renting a car. In Zanzibar’s bright sunlight, scratches and dents show clearly in photos. Take pictures at pickup and return, and record timestamps. Capture all sides of the car, the front and back, close-ups of existing damage, wheels and rims, and the interior.
Also, photograph the fuel gauge at pickup and drop-off to prove correct fuel levels. If accessories are included, take a photo of them too. This only takes a few minutes, but it can save your deposit if a dispute arises later.
Always take time to read the Zanzibar car rental terms and conditions before driving away. Even if the document is long, focus on key points like the deposit, fuel policy, mileage limits, and how damage is handled. The agreement explains what is allowed and what may result in penalties, such as cleaning fees, restricted roads, or special permit requirements.
In Zanzibar, some rentals forbid driving on unpaved roads or require a local driving permit. The contract also explains how and when your deposit is refunded. If anything is unclear, ask the rental agent immediately so you can follow the rules and avoid losing your deposit.
Returning the car on time and with a full tank helps you avoid extra charges. Plan to arrive early, as Zanzibar’s traffic can be unpredictable. If you may be late, call the rental company right away, as they may allow a short extension. Before drop-off, refill the tank at a nearby petrol station and keep the receipt as proof. Also, tidy the car by removing trash and excess sand. The car doesn’t need washing, but it shouldn’t be very dirty.
Hiring a car in Zanzibar is easy and stress-free if you understand the deposit and refund process from the start. Always remember that the deposit is there to protect both you and the rental company. Always book with a reputable rental agency that has transparent terms, even if it’s not the absolute cheapest option. This ensures your deposit is handled honestly and efficiently.
Rent a car in Zanzibar with Final Rentals to enjoy low deposits, inclusive insurance, and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Select Abeid Amani Karume International Airport as your pickup location, enter your travel dates, and choose a vehicle for your trip. Book and manage your car rental at any time. Download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
