Planning to rent a car in Zanzibar is a fantastic way to explore this beautiful island at your own pace. However, first-time travellers might worry about the costs involved. The good news is that with a few simple tips, you can find a cheap car rental in Zanzibar and avoid overspending. This guide will help you save money on your car hire.
Renting a car in Zanzibar can be affordable if you plan wisely. Below are some easy strategies to keep your car rental costs down. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in helping you avoid surprises and enjoy your island adventure on a budget.
The best time to book Zanzibar car rental is as early as possible. Rates often rise during peak season, so booking in advance helps you lock in lower prices. If you plan ahead, you can secure a good rate weeks or even months before your trip. For instance, booking about 4 weeks in advance is often ideal for getting a bargain on the island. Early booking not only guarantees you a vehicle during busy periods but can also come with early-bird discounts.
Prices for car hire can vary greatly between providers. Always compare prices across different rental companies to find a cheap car rental in Zanzibar that fits your budget. Check websites or use comparison platforms to see rates side by side. Don’t just stick to big international brands. Local agencies often offer competitive rates and more personalised service. They usually have lower overhead costs, which can mean cheaper daily rates for you. Just be sure to read recent reviews for these local providers to ensure they are reliable.
Economy cars or small compact models are usually the cheapest cars to rent in Zanzibar. If you don’t need a large vehicle, opt for a smaller fuel-efficient car. It will come with a lower rental rate and save you money on petrol as well. For example, a small hatchback costs much less per day than a big SUV. These compact cars are not only budget-friendly but also easier to drive on Zanzibar’s narrow roads and to park in busy areas. Unless you really need a large 4x4 for rough terrain, sticking with a simple small car will keep costs down on both rental fees and fuel bills.
Before finalising any booking, always check for hidden fees and additional charges. Sometimes a deal that looks cheap at first can end up costing much more due to add-ons. Common hidden fees in Zanzibar include a mandatory Zanzibar Driving Permit (a temporary local driving license), which costs about $10. Some rental agencies include this in the price, but others ask you to pay separately at pickup.
Also, be aware of insurance excess charges. Many basic rentals come with a high insurance deductible (excess) of several hundred dollars, meaning you’re liable for that amount if the car is scratched or damaged. Rental companies might then push you to buy expensive full insurance to reduce the excess. Other hidden costs to watch for are additional driver fees, young driver surcharges (if you are under the minimum age limit), late return fees, and charges for extras such as GPS and child seats. Always read the fine print of the rental agreement and ask for a full breakdown of costs before you pay.
Insurance is important for peace of mind, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. When arranging a car hire, check what insurance coverage is included in the base price. Typically, rentals in Zanzibar include a basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) with an excess, meaning if an accident happens, you pay the first part (excess), and the insurance covers the rest. This excess can be substantial, which ranges from $500 to $ 1,500.
To stay on budget, you have a couple of choices: you could rely on a travel credit card that offers rental car insurance. Alternatively, you can purchase a separate insurance policy or excess waiver in advance, which is often cheaper than purchasing the super insurance at the rental desk. If you buy full coverage from the rental company for peace of mind, factor that into your budget beforehand. The key is to know your insurance needs and options ahead of time so you’re not caught off guard at the counter.
Always pay attention to the rental’s fuel policy and any mileage limits, as these can affect your total cost. The best option is usually a full-to-full fuel policy in which you receive the car with a full tank, and you return it full. This way, you only pay for the fuel you actually use. Some companies operate on a full-to-empty or pre-purchase policy, where you pay for a tank of fuel in advance and can return the car empty.
Full-to-empty might sound convenient, but it often means you’re charged an inflated price for that tank of fuel, and you lose money if you don’t use every last drop. So, stick with full-to-full; just remember to refill the tank before dropping the car off to avoid refuelling fees. Also, check if your rental comes with unlimited mileage. In Zanzibar, many rentals include unlimited kilometres, but a few might have a daily mileage cap.
If there’s a limit and you drive more than allowed, you’ll pay extra per kilometre, which can add up quickly. To keep within budget, choose rentals with no mileage limits or a high enough limit for your plans. Being clear on fuel and mileage terms will help you avoid any unexpected charges when you return the car.
Budget travellers should always be on the lookout for ways to get a discount. Sometimes, rental agencies offer promotional codes, online deals, or seasonal specials – a quick search on their website or a phone call could reveal a promo code or special rate. If your travel dates are flexible, check if prices drop during certain months or days of the week.
Another tip is to consider the length of your rental: if you need a car for several days, weekly rentals may have a lower per-day rate than shorter bookings. Extending your rental to a week or longer may qualify you for a long-term discount that saves you money, even if you don't use the car every day.
Additionally, if you plan to rent for an extended period or need multiple cars (for a group of friends, for example), don’t hesitate negotiating with the rental company. You might be able to get an extra driver added for free or a few dollars knocked off the daily price. Taking the time to find and ask about these discounts means you keep more of your travel budget.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the freedom to explore Zanzibar by car without overspending. Remember to plan ahead, choose wisely, and always double-check the details. When you avoid hidden fees and pick the right options, you’ll get a cheap car rental in Zanzibar that meets your needs. With your rental car sorted out affordably, you can focus on enjoying the island’s stunning beaches, spice farms, and historic Stone Town at your own pace.
Rent a car in Zanzibar with Final Rentals to enjoy a smooth, affordable, and stress-free travel experience. With an easy online booking process, transparent pricing, and a wide range of vehicles to choose from, Final Rentals makes your Zanzibar adventure even more convenient. Whether you're landing at Zanzibar Airport, downtown, or at the ferry terminal, you can pick up your rental car at the location that works best for you. For extra convenience, download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
