Rent a Car at Abeid Amani Karume Airport (ZNZ), Zanzibar

Why Rent a Car at Zanzibar International Airport?

Renting a car at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) is one of the best ways to explore Tanzania and Zanzibar Island at your own pace. The island is full of beautiful beaches, lively markets, spice farms, and scenic coastal roads, which are easily accessible by car.

With a rental car here, you enjoy: 

• Freedom to travel on your own schedule

• Direct transfer from the airport to your hotel

• Flexibility to visit beaches, towns, and forests

• Comfort with luggage and family travel

• Ability to explore both the north and south coasts of Zanzibar

A rental car is often more efficient and enjoyable than relying solely on taxis or buses.

With Final Rentals, you can reserve your rental car in advance, skip waiting at the airport, and begin your trip as soon as you arrive

Car Hire at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport

Most car rentals at Zanzibar Airport operate on a meet‑and‑greet basis rather than traditional counters inside the terminal. After clearing immigration and collecting your luggage, you will meet your Final Rentals representative in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name or booking information. They will help you with paperwork and guide you to your vehicle, which is typically parked just outside the terminal area.

Pickup Process

• Clear immigration and collect your luggage

• Walk to the main arrivals hall

• Look for your Final Rentals representative

• Provide your documents and confirm rental details

• Be escorted to your rental vehicle nearby

This streamlined process avoids long lines and gets you on the road quickly after arrival. 

Returning Your Rental Car at ZNZ Airport

Returning your car at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is simple and well signposted:

• Follow signs for Car Rental Return on approach to the terminal

• Park in the agreed return area with your Final Rentals vehicle

• Confirm fuel level meets the rental agreement

• Remove all personal belongings

• Hand over the keys to your Final Rentals contact

Plan your return time to allow for flight check‑in and security procedures.

Documents Required for Car Rental

To rent a car with Final Rentals at Zanzibar Airport, you generally need:

• Valid passport or national ID

• Valid driver’s licence from your home country

• A credit card in the driver’s name

• Your rental booking confirmation

If your driver’s licence isn’t in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) helps avoid delays at pickup.

Age Requirements

Drivers often must be at least 21–23 years old to rent a car at ZNZ Airport. Younger drivers may face additional fees or restrictions, and some vehicle categories require you to be older. Always check Final Rentals’ terms before booking.

Types of Vehicles Available

• Economy cars — fuel‑efficient for city and beachside driving

• Compact cars — ideal for couples and small groups

• Sedans — comfortable for longer island journeys

• SUVs — great for families or extra luggage

• Larger vehicles — for groups and extended travel

Select the right vehicle based on passengers, luggage, and planned routes.

Fuel Policy and Refueling

Car rentals at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport typically use a full‑to‑full fuel policy: you receive your car with a full tank and return it with a full tank. Fuel stations are available on major roads across Zanzibar, including close to the airport, making it convenient to fill up before returning your vehicle.

Best Time to Book a Rental Car

Rental demand in Zanzibar rises during:

• High season (December–March)

• Summer holidays (July–August)

• Local festival periods

Booking early — especially weeks before arrival — helps secure better prices and vehicle choice.

About Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is the main airport for Zanzibar and a major entry point for international and regional visitors. It connects to destinations across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. The airport has modern facilities, a comfortable arrivals area, and clear signage for ground transport, including rental cars, taxis, and hotel shuttles.

• Airport Name: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport

• IATA Code: ZNZ

• Location: Zanzibar, Tanzania

• Terminal: Main arrivals hall for international flights

Airport Contact Information

• Address: Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, Kisauni Road, Zanzibar, Tanzania 

• Phone Number: +255 24 223 1336

• Official Website: https://zaa.go.tz/

Use official airport or airline sources to confirm flight details and terminal services ahead of your arrival.

Airport Facilities

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is equipped with:

• Car rental services available on arrival

• Cafés and refreshments

• Duty‑free and local shops

• Currency exchange and ATMs

• Free Wi‑Fi zones

• Basic traveler assistance desks

These amenities help make your arrival and rental pickup comfortable and efficient.

Driving from ZNZ Airport

Once you have your rental car, the island’s road network makes it easy to explore:

• Stone Town: ~15 minutes from the airport

• Nungwi Beach: ~60–75 minutes north

• Paje & Jambiani: ~60 minutes southeast

• Mambo Viewpoint and interior scenery routes are accessible via well‑marked roads

The roads mostly follow good pavement with clear signs, though some rural sections can be narrower.

Important Driving Rules

Before you begin driving:

• Drive on the left side of the road (Tanzania traffic rule)

• Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers

• Mobile phone use while driving requires a hands‑free setup

• Traffic rules are enforced; police checkpoints are common

Who Should Rent a Car at ZNZ Airport?

Renting a car at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport is ideal for:

• Tourists planning island road trips

• Families with luggage and gear

• Beach and nature explorers

• Travelers staying outside city centers

• Visitors wanting flexible travel schedules

A rental car gives you the independence that taxis or shuttles can’t always match.

What You Get with Final Rentals

When you rent a car at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport with Final Rentals, you receive:

• Airport pickup and return

• Easy online booking before travel

• Clear rental terms and pricing

• Reliable and well‑maintained vehicles

• Flexible short and long‑term rental options

• Transparent charges with no hidden fees

Final Rentals focuses on clarity, reliability, and traveler support so you can enjoy your Zanzibar adventure from the moment you land.

FAQs About Renting a Car at Abeid Amani Karume Airport

How much does it cost to rent a car at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Economy cars like the Toyota Corolla start from $35–$50/day in low season (April–May, November). In peak months (December–February, July–August), prices rise to $60–$90/day. SUVs such as the RAV4 cost more. Final Rentals offers transparent pricing for all rentals at Abeid Amani Karume Airport.

What is the cheapest month to rent a car at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

April is the cheapest month due to the long rainy season, with rates averaging $35–$45/day. Avoid December and July–August when demand from European tourists doubles prices. Final Rentals helps you save by booking your car rental online at Abeid Amani Karume Airport during these quieter, more affordable periods.

What documents do I need to rent a car at Zanzibar Airport?

You’ll need a valid driver’s license, passport, and credit card. Travelers from the US, UK, Canada, EU, and Australia don’t need an International Driving Permit. Always carry physical originals—digital copies aren’t accepted.

Can I rent a car with a debit card at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

A credit card is required for the security deposit due to pre-authorization rules. Debit cards may be used for partial payment, but rarely support the hold needed. To avoid delays, always use a Visa or Mastercard when collecting your rental vehicle at Abeid Amani Karume Airport.

Are there age restrictions for renting a car at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

You must be at least 21 years old. Drivers aged 21–24 typically pay a young driver surcharge (15–25% extra). Most SUVs require renters to be 25 or older. Proof of at least one year of driving experience is standard for all rentals at Abeid Amani Karume Airport.

Can I add an extra driver to my rental at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Additional drivers are allowed if they present a valid license and ID at pickup. A small daily fee applies. All must meet age and license requirements. This is helpful for couples exploring Stone Town or Jozani Forest with their rental from Abeid Amani Karume Airport.

What is the best car to rent at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

For city and beach routes, a Toyota Corolla or Suzuki Swift is fuel-efficient and easy to park. For sandy or muddy tracks to Paje or Michamvi, a Toyota RAV4 offers better ground clearance. Tell us your plan so we can match your itinerary to the right vehicle.

Are automatic rental cars available at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Automatics like the Toyota Corolla Auto or RAV4 Auto are available but cost 15–25% more than manuals. They’re preferred by North American and older visitors. Due to limited fleet size, reserve early—especially in peak season.

What fuel policy applies to car rentals from Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

“Full-to-full” is standard: you receive the car full and must return it full. Oryx and Total stations are located in Zanzibar Town and along main roads. Returning with less fuel triggers refueling fees up to double the pump price.

Is parking easy in Zanzibar with a rental from the airport?

In Stone Town, parking is limited and often paid—use hotel lots or designated zones. In beach areas like Nungwi or Kendwa, free parking is common. Avoid blocking driveways or coral walls.

Are there tolls on roads from Zanzibar Airport?

There are no toll roads anywhere on Unguja Island. The drive from Abeid Amani Karume Airport to Stone Town, Nungwi, or Paje is completely free. This makes road trips fully budgetable.

Can Tanzanian residents rent a car using only a national ID?

Local renters need a valid Tanzanian driver’s license and national ID card. No passport is required. A credit card in the driver’s name is still needed for the deposit. Final Rentals offers the same efficient service to locals renting from Abeid Amani Karume Airport.

What should I do if my rental car breaks down near Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Contact Final Rentals immediately—we provide 24/7 roadside assistance across Unguja Island. On main roads like Bububu, help arrives quickly. In remote areas, we’ll coordinate towing or a replacement.

Is it safe to drive at night in Zanzibar after renting from Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Not recommended. Roads are poorly lit, and livestock frequently wanders onto streets. In Stone Town, narrow alleys increase risks. Most rental agreements discourage nighttime driving.

Are child seats provided with rentals at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Tanzanian law requires approved restraints for children under 10 or under 135 cm tall. Reserve at booking—availability is limited. Bringing your own ensures fit and hygiene.

What are the best SUVs to rent for coastal and rural roads?

The Toyota RAV4 is ideal—offering comfort, reliability, and enough clearance for sandy or seasonal muddy tracks near Paje or Jambiani. The Land Cruiser Prado suits more rugged exploration. Final Rentals ensures reliable SUVs for confident driving.

How far ahead should I book a rental at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Book 7–14 days in advance during peak season (December–February, July–August) to secure automatics or SUVs. Last-minute rentals risk higher prices or no availability due to small fleet sizes. Even in low season, early booking locks in a better rate.

Do I need an IDP to rent a car at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

No—if you’re from the US, UK, Canada, EU, or Australia, your regular license is valid for up to 90 days in Tanzania. An IDP is only needed for licenses not in the Latin script. Final Rentals accepts standard licenses for smooth car rental pickup at Abeid Amani Karume Airport.

Is renting a car at Abeid Amani Karume Airport worth it?

Public transport is unreliable—dala-dalas run infrequently and don’t reach remote beaches or spice farms. A rental car gives you the freedom to visit Stone Town, Jozani Forest, and the east coast beaches on your schedule. From Abeid Amani Karume Airport, you can explore the entire island independently.