FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What licence do I need in Zanzibar?

All national driving licences of all countries are accepted in Zanzibar, however they must be presented together with a Zanzibar Driving Permit which will be issued on presentation of your license.
The Zanzibar Driving Permit carries a fee of $10 usd.

What is a Zanzibar Driving Permit and how do I get it?

Driving in Zanzibar requires a permit issued by the local authorities in addition to your national or international driving licence. This permit costs an additional $10 per driver and can be arranged in advance by Best Zanzibar Car Rental. Once you have booked with us, please email us a copy of your current licence. The permit fee can be paid on arrival in Zanzibar.

Can you pick me up from the airport? the ferry? or my hotel?

Yes, yes, and yes! We offer a full pickup and drop off service. Simply mention in the comments section of our booking process (or drop us an email) where and when you would like us to pick you up and one of our team will be waiting for you with your name on a board.

I'm finished! Can I drop my car at the airport? the ferry? or can you collect it from my hotel?

Yes, yes, and yes! We can arrange the details in advance, or if you can’t decide until later in your trip, you can give us a ring when you need us (please stop the car first ;).

would like a driver, what's the cost and how do I arrange it?

We offer Self Drive and Chauffeur driven vehicles for hire on a daily basis. If you would like a driver, please just select Chauffeur Driven when booking through our online platform and the charges will be updated.

Can I drive on the beach?

No. Sorry, its not allowed.

What happens if I break down or get stuck?

In the unlikely event that you have car trouble, we have got you covered. Our phones are on 24 hours a day and we will come and rescue you. If we cannot fix the problem at the roadside, we will give you a replacement vehicle so you can be on your way as quickly as possible. Always make sure you have your charged phone with you at all times, just in case.

What happens if I have an accident?

If you have an accident, please stay in your vehicle if it is safe to do so, or by the side of the road if not, and call us straight away. We shall be there as quickly as possible, and shall sort out all of the necessary paperwork etc. All our vehicles are fully insured, and your safety is our primary concern.

Will I get stopped by the police while driving in Zanzibar?

Yes, probably! There are checkpoints at major towns and generally stop most vehicles. Zanzibar traffic police officers are usually friendly enough, will ask you for your driving licence & Zanzibar driving permit, and have a cursory look around your car. Smile, be friendly and courteous and you will be on your way in no time. In the unlikely event that you get into difficulty, give us a call and we shall have a chat with them for you.

I want to see the sites of Zanzibar! Can you show us around?

Best Zanzibar Car Rental hire can take you on various tours around the Island. We offer you the chance to experience all the sites, sounds, smells and tastes that this little piece of paradise has to offer. Whether you would like to go on an organised tour or would prefer to explore on your own, Best Zanzibar Car Rental has the perfect solution for you.

How are Transfers charged?

Transfers are charged per vehicle, and not per person. The number of people in your group will decide which vehicle you will need, including your luggage. Typically, we have sedans for up to 3, small transporter for up to 6, and mini-bus for up to 11.

Is it safe and reliable to book online?

Security and safety first: All our online payments are processed by Direct Pay Online, Africa’s leading payment processor with global security accreditation. Our on-line bookings and confirmations are managed with the EasyOTA system.

For Transfers, you have the peace of mind of booking on-line, receiving instant confirmation, and then paying on your arrival.

For rentals, book and pay on-line. Receive instant confirmation of booking and secure record of your payment.

Do you have Baby chairs and Booster seats?

Yes, we do. Notify us in the booking process of your needs.