Abeid Amani Karume Airport Car Rental

Rent a Car at Zanzibar Airport and Explore the Spice Island

Pickup

  • Abeid Amani Karume International Airport
    Zanzibar
  • Downtown
    Zanzibar
  • Ferry Terminal
    Zanzibar

Drop-off

  • Please select pickup location first.

Date &Time

11/08/2026 10:00 AM 11/09/2026 10:00 AM

Driver Age

Free Cancellation
Free Cancellation

Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Final Rentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.

Fair Fuel Policy
Fair Fuel Policy

You can return the car at the same fuel level as it was handed over to you and there will be no charges at all.

No Hidden Charges
No Hidden Charges

Pay full rental amount at the counter. No need to pay online. We work on clear pricing policy, what you see is what you pay.

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Convenient Rental Car Pick-Up at Zanzibar Airport

A Warm Welcome at the Arrivals Gate

A Warm Welcome at the Arrivals Gate

A Final Rentals team member will greet you at the Zanzibar Airport arrivals gate with a sign showing your name. You will not have to look for an office or stand in long lines. We will check your booking, give you the keys, and show you how the car works right there. This friendly start makes your holiday easier, even if the airport is very busy. Just look for our staff and start your island adventure.

We Watch Your Flight So You Don't Wait

We Watch Your Flight So You Don't Wait

We watch your flight to Zanzibar on our screens in real time. If your plane is late or lands early, we change your pick-up time automatically. You will never wait for us, and we will not get the car ready too soon. This works for all flights and sudden changes. Your pick-up will always match the exact time your plane lands.

Skip the Line with Our Quick Desk

Skip the Line with Our Quick Desk

Avoid the long lines at ZNZ by using the Final Rentals quick-service desk. If you book online before you arrive, you go straight to a special counter for fast paperwork. We still check the car with you, but the steps are very quick. This is perfect if you want to leave the airport fast and head straight to the beach.

Easy Car Drop-Off Before You Fly Home

Easy Car Drop-Off Before You Fly Home

Giving the car back at Zanzibar Airport is very simple. Drive to the Final Rentals return area, let us do a quick check of the car, and get your receipt. We help you plan your time so you can return the car calmly before your flight. Clear signs and helpful staff make this step easy and stress-free.

Open Early and Late for Your Flight

Open Early and Late for Your Flight

Flights to Zanzibar often arrive very late at night or very early in the morning. Final Rentals offers 24/7 pick-up and drop-off at ZNZ. Just tell us your flight time in advance. We will have someone ready to give you the keys, no matter what time you land.

We Carry Your Heavy Suitcases

We Carry Your Heavy Suitcases

Our staff will help you with your luggage when you pick up or return your car at ZNZ. We will put your heavy suitcases in the trunk when you arrive and take them out when you leave. This is a big help for families or anyone who does not want to carry heavy bags in the island heat.

Easy Directions Out of the Airport

Easy Directions Out of the Airport

The roads around the airport can be busy. Final Rentals will give you clear, easy directions from the car park to the main roads going to Stone Town, Nungwi, or Paje. We will tell you which way to turn so you do not get lost or drive in circles.

Simple and Clear Payments at the Desk

Simple and Clear Payments at the Desk

You can pay for your car rental right at the ZNZ desk. Final Rentals takes all major credit cards. If you need to pay for extra days or extra insurance, we can do it quickly. Paying at the desk means your bill is fully settled before you drive away.

Walk Right to Your Car (No Buses)

Walk Right to Your Car (No Buses)

Some companies make you take a bus to a far-away parking lot. Final Rentals keeps your car right next to the terminal at ZNZ. You just walk out of the airport, and your car is waiting. This saves you time and keeps you cool.

Your Local Help Desk Inside the Terminal

Your Local Help Desk Inside the Terminal

Having a Final Rentals desk inside Zanzibar Airport means you have a local team to help you. If you need to add a driver, change your dates, or ask a question about driving in Zanzibar, just walk up to our desk. We solve problems right away so you can enjoy your trip.

Rent a Car at Zanzibar Airport: Essential Tips

When you land at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), get your bags and walk into the Arrivals Hall. Follow the signs for "Car Rental" to find the Final Rentals desk. You must bring your original passport, your home-country driving licence, and a credit card in your name. We cannot accept photocopies or pictures on your phone.

International Driving Permit (IDP): If your driving licence is not in English, you must bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) with your original licence. This is a strict rule in Tanzania.

Credit Card Requirement: You need a real credit card in the main driver's name for a temporary security hold. This hold is usually between $300 and $800 USD, depending on the car. Debit cards, prepaid cards, and cash are not accepted for this hold.

Child Seat Rules: Tanzanian law requires young children to be safe in the car. Kids under 5 years old must sit in a proper child car seat. Final Rentals can add a clean, safe child seat to your booking when you book online.

Driving Rules and Speed Limits: In Tanzania, you drive on the LEFT side of the road. Speed limits are 50 km/h in Stone Town and busy areas, and 80 to 110 km/h on main island roads. Watch out for speed bumps! The alcohol limit is 0.00% (zero tolerance). Never drink and drive.

Toll Roads and Fuel Costs: There are no toll roads in Zanzibar. Petrol (gas) costs about 3,000 to 3,500 TZS per liter (around $1.15 to $1.35 USD per liter). Most gas stations are full-service, meaning an attendant will pump the gas for you.

Insurance and Damage Protection: Your rental comes with basic insurance, but you will have to pay a "deductible" (excess) if the car gets scratched. We highly suggest buying "Zero Excess" (Super CDW) insurance. This means you pay absolutely nothing if the car gets damaged.

Age Limits: You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car. If you are between 21 and 24, you will pay a small daily "young driver" fee.

One-Way and Island Rules: You can drop your car off at our different car rental locations in Tanzania. However, you cannot drive a rental car on the ferry to Pemba Island. Rental cars must stay on Zanzibar Island.

About Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (also known as Kisauni Airport) is the main gateway to the beautiful Spice Island of Zanzibar. It recently got a massive upgrade to welcome more tourists.

  • IATA Code: ZNZ (ICAO: HTZA)

  • Location: Just 5 km (3 miles) west of the historic Stone Town.

  • Passenger Traffic: Handles over 1 million passengers every year, mostly tourists coming for the beaches and history.

  • Unique Facilities & Amenities:

    • A beautiful, brand-new terminal building that opened in 2022, making arrivals much faster.

    • Free, high-speed Wi-Fi everywhere in the terminal.

    • ATMs and currency exchange booths to get Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) or US Dollars.

    • VIP lounges for passengers who want a quiet place to relax.

    • Clean prayer rooms and baby care facilities.

    • Duty-free shops selling local spices, souvenirs, and travel essentials.

  • Disabled Passenger Assistance: The new terminal is flat and easy to walk through. Wheelchair assistance is available from the gate to the baggage claim. You must ask your airline for this help at least 48 hours before you fly.

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

  • Contact Details:

    • General Phone: +255 24 223 3034

    • Lost and Found / Info: +255 24 223 3035

Car Rental Prices at Zanzibar Airport by Season and Class

Popular Models in ZanzibarLow Season (Mar–May, Nov)Peak Season (Jun–Oct, Dec–Feb)
Suzuki Alto, Toyota VitzUSD 30–40/dayUSD 45–60/day
Toyota Corolla, Hyundai AccentUSD 40–55/dayUSD 65–85/day
Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4USD 60–80/dayUSD 90–120/day
Toyota Hilux, Land Cruiser PradoUSD 100–130/dayUSD 150–200/day

Prices are in USD. Peak season costs more because many tourists visit. Always check if your price includes local taxes and insurance.

From Zanzibar Airport: Where to Drive

DestinationDistance from ZNZDrive TimeRoad TypeBest Car Class
Stone Town (Historic Center)5 km10 minPaved, but narrow streetsEconomy / Compact
Stone Town (Historic Center)5 km10 minPaved, but narrow streetsEconomy / Any
Nungwi & Kendwa (North Beaches)55 km1 hr 15 minPaved highwayCompact / SUV
Paje & Jambiani (East Coast)35 km45 minPaved main roadCompact / Any
Jozani Forest (Red Monkeys)35 km45 minPaved + some rough dirt roadsCompact SUV recommended
Prison Island Ferry Port10 km15 minCity roadsEconomy / Any (leave car at port)
Mangapwani Caves20 km30 minPaved coastal roadEconomy / Compact

Pick up your car at ZNZ, and you are ready to see the whole island. The roads to the north and east coasts are mostly paved and easy to drive. If you want to explore deep rural areas or rough coral roads, an SUV is a great choice. Drive times are just estimates; traffic in Stone Town can be slow.

Zanzibar Airport Car Rental: Why Choose Final Rentals?

We Promise the Lowest Price

We promise the lowest car rental rates at ZNZ. There are no secret fees. If you see a lower price online, we will match it. The price you see on our website is the price you pay.

Change or Cancel for Free

We know travel plans change. You can cancel your booking for free before your trip starts. If your flight to Zanzibar is delayed, we will change your pick-up time for free. You never have to worry about strict rules or hidden cancellation fees.

Your Zanzibar Island Experts

When you book with us, you get help from a local team that knows Zanzibar's roads perfectly. We can tell you the best routes to the beaches, where to find good parking in Stone Town, and how to avoid traffic. We treat every guest like family, giving you a warm island welcome the moment you land.

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FAQs About Zanzibar Airport Car Rental

What documents do I need for rental car pickup at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Bring your valid driving licence, passport, and a credit card in the main driver’s name. Bring originals, not copies. Licences should use the Latin alphabet or come with an International Driving Permit. Keep your return flight details and booking confirmation ready for the desk. Visitors also need a temporary Zanzibar driving permit, and the rental team can explain the process.

How does rental car pickup work at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

After clearing immigration and collecting baggage at Terminal 3, walk into the arrivals hall, where your driver or agent usually waits with a name sign. You then complete the rental agreement, inspect the car for existing damage, and photograph it. Rental vehicles are generally parked close to the terminal. Share your flight number in advance so staff can track delays.

What is the minimum age for car hire at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Most rental providers in Tanzania set a minimum driver age of about 21 to 25, and younger drivers may pay a surcharge or face vehicle restrictions. Some also apply an upper age limit or request extra documents for senior drivers. Rules differ by vehicle class, so declare every driver’s date of birth when booking and confirm terms with Final Rentals.

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in Zanzibar?

Zanzibar requires visitors to hold a temporary local driving permit, even with a foreign licence. It is issued on the island against your licence and passport, and the fee is modest. An International Driving Permit is recommended when your licence is not in English. Rental desks commonly arrange the temporary permit, but confirm the process and cost before your arrival.

What rental vehicle insurance, deposit, and excess should I expect at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Rental rates usually include basic collision damage waiver with an excess, meaning you pay the first portion of any damage. Optional cover can reduce that amount. Theft protection and third-party liability should be checked carefully. Expect a card pre-authorisation as a security deposit, released after the car is returned undamaged. Ask Final Rentals for exact excess and deposit figures.

How much does it cost to rent a car at Abeid Amani Karume Airport per day, week, or month?

Indicative rates in USD are roughly $30 to $45 daily for economy cars, $50 to $90 for SUVs, and $90 or more for larger family vehicles. Weekly bookings often reduce the daily rate, and monthly hires may offer deeper discounts. Prices rise from December to February and July to August, so request a clear written quote showing taxes and extras.

Which rental cars at Abeid Amani Karume Airport suit economy, SUV, automatic, and family needs?

Economy hatchbacks such as the Toyota Vitz or Suzuki Swift suit town trips and paved coastal roads. Compact cars fit narrow Stone Town streets. The Suzuki Jimny and Toyota RAV4 handle rougher village tracks, while a Toyota Noah or Hiace seats larger groups comfortably. Automatic cars are available but limited, so reserve early. Manual transmissions are common and usually cheaper.

What are the driving conditions, rules, and parking like on a road trip from Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Traffic keeps left in Zanzibar, and speed limits are typically 50 km/h in towns and higher on open roads. Main roads are largely paved, but expect potholes, cyclists, motorbikes, and animals. Police checkpoints are common, so carry documents. Toll roads are not generally used on the island. Stone Town has narrow lanes; park outside the centre and avoid night driving.

What is the best time of year for car hire at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

The dry season from June to October is the best time to rent a car, with temperatures around 25 to 29°C and clearer roads. December to February is hotter, around 30 to 33°C. The long rains from March to May bring flooded roads and fewer visitors, while November’s short rains are lighter. Shoulder months combine good weather with lower prices.

Can I do a one-way rental or take a rental car on the ferry from Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

One-way hires on Unguja, such as collecting at the airport and returning in Stone Town or a beach hotel, may be possible with notice and a drop-off fee. Cars generally cannot be taken on the ferry to Dar es Salaam or Pemba, so plan separate rentals there. Confirm any island and ferry restrictions in your contract before travelling.

Can I add child seats, extra drivers, GPS, or arrange a late-night pickup at Abeid Amani Karume Airport?

Child seats, additional drivers, and GPS or phone navigation holders are usually optional extras, so request them when booking. Seats should match your child’s age and weight. Offline maps help in areas with weak signal. Because many flights land late, tell the provider your arrival time; confirm whether late-night pickup or early return is available and whether fees apply.

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

Karume Airport? If your car breaks down, stop safely, switch on hazard lights, and call the emergency number in your rental contract before repairs. Do not accept help from unknown mechanics, because unauthorized repairs may void cover. For accidents, call police on 112 or 999, photograph the scene, and obtain a police report. Save your provider’s contact details before leaving the airport.

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