Car Rental in Zambia
Get the Latest Car Rental Deals in Zambia
Free Cancellation
Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Final Rentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.
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.
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.
Rent a Car in Zambia: Essential Tips
Flexible Travel
With no need to follow bus schedules or fixed itineraries, renting a car in Zambia lets you venture deep into national parks, drive along rugged rural tracks, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of its cities, all on your own time.
Documents for Tourists
Visitors must carry a valid driver’s license from their home country, an International Driving Permit if the license is not in English, and their original passport. Some rental agencies may also request proof of travel insurance, particularly if it includes vehicle protection. All documents must be current, in good condition, and presented in their original form.
Documents for Residents
To rent a car, residents in Zambia must present a valid driving license held for at least 12 months. Some rental agencies may also request proof of insurance that includes vehicle coverage. All documents must be current, in good condition, and presented in their original form.
Credit Card Requirement
For a smooth rental process, payments and deposits must be made with a credit card in the renter’s name.
Driving Regulations
Speed limits are generally 60 km/h in towns and cities, and up to 100 km/h on highways. However, posted signs should always be followed, as limits can vary in Zambia. Seatbelts are mandatory for both drivers and passengers, and the rule is strictly enforced to ensure safety.
Child Seat Regulations
Children must be secured in an appropriate child car seat when travelling, and they are not permitted to ride in the front passenger seat.
Traffic Rules
Drivers may only use mobile phones with a hands-free setup, and they must obey all traffic laws to avoid penalties. The maximum legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.08%, and exceeding it is a serious offence that can result in fines, licence suspension, or even imprisonment in severe cases.
Toll Roads and Fuel Costs
Zambia has toll roads on certain highways and at ports of entry. Fuel is generally available across the country, and many stations offer assistance with refuelling.
Navigation and Parking
Navigation tools like GPS and mobile apps work well in towns and lodges, but can lose signal in remote areas, making an offline map or paper backup a smart choice. Finding parking in cities such as Lusaka isn’t always straightforward, as spaces range from secure paid lots to informal roadside spots.
Driving Conditions and Insurance
Roads in Zambia vary in condition, with well-maintained routes in major towns and cities but rougher or unpaved roads in rural and national park regions. Weather, especially during the rainy season, can also impact driving conditions. It’s strongly advised to have full insurance, so confirm with your rental provider what is covered and think about adding extra protection for greater peace of mind.
Car Rental at Zambia International Airports
Best Time to Rent a Car in Zambia
Low Season Rentals Provide the Best Value
For the best savings in Zambia, book your car well in advance, choose an economy model, and plan your trip during the off-peak season to explore the country without breaking the bank.
Dry Season Drive Up Rental Rates
From May to October, rental prices in Zambia often rise due to the dry season and the high demand for safaris.
May Sees the Highest Rental Costs
The peak travel season begins in May, driving up demand and pushing prices higher.
