Arriving at Julius Nyerere International Airport and planning to explore Dar Es Salaam and beyond? Renting a car offers flexibility, but it’s good to know what to expect with the pickup process, potential costs, and local driving conditions. This guide will walk you through securing a rental car at the airport and getting on the road with confidence.
Rental car desks are generally located within the main airport terminal building, often near the arrivals area. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Ground Transportation’ once you’ve collected your luggage. Several companies typically operate at Julius Nyerere International Airport, offering a range of vehicles. You’ll commonly find options from well-known providers.
The best car for you depends on your travel plans. For city driving and shorter trips, an economy or compact car is often sufficient. If you’re heading out on longer journeys or plan to explore more rugged terrain, an SUV is a good choice. Here’s a general idea of what’s available and typical price ranges:
| Car Class | Typical Daily Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Economy | $30 - $50 |
| Compact | $40 - $60 |
| Intermediate | $50 - $70 |
| SUV | $70 - $120 |
| Luxury | $150+ |
Prices change by season and availability.
Beyond these, you’ll find options like convertibles for enjoying the coastal scenery and larger vans if you’re traveling with a group. Consider the number of passengers, luggage space, and the type of roads you’ll be driving on when making your decision.
To rent a car in Tanzania, you’ll generally need a valid driver’s license (often an international driving permit is recommended alongside your home license), a passport, and a credit card in the renter’s name. The minimum age is usually 21, though some companies may have higher age requirements and surcharges for younger drivers. A security deposit is standard, and the amount will be held on your credit card. Be sure to understand the deposit amount and the process for its return.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself. Theft Protection covers loss or damage due to theft. Often, there’s an ‘excess’ – the amount you’re still responsible for in the event of damage or theft. You can often reduce this excess by purchasing additional insurance. Carefully review what your existing car insurance or credit card benefits already cover before accepting additional insurance at the rental desk. Don’t hesitate to ask the agent to clearly explain the terms of each insurance option.
Driving in Tanzania is on the left side of the road. Roads in Dar Es Salaam can be busy, and traffic congestion is common. Outside the city, road conditions vary. Major highways are generally well-maintained, but rural roads can be rough. Toll roads are not widespread. Parking is available in Dar Es Salaam, but it can be limited in some areas. Speed limits are generally posted in kilometers per hour. Be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and local traffic patterns. It’s always best to drive defensively and be prepared for unexpected situations.
It’s highly recommended to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your home driver’s license, even if your home license is in English.
Major credit cards are generally accepted. Debit cards may be accepted by some companies, but often with restrictions.
The ‘excess’ is the amount you’re responsible for paying if the car is damaged or stolen, even with insurance.
Yes, but you’ll usually need to pay an additional daily fee and the extra driver must meet the rental requirements.
Carefully inspect the car for any existing damage (scratches, dents) and make sure it’s noted on the rental agreement before you leave.
GPS navigation can often be rented as an extra, or you can use a smartphone navigation app.
In Tanzania, they drive on the left side of the road.
Toll roads are not common in Tanzania.
Report the accident to the police and the rental company immediately. Get a police report and any necessary documentation.
Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Ground Transportation’ within the airport terminal after collecting your luggage.
You’ll likely be charged an additional day’s rental fee, or a pro-rated fee for the extra time.
A 4x4 vehicle isn’t usually needed for driving around Dar Es Salaam, but it’s highly recommended if you plan to explore national parks or more remote areas.