Contact Us - Car Rental Arusha | Tanzania self drive
Are you planning a self-drive safari in Tanzania? We’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re booking a rugged 4×4 Land Cruiser for the northern circuit, arranging a one-way rental between Arusha and Dar es Salaam, or simply have questions about camping equipment, insurance, or pricing, our team is ready to help. Reach out for a personalized quote, advice on the best route for your trip dates, or support planning around peak season availability. We respond quickly to calls, emails, and messages, and can tailor a vehicle package — rooftop tent, cooking gear, extra fuel capacity, and more — to match your itinerary. Get in touch today, and let’s start planning your Tanzanian adventure.
- Mainzini – Himo Road, Arusha
- info@carrentalarusha.com
- +255 791 057 740
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s a rundown of the questions self-drive safari travellers in Tanzania ask most often
Your home country license typically works for short-term driving in Tanzania, but foreign licenses and International Driving Permits (IDPs) matter for avoiding hassles at police stops or rental counters. Rental companies will accept any national license written in English; if yours isn’t in English, you’ll need a certified translation, and an international license may still be required.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21, though some set the bar higher — it’s worth confirming with your chosen agency.
A 4×4 is essential for Tanzania’s varied terrain, from the Serengeti’s plains to the Ngorongoro Crater’s rugged trails, and it should come equipped with spare tires, a jack, and basic repair tools. Roads are rugged enough that a 4×4 is needed year-round. The dominant choice is a converted Toyota Land Cruiser safari jeep, sometimes with a pop-up roof for game viewing.
Yes — self-drive is permitted in most Tanzanian national parks, though strict regulations apply, including speed limits around 40 km/h, and some parks require a registered guide. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h inside parks and 80 km/h on tar roads unless signed otherwise, and driving is on the left side of the road.
Tanzania and Kenya are generally considered very safe for self-drive safari, and overnight stays in public or special campsites within the parks are allowed for self-drivers.
Comprehensive insurance — including coverage for off-road driving — is non-negotiable. Rental companies commonly ask for a security deposit (often around $1,000 USD) charged by credit card, plus additional coverage if you plan to cross borders.
Generally yes, but it requires written authorization from the rental company presented at the border, along with additional insurance coverage.
Fuel stations can be scarce around national parks, so keep your tank topped off and consider carrying extra fuel, and keep a list of emergency contacts including local authorities, park rangers, and your embassy.
A first-aid kit, sufficient water, snacks, an offline map, binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent are all recommended.
Yes — it’s necessary to book in advance, and depending on the location, there may be an extra fee.
