Driving In Zanzibar
This page will tell you all you need to know about hiring a car and driving in Zanzibar. It is for your convenience, to make sure you comply with the law and for your safety. Please take time to study this page carefully.
General Traffic Rules & Guidelines
Driving in Zanzibar is conducted on the left side of the road. Typically the steerting wheel is on the right hand side of the car. The speed limit in Stone Town & Village locations is 40 KM/H
The speed limit on country roads in Zanzibar is 50 KM/H
You will require a temporary Zanzibar driver’s permit to operate a car in Zanzibar. An International Driver’s License is NOT valid in Zanzibar. Our partner will gladly organize this license on your behalf, if necessary.
Do not drink and drive (It is dangerous and you risk a fine from law enforcement)
The driver and all passengers must wear a seat belt.
The Driver is not allowed to smoke while driving in Zanzibar.
Keep an eye out for Motorbikes, Scooters & Bicycles they do not tend to watch the road.
At night stay vigilent and look out for Oxkarts & Bicycles without lights or reflectors.
Zanzibar Traffic Law Enforcement
If you hear or see police cars (blue lights or red lights flashing), you MUST pull over and stop the car no matter which direction they come from.
On country roads/ rural areas in Zanzibar
As soon as you observe oncoming traffic, you must set the right turn indicator as if you’re going to make a turn right. “It started off to warn cars behind you of oncoming traffic, but now it became a general rule.”
Guidelines For Any Traffic Police Stop
Set the left indicator and safely pull over.
Greet the officer and ask how you may help them.
“In general officers are friendly. With a few exceptions in the North of the island, especially close to Nungwi.”
Have your temporary Zanzibar driver’s license along with your original driver’s license with you at all times you drive the hire car in Zanzibar.
“It is a good idea to keep a copy of your passport handy in case an officer asks you for it or check in staff at hotels if you are travelling the island.”
In the event that an officer wants to fine you for anything, ask for an official ticket. DO NOT PAY WITHOUT THIS.