Car Rentals in Stone Town, TZA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Stone Town

Renting a car in Stone Town offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant area and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your needs, whether you are visiting historic sites or enjoying family-friendly activities. Key attractions such as the Forodhani Gardens and the Slave Market are conveniently located within Stone Town, allowing for a leisurely exploration of its cultural heritage. Additionally, the Old Fort is another must-visit historic site nearby.

Beyond Stone Town, you can venture into Zanzibar Town, which features scenic spots like Shangani Beach, or explore Ng'ambo, less than 1 km away, where you can find the Slave Market and Christ Church Cathedral. Also, Mwembeshauri, situated 1 km from Stone Town, presents an opportunity to delve deeper into the local culture. Renting a car allows you to experience these destinations without the constraints of public transport, making it an ideal choice for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or a family experience in this beautiful region.

Most popular car hires around Stone Town

• Midsize SUV: This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV is a popular choice for those looking to explore the attractions around Stone Town while ensuring comfort and ample storage for luggage. With its balance of space and versatility, it allows for a relaxed travel experience, making it an ideal vehicle for your journey.
• Economy: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, the economy car option accommodates up to 5 travellers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This type of vehicle is great for those seeking an economical choice without compromising on comfort. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through Stone Town, allowing for flexible travel plans while still being able to manage your luggage effortlessly.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is a brilliant choice for couples, families, or groups, comfortably seating up to 5 travellers and fitting up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle offers a great blend of space and practicality, making it well-suited for exploring the scenic areas around Stone Town. With its spacious interior, it ensures a comfortable ride while providing flexibility for your travel itinerary.

Top rated car suppliers around Stone Town

• AutoUnion: AutoUnion operates a rental location 7 km away from Stone Town, providing a convenient option for travellers. This supplier is popular for its Midsize SUVs and Economy vehicles, catering to different preferences and needs. Customers appreciate the flexibility offered by AutoUnion, allowing them to explore the area at their own pace while managing their luggage easily. With a focus on well-maintained vehicles, AutoUnion ensures a reliable driving experience during your stay.
• Greenmotion: Greenmotion also has a rental location situated 7 km from Stone Town, making it accessible for those looking to hire a vehicle. Travellers frequently choose this supplier for its Standard SUVs and Economy cars, which are ideal for navigating both urban and rural settings. Greenmotion is noted for its commitment to customer service, helping visitors feel supported throughout their rental experience. This supplier is a great option for those wishing to enjoy the sights of Stone Town and beyond.

Where to stay around Stone Town

• Stone Town: As the historic heart of Zanzibar Town, Stone Town is rich in culture and architecture. Staying here places you close to key attractions such as the Slave Market, a significant historic site, and Forodhani Gardens, an urban park perfect for family outings. The vibrant atmosphere offers numerous dining options, particularly seafood, allowing you to immerse yourself in local flavours.
• Bububu: Located 8 km from Stone Town, Bububu offers a delightful blend of beach and cultural experiences. The area's proximity to the Kidichi Spice Farm makes it a great choice for those interested in Zanzibar’s spice heritage. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the nearby beaches and partake in water sports, making it an appealing option for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Bawe Island: Situated 7 km from Stone Town, Bawe Island is an eco-friendly paradise, ideal for beach lovers. The island features stunning Nakupenda Beach, perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. The tranquil environment, combined with access to resorts, provides an excellent retreat for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, particularly appealing during the dry season.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Stone Town

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the type of vehicle and specific features you require. Whether you're after an SUV for additional space, a convertible for sunny days, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are usually more affordable to rent and simpler to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options provide a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age criteria before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, although this may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides you with peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's easy to add car hire insurance when making a booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Stone Town

The best value period to rent a car in and around Stone Town is April, as prices are slightly low and demand is also low. March follows closely with similar characteristics, making it another excellent choice. June through August see average prices and demand, offering more flexibility for travellers. However, December tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand making rentals pricier. January and February also remain slightly high in terms of costs and average demand.