Landing at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport and not sure how to get to your hotel or resort? You are not alone. Airport transport in Zanzibar is one of the first things every tourist has to figure out — and getting it wrong means overpaying for an unmetered taxi, waiting on the roadside in the heat, or worse, arriving at your resort exhausted after a stressful negotiation.
The good news is that sorting your car hire or taxi service in Zanzibar Airport is simple when you book in advance. Whether you need a quick fixed-price transfer to Stone Town, a spacious family van to Nungwi Beach, or a self-drive rental car waiting for you the moment you land ZanDrive has you covered from $15.
We offer free meet and greet at arrivals, flight monitoring so we are always on time even if your flight is delayed, and transparent fixed rates with zero hidden charges. No haggling, no surprises just a clean, air-conditioned vehicle and a professional driver ready to take you exactly where you need to go.
In this guide we cover every airport transport option in Zanzibar from private transfers and shared shuttles to self-drive car rental pickups so you can choose the right option for your budget and travel style and book with complete confidence.
Read More: Best Way to Get Around Zanzibar as a Tourist
How much does car hire and taxi service cost in Zanzibar?
Car hire and taxi services in Zanzibar typically start from $15 per hour, depending on vehicle type, trip length, and timing. Zan Drive offers 24/7 availability, including same-day bookings across Zanzibar. Always confirm final pricing before booking.
Why Choose Zan Drive?
- Clear pricing with no hidden fees
- 24/7 service for airport, city, and long-distance travel
- Clean, well-maintained vehicles for comfort and safety
- Local drivers who know Zanzibar routes well
- Friendly support from booking to drop-off
Common Transportation Problems We Solve
- No reliable transport from the airport
- Overpriced taxis with unclear fares
- Limited availability during late hours
- Uncomfortable or poorly maintained vehicles
- Difficulty arranging transport for groups
- Language or location confusion with drivers
Pricing Overview
| Service | Typical Range | What’s Included |
| Taxi Service | From $15/hour | Driver, fuel, local routes |
| Car Hire (Self-Drive) | From $20/day | Vehicle, basic insurance |
| Airport Shuttle | $10–$25/person | Pickup, luggage handling |
| Chauffeur Service | $30–$60/hour | Professional driver, comfort, premium vehicles |
| Day Transport Hire | $80–$150/day | Flexible timing, local travel |
Our Transportation Services
Taxi Services in Zanzibar
Our private taxi service is ideal for hotel transfers, city travel, beach-to-beach rides, and short trips. All taxis come with professional local drivers who know Zanzibar routes well.
Why choose our taxi service:
- Fixed or pre-agreed pricing
- Clean, air-conditioned vehicles
- No hidden charges
- 24/7 availability
Car Hire in Zanzibar (Self-Drive or With Driver)
We offer flexible car hire in Zanzibar, whether you prefer to drive yourself or hire a car with an experienced driver.
Options include:
- Self-drive car rental
- Car hire with driver
- SUVs, sedans, and group vehicles
- Daily or long-term rentals
All vehicles are regularly serviced and include basic insurance for peace of mind.
Airport Transfers & Shuttle Service
Avoid delays and price negotiations by booking your Zanzibar airport taxi in advance. We provide reliable transfers from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport to hotels, resorts, and private accommodations.
Benefits:
- On-time airport pickup
- Help with luggage
- Direct transfer to your destination
- Available day and night
Chauffeur & Day Transport Hire
For travelers who want comfort and flexibility, our chauffeur service in Zanzibar is ideal. Perfect for day tours, meetings, or relaxed sightseeing.
Ideal for:
- Couples and families
- Business travelers
- Full-day island exploration
Why Pre-Book Your Taxi or Car Hire in Zanzibar?
Many travelers face issues with unlicensed taxis, unclear fares, or unavailable transport—especially at night or during peak seasons. Pre-booking with Zan Drive ensures:
- Guaranteed availability
- Confirmed pricing
- Safe and licensed drivers
- No waiting or negotiation
FAQs: Car Hire & Taxi Services in Zanzibar
Is it safe to rent a car in Zanzibar?
Yes, renting a car in Zanzibar is generally safe, especially when you book with a reputable company like Zan Drive Car Hire & Taxi Services. All vehicles are regularly serviced, insured, and maintained for safety. Always check that the car has a valid registration, functioning safety features, and confirm insurance coverage before driving. Driving during daylight hours and avoiding unfamiliar rural roads at night can also improve safety.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Zanzibar?
Car rental costs vary depending on the type of vehicle, service level, and rental duration. Typical price ranges include:
- Self-Drive Rental: From approximately $20 per day
- Taxi / Hourly Service: From around $15 per hour
- Airport Shuttle: $10–$25 per person
- Chauffeur Service: $30–$60 per hour
- Day Transport Hire: $80–$150 per day
Final prices are confirmed at booking and may vary based on season, distance, and vehicle choice.
What is the best way to get around Zanzibar?
The best way to explore Zanzibar depends on your travel style:
- Private Car Hire: Best for flexibility, comfort, and exploring at your own pace
- Taxi Services: Perfect for short trips, airport transfers, and city travel
- Bajajs & Daladalas (local shared transport): Cheapest options but less reliable for tourists
- Bicycle or Scooter: Great for short local rides in coastal towns
For safety, comfort, and convenience especially if you’re sightseeing private car hire or taxi services are highly recommended.
Does Uber work in Zanzibar?
No. Uber is not available in Zanzibar. Transport services operate through local taxi companies, private drivers, or car rentals. Many visitors choose to pre-book taxis or hire a car with a driver to avoid waiting for transport on arrival.
Are taxis in Zanzibar expensive?
Taxis in Zanzibar can feel expensive compared to local transport like daladalas, but they offer convenience, safety, and fixed pricing when pre-booked. With reputable services like Zan Drive, fares are transparent and agreed upon before travel, so there’s no haggling or unexpected charges.
Which is the best location to stay in Zanzibar?
Popular and traveler-friendly locations include:
- Stone Town: Best for culture, history, shopping & city life
- Nungwi & Kendwa: Excellent beaches, nightlife & sunset views
- Paje & Jambiani: Great for watersports, kite surfing, and relaxed beach vibes
- Kiwengwa & Matemwe: Quieter, scenic beaches
Each area offers something different choose based on your interests (culture, beach, water sports, or relaxation).
What is the cheapest way to travel in Zanzibar?
The most budget-friendly transport options are:
- Daladalas: Local shared minibuses very cheap but crowded
- Bajajs (three-wheelers): Affordable for short trips
- Walking or Cycling: Free or low cost for short distances
However, for comfort and reliability, many travelers find car hire or private taxis worth the cost.
Do’s and Don’ts of Zanzibar?
Do:
✔ Respect local culture and dress modestly
✔ Carry bottled water
✔ Agree on taxi fares before riding
✔ Use sunscreen and stay hydrated
Don’t:
✘ Drink tap water without filtering
✘ Wander alone in isolated areas at night
✘ Ignore local laws or regulations
✘ Feed or disturb wildlife
Where to avoid in Zanzibar?
Most of Zanzibar is safe for tourists, but it’s best to:
- Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas at night
- Be cautious in unfamiliar rural roads
- Stay aware of your surroundings in crowd-heavy local markets
Stick to main tourist areas and trusted transport services when exploring.
How many days in Zanzibar is enough?
A typical and enjoyable stay in Zanzibar is:
- 3–4 days: Great for highlights Stone Town, beaches, and a day tour
- 5–7 days: Perfect for relaxed exploration, water activities, and island tours
- 10+ days: Ideal for deep cultural experiences, spice tours, beach hopping, and deeper regional travel
