Driving/Getting around on Zanzibar

This article has been re-written on our blog here

This article will tell you all you need to know about Zanzibar , It is for your convenience and safety. Kindly read it carefully. Please note that we drive on the left handside of the road.

Speed Limits : In Stone Town and villages 40 km/h, on country roads 50 km/h.

Zanzibar has some weird traffic laws :)

  • If you see or hear 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: as soon as you see oncoming traffic you must set the indicator as if you’ll turn right. It started off to warn cars behind you of oncoming traffic but now it became a general rule.
  • Do not drink and drive. Don’t give the traffic cops a reason to fine you since you smell of alcohol.
  • By law, drivers and passengers have to wear seat belts.
  • And a quite weird law : the driver is not allowed to smoke (anything) whilst driving.

Guidelines for any traffic police stop

  • Set the left indicator when you pull over! Greet police guy with a smile and a “Jambo”.
  • In general, they are friendly, with the exception of a few cops in the North of the island, especially close to Nungwi.
  • When they ask for your license, show them your temporary Zanzibar driver’s license together with your original driver’s license.(It is a good idea to keep a copy of your passport handy in case someone asks you for it).
  • Corruption is nowadays forbidden in Zanzibar ! In case he wants to fine you for anything, ask for an official ticket. He will give up then. If not, call ZanCars Rental Team on either +255 (744) 860 186 or +255718929267 , you can reach us on this number 24/7. This is highly unlikely, but just in case. Zancars Rental Team will gladly sort out any issues in no time.
  • Do not feel intimidated by any police guy. Stay friendly. You have done nothing wrong. In case you broke a traffic rule, check with us the amount of the correct fine for the offence.

In the unlikely event of an accident : immediately call us +255 (744) 860 186

If you have a breakdown (the car, that is) or something doesn’t work on the rental car as it should : please call us on our number. We will attend to it promptly.

In general : Be aware of Vespa and bicycle riders, they don't look out for traffic, not even when they cross the road!

In Conclusion

At night, drive slowly because of oxkarts on the roads and bicycles without any lights. Best is if you follow a local minibüs taxi, keeping a safe distance in case it has to brake.

Enjoy exploring our beautiful island. Safari Njema/Travel Safely

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