How Safe is Self Drive on Zanzibar island

Arrival in Zanzibar

How Safe is Self Drive on Zanzibar island? As we were reducing our travel pace, we sought the opportunity to thoroughly explore the entire island, prompting our decision to rent a 4WD from 4x4 Adventures. I reached out to several firms, but I was particularly impressed by this company's professionalism. Therefore, I would like to acknowledge them and share some of our 4WD adventures. Upon contacting 4x4 Adventures we utilised WhatsApp to transmit images of my Australian license, while he provided photographs of the 4x4 vehicles he rented to us.

Tanzania Driver's Permit Document

It is essential to consistently possess your original Driver's License and to verify that the vehicle rental provider can arrange a Tanzania Driver's Permit document. They accomplished this and additional tasks. We were often halted by law enforcement personnel, and this document was extensively utilized.

Airport Reception

4x4 Adventures car rental firm provided a snapshot via WhatsApp of the printed sign it would display in the airport arrival area to welcome us, making our arrival feel exceptionally exclusive.

Beneficial Assistance

This gentleman exceeded expectations by escorting us to a neighboring shop to acquire a SIM card, enabling us to utilize our phone for enhanced safety on the island. He informed me about speed limits, police conduct during stops (which typically occur at least twice a day), general road conditions, and the island's weather. How Safe is Self Drive on Zanzibar island, We returned to the airport because the ATM is located there. No ATMs exist beyond the airport/Stonetown vicinity; it was crucial to withdraw cash here—I'm grateful that 4x4 Adventures informed me of this as well. He subsequently guided us to the fuel station to refuel the vehicle, and ultimately, we trailed him to an intersection where he signaled us to depart. This is an excellent beginning to our experience here!

Maps and Access

He also supplied a map – a useful backup, but we predominantly utilised the Map.me app on our phones, with the map proving advantageous when the phone's battery depletes.

A Quick Solution

We found a nail in the tire, necessitating a diversion to a tire repair shop for rectification. (Have I noted that the roads in Zanzibar are subpar?)

Our Initial Expedition

Our initial excursion involved fruit being hurled at the 4x4 vehicle. While driving, I experienced a slight sense of apprehension. Although Tanzania drives on the left, similar to Australia, the roads are generally in a state of disrepair, and I was in an unfamiliar location. We proceeded cautiously due to the absence of speed limit signs, which could result in a speeding citation from law enforcement utilizing radar guns, particularly upon entering a village where the limit is 40 KMPH. I was unaware of the boundaries of most villages, resulting in my inadvertent acceleration to 60 KMPH in an inappropriate zone. We were accustomed to the joyful Christian environments of Kenya and Uganda, where children eagerly approached to wave, and the populace was amicable and enthusiastic about having their photographs taken. Zanzibar, we swiftly discovered, is dissimilar in that it is predominantly Muslim, and they generally disapprove of having their faces photographed, as we were subsequently informed. We swiftly discovered that our inquiries typically resulted in a negative response. We observed individuals selling fruit, and when Explorason attempted to capture a photograph, she hurled fruit at the truck. This profoundly astonished him! Notwithstanding the fruit-throwing episode, Explorason remained exceedingly enthusiastic about being present, and we engaged in conversation, ultimately missing our turn. We overlooked our turn en route to the resort and became disoriented on our initial day — yet another adventure.

Law Enforcement Barriers

We were preoccupied with observing monkeys, hence it was unexpected when a policeman emerged in front of the 4x4 Car I needed to recall not to gaze above, but to observe outward! Upon being halted by the police officer—specifically, at three police roadblocks on the initial day—the officer said, “Where is my gift from Australia?” Each time we were halted, we were required to present the vehicle's registration, display my paper license, and undergo a series of inquiries. Typically, "Is this your inaugural visit to Zanzibar?" Ultimately, we composed a song that illustrated our recurring encounters with law enforcement. Luggage We each had two huge suitcases and two little trolley bags. We could leave the large luggage in the vehicle provided it was secured within the hotel's parking area, thereby avoiding the need to carry everything inside. We appreciated this fact.

Thoroughfare Conditions

The roads in Zanzibar might be exceedingly poor. The primary thoroughfare to the north of the island is exceedingly deplorable. The potholes can be quite profound, making it difficult to determine where to navigate, resulting in erratic driving across the roadway. However, that is an integral aspect of the trip.

Observing Local Life

I enjoyed traversing the roads and observing local life. Having our own 4WD vehicle would significantly enhance our capacity to absorb experiences.

Capturing moments

I valued the instances when we could pause at a moment's notice to get a photograph. I believe I observed a greater number of women carrying stick bundles on their heads and girls adorned in vibrant attire, yet many of these instances are preserved solely in my recollection. My role as the driver necessitated heightened awareness of my surroundings.

Cooperative Road Usage

Roads are utilized by all individuals and various entities. This includes cattle, carts, children, bicycles, automobiles, and trucks, among others.

Exercise Caution Towards Pedestrians

Numerous residents attempted to signal me for a ride. Despite my kindness, we maintained our vehicle doors locked and refrained from picking up any hitchhikers. When I own my passport, the doors remain closed to all. Pedestrians also traverse the roadway, hence I consistently monitored the peripheries.

Processions and Festivities

I am uncertain about the reason these women were banging pots and dancing in the street, nevertheless they appeared to be a joyful group, and we found them entertaining.

Fuel Economy

I discovered our little 4WD to be remarkably fuel-efficient, despite consistently operating the air conditioner. We traversed the island multiple times and consumed less than two tanks of petrol during a month, which I found rather satisfactory.

Convenient Parking

The vehicle was automatic, effortless to use and simple to maneuver into parking spaces. Taxi – Private Vehicle with Chauffeur – Four-Wheel Drive The standard rate is approximately $60 USD for less than one hour on the island, making the expense of renting the 4WD comparatively advantageous. We arranged it for the entire month and secured an excellent offer. Conclusion I appreciated the liberty to travel at our convenience, and it undoubtedly offered excellent value for the expenditure. I felt secure and had to drive at night once when my son required emergency medical treatment. 4x4 Adventures was the most affordable car rental service I discovered on the island of Zanzibar. A far superior offer, accompanied by exceptional service. They were accessible at all times and for any purpose. They provided me with personal reassurance that they were available to assist us with whatever needs or issues we faced. The vehicle is in commendable condition considering its age, and we encountered no issues with it whatsoever.

Our Final Eccentric Expedition with the 4WD

On our final day, we proceeded to Stone Town. The thoroughfares of this UNESCO World Heritage site evoke memories of the alleys of Morocco. It was raining heavily. A police officer reprimanded me for disregarding the instructions of other officers. As we It was raining heavily. A police officer halted us and delivered a severe reprimand for my failure to heed the instructions of other officers. Upon entering the Stone Town vicinity, the streets were obstructed, prompting the parking valet to attempt to access the vehicle; however, we did not halt as we executed a U-turn. He pursued us eagerly to earn a few shillings from me. The final sight I observed was a man sprinting behind the 4WD as dust enveloped our vicinity. We were determined to explore Stone Town without any hindrance.