If you’re traveling to Tanzania whether for business, safari, or leisure, hiring a car with a driver is one of the smartest and safest ways to get around. Radio 5 takes you in what you need to know before booking:
Why You Should Hire a Car with a Driver
Local Knowledge: Tanzanian drivers know the best routes, road conditions, and traffic patterns. This is especially useful in busy cities like Dar es Salaam or rural safari areas.
Stress-Free Travel: You won’t have to worry about directions, signage, or driving on unfamiliar roads (remember, they drive on the left in Tanzania).
Safety: A professional driver knows which areas are safe and how to navigate challenging roads or avoid delays.
Language Help: Most drivers speak both Swahili and basic English, which helps if you’re heading to areas where English isn’t widely spoken.
Time Management: Drivers help you stay on schedule, whether you’re going to meetings, the airport, or a safari lodge.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
Your choice depends on your purpose:
4×4 SUV (e.g., Land Cruiser): Best for safaris and rural roads.
Minibus/Van: Great for group travel, NGOs, or family trips.
Sedan (e.g., Toyota Premio): Ideal for city use and business travel.
Executive Cars: Suitable for VIPs or high-level business trips.
Understand the Costs
Most companies charge per day, with or without fuel.
Rates vary by vehicle type, but expect anywhere from $50 to $250+ per day.
Always confirm if the price includes:
Driver fees
Fuel
Insurance
Parking/toll fees
Driver’s meals or accommodation (for long trips)
Important Things to Check Before Booking
Vehicle condition: Request photos or inspect the car if possible.
Driver’s license and experience: The driver should be licensed and familiar with your destination.
Insurance: Ensure the car has full insurance, including passenger liability.
Company reputation: Book through a registered, reliable rental company with positive reviews.
Emergency support: Ask if there’s a backup plan or support in case the vehicle breaks down.
Other Travel Tips
Avoid night travel, especially on highways, due to poor visibility and livestock crossing roads.
Tipping the driver is not mandatory but appreciated — around $5–$10 per day depending on service.
Communicate clearly with your driver about your route, schedule, and expectations.
If you’re going off-road or on safari, confirm that the vehicle is 4WD and well-maintained.
In Summary:
Hiring a car with a driver in Tanzania gives you comfort, local insight, and peace of mind, whether you’re visiting Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti, or just navigating city traffic in Dar. Choose a reputable company, confirm all costs upfront, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
