Go Drive Information

Age Limits

At GoDrive Tanzania Rent a Car, the minimum age to rent a vehicle in Tanzania is typically 21 years. Drivers aged 21–24 years are considered young drivers and may be subject to an additional young driver surcharge or extra fee.

Driving Licence Requirements

Renters must present a valid National Driving Licence when collecting their vehicle. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required in addition to the national licence if the licence is not written in the Latin alphabet (for example, Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, or Japanese).

IDP requirements may also vary depending on the destination country and rental provider. Renters should carry their passport or other valid identification, National Driving Licence, and, where applicable, an International Driving Permit when collecting the rental vehicle.

For specific licence requirements, please refer to the rental terms and conditions of your chosen vehicle.

Additional Papers

A credit card in the name of the main driver must be presented when collecting the vehicle. A security deposit may be required during the rental period; therefore, the credit card must have sufficient available funds.

Details regarding the security deposit will be provided during the booking process and will also appear on your rental voucher.

It is important that the main driver, as well as any additional drivers, possess valid driving licences where applicable.

Driving Side of the Road

In Tanzania, vehicles are driven on the left-hand side of the road. Drivers should familiarise themselves with local traffic regulations and road conditions before starting their journey.

Speed Limits in Tanzania

Speed limits vary depending on the type of road and location:

• Urban areas (towns and cities): 50 km/h
• Rural roads: 80 km/h
• Highways: 100 km/h

Drivers should always observe posted speed limit signs, as lower limits may apply in school zones, residential areas, construction zones, and national parks. Traffic enforcement is common, and penalties may apply for speeding violations.

Road Conditions in Tanzania

Road conditions in Tanzania vary significantly by region. Major highways and roads connecting large cities are generally paved and maintained in reasonable condition.

However, many rural and secondary roads may be unpaved, uneven, or affected by potholes, particularly during the rainy season. Drivers should exercise extra caution when travelling in remote areas, at night, or during adverse weather conditions.

For rural routes and national park areas, an SUV 4WD vehicle or a 4×4 Safari vehicle is strongly recommended.

Low-Visibility Driving

When driving in Tanzania at night or during conditions of reduced visibility, such as heavy rain, fog, or dust, the use of headlights is mandatory.

Proper use of headlights improves visibility for the driver and helps other road users see the vehicle, enhancing overall road safety. Drivers should also reduce speed and maintain a safe following distance when visibility is poor.

Night Driving in Tanzania

Night driving in Tanzania is generally not recommended, particularly outside major cities. Many roads have limited or no street lighting, and hazards such as pedestrians, cyclists, livestock, and poorly marked vehicles can be difficult to see after dark.

Road conditions may also be harder to assess at night, especially on rural or unpaved roads. For safety, travellers should plan journeys during daylight hours whenever possible and exercise additional caution if night travel is unavoidable.

Dusk and Dawn Driving

When driving in rural areas of Tanzania, it is recommended to use headlights during dusk and dawn, when natural light levels are reduced.

This improves visibility for both the driver and other road users, helping to reduce the risk of accidents during periods of changing light conditions.

Road Use Restrictions for Sedans, MPVs, SUV 2WD and Station Wagons

All Sedans, MPVs, SUV 2WD vehicles, and Station Wagons are strictly permitted for use on paved (tarmac) roads only.

These vehicles must not be driven on:

• Unpaved roads
• Gravel roads
• Dirt tracks
• Off-road routes
• Remote rural areas where road conditions may be unsuitable

Any damage resulting from the use of these vehicles on prohibited roads or terrains will not be covered under the rental agreement and may result in additional charges for repairs, recovery, and related costs.

Roads to the Parks

Many roads leading to national parks are broken and unpaved. The use of a licensed local driver is strongly recommended.

A €2000 penalty and additional surcharges may apply if a non-safari vehicle or an unsuitable 4×4 vehicle is used to access the parks in violation of the rental conditions.

National Park Restrictions

Any customer intending to visit a national park must notify GoDrive Tanzania Rent a Car in advance and arrange for an approved 4×4 Safari vehicle.

Failure to comply with this requirement may constitute a breach of the rental agreement, potentially affecting insurance coverage and resulting in additional charges for vehicle damage, recovery, servicing, or related costs.

Standard 2WD SUVs and standard 4WD SUVs rented from GoDrive Tanzania Rent a Car are not permitted for use within any national park in Tanzania.

Access to national parks is restricted to fully equipped 4×4 Safari vehicles specifically designed and approved for safari operations, park terrain, and off-road conditions.

Driving in National Parks in Tanzania

Driving in Tanzania’s national parks offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s remarkable wildlife and natural landscapes.

Visitors should:

• Follow all park regulations.
• Observe posted speed limits.
• Remain on designated roads and tracks at all times.
• Give wildlife the right of way.
• Maintain a safe distance from animals.
• Avoid disturbing their natural behaviour.

Extra caution is advised during early morning and late afternoon game drives when wildlife is most active.

A suitable 4×4 vehicle is recommended for many park routes, particularly during the rainy season.

SUV 4WD vehicles are not permitted in the national parks.

Rules for Driving in National Parks in Tanzania

When driving in Tanzania’s national parks, visitors must comply with all park regulations to ensure their safety and protect wildlife.

Drivers should:

• Remain on designated roads and tracks.
• Observe posted speed limits.
• Always give way to animals.
• Avoid off-road driving unless specifically authorised.
• Never feed, disturb, or approach wildlife too closely.
• Avoid excessive noise.
• Dispose of waste responsibly.
• Follow the instructions of park rangers at all times.

For safety reasons, night driving may be restricted in all parks. Visitors should adhere to official park operating hours, generally 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

A suitable 4×4 vehicle is recommended, particularly during the rainy season and on unpaved park roads.

Vehicle Recovery Services in Tanzania

Vehicle recovery and roadside assistance services are available in Tanzania, particularly in major cities and along main highways. However, coverage may be limited in remote or rural areas.

Drivers are advised to keep the contact details of their rental company or roadside assistance provider readily available and ensure their vehicle is equipped with essential emergency items.

In the event of a breakdown, contact the rental provider or recovery service immediately and remain with the vehicle in a safe location whenever possible.

Additional Requirements

For safety and emergency preparedness, it is recommended that vehicles be equipped with:

• First aid kit
• Reflective warning triangles or road flares
• Flashlight with spare batteries
• Basic tools (such as a screwdriver, pliers, and wrenches)
• Jumper cables
• Spare tire

These items can be invaluable in the event of a breakdown or roadside emergency.

We are here to help. If you require any further information about car rental in Tanzania, please do not hesitate to contact GoDrive Tanzania Rent a Car. Our team will be happy to assist you and answer any questions you may have to help make your journey safe, convenient, and enjoyable.