Zanzibar is one of the best destinations in East Africa for travellers who love beaches, culture, nature and independent exploration. While taxis and organized tours are available across the island, renting your own vehicle gives you the freedom to discover more places at your own pace.
If you are looking for the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car, this guide will help you plan the perfect Zanzibar self-drive road trip.
From the historic streets of Stone Town to the white beaches of Nungwi, the forests of Jozani and the relaxed villages of the southeast coast, there are many amazing places that can be reached during a Zanzibar road trip by car.
In this guide, we cover the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car, suggested routes, driving tips and how to choose the right rental car for your Zanzibar adventure.
Why Explore Zanzibar by Car?
Exploring Zanzibar by car gives you something organized tours cannot always provide: flexibility.
With your own rental car, you can decide when to leave your hotel, where to stop and how long you want to stay in each place. Choosing a reliable Zanzibar car rental service makes it easier to explore the island at your own pace.
A self-drive Zanzibar road trip allows you to:
- Visit several attractions in one day.
- Stop at beaches along the way.
- Explore local villages.
- Discover restaurants outside your resort.
- Change your itinerary whenever you want.
- Travel privately with family or friends.
- Carry beach equipment and luggage easily.
- Explore Zanzibar beyond the main tourist areas.
For travellers who want more independence, visiting the best places in Zanzibar by car can be one of the easiest ways to experience the island.
Best Places to Visit in Zanzibar by Car
Here are some of the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car during your self-drive holiday.
1. Stone Town
Stone Town is one of the most important places to visit during any Zanzibar holiday.
It is the historic heart of Zanzibar City and is known for narrow streets, traditional architecture, carved wooden doors, markets and its rich Swahili history.
A road trip can easily begin in Stone Town, especially if you collect your rental car after arriving at Zanzibar Airport.
Things to Do in Stone Town
You can explore:
- Forodhani Gardens
- Old Fort
- Darajani Market
- Historic streets
- Local shops
- Seafront areas
- Traditional Zanzibar architecture
Because many streets inside the historic centre are narrow and pedestrian-friendly, it is usually better to park nearby and explore Stone Town on foot.
Stone Town is an excellent starting point when planning the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car.
2. Nungwi
Located on the northern tip of the island, Nungwi is one of Zanzibar’s most popular beach destinations.
It is known for beautiful beaches, restaurants, sunsets and a lively tourism atmosphere.
Driving to Nungwi gives you the flexibility to stop at other locations on the way.
A self-drive trip also means you are not restricted by taxi schedules.
Why Visit Nungwi by Car?
Driving to Nungwi allows you to:
- Spend as much time as you want at the beach.
- Visit nearby Kendwa.
- Explore northern Zanzibar.
- Stop at villages along the route.
- Stay for sunset without worrying about arranging another taxi.
For beach lovers, Nungwi should definitely be included among the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car.
3. Kendwa Beach
Kendwa is located close to Nungwi and is another excellent destination during a Zanzibar road trip.
The beach is known for soft white sand and beautiful ocean views.
Because Nungwi and Kendwa are close to each other, they can easily be combined into the same road trip.
You could spend the morning in Nungwi and enjoy the afternoon or sunset at Kendwa before returning to your accommodation.
This flexibility is one of the biggest advantages of exploring Zanzibar by car.
4. Jozani Forest
Jozani is one of the most famous nature attractions in Zanzibar.
The forest area is particularly well known for the Zanzibar red colobus monkeys and tropical vegetation.
Jozani is located between central Zanzibar and the southeast coast, making it a convenient stop during a road trip toward Paje or Jambiani.
Good Zanzibar Road Trip Combination
A popular self-drive day could include:
Stone Town → Jozani → Paje → Jambiani
This route allows you to combine wildlife, forest scenery and beaches in one day.
Jozani is therefore one of the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car if you enjoy nature.
5. Paje Beach
Paje is one of the most popular destinations on Zanzibar’s east coast.
It is famous for its long beach, turquoise water, restaurants and relaxed atmosphere.
Paje is especially popular with travellers interested in water sports and beach activities.
Driving to Paje gives you the freedom to visit neighbouring areas such as Bwejuu and Jambiani.
Why Paje Is Perfect for a Self-Drive Trip
Paje is easy to combine with:
- Jozani
- Bwejuu
- Jambiani
- Michamvi
- The Rock area
For travellers planning a longer Zanzibar self-drive road trip, Paje is an excellent base.
6. Jambiani
Just south of Paje is Jambiani, a long coastal village with a relaxed atmosphere.
Compared with some of the busier tourist destinations, Jambiani often feels quieter.
A rental car allows you to travel between Paje and Jambiani easily and stop wherever you find an interesting beach, restaurant or viewpoint.
Jambiani is particularly suitable for travellers who enjoy:
- Quiet beaches
- Local village atmosphere
- Coastal scenery
- Relaxed restaurants
- Slow travel
For these reasons, Jambiani deserves a place on any list of the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car.
7. Michamvi
Michamvi is located on the southeast side of Zanzibar.
It is surrounded by beautiful coastal scenery and is another great destination for travellers with their own rental car.
The area can easily be combined with Paje, Bwejuu and Jambiani during a southeast coast road trip.
Having your own vehicle makes it much easier to explore several locations instead of staying in one place for the entire day.
8. The Rock Area
One of Zanzibar’s most photographed coastal areas is around Pingwe and The Rock.
Even if you are not visiting the restaurant itself, the coastal scenery makes this area a popular stop during a Zanzibar road trip.
A convenient road trip could be:
Paje → Bwejuu → Pingwe → Michamvi
This is another excellent example of why a Zanzibar self-drive road trip gives travellers more freedom.
9. Kizimkazi
Kizimkazi is located in southern Zanzibar and is known for its coastal setting and marine excursions.
The drive south also gives you an opportunity to see quieter parts of the island.
Travellers staying around Paje or Jambiani can include Kizimkazi as part of a southern Zanzibar road trip.
Suggested Route
Paje → Jambiani → Makunduchi → Kizimkazi
This route can be a great option for travellers who want to experience more than the main resort areas.
10. Matemwe
Matemwe is located on the northeast coast of Zanzibar.
It has a quieter atmosphere than Nungwi and offers beautiful coastal scenery.
Driving to Matemwe also allows you to explore the northeastern part of Zanzibar and neighbouring areas.
Travellers staying for several days can combine Matemwe with destinations such as:
- Kiwengwa
- Pwani Mchangani
- Nungwi
- Kendwa
Matemwe is another excellent choice among the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car.
11. Kiwengwa
Kiwengwa is one of Zanzibar’s well-known east coast destinations.
The area has beaches, resorts and easy access to several nearby coastal destinations.
If you are exploring Zanzibar by rental car, Kiwengwa can be a convenient stop between northern and eastern areas of the island.
For example:
Stone Town → Kiwengwa → Matemwe → Nungwi
This route allows you to experience different sides of Zanzibar in one road trip.
12. Spice Farms
Zanzibar is famous around the world as the Spice Island.
Visiting a spice farm can therefore be an interesting addition to your Zanzibar road trip itinerary.
Depending on your route, you can combine a spice farm visit with Stone Town, northern Zanzibar or another attraction.
Spice farms can introduce visitors to locally grown products such as:
- Cloves
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla
- Nutmeg
- Tropical fruits
Adding a spice farm to your itinerary provides a cultural experience between beach destinations.
13. Local Villages and Roadside Stops
Some of the most memorable moments during a Zanzibar self-drive road trip may not come from famous attractions.
Driving independently allows you to notice local shops, villages, fruit stalls and small restaurants that you may otherwise pass without stopping.
This does not mean driving randomly onto unsuitable roads. However, having your own vehicle gives you more control over where you stop.
That freedom is one of the main reasons tourists choose car rental in Zanzibar.
Best Zanzibar Self-Drive Road Trip Routes
You do not need to visit the entire island in one day.
It is better to divide your Zanzibar road trip into different areas.
North Zanzibar Road Trip
A good northern route could be:
Stone Town → Spice Farm → Nungwi → Kendwa
This route combines culture, local experiences and beaches.
It is one of the best options for first-time visitors.
East Coast Zanzibar Road Trip
A possible east coast route is:
Stone Town → Kiwengwa → Matemwe → Nungwi
This route gives you an opportunity to explore Zanzibar’s northeast coast before reaching the north.
Southeast Zanzibar Road Trip
One of the best road trips for beach lovers is:
Stone Town → Jozani → Paje → Jambiani
You can also extend the route toward Pingwe and Michamvi.
This is one of our favourite combinations for tourists searching for the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car.
South Zanzibar Road Trip
For southern Zanzibar, consider:
Paje → Jambiani → Makunduchi → Kizimkazi
This route offers a quieter experience away from some of the busiest tourist areas.
3-Day Zanzibar Road Trip Itinerary
If you have three days with your rental car, you could divide your trip like this.
Day 1: Stone Town and Northern Zanzibar
Start around Stone Town before travelling north.
Visit a spice farm along the way and continue to Nungwi.
Spend the afternoon exploring Nungwi before finishing the day at Kendwa.
Suggested route:
Stone Town → Spice Farm → Nungwi → Kendwa
Day 2: Jozani and Southeast Coast
Drive toward Jozani before continuing to Paje.
After exploring Paje, continue south to Jambiani.
Suggested route:
Stone Town → Jozani → Paje → Jambiani
Day 3: South and Southeast Zanzibar
Explore more of southern Zanzibar.
You could visit:
Jambiani → Makunduchi → Kizimkazi → return
This three-day itinerary covers many of the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car without trying to see everything in one day.
5-Day Zanzibar Self-Drive Road Trip Itinerary
With five days, you can travel more slowly.
Day 1
Stone Town and surrounding areas.
Day 2
Spice Farm → Nungwi → Kendwa.
Day 3
Matemwe → Kiwengwa → northeast coast.
Day 4
Jozani → Paje → Jambiani.
Day 5
Pingwe → Michamvi → Kizimkazi.
A longer itinerary allows you to enjoy the island instead of spending the entire holiday driving.
What Is the Best Car for a Zanzibar Road Trip?
The best vehicle depends on where you plan to travel.
For tourists using the main roads, a compact car or SUV can often be sufficient.
However, SUVs are popular because they provide more ground clearance and space.
At Kibabu Cars, available options include:
- Nissan Juke – USD 25/day
- Toyota RAV4 3-door – USD 30/day
- Suzuki Escudo 5-door – USD 30/day
- Toyota RAV4 5-door old shape – USD 35/day
- Toyota RAV4 5-door new shape – USD 40/day
- Toyota Vanguard – USD 40/day
- Toyota Harrier – USD 50/day
- Toyota Alphard – USD 50/day
- Toyota Prado – USD 100/day
For most tourists visiting the best places in Zanzibar by car, a RAV4 or similar SUV can be a practical choice.
Do You Need a 4×4 for a Zanzibar Road Trip?
Not necessarily.
Most popular tourist destinations can be reached using the main road network.
However, some beach access roads, rural roads and roads leading to individual villas or hotels can be sandy or uneven.
A vehicle with higher ground clearance can therefore make your Zanzibar self-drive road trip more comfortable.
If you are unsure, tell your rental company where you plan to stay and which places you want to visit.
The right vehicle should match your itinerary.
Zanzibar Driving Tips for Tourists
Before starting your Zanzibar road trip, remember a few important driving tips.
Drive on the Left
Like mainland Tanzania, vehicles in Zanzibar drive on the left side of the road.
Respect Speed Limits
Drive carefully and slow down around villages and populated areas.
Watch for Speed Humps
Speed humps are common on many Zanzibar roads.
Be Careful at Night
Some roads have limited lighting.
If possible, plan longer road trips during daylight hours.
Watch for Pedestrians and Motorcycles
You may share the road with pedestrians, motorcycles, bicycles and local public transport.
Stay alert.
Avoid Driving on Beaches
Do not drive rental cars onto beaches or into seawater.
Soft sand and salt water can seriously damage a vehicle.
Use Navigation but Check the Road
Google Maps can be helpful, but do not automatically follow every shortcut.
A suggested shortcut may lead through a smaller or rougher road.
When in doubt, stay on the main route.
Zanzibar Driving Permit
Tourists who want to drive in Zanzibar need the appropriate temporary Zanzibar driving permit.
Kibabu Cars can assist customers with arranging the permit.
The driving permit fee through Kibabu Cars is USD 25 per driver.
It is best to provide the required documents before arrival so everything can be prepared before you collect your vehicle.
Is Zanzibar Good for a Self-Drive Road Trip?
Yes, Zanzibar can be an excellent destination for a self-drive holiday, especially for travellers who want flexibility.
Unlike simply travelling from the airport to one resort, a rental car allows you to experience several different parts of the island.
You can wake up in Paje, visit Jozani, have lunch somewhere else and finish your day at another beach.
That freedom is what makes a Zanzibar self-drive road trip attractive.
Why Rent a Car With Kibabu Cars?
Kibabu Cars provides self-drive car rental for tourists who want to explore Zanzibar independently.
Our services include:
- Cars starting from USD 25 per day
- Unlimited kilometres
- Comprehensive insurance included
- No security deposit
- Free Zanzibar Airport pickup and drop-off
- Hotel delivery available
- 24/7 support
- Zanzibar driving permit assistance
- Baby seats available on request free of charge
- SUVs and larger vehicles available
- Flexible payment options
Whether you are planning a short beach trip or a full Zanzibar road trip, you can choose a vehicle that matches your itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Places to Visit in Zanzibar by Car?
Some of the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car include Stone Town, Nungwi, Kendwa, Jozani, Paje, Jambiani, Michamvi, Kizimkazi, Matemwe and Kiwengwa.
Is Zanzibar Easy to Explore by Car?
Many popular tourist destinations are connected by main roads, making a rental car a practical option for independent travellers. Drivers should still remain cautious, especially on smaller roads and at night.
Can Tourists Self-Drive in Zanzibar?
Yes. Tourists can rent and drive cars in Zanzibar as long as they meet the relevant driving requirements and obtain the appropriate Zanzibar driving permit.
How Many Days Do I Need for a Zanzibar Road Trip?
Three to five days can allow you to explore several parts of Zanzibar comfortably. Travellers staying for a week or longer can explore the island at a slower pace.
What Is the Best Zanzibar Road Trip Route?
There is no single best route. A popular combination is:
Stone Town → Jozani → Paje → Jambiani
Another excellent road trip is:
Stone Town → Spice Farm → Nungwi → Kendwa
Do I Need a 4×4 to Visit Zanzibar by Car?
Not always. A standard vehicle or SUV is sufficient for many popular tourist routes, while a 4×4 can be useful for rough, sandy or more remote roads.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Zanzibar?
Kibabu Cars offers rental cars starting from USD 25 per day, depending on the vehicle.
Can I Pick Up My Rental Car at Zanzibar Airport?
Yes. Kibabu Cars provides free Zanzibar Airport pickup and drop-off for rental customers.
Is There a Kilometer Limit?
No. Kibabu Cars rentals include unlimited kilometres, which is useful when planning a Zanzibar road trip.
Do I Need a Zanzibar Driving Permit?
Yes. Tourists need the appropriate temporary driving permit. Kibabu Cars can assist customers with arranging it for USD 25 per driver.
Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in Zanzibar by Car
The best places to visit in Zanzibar by car are spread across the island, which is exactly why having your own rental vehicle can be so useful.
You can explore the history of Stone Town, beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa, nature around Jozani, the relaxed atmosphere of Paje and Jambiani, and quieter parts of southern and eastern Zanzibar.
Instead of planning your holiday around taxi availability, a Zanzibar self-drive road trip gives you the freedom to create your own schedule.
Whether you have three days or two weeks, exploring Zanzibar by car allows you to experience more than just your hotel and the nearest beach.
Start Your Zanzibar Road Trip With Kibabu Cars
Ready to explore the best places to visit in Zanzibar by car?
Rent a reliable car with Kibabu Cars and explore Zanzibar at your own pace.
Cars from USD 25 per day
Free Zanzibar Airport pickup and drop-off
Unlimited kilometres
Comprehensive insurance included
No security deposit
24/7 customer support
Book your Zanzibar rental car and start your self-drive adventure today.
