Tanzania is home to some of Africa’s most iconic experiences—think endless Serengeti plains, elephants grazing in the Ngorongoro Crater, and sunsets that light up the sky in shades you didn’t know existed. But there’s more to this East African gem than safari trucks and guided tours. If you want the freedom to take the road less travelled, visit remote towns, or simply pause to admire the view without anyone rushing you along, hiring a car with First Car Rental in Tanzania is the way to go.

Below, we break down everything you need to know before getting behind the wheel—from must-see routes to handy travel tips and vehicle options that match your adventure style.

1. Your Starting Point: First Car Rental in Dar es Salaam

Most self-drive journeys start in Dar es Salaam—Tanzania’s largest city and your gateway to the country’s national parks, cultural sites, and beach escapes. Whether you're heading west toward Arusha and the Northern Safari Circuit, or exploring the Swahili coast, you’ll want to collect your car in town before hitting the open road.

Where to find us
Southern Sun Building, Garden Avenue, Dar es Salaam, Downtown
Operating hours
Monday to Friday: 08:00–17:00
Saturday: 08:00–13:00
Contact
+255 748 401021 or +255 677 038821
Directions
Look for First Car Rental signs at Skylink Travel and Tours inside the Southern Sun Building.

2. Know Before You Go: Driving in Tanzania

Driving in Tanzania can be a breeze—with the right mindset and a little prep. Roads between major towns are generally tarred and in good condition, but rural and park roads may be gravel or occasionally muddy after rain.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Drive on the left side of the road
• Watch out for speed bumps near towns
• Police checkpoints are common—be polite and have your documents ready; you’ll be back on the road in no time
• Avoid night driving where possible due to limited street lighting and unpredictable road users

3. Must-See Routes for an Epic Road Trip

Dar to Arusha
This is your gateway to the “Big Three”: Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti. It’s a full-day drive or a two-day route with a stop in Dodoma. Once you reach Arusha, the real adventure begins.

Northern Safari Circuit
From Arusha, make your way to Lake Manyara National Park, followed by the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, and then onward to the Serengeti. Having your own car means no fixed schedules—stay as long as you like when that leopard you’ve been stalking finally shows up.

Cultural Stopovers
Pull into Mto wa Mbu, a colourful town near Lake Manyara, known for its market stalls, banana beer, and local crafts. It’s a great way to add depth to your trip beyond game drives.

Zanzibar Add-On
Wrap up your journey with a detour to Zanzibar. Drive back to Dar, then hop on a ferry or a short flight for a beach break before heading home.

4. Travel Tips for a Smooth Ride

Download offline maps
Mobile signal can be unreliable in remote areas, so make sure you’ve got a navigation app that works offline.

Refuel regularly
Fuel stations are frequent in larger towns but sparse in rural areas and national parks. Don’t let the tank dip too low!

Sort out your park permits
National parks in Tanzania require pre-booked permits. Arrange these in advance or ask your accommodation to help.

Be prepared
Snacks, extra water, a power bank, and insect repellent are all worth keeping on hand—especially for long drives or unexpected delays.

5. Choosing the Right Ride

Small & Compact
If you're planning to stay in Dar es Salaam or explore nearby towns, a compact car from First Car Rental is a convenient and cost-effective choice. Easy to manoeuvre in traffic and simple to park, it’s ideal for solo travellers or couples sticking to main routes.

Comfortable Sedan
For longer drives between cities or scenic routes through the countryside, a standard sedan offers comfort, fuel efficiency, and enough boot space for your bags and a few souvenirs picked up along the way.

Family-Friendly SUV
Travelling as a group or planning to visit multiple parks? An SUV provides extra legroom, better visibility for wildlife spotting, and a smoother ride on gravel roads—perfect for families or anyone wanting a little more space and versatility.

Higher-Clearance for Rural Routes
While not essential, a vehicle with higher clearance can be helpful if you’re planning to visit more remote lodges, venture into national parks with rougher roads, or travel during the rainy season. It offers added peace of mind when the terrain gets unpredictable.

Whatever you need, we’ve First Car Rental has you covered. 

6. Why Book with First Car Rental?

Whether it’s your first time in Tanzania or you’re a regular safari-goer, First Car Rental makes self-drive travel easy.

• Wide range of vehicles to suit every kind of trip
• Transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees
• Local support and roadside assistance when you need it
• Easy booking and friendly service at every step

7. Ready to Explore Tanzania Your Way?

Tanzania is one of those places where every road leads to something extraordinary—be it wildlife, culture, or scenery that leaves you speechless. With a car from First Car Rental, you have the freedom to go where the tour buses don’t, stay longer in the places you love, and create your own kind of safari.

So, are you ready to take the wheel? Pack your bag, queue your playlist, and start the engine. There’s a whole lot of Tanzania waiting for you out there.