Read Our Guide to Scooter Rental in Zanzibar.

The Definitive Guide to Renting a Scooter in Zanzibar

By Dodo Scooter Rental

Planning to rent a scooter in Zanzibar? This guide will help you understand everything you need to know before riding β€” from required documents and local rules to fuel stations and safety tips.


Documents Required for Scooter Rental in Zanzibar

To rent a scooter with Dodo Scooter Rental, you will need:

  • A valid passport or national ID

  • A valid driving license

  • A Zanzibar temporary driving permit, which costs USD 15

πŸ‘‰ An International Driving Permit is recommended but not mandatory if your license is in English.
If your license is written in Cyrillic or non-English language, an international license is strongly advised.

Good news:
πŸ“Έ You can send a photo of your driving license in advance, and Dodo Scooter Rental can arrange the Zanzibar permit for you.

⚠️ Only the authorized rider listed in the contract is allowed to ride the scooter.


Who Can Rent a Scooter?

  • Minimum age: 23 years

  • Maximum age: 70 years

  • Rider must have at least 2 years of driving experience


Riding Rules in Zanzibar (Important!)

  • Scooters are ridden on the left side of the road

  • Helmets are mandatory (provided by Dodo Scooter Rental)

  • Speed limits:

    • 80 km/h on open roads

    • 40–50 km/h in Stone Town and villages

Local Riding Tip

When there is an oncoming vehicle, it is common practice to use your right indicator to warn vehicles behind you not to overtake.

🚫 Scooters must NOT be ridden:

  • On beaches or seashores

  • In water

  • On unsafe or restricted roads


Fuel (Petrol) in Zanzibar

  • Fuel cost: approx. USD 1 per liter (β‰ˆ 2,500 TZS)

  • Petrol is not included in the rental price

Payment Methods

  • Tanzanian Shillings (best option)

  • USD or Euros (poor exchange rate)

  • ❌ Credit cards are not accepted

β›½ At petrol stations, stay seated β€” the attendant fills the tank for you.

Petrol Stations Available In:

  • Zanzibar Airport

  • Stone Town

  • Paje

  • Bwejuu

  • Makunduchi

  • Kizimkazi

  • Nungwi

  • Matemwe

  • Chwaka

  • Mbweni

❌ No petrol stations in Kendwa, Jambiani, or Kiwengwa


Scooter Delivery & Pickup

With Dodo Scooter Rental:

βœ… Free pickup & drop-off at:

  • Zanzibar Airport

  • Ferry Port

  • Stone Town areas

🚚 Delivery to beach hotels & resorts outside Stone Town costs USD 20 extra.


What to Do in Case of an Accident or Breakdown

  • Stop immediately and stay safe

  • Call the police

  • Contact Dodo Scooter Rental immediately

  • Do not sign anything unless you fully understand it

πŸ”§ Mechanical problems not caused by misuse are the responsibility of Dodo Scooter Rental.


Insurance Information

All scooters are covered by Comprehensive Insurance.

  • The renter is responsible for the first USD 350 excess in case of damage.

Insurance Covers:

  • Theft

  • Fire

  • Vandalism

  • Natural disasters

  • Damage caused by animals

  • Civil disturbances

Insurance Does NOT Cover:

  • Tyres, rims, mirrors, glass

  • Undercarriage damage

  • Damage caused by traffic law violations

  • Damage while under alcohol or drug influence

  • Medical expenses


Security Tips

  • Always lock the scooter when unattended

  • Park under security/watchman at night

  • The renter is fully responsible for the scooter’s safety


Final Advice

Renting a scooter with Dodo Scooter Rental is one of the best ways to explore Zanzibar freely and affordably. Follow local rules, ride carefully, keep your documents with you, and enjoy the island responsibly.