Self Drive Arusha – 4×4 Car Hire Options in Arusha
In the heart of northern Tanzania is where you will find the country’s gateway to famous destinations, Arusha. The city is situated at the foothills of Mountain Meru and combines cultural diversity, international significance and natural beauty, making it one of East Africa’s most important travel hubs.
Arusha settles on an altitude of about 1,400 meters above sea level with a pleasant climate that is a welcome contrast to the hotter lowland regions. Within its surroundings are the volcanic landscapes, fertile highlands and coffee plantations, with Mountain Meru standing high in the background.
You can always go on a self drive Arusha to enjoy a safari in northern Tanzania as you can visit places such as Serengeti national park, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara and Tangire national parks.
Why rent a self drive car in Arusha?
It is important to note that Arusha sits perfectly between major centers of attraction in Tanzania (national parks) and borders routes to Kenya and therefore those intending to explore this country should expect:
Cost control for long term trips and group travel since the distances are in close range.
Flexibility to explore desired places at one’s own whim.
Visitors have close access to remote parks where public transport does not reach.
There is safety and comfort especially on rough safari roads.
Types of cars available for self drive hire in Arusha
In Arusha, most car rental companies specialize in safari-ready vehicles such as
4×4 safari vehicles-the most popular: These include Land Cruiser Prado and V8, Land Cruiser hard top and extended. All these are suitable for off-road safaris, creating you a lively and adventurous trip.
SUVs: These are small 4×4 vehicles such as the Toyota RAV4, suitable for small groups of persons.
Mini-vans and Coasters: These are suitable for corporate travelling, perfect for groups and guided safaris such as Hiace safari van.
Requirements for hiring a self drive car in Arusha
For one to hire a car in Arusha for a Tanzania self drive experience, there are some prerequisites they must have such as
A valid passport to ensure your legal existence in Tanzania.
A valid driver’s license to ensure you are allowed to drive o the roads in Tanzania.
International Driving Permit (IDP), which is highly recommended for foreigners intending to do self-drive.
Security deposit with cash or card.
Those intending to cross borders with a car hired in Arusha, your car rental company will serve you with a cross border authorization letter and COMESA insurance that works for all East African countries such as Uganda and Kenya.
Self-drive Tanzania and Chauffeur driven options
As you consider hiring a in the heart of northern Tanzania, you need to know that you can choose either self-drive or car hire Arusha with a driver. These options have their individual pros.
Self-drive
Self-drive Arusha will give you the opportunity to explore Tanzania at your own whim, guaranteeing flexibility.
You will also have a chance to privacy as there is no third wheel to inconvenience the enjoyment you are to get.
However, it is important to note that self-drive is best for experienced drivers, who have confidence in driving on rough paths.
Car hire with a driver is highly recommended for first time visitors since the drivers are well experience and have full knowledge and skills of how to navigate the rough terrain in national parks.
Hiring a car with a driver in Arusha will also give you a stress free safari as you sight wildlife.
These professional drivers can also act as guides who are well informed of routes, wildlife behavior and park regulations.
Car hire costs in Arusha
As you hire a car in Arusha, you should know that the car hire prices differ according to the season. In the dry season (June-October), prices are always high due to the large number of tourists in the country, which is contrary in the wet season.
Land Cruiser Prado: $90-$130 per day
Toyota RAV4: $40-$70 per day
Safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof: $150-$250 per day.
Chauffeur- driven safari: $180-$300 per day
For accommodation, park fees and fuel fees are usually charged separately.
Best times to hire a car in Arusha
Dry season (June-October and January- February): This is the peak season of tourism in Tanzania characterized by dry and passable roads, and game viewing is very smooth and clear.
Rainy season (March- May and November): The season is characterized by lush vegetation as all flora is flourishing thus attracting more birds in sight. It therefore becomes a good season for bird watchers.
Popular destinations to go to with self drive car hire Arusha
Serengeti National Park: This is the most iconic national park in Tanzania and is a vast and famous for its abundant wildlife, and the spectacular annual Great Wildebeest Migration. Covering an area of approximately 14,763 square kilometers, worth visiting during your self-drive in Tanzania.
While here, you will view exceptional wildlife such as lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos that are rare but present. The park also have over 500 recorded bird species so that you can enjoy bird watching. Game drives here are very favorable since there is a great number of animals, hot air balloon safaris and guided walks are intriguing and adventurous activities.
Ngorongoro National Park: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers 8,300 square kilometers and is re-known for its diverse wildlife and multiple ecosystems. It is named after the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact and unfilled volcanic caldera.
While here, you will see the Ngorongoro crater that covers an areas of 19 kilometers wide and 600 meters deep, making it support a great population of wildlife, making wildlife viewing possible throughout the year.
Lake Manyara National Park: Lake Manyara National Park is situated at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment and covers about 325 square kilometers, with the alkaline Lake Manyara occupying almost two-thirds of the park during the rainy season.
A 4×4 vehicle is always recommended for an off-road safari in this park but driving here is generally less challenging compared to larger, more remote parks. Here, you can sight tree-climbing lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, elephants, baboons and blue monkeys.
Tangire National Park: This is famous for large elephant herds and over 550 species of birds making it one of Tanzania’s top bird watching destinations. The birds range from the colorful bee-eaters to the ostriches and birds of prey. Other wildlife here includes zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, cheetah, buffaloes, lions and leopards among others.
Tips for renting a self drive car in Arusha
Always ask for 24/7 roadside assistance from your car rental company.
Inspect the vehicle delivered to you by the company representative for any dents and other damages on the car and document by video or photos. This will save you from extra charges you may incur on dropping off the vehicle for pre-existing damages.
Check if the vehicle delivered has spare tires, jumper cables and other tools that can help you deal with a break down.
Confirm if the car has a comprehensive insurance as it is for all rented cars.
The heart of Tanzania is indeed a gate way for exploring Tanzania to the maximum. You will enjoy both on-road and off-road safaris at your own whim.