Driving in Tanzania is amazingly but you need to be keen enough. Here are some of the most incredible driving tips to help you as you explore Tanzania.
How is the state of roads in Tanzania?
Northeastern Tanzania
The road conditions in Northeastern Tanzania are good according to East African standards. The major routes linking Arusha to Ngorongoro in the west, Moshi or Kilimanjaro in the East and Dar es Salaam in the extreme east are in their state and you can have a smooth road trip. When driving, be mindful of the bumps and occasional potholes. Expect also to drive on gravel roads especially on routes connecting to parks and safari lodges. The gravel and dirt roads in most cases vary depending on the season-during the rainy/wet season, it becomes a little challenging to navigate through.
Self-drive tours in the Serengeti
Driving to Serengeti on a Tanzania self-drive safari is exciting but you need a Land Cruiser. The main route stretching from Ngorongoro Crater to Naabi Hill gate; from Naabi Hill gate-Seronera, from Seronera towards East and West is complicated given its condition. It is characterized by rocky surface but self-drive tours are possible in a 4×4 Land Cruiser. The drive speed limit here should be kept within 25kms/hr. The driving times to Serengeti vary depending on the route; the Loduare gate which is also Ngorongoro entrance to Ngorongoro Crater route is approximately 1 and half hours’ drive. The Ngorongoro Crater route to Naabi Hill gate covers 2 and half hours’ drive then Naabi hill gate-Seronera is an hour’s drive.
There is also possibility to access the southern parks of Tanzania on self-drive safari holiday. The longest gravel route takes visitors from Kibiti to Selous Game Reserve about 90kms, Morogoro-Selous Matembwe gate, 90kms; from Iringa-Ruaha National Park about 110kms. Between Dodoma and Babati, it is about 2 and half hours’ drive. Off-drive from Selous Game Reserve requires a Land Cruiser especially during the wet season.
Navigating in Tanzania
The best way to navigate in Tanzania on self-drive tour is hiring a comfortable rental car. You will need to install Maps on your smartphone prior visiting Tanzania or hire GPS if you do not have one to help you find directions.
In case of breakdown/accident
While on a road trip in Tanzania, there are unexpected issues that can arise. It all requires your cooperation and patience. We offer 24/7 road assistance and that is why we are the most preferred car rental agency in Tanzania. Get in touch with our experts as soon as you have trouble on your Tanzania road trip. For cases of accidents, contact our team immediately and you will be guided appropriately, take photos of the damaged car and process a clear police report.
Dealing with traffic police in Tanzania
Along the way, you will come across many traffic police in Tanzania. You can easily notice them at a distance on white uniform. Simply remain patient and be friendly, greet in Swahili where possible or even crack a joke. Usually, traffic police cross check if the vehicle you are driving is insured and if you have valid driving license among other factors.