Terms & conditions for self-drive hirers in Tanzania

For bookings confirmed prior to 24th April 2025, reference is made to the terms and conditions listed here. 

Confirming a booking with Roadtrip Africa signifies that you have read, fully understood, and accepted the terms and conditions outlined below.

Definitions 

o    “RTA” refers to Roadtrip Africa, the travel company registered in the Netherlands.
o    "HTTS" or "Owner" refers to Hidden Treasures Tanzania Safaris, the travel company registered in Tanzania.
o    "You" or "Hirer" refers to the individual who has signed the Rental Agreement, along with their authorized travel companions included in the agreement.
o    "Rental Agreement" refers to this contract between the Hirer and RTA. 
o    "Vehicle" refers to the rented car. 

General use of the vehicle

1.    The Vehicle may only be driven by the Hirer and authorized travel companions. If a local driver-guide is required, the Owner will arrange one. The Hirer may not provide their own driver-guide. Any losses or damages caused by an unauthorized driver are the Hirer's responsibility.
2.    The Hirer shall return the Vehicle on the agreed date and time, as specified in your reservation overview. Returns must be made by 7 PM at the latest unless the Owner has specifically agreed otherwise. No refunds shall be given for early returns. 
3.    The Hirer must carry a valid driver’s license from their country of residence and/or an International Driver’s License while driving.
4.    The Hirer is responsible for paying any fines issued by the traffic police that arise from their driving behaviour.
5.     The Vehicle is rented with an empty fuel tank—petrol for the Suzuki and diesel for the Toyota Land Cruiser—and can be returned to the Owner with an empty tank. 
6.    Only fuel from major stations such as Shell, Total and Puma should be used. Never purchase bottled fuel from roadside vendors. Poor-quality fuel can damage the engine. 

Speed limits

•    80 km/h on highways. Safari vehicles are classified as trucks due to longer braking distances.
•    40 km/h when driving through towns. Note that the main highways pass through towns, so be wary of speed limit signs and speed bumps. 
•    25 - 40 km/h in national parks, depending on road conditions and the rules per park. Even 25 km/h can be too fast on narrow or eroded dirt roads.

Take note that traffic police in Tanzania are very strict about speed limits. 

Restricted areas & recommendations

7.    Driving in the dark (before 6:30 AM and after 7:00 PM) is prohibited. If you like to do a night game drive, you can join a guided safari in a vehicle provided by the lodge where you are staying.
8.    The following areas are only allowed with a Toyota Land Cruiser. If a Suzuki is detected in a restricted area, the Hirer is in breach of contract and fully liable for any costs and loss of the security bond.
a.    The road from Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Seronera, Serengeti and roads inside the Serengeti. The main access road to Seronera is challenging due to the rocky surface with washboard ribbons. We cannot stress enough to drive slowly (25km/h) and carefully on this road!
b.    Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Suzuki is only allowed for safaris in the Ngorongoro Crater. The rest of the NCA is off-limits
c.    Road towards Lake Natron
d.    Nyerere National Park
9.    Travel to Lake Tanganyika and Gombe Stream National Park is only allowed with a Land Cruiser and upon prior written confirmation by RTA. 
10.    Crossing international borders is not allowed without prior written approval from the Owner and additional insurance coverage (COMESA Yellow Card).
11.    Hirers are strongly advised to purchase a local SIM card with airtime and internet for easier communication. 

Vehicle maintenance

12.    Vehicles are inspected and serviced before rental, and the Hirer will receive the Vehicle in a safe and roadworthy condition. The Hirer must return the Vehicle in the same condition.
13.    The Hirer is responsible for basic maintenance, including checking engine oil, coolant, and tyre pressure. If fluids are depleted, the Hirer covers the costs to replenish them. 
14.    If dashboard warning lights appear, consult the driver’s manual. If in doubt, contact the Owner. Our team in Tanzania is available via WhatsApp or telephone 24/7. 
15.    We don’t do field repairs or send a replacement vehicle when a problem occurs with the A/C or fridge. Wiring and piping are sensitive and suffer from bumpy roads and dust. Sadly, the knowledge and equipment (Frigo gas) to repair A/C or fridges are unavailable in the field. We understand it's unfortunate when your fridge stops working. In the rare case this happens, do let us know, and the Roadtrip Africa office in the Netherlands will issue a refund for the fridge rental.

Mechanical breakdowns & repairs
16.    In case of a breakdown, always contact the Owner (the office in Tanzania) first. You can reach us 24/7, and our main goal is to get you on the road as fast as possible. Each problem is unique and requires a tailor-made solution. Usually, the best solution is to get the car repaired in the field. We will direct you to the nearest workshop or send a mechanic. Repairs should only be conducted with the Owner’s authorization. Mechanics in remote areas may attempt to overcharge; do not pay them. The Owner handles all payments.
17.    If repairs take longer than 24 hours, a replacement car will be provided from Arusha. Delays within the first 24 hours are at the Hirer’s expense. RTA and the Owner cannot be liable for refunding car rental, park fees, activities, or hotels.

Accidents

18.    If you are involved in an accident, whether it is your fault or that of a third party, notify the Owner immediately and follow their instructions. 
19.    The Hirer should obtain a police report. 
20.    In case of an incident involving one or more vehicle(s), details of these vehicle(s) and their driver(s) should be identified and reported, such as the driver’s ID, telephone number, number plate and insurance registration number.
21.    After an accident, the Hirer should not leave the Vehicle unattended.

Damage, waiver and insurance

22.  During the rental period, the Hirer is liable for:
a.    Loss of or damage to the Vehicle
b.    Third-party property damage
c.    Third-party bodily injury

23.    In the event of an unintended collision between the Vehicle and any other vehicle or object during the rental period that results in damage to the Vehicle or to the property of any third party, RTA waives your liability under clause 22, provided:
a.    You have complied with the Terms of the Rental Agreement 
b.    The cause of the accident has been determined and supported by a police report

24.    Theft liability is waived if:
a.     The car was parked at a secured, private compound, and there were clear signs of a break-in 
b.    A police report is obtained
c.    You have provided the Owner with any details of the incident as requested

25.  Liability is not waived for:
a.    Speeding 
b.    Single-vehicle incidents or rollovers 
c.    Damage from negligence (e.g., ignoring overheating warnings)
d.    Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
e.    Driving in restricted areas
f.    Water submersion or salt water damage
g.    Using the wrong fuel

26.    A €1500 excess fee applies. This means that in the event of damage for which liability is waived, the first €1500 is at your own expense (the excess fee). The Hirer has the option to insure this excess amount for the rental car.

27.    The following damages do not fall under the waiver subject to this paragraph and are not covered by the insurance:
a.    Personal injuries/belongings.
b.    Tires. The vehicle is provided with quality tyres; however, a flat tyre may occur during your road trip. If this happens, the Hirer will be responsible for the cost of repairs. If a tyre is damaged beyond repair, the Hirer must replace it with a tyre that matches the same dimensions, type, and wear characteristics as the original. The Hirer will bear the cost of the replacement tyre. Always call the Owner for advice and approval on suitable tyre types.
c.    Undercarriage damage (considered the result of careless driving)
d.    Window damage
e.    Camping gear damage or loss

Liability

28.    RTA and the Owner are not liable for loss of personal belongings or injuries. The Hirer is advised to take out travel and medical insurance.
29.    RTA and the Owner are not liable for events beyond their control, including flight delays, civil disturbances, road closures, extreme weather, epidemics, and similar force majeure events. 
30.    RTA aims to provide accurate and up-to-date information on its website and through email communication, but no claims or rights can be derived from this.

Security bond

31.    A deposit of €1500 is required via a credit card hold. This is a temporary hold, which shall be released after the car is returned in acceptable condition and inspected. Any losses or severe damage to the camping gear shall be charged to the Hirer at replacement value.

Payment & cancellation policy

32.    After RTA receives the signed terms and conditions, you will be sent two invoices: (1) a non-refundable deposit of 10% to confirm the booking and (2) the final invoice with the remaining amount due 14 days before departure. 
33.    There are no refunds in case of a last-minute cancellation or rescheduling, which is 14 days before your departure date or less. If you want to be covered, take out travel or cancellation insurance.