When you’re planning a trip, one of the most important things to think about is fuel. A reliable fuel supply keeps your journey smooth and stress-free. In Tanzania, filling stations are available in most towns and highways, but good planning will save you from getting stranded, especially if you’re traveling to remote areas or national parks.
At AKI, we make sure our rental cars are fueled, serviced, and ready for your journey. Still, here are some useful tips about fuel and filling stations:
Most filling stations in Tanzania supply:
Petrol (Gasoline) → Used by small cars, SUVs, and some 4x4s.
Diesel → Common for larger vehicles, buses, vans, and heavy-duty 4x4s.
Always check your rental agreement to know which fuel type your car uses. Putting the wrong fuel in a vehicle can cause serious damage.
You will find several trusted fuel providers across the country, such as:
TotalEnergies
Puma Energy
Oryx Energies
Lake Oil
Gapco
These stations are common in big towns and along main highways. They usually provide not just fuel but also air services, lubricants, car wash, convenience shops, and sometimes ATMs.
Most stations accept cash (Tanzanian Shillings), and many also allow mobile payments (M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa, Airtel Money) or cards. Always carry some cash if you are driving to rural areas, where digital payments may not be available.
In regions outside big cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Mwanza, filling stations may be far apart. If you’re heading for safaris, upcountry towns, or rural routes, make sure to fill up your tank before leaving town. It’s also wise to check if your route has reliable stations along the way.
Fuel prices in Tanzania are regulated by the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) and change monthly. Prices may slightly differ depending on the city or region, but they remain standardized nationwide.
When refueling:
Switch off your engine.
Don’t smoke or use your phone.
Let the pump attendant handle fueling.
Double-check the fuel type before the attendant starts pumping.
Fuel is the heartbeat of every trip. Whether you’re renting a car for personal use, a safari, or a wedding, make sure you know your fuel type and plan your refueling stops in advance. At AKI, we ensure all our vehicles are fuel-efficient, safe, and ready for your journey—so all you need to do is drive and enjoy.
Tip: Always keep your tank at least half full, especially when traveling outside big towns. It’s better to be safe than sorry.