One-way rental fees

One-way rental fees are extra charges applied when you pick up a rental car in one location and return it to another.

Here’s a breakdown of how they typically work:

 What is One Way Rental

  • A “one-way fee” (also called a drop-off fee) compensates the rental company for returning the vehicle to its original location or for logistical costs.

  • The fee depends on distance, pickup/drop-off locations, and availability.

 Typical Costs (in East Africa)

  • Within the same city: Often no fee or a small charge (e.g., $40–$60).

  • Between cities (e.g., Dar es Salaam → Arusha): Usually $100–$250.

  • Cross-border (e.g., Arusha → Entebbe or Kigali): Can range from $700–$800, depending on the rental company and route.

Route Approx. Fee (USD) Notes
Dar es Salaam → Arusha $250–$300 Same-country drop-off
Arusha → Mwanza $300–$350 Depends on distance
Arusha → Nairobi (Kenya) $300–$500 Cross-border + clearance
Arusha → Entebbe (Uganda) $700–$800 Long distance + border handling

Tips to Save

  1. Book round-trip rentals if possible — avoids drop fees.

  2. Ask local 4×4 specialists — they may offer reduced one-way charges or shared vehicle returns.

  3. Compare multiple companies (e.g., Arusha  Car Rental, 4×4 Car Rental Tanzania , 4×4 Car Rental ).

  4. Negotiate if you’re renting for longer periods (7+ days) — many waive the one-way fee for extended rentals.

Would you like me to list specific one-way rental fees for popular self-drive routes in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda?

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