Planning a Mauritius trip? Here are expert car rental tips to avoid scams, save money & explore the island with ease.
Renting a Car in Mauritius: Everything You Need to Know
Planning your dream trip to Mauritius? White sandy beaches, lush green mountains, and endless adventures await! But here’s the thing—getting around the island like a pro makes all the difference. While public transport is slow and taxis are overpriced, renting a car allows you to explore at your own pace.
Whether you’re cruising along the coastal roads, heading up to Chamarel’s seven-coloured earth, or chasing sunsets in Le Morne, a rental car makes your journey stress-free. But before you jump into the driver’s seat, let’s talk about the most innovative way to rent a car in Mauritius without getting scammed, overpaying, or dealing with headaches.
Buckle up—here are Mauritius’s best car rental tips to ensure a smooth ride!
No Excess Deposit. Premium Insurance. Free Delivery.
1. Book Your Car Rental in Advance
Mauritius is a small island, and while plenty of rental cars are available, the best ones get booked quickly—especially during peak tourist seasons (December to April and June to August). Last-minute bookings can mean higher prices or limited car options.
Why Book in Advance?
- Better Prices: Early bookings often come with discounts.
- More Choices: You get the first pick from budget-friendly hatchbacks to SUVs and luxury cars.
- Hassle-Free Arrival: Land at SSR International Airport, pick up your car, and start your adventure right away!
🔹 Pro Tip: Book at least a month in advance to secure the best deals if you’re travelling during the festive season.
2. Choose the Right Car for Your Trip
Not all rental cars are made equal. Your chosen vehicle depends on your travel style, budget, and itinerary.
Which Car Should You Rent?
| Car Type | Best For | Example Models |
|---|---|---|
| Small Cars | Solo travelers & couples, city driving | Kia Picanto, Hyundai i10 |
| Sedan | Comfortable road trips, small families | Kia Cerato, Kia Pegas |
| Compact SUVs | Scenic drives, occasional off-road | Suzuki Fronx, Kia Seltos |
| SUVs | Large families, rugged terrain | Kia Sportage, Jeep Renegade |
| Luxury Cars | Special occasions, high-end comfort | BMW 3 Series |
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Pro Tip: If you plan to explore hilly regions like Chamarel or Black River Gorges, go for a Compact SUV or SUV—some roads can be steep!
3. Understand Insurance & Hidden Fees
Car rental insurance in Mauritius can be tricky, and some companies will try to sneak in hidden charges. Here’s what you need to check:
Types of Insurance:
✅ Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers accidental damage but may come with an excess fee.
✅ All-Risk Insurance: Covers accidents, theft, and natural disasters (recommended).
✅ Third-Party Liability: Covers damage to others but not your vehicle.
Hidden Fees to Watch Out For:
🚫 Excess Deposit: Many companies block a high deposit on your credit card. TRAVELHUB Car Rental doesn’t require an excess deposit—just a hassle-free process!
🚫 Airport Surcharges: Some companies charge extra for airport pickup.
🚫 Additional Driver Fees: If more than one person will drive, check if there’s an extra charge.
🚫 Fuel Policies: Avoid companies requiring you to return the car with a full tank if they gave it half-empty.
🔹 Pro Tip: Always ask for a full breakdown of costs before confirming your booking. No surprises = no headaches!
4. Driving Rules & Road Conditions in Mauritius
Mauritius follows British-style driving, meaning:
✅ Drive on the LEFT side of the road
✅ Most cars have right-hand steering
✅ Roundabouts give priority to cars already inside
Speed limits:
🚗 40 km/h in villages & towns
🚗 60-80 km/h on main roads
🚗 110 km/h on highways
Road Conditions
- Highways & Main Roads: Well-maintained, but watch out for speed cameras.
- Coastal Roads: Beautiful but narrow, with occasional stray dogs or cyclists.
- Mountain Roads: Twisty, scenic, and sometimes steep—drive cautiously.
🔹 Pro Tip: The Mauritian word for “speed bump” is “dos d’âne” (literally “donkey’s back”)—and there are plenty of them! Slow down unless you want to test your car’s suspension.
5. Where to Pick Up & Return Your Rental Car
Car rental companies offer different pickup options:
🏨 Hotel Delivery: Convenient but may cost extra.
✈️ SSR International Airport: The best choice for seamless travel.
🏬 City Pickup: Good if you’re already in Mauritius.
🔹 Pro Tip: TRAVELHUB Mauritius Car Rental offers FREE delivery island-wide, so your car can be waiting at your hotel or airport—no extra fees!
6. Watch Out for Common Car Rental Scams
Not all car rental companies in Mauritius are reliable. Be cautious of:
🚩 Fake Damage Claims: Some companies blame existing scratches on you. Take photos before driving off.
🚩 Hidden Fees: Low rental prices may come with surprise charges later.
🚩 Poorly Maintained Cars: Check brakes, tyres, and headlights before driving away.
🔹 Pro Tip: Book with a trusted company like TRAVELHUB Mauritius Car Rental that offers transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and well-maintained cars.
FAQs About Renting a Car in Mauritius
Do I need an international driving permit?
No, your home country’s license is valid for up to four weeks. After that, you’ll need a Mauritian permit.
Is parking easy in Mauritius?
In most areas, yes! Public beaches and tourist spots have free parking. In cities, look for designated parking zones.
What side of the road do you drive on?
The left side is just like in the UK and Australia.
Can I rent a car without a credit card?
Some companies allow debit card payments, but most require a credit card for security.
Is it safe to drive in Mauritius?
Yes! Just be mindful of local drivers, pedestrians, and unexpected road bumps (literally).
What’s the best car to rent for exploring the island?
A compact SUV is perfect—small enough for narrow roads but strong enough for hilly areas.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Renting a car in Mauritius is the best way to experience the island’s beauty, hidden beaches, and local culture at your own pace. Whether you’re looking for a small car, sedan, compact SUV, or luxury car, TRAVELHUB Mauritius Car Rental has the perfect ride for your adventure.
🔹 Book your rental today and explore Mauritius with total freedom!
