December and the first half of January are peak season in Mauritius: southern summer, warm sea, festive holidays and school breaks in both hemispheres. It is the most expensive time to rent a car, and the time when agencies' fleets fill up fastest.
High season prices
Daily ranges from our price barometer (rentcar.mu/barometre-prix), high season versus low season:
- Economy: Rs 1,800-2,800 (~€38-60), versus Rs 1,200-1,800 in low season.
- SUV / 4x4: Rs 3,200-4,800 (~€68-102), versus Rs 2,500-3,500.
- Van / 9-seater: Rs 4,000-5,500 (~€85-117), versus Rs 3,200-4,200.
- Luxury: Rs 6,000-10,000 (~€128-213), versus Rs 4,500-7,000.
Book early
Local fleets are limited and the most popular categories go first: automatic city cars, 7 and 9-seater vans and SUVs, plus early-morning or late-evening airport handovers. For a stay between mid-December and mid-January, book your car as soon as your flights are confirmed. Prices start to ease after mid-January.
Paying less even in high season
- Rent for your whole stay: weekly rates often bring the daily price down by 10 to 20%.
- Choose a city car if you are two or three.
- Compare licensed local agencies, often 20 to 40% cheaper than international brands.
- Check what is included: airport pick-up, additional driver, unlimited mileage, excess.
Weather and festive tips
December is hot and humid, and the official cyclone season runs from November to April (peak risk January to March). Slow down in tropical downpours, follow local weather and, in case of a cyclone warning, follow official instructions and contact your rental company. Give your flight number when booking, confirm any surcharge for late or public-holiday handovers, and never drink and drive on New Year's Eve: police checks are frequent.
Where to rent
Airport pick-up is the most practical option (rentcar.mu/location-voiture/aeroport-ssr); hotel delivery is common in Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches, Belle Mare and Flic en Flac. To secure your festive car, use the free quote form at the bottom of this page: licensed local agencies reply with their offers. You can also search on rentcar.mu/search.