Not all rentals are equal: the right car depends on your itinerary, your luggage and the roads you plan to take. Here is how to choose with confidence.
The city car: the smart choice for two
For a couple exploring from a hotel in the north or west, a small city car (Kia Picanto, Suzuki Swift…) is unbeatable: fuel-efficient, easy to park in the lanes of Grand Baie or at beach car parks, and perfectly capable on all the island's paved roads. Expect the friendliest rates on the market, often under Rs 1,500 per day.
The SUV: comfort and versatility
If you are three or four with suitcases, or if your plans include Chamarel, Black River Gorges and the inland roads, a compact SUV (think Hyundai Tucson) brings real comfort: high driving position, generous boot, effective air conditioning. It is also the sensible pick in the rainy season, when some secondary roads deteriorate.
The van: the family and group solution
From five people upwards, a 7- or 9-seater van (Renault Trafic and similar) quickly becomes cheaper than two cars — and far more sociable. Check the number of child seats available with the agency, and book early: vans sell out fast during school holidays.
The premium sedan: for special occasions
Weddings, honeymoons, business meetings: a sedan (Mercedes C-Class and similar) brings the extra polish, often with a chauffeur option. The deposit is higher — check it before booking.
Manual or automatic?
Most of the Mauritian fleet is manual, which rents cheaper. But if you are new to left-hand driving, an automatic removes a real mental load: you focus on the road, not on shifting with your left hand. The extra few hundred rupees per day is often worth the peace of mind.
Questions to ask before you book
- Is mileage unlimited? (it is with most RentCar.mu agencies)
- What is the exact deposit amount and how is it released?
- Is air conditioning included? (essential from November to April)
- Is a baby seat or booster available?
- What does the basic insurance cover and what is the excess?