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Car Rental in Reunion

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Car Rental in Reunion Island: Essential Tips

To rent a car in Réunion Island, drivers must be at least 21 years old (or 25 for some companies). A valid driver’s license from your home country is usually sufficient, though an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. Drivers under 25 may face a young driver surcharge.

With a rental car, you can explore every corner of Réunion Island, from its beaches to its mountainous interiors. However, cross-border travel to other countries is not allowed, as rental cars must remain on the island.

Cars drive on the right side of the road, and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on open roads, and 110 km/h (68 mph) on highways (if weather conditions permit). Avoid using mobile phones unless hands-free.

Children under 2 years must be in rear-facing seats. Those between 2 and 4 years should use forward-facing seats, while kids aged 4 to 10 years or under 4 ft 5 in (135 cm) require a booster seat. Be sure to request child seats when booking your car rental.

Bring your passport, valid driver’s license, and a credit card in your name for deposits and payments. Rental companies may also ask for proof of travel plans or accommodations.

Most car hire services in Réunion include basic insurance, but it’s wise to add extra protection like a collision damage waiver or theft insurance for peace of mind.

Fuel stations are not always open 24/7, especially in rural areas, so plan ahead. In cities, use designated parking zones to avoid fines. Parking fees typically range from $1 to $3 per hour in urban centers.

Breaking traffic rules can result in hefty fines. Speeding fines range from $50 to $300, and seatbelt violations cost about $120 per person. Using a mobile phone while driving can result in a $160 fine.

Roads in Réunion are generally in good condition, but mountain routes can be narrow and winding. Drive cautiously, especially during sudden weather changes. Some areas, like high-altitude zones, may require extra vigilance.

To the best deals, book your car rental in Réunion Island online with Finalrentals early, especially during peak travel months (May–October). Consider picking up your car at the Réunion Airport for convenience.

hire Free Cancellation

Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Finalrentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.

hire Fair Fuel Policy

You can return the car at the same fuel level as it was handed over to you and there will be no charges at all.

hire No Hidden Charges

Pay full rental amount at the counter. No need to pay online. We work on clear pricing policy, what you see is what you pay.

Rent a Car at Réunion’s Roland Garros Airport with Finalrentals

Start your adventure in Réunion Island the moment you land at Roland Garros Airport with a hassle-free car rental from Finalrentals..

Located conveniently at Réunion International Airport, Finalrentals makes it easy for you to pick up your car and hit the road. We offer a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars perfect for city drives to spacious SUVs for mountain adventures.

Our airport shuttle service connects you directly from the terminal to your rental car. With Finalrentals, you’ll benefit from excellent customer service and vehicles designed for comfort and reliability.

Book your car rental online with Finalrentals at La Réunion Roland Garros Airport today.

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  •   Roland Garros Airport
  •   Airport Shuttle Service

Car Rental in Reunion FAQs:

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  • How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Réunion?
    On average, renting a car in Réunion costs around €25–€60 per day ($16–$50), depending on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and demand. Economy cars, ideal for city and budget travelers, fall on the lower end, while SUVs or luxury cars can be pricier. Rates often increase during peak travel months (May–October). Always factor in additional costs like fuel, insurance, and optional add-ons (e.g., GPS or child seats).
  • What Are the Most Popular Rental Cars in Réunion Island?
    Compact cars like the Renault Clio and Peugeot 208 are popular in Réunion for their affordability and ease of navigation on narrow roads. For families or groups, mid-sized vehicles like the Dacia Duster and Toyota RAV4 are favored for comfort and space. Adventurous travelers exploring mountainous areas often prefer SUVs with strong engines and reliability. Finalrentals offers a variety of cars suited to Réunion’s diverse terrain, allowing you to choose based on your itinerary—be it beaches, volcanic landscapes, or bustling towns.
  • What Are the Convenient Locations to Hire a Car in Réunion?
    Finalrentals operates in five strategic locations across Réunion Island, ensuring easy access wherever you’re based. Roland Garros Airport (Sainte Marie): Ideal for arrivals and departures. Sainte Clotilde: Close to urban hubs and business centers. Le Port: Convenient for exploring the northern coastal areas. Saint-Gilles-les-Bains: A great base for beach enthusiasts. Saint-Pierre: Perfect for travelers heading to the southern part of the island. These locations provide flexibility and convenience, making it easy to pick up or drop off your rental.
  • What Is Driving Like in Réunion?
    What Is Driving Like in Réunion? Driving in Réunion is generally smooth, with well-maintained roads. However, mountainous routes can be narrow and winding, requiring caution. Drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns, 90 km/h (56 mph) on open roads, and 110 km/h (68 mph) on highways. Roundabouts are common; Yield to vehicles already inside. Seat belts are mandatory, and mobile phone use is prohibited unless hands-free.
  • Is Insurance Included in Car Rentals in Réunion?
    Basic insurance (liability coverage) is usually included, but it’s essential to check specifics with the provider. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is often optional and covers part of the repair costs in case of an accident. Some credit cards offer rental car insurance as a benefit; verify if yours does, but note that this may not cover all damages. With Finalrentals, you can add CDW or extended coverage for extra peace of mind.
  • Do I Need an International Driver's License in Réunion?
    While most car rental companies in Réunion accept foreign driver’s licenses, having an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended. It’s especially useful if your license isn’t in French or English, as it prevents misunderstandings. Carry both your original license and IDP to comply with local regulations. With Finalrentals, you can confirm specific requirements when booking.
  • What Are the Fuel Prices in Réunion?
    Fuel prices in Réunion average around €1.80 ($1.98) per liter for gasoline. Diesel is slightly cheaper, costing about €1.50 ($1.65) per liter. Fuel stations are widely available in towns but may be sparse in remote areas. Many stations close early, so plan refueling accordingly, especially on weekends. When renting with Finalrentals, inquire about fuel policies, such as whether the car must be returned with a full tank.
  • Can I Drive a Rental Car in Réunion with My Foreign License?
    You can drive in Réunion with a valid foreign driver’s license. Ensure it is in French or English or accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP) for added clarity. Rental agencies like Finalrentals require that your license is valid and held for at least one year. Keep both your license and passport handy when picking up the car.
  • Is GPS Navigation Available with Rental Cars in Réunion?
    GPS navigation is available as an optional add-on with most car rentals, including Finalrentals. It’s highly recommended for navigating Réunion’s complex roads, especially in rural or mountainous areas. Alternatively, consider using smartphone apps like Google Maps or Waze, but ensure you have reliable internet access or download offline maps before your trip.
  • How Much in Advance Should I Book My Car Rental in Réunion?
    To ensure availability and secure the best rates, book your car rental at least 2–4 weeks in advance, especially during the high season (May–October). With Finalrentals, you can reserve online with a 15% down payment, paying the balance at the counter. Finalrentals also offers flexible policies with no hidden charges, giving you peace of mind throughout the booking process.

Best Time to Rent a Car in Reunion

The best time to rent a car in Réunion depends on when you plan to visit and how you want to explore the island.

For foreign tourists, the ideal time to visit is during the dry season (May to October). The weather is perfect for exploring iconic sites like the Piton de la Fournaise, Cirque de Mafate, and the beaches of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains.

Renting a car during this period allows you to reach remote trails and picturesque coastal towns easily. Book your car at least 6 weeks in advance, as demand peaks during this season, especially for vehicles suited for mountain drives like SUVs.

If you’re visiting during the wet season (November to April), you’ll still find plenty to do. This period is less crowded, and rental prices are generally lower. It’s a great time to explore lush green landscapes and waterfalls, such as those near Saint-Pierre and Salazie, without the tourist rush.

Key locations to rent a car include Roland Garros Airport (Sainte-Marie) for immediate convenience, or Saint-Pierre and Saint-Gilles-les-Bains for beach-side stays. Early booking ensures the best rates and vehicle availability.

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Finalrentals is Clear in Terms of Rental Policy

"I have been using Finalrentals for all my car rental since March 2024 and it has been a great car rental experience. No surprises at the counter and always very clear in terms of car rental policy. Totally recommended.”

Joseph Santos. Finalrentals customer in Reunion.