Top Tips for Finding Cheap Car Rental in Mauritius

Mauritius, the idyllic island paradise nestled in the Indian Ocean, is famous for its turquoise lagoons, white sandy beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant culture. To truly explore all that Mauritius has to offer, renting a car is one of the best ways to travel around the island at your own pace.

However, car rental can sometimes be costly if you’re not careful. Fortunately, there are smart ways to find cheap car rental in Mauritius without compromising on quality or convenience.

We’ll share top tips and insider advice to help you score the best deals on car rentals during your trip to Mauritius.

Book Early for the Best Rates

One of the most effective ways to secure a cheap car rental in Mauritius is to book well in advance. Car rental prices tend to increase closer to the date of rental, especially during peak travel seasons such as school holidays, Christmas, or major local events.

Booking your rental car as soon as your travel dates are confirmed allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures a wider selection of vehicles. Many rental companies offer early bird discounts or special promotions for bookings.

Compare Multiple Providers Online

Cheap Car Rental in Mauritius has a healthy mix of international rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Budget, alongside reliable local operators. To find the best deal, use comparison websites like Rentalcars.com, Kayak, or Auto Europe that aggregate offers from multiple providers.

Don’t rely on just one site—check several platforms and also visit rental company websites directly. Sometimes exclusive discounts or coupon codes are available on official sites or through partner travel agencies.

Opt for Economy or Compact Cars

While it may be tempting to rent a larger or luxury vehicle, smaller economy or compact cars are usually much cheaper to rent. They also offer better fuel efficiency, which helps save money during your trip.

Mauritius’ roads are generally well-maintained but can be narrow in some rural areas, making smaller cars easier to navigate. Unless you’re traveling with a large group or require extra space for luggage, an economy car is often the best budget choice.

Avoid Renting at the Airport

Car rental desks located at Mauritius’ Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport can be convenient, but they typically charge a premium for the convenience of airport pickup. This can add up to significant extra fees.

Consider renting from companies located in nearby towns or cities, where rates tend to be lower. You can take a taxi or shuttle from the airport to your rental location and often save money in the process.

Check Insurance Coverage Carefully

Rental companies usually offer various insurance options, and purchasing full coverage directly from them can be costly. Before you pay extra for insurance, check if your existing car insurance or credit card provides rental coverage abroad.

Many credit cards offer collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance as a benefit when you use the card to pay for the rental. Understanding your coverage can help you avoid unnecessary insurance fees, lowering the overall rental cost.

Be Mindful of Fuel Policies

Fuel charges can sometimes add hidden costs to your rental. The most common policies are “full-to-full” and “pre-purchase.” Full-to-full means you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full, so you only pay for the fuel you use.

Avoid “pre-purchase” fuel options where you pay upfront for a full tank regardless of how much you use, as it can be expensive. Always inspect the fuel policy before finalizing your booking.

Avoid Additional Extras Unless Necessary

Extras like GPS, child seats, additional drivers, or roadside assistance can inflate your rental cost quickly. Consider these only if essential:

Use your smartphone’s GPS app instead of renting a separate GPS unit.

Bring your own child car seat if possible.

If traveling as a group, limit the number of additional drivers or share driving duties carefully.

By minimizing add-ons, you keep your rental affordable.

Rent for Longer Periods to Get Better Rates

Daily rental rates can be expensive if you’re only renting for one or two days. Many companies offer significant discounts for weekly or multi-day rentals. If your itinerary allows, consider renting for a full week or more.

Longer rentals also give you more flexibility and time to explore Mauritius’ hidden gems—from the volcanic plateau of Curepipe to the charming fishing village of Mahébourg.

Understand the Local Driving Rules and Road Conditions

Knowing what to expect can help you avoid penalties or unexpected charges. Mauritius drives on the left side of the road, and seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are generally 50-80 km/h outside towns, with strict enforcement.

Make sure the rental company provides a vehicle in good condition with a valid road permit. Avoid extra fees by returning the car on time and in the same condition you received it.

Use Local Knowledge and Forums

Travel forums like TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet’s Thorn Tree, or Mauritius-specific Facebook groups can be excellent resources for up-to-date advice on cheap car rentals. Locals and recent travelers often share recommendations on trustworthy companies and tips to avoid scams.

By tapping into these communities, you can find hidden gems and exclusive deals not advertised widely.

Check for Hidden Fees and Deposit Requirements

Cheap Car Rental in Mauritius , some rental companies may advertise low base rates but add mandatory fees for airport surcharges, service fees, or local taxes. Always read the fine print and ask about all possible charges before booking.

Be prepared for a security deposit, usually held on your credit card during the rental period. This deposit is typically refundable if the car is returned without damage.

Consider Off-Peak Travel for Better Deals

If your schedule is flexible, try to avoid Mauritius’ peak tourist months (December to April and July-August). During off-peak periods, demand for rental cars drops, leading to better rates and more availability.

Traveling in the shoulder seasons can also mean fewer tourists on the roads and a more relaxed driving experience.

Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly Before Driving Off

Before you accept the car, do a detailed inspection with a company representative. Document any scratches, dents, or mechanical issues with photos or videos.

This step protects you from being charged for damages you did not cause. Having clear evidence helps resolve disputes quickly and ensures your security deposit is returned without problems.

Consider Car Sharing or Alternative Transport for Short Trips

If you only plan to drive short distances or stay mainly in one area, renting a car may not be the cheapest option. Mauritius has reasonably priced taxis, buses, and some ride-sharing services.

Car-sharing platforms are emerging but are less common. Evaluate your itinerary carefully to see if a rental car is necessary or if alternatives will be more cost-effective.

Final Thoughts

Cheap Car Rental in Mauritius is a fantastic way to explore the island’s stunning scenery and hidden treasures at your own pace. By following these tips, you can find cheap car rental deals that fit your budget without sacrificing comfort or safety.

To recap, book early, compare prices, choose smaller vehicles, understand insurance and fuel policies, avoid unnecessary extras, and leverage local knowledge. With some planning and smart choices, your Mauritian road trip will be unforgettable—and affordable.