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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Reunion Island
Reunion Island
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Reunion Island
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Reunion Island
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Reunion Island
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Reunion Island?
Reunion Island, a French department in the Indian Ocean, is a volcanic, lush paradise brimming with dramatic landscapes, from towering pitons and verdant cirques to black sand beaches and cascading waterfalls. While local buses and taxis are available, renting a car provides the ultimate freedom to explore this diverse island at your own pace. Here’s why booking a car is the best way to experience Reunion Island.
Unparalleled Freedom and Flexibility. Public transport can be limiting in terms of schedules and routes. A rental car allows you to explore hidden gems, remote villages, and scenic viewpoints without the constraints of fixed timetables.
Access to Remote Locations. Reunion Island's most breathtaking attractions, such as the Cirque de Mafate (accessible only by hiking or helicopter), are best reached with a 4x4 vehicle that can handle the challenging terrain leading to trailhead access points.
Comfort and Convenience. Whether you're travelling with family, friends, or gear, a rental car offers comfortable and convenient transportation, eliminating the need to rely on taxis or crowded buses. You can store your luggage and equipment safely and easily.
Scenic Drives and Road Trip Opportunities. Reunion Island boasts stunning coastal roads and winding mountain passes, offering unforgettable driving experiences. A rental car lets you fully enjoy these scenic routes, stopping at viewpoints and attractions along the way.
Driving in Reunion Island: Rules, Tips & Local Regulations
Drive on
Right hand side
Speed limit within city centre
50 km/h or 31 mph
Languages
French
Average petrol price
£1.37 per litre or £6.23 per gallon
Speed limit outside the city
80-90 km/h or 50-56 mph
Currency
Euro
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.05%
Score
8.5/10
Dialling Code
+262
Driving in Reunion Island can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to be aware of the local rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here’s what you need to know before you get behind the wheel.
1. General Traffic Laws Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Mobile phone use is prohibited while driving unless using a hands-free device. Children under 10 must use appropriate child seats.
- Always carry your driver's license, car registration, and insurance documents.
2. Speed Limits Adhere to the posted speed limits, which are typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 80-90 km/h on open roads. Speed cameras are common, so be vigilant.
- Pay attention to reduced speed limits in residential areas and near schools.
3. Priority and Right of Way Give way to traffic coming from the right, unless otherwise indicated by signs. Roundabouts operate with priority to vehicles already on the roundabout.
- Be cautious of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in urban areas.
4. Parking Park only in designated areas. Avoid parking on pavements or obstructing traffic. Parking fines are strictly enforced.
- Pay attention to parking signs, as some areas have time limits or require payment.
5. Road Conditions Be prepared for winding mountain roads, steep inclines, and sharp turns. Some roads may be narrow and require extra caution.
- During the rainy season (November to April), roads can be slippery and prone to landslides.
Top drives in Reunion Island:
Reunion Island, with its dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and stunning coastal roads, offers some of the most spectacular driving routes in the world. A car is essential to explore the island's hidden gems and enjoy its diverse scenery.
From challenging mountain passes to picturesque coastal routes, Reunion Island has something for every driver. Here are some of the best scenic drives and road trip ideas to inspire your adventure.
Car Rental Prices in Reunion Island – Cost Breakdown
The cost of renting a car in Reunion Island can vary depending on several factors, including the type of vehicle, rental duration, and time of year. Here's a breakdown of estimated daily prices for different car categories.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45
Electric:
from £25 / $31 / €28
Classic:
from £20 / $25 / €22
Executive:
from £35 / $44 / €40
7 Seater:
from £45 / $56 / €50
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €34
SUV:
from £35 / $44 / €40
Hire price
Average price for hiring a car per day in Reunion Island
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to January & July to August): Prices start at approximately £55 / $69 / €62 per day.
Low season (May to June & September to October): Discounts available from around £30 / $38 / €34 per day.
Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as vehicle type, rental duration, and location.
Tips for saving money when renting a car in Reunion Island
Renting a car in Reunion Island can be an affordable way to explore the island if you plan. Here are some tips to help you save money on your car rental.
1. Book Early for the Best Deals.: Rental prices tend to rise closer to the pick-up date. Booking well in advance, especially during peak season, can save you a significant amount of money.
2. Compare Prices & Look for Discounts.: Use price comparison websites to find the best car rental deals. Check for discounts for AAA members, seniors, or other affiliations.
3. Choose the Right Car for Your Needs.: Opt for a smaller, more fuel-efficient car if you don't need a lot of space. This can save you money on both rental costs and fuel.
4. Decline Optional Insurance.: Check with your credit card company or existing auto insurance policy to see if you're already covered for rental car damage or loss. This can save you from paying for expensive rental car insurance.
5. Refuel Before Returning.: Rental companies typically charge exorbitant prices for refuelling. Fill up the tank at a local petrol station before returning the car.
6. Avoid Airport Pickups.: Rental car companies located at the airport often charge higher rates. Consider taking a taxi or shuttle to an off-airport rental location.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Reunion Island?
To rent a car in Reunion Island, you'll need to meet certain requirements. Here's a list of what you'll typically need:
Valid Driver’s Licence. You'll need a valid driver's licence from your country of residence. If your licence is not in French, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Minimum Age. Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some may charge an additional fee for drivers under 25.
Credit Card. You'll need a valid credit card in the main driver's name to cover the security deposit. The amount of the deposit can vary depending on the rental company and the type of car.
Passport or ID. You'll need to present a valid passport or other form of government-issued identification.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Reunion Island as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty chill, overall
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 11.09.2024
Pretty relaxed, really.
Maya Garcia
Reviewed: 27.07.2025
Island life was amazing! Driving around was so easy, and the views were incredible.
Amelia Brown
Reviewed: 23.12.2024
Family vacation was perfect! Having a car made exploring Reunion's beauty so easy. Incredible scenery.
Ava Davis
Reviewed: 09.09.2024
Meh. Food was bland.
Ethan Carter
Reviewed: 11.05.2025
Unforgettable coastal relaxation; exploring was effortless.
Oliver Smith
Reviewed: 26.02.2025
Pretty good, overall.
Liam Wilson
Reviewed: 16.10.2024
Heard amazing things about Reunion, and they were true! Exploring the island by car was effortless, revealing breathtaking scenery at every turn. Incredible!
Isabelle Dupont
Reviewed: 31.07.2025
Reunion's beauty unfolded effortlessly; driving was a dream.
Jessica Lee
Reviewed: 02.03.2025
Pretty chill vibe.
Noah Evans
Reviewed: 09.10.2024
Reunion Island was breathtaking! Exploring the volcanic landscapes and stunning beaches during our summer holiday was incredible. Having a car made it so easy to reach all the hidden gems. Highly recommend!
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 07.12.2024