Car Rental in Reunion
Get the Best Car Rental Deals in Reunion
Free Cancellation
Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Finalrentals does not believe in charging cancellation fees.
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.
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.
Things to Know Before Renting a Car in Reunion
Flexible Travel
Renting a car in Reunion enables travellers to explore the island's majestic pitons, world-class cirques, and stunning waterfalls seamlessly, without being limited by public transportation and schedules.
Documents for Tourists
To rent a car in Reunion, tourists must carry a valid passport, a driver’s license from their home country, and a visa if required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not mandatory but highly recommended.
Documents for Residents
To rent a car in Reunion, residents must provide a valid French or EU/EEA driving license held for at least one year. A French national identity card or passport might also be required for additional verification.
Credit Card Requirement
A credit card in the renter’s name is necessary for both the deposit and payment, helping to guarantee a hassle-free experience. Debit cards are sometimes accepted, but credit cards are preferred.
Driving Regulations
Reunion drives on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits vary from 30 km/h to 130 km/h. Seatbelts are mandatory for all, mobile use is only allowed hands-free, and driving under the influence of alcohol is prohibited.
Child Seat Regulations
Children under the age of 12 or shorter than 150 cm are required to use an appropriate child safety seat or booster seat according to their age, height, and weight. They are not allowed to sit in front.
Traffic Rules
In Reunion, vehicles approaching intersections from the right typically have the right-of-way unless otherwise indicated by signs. Overtaking is on the left and prohibited at intersections. Horns are required in blind spots.
Toll Roads and Fuel Costs
Reunion has no toll roads, so you don't have to worry about fees. Petrol stations are frequent on the coast but become sparser inland. Fuel prices can be considered moderately expensive compared to the global average.
Navigation and Parking
GPS navigation systems are highly recommended, especially when exploring inland or mountainous areas. Download offline maps as mobile signals can be patchy. You will find free parking in many places, especially outside major towns.
Roads and Insurance
Reunion's roads are diverse, ranging from well-maintained coastal highways to narrow, winding, and steep mountain roads. Be cautious, especially when rainy. All vehicles are required to have at least Third-Party Liability (TPL) insurance.
Car Rentals at Roland Garros Airport
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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.
Best Time to Rent a Car in Reunion
Low Season Rentals
The low season for tourism in Reunion is the island's wet season from January to March, which has a risk of heavy rainfall and high humidity. Take advantage of the cheaper car rentals, flights, and accommodations by booking during this period.
Peak Season Rentals
The peak season for tourism in Reunion runs from July to August and December, encompassing the holidays and French summer vacations. Car rental rates are at their highest, and options are limited. Book in advance to secure your rental car.
Rental Cost Comparisons
February and March are the cheapest months to rent a car in Reunion, while December is the most expensive. This is the peak of the holiday season, with the influx of tourists driving maximum demand and limited availability.
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.
Car Rental in Reunion FAQs:
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.
