Mauritius is a land of stunning diversity, where lush rainforests meet turquoise lagoons and vibrant local markets. While the island's public transport system is extensive, nothing compares to the freedom of having your own set of wheels to reach the hidden gems of the south or the sun-drenched beaches of the north.
However, for many travellers, renting a car can become a significant expense. If you want to explore the country without breaking the bank, understanding the local rental market is essential. By following a few strategic tips, you can secure a cheap car rental in Mauritius that offers both reliability and value, allowing you to spend more of your travel budget on fun experiences rather than transport costs.
Securing the best price for your vehicle starts long before you land at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. The golden rule is to book as early as possible. Data shows that renting a car at least one month in advance can save you up to 20% compared to last-minute walk-ins. If you are travelling during the peak season, you have to book at least four to six months ahead to secure the best deals and your preferred vehicle.
When you rent a car in Mauritius, you should look beyond the big international brands. While trusted names provide familiarity, local agencies often have far more competitive rates. These providers are deeply integrated into the Mauritian tourism landscape and frequently give personalised service that the larger chains cannot match. For example, some companies offer to meet you directly at the arrivals hall, saving you the time and potential extra cost of taking a shuttle bus to a remote rental depot.
The season also plays a massive role in pricing. If your travel dates are flexible, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May, June, or September. During these periods, demand drops significantly, and you can often find daily rates starting as low as 1,100 to 1,350 MUR. In contrast, December and January see a surge in tourism, causing prices to spike, with averages often climbing above 2,800 MUR per day for the same vehicles.
Another savvy strategy is to ask for weekly or monthly rates. Most agencies in Mauritius offer tiered pricing based on the length of your rental. For example, the daily rate for a week-long lease is usually lower than a three-day hire. For those planning an extended stay of a month or more, some local agencies provide custom long-term rates that can bring the daily cost down to under 950 MUR.
When it comes to cost-efficiency, a smaller car is almost always better. While it is tempting to rent a large SUV, you won’t need it unless you are travelling with a group of five or more. The island features many narrow, winding roads and steep climbs. A compact car is more manoeuvrable on these paths than a bigger vehicle. Additionally, a standard hatchback will be much easier to park and usually has lower parking fees.
Aside from considering the size, you should also look for cars that are fuel-efficient. With fuel prices remaining stable at 58 MUR per litre, choosing a car that averages 4.5 to 5.0 litres per 100km can save you a small fortune over a two-week trip. Modern hybrids are also becoming more common in rental fleets, offering even better economy for those planning to drive extensively between the north and south of the island.
The vehicle’s transmission is another factor that impacts the rental price. While automatic cars have become the standard in many parts of the world, manual transmission vehicles are still widely available in Mauritius and usually cost less to rent, often saving you roughly 150 to 300 MUR per day. If you are comfortable shifting gears, this is an easy way to trim your costs.
The base price of a rental car can be deceptive if you don't account for the potential hidden costs that agencies may add. One of the most common pitfalls is the fuel policy. You should always insist on a "Full-to-Full" basis. This means you receive the car with a full tank and return it the same way. Avoid "Pre-paid Fuel" or "Full-to-Empty" options, as agencies often charge a premium for the fuel and a convenience fee for refilling it themselves.
Insurance is another area where costs can spiral. Most car rentals in Mauritius include basic Third-Party Liability (TPL) and Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), but these usually come with a high excess ranging from 25,000 MUR to over 60,000 MUR. Before buying the expensive Zero Excess or Super CDW at the rental desk, check if your credit card policy or a separate third-party insurance already covers these costs.
Take a moment to inspect the vehicle thoroughly upon pick-up. Use your smartphone to take high-quality videos or photos of the car’s exterior and interior. Make sure that the agent documents any scratches or dents, paying close attention to the wheels and the underside of the bumpers. This simple act can protect you from being charged for pre-existing damage during the drop-off process.
Mauritius is famous for its beaches, but returning a car with excessive sand or wet upholstery can trigger a cleaning fee of up to 2,500 MUR. A quick shake of the floor mats and a wipe of the seats before you hand back the keys can save you a surprising amount of money. For a more thorough clean, you can stop by a local shop to get the car vacuumed and washed before drop-off.
To keep your rental costs low, you must also avoid getting traffic fines. Mauritius has significantly tightened its road enforcement following the 2025 Road Traffic Amendment Act. The island is now dotted with sophisticated fixed speed cameras. Speed limits are strictly enforced, usually 40 km/h in urban areas and villages, 80 km/h on main rural roads, and up to 110 km/h on segments of the M1 and M2 motorways.
Fines are tiered, starting at 58 MUR per litre for exceeding the limit by up to 15 km/h, and doubling for higher speeds. Be particularly careful at roundabouts and village entrances where the limit often drops suddenly. Cameras are frequently placed at these transition points to catch unwary drivers.
Another significant change in 2026 is the zero-tolerance approach to mobile phone use. It is now illegal to even touch a mobile phone while the engine is running, which includes using it for navigation unless it is secured in a dedicated dashboard cradle. The fixed penalty for this is 3,000 MUR.
Furthermore, the legal blood alcohol limit is extremely low at 20mg per 100ml of blood, which means a single bottle of beer could put you over the limit. Police roadblocks and breathalyser checks are common, especially on weekend evenings in tourist hubs like Grand Baie and Flic-en-Flac. Adhering to these rules isn't just about safety; it's about ensuring your budget vacation doesn't get derailed by expensive legal complications.
Renting a car in Mauritius is the ultimate way to unlock the island’s secrets, from the beautiful hidden waterfalls to the perfect sunset spots along the coast. By following the strategic tips listed in this guide, you can enjoy the benefits of private transport without the luxurious price tag.
The savings you get from your rental car can be better spent on a catamaran cruise or a world-class seafood dinner in Mahebourg. With fuel prices being relatively stable and the road network steadily improving, there has never been a better time to take the wheel and enjoy the open road.
Whether you are planning a romantic escapade or a family adventure, the right vehicle is ready to take you there. Don't wait until you arrive to find the best deal. Secure your cheap car rental in Mauritius today by booking on Final Rentals. Start your journey and explore everything from the bustling markets of the north to the rugged, wild cliffs of the south.
