Cape Verde Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Cape Verde

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Sal

Sal

What you need to know for your Cape Verde car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Cape Verde

Renting a car in Cape Verde is a popular choice for tourists looking to explore the diverse attractions at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. This freedom is particularly appealing for those interested in beach, outdoor, and cultural experiences. You can visit stunning locations like Santa Maria Beach for a relaxing day by the ocean or explore the vibrant Santa Maria Town Square for a taste of local culture. For adventure seekers, Mindelo Marina offers a variety of outdoor activities.

Having a car also allows you to discover popular destinations across the islands, such as the city of Sal, with its attractions including Santa Maria Town Square and Ponta Preta. In Praia, you can explore Quebra Canela Beach and the Museu Etnográfico de Praia, while Boa Vista offers sights like Curral Velho and Praia da Chave. Renting a car provides the convenience and flexibility needed to fully enjoy all that Cape Verde has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Cape Verde

  • Economy: The Economy car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and allows for 2 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families looking for a budget-friendly choice. It provides a balance of comfort and efficiency, perfect for navigating the scenic roads of Cape Verde while keeping travel costs low.
  • Compact: Similar to the Economy option, the Compact car also accommodates 5 travelers but allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This extra luggage space is beneficial for those who may have more belongings or are traveling with additional gear. Compact cars are versatile and a great fit for exploring Cape Verde’s attractions at your leisure.
  • Compact SUV: The Compact SUV option also accommodates 5 travelers and provides space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle type offers a higher driving position and enhanced visibility, making it suitable for both city driving and more rugged terrains. It’s a practical choice for those who need extra room and comfort during their travels in Cape Verde.

Where to stay in Cape Verde

  • Sal: Known for its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures, Sal is a vibrant destination within Cape Verde. Travelers can explore the public market and enjoy swimming at popular spots like Ponta Preta beach. Key attractions include Santa Maria Town Square, which is perfect for immersing in local culture, and the Santa Maria Pier, a scenic jetty. Visitors will find plenty of nearby options for food and drinks, including cozy coffee shops and bars, making Sal an ideal choice for a fun-filled getaway.
  • Praia: As the capital city of Cape Verde, Praia offers a unique blend of beach and city experiences. Enjoy the sandy shores of Quebra Canela Beach and visit the historic Dona María Pia Lighthouse for cultural insights. The Museu Etnográfico de Praia provides a fascinating look into the local history. Praia's vibrant public market is perfect for exploring local goods, and numerous cafes nearby offer delicious refreshments, making it a great spot for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
  • Boa Vista: This picturesque island destination is celebrated for its beautiful beaches and rich culture. Boa Vista invites travelers to discover the historic village of Curral Velho and relax at Praia da Chave, a stunning beach ideal for sunbathing. The town of Povoaçao Velha offers charming local experiences. A variety of food and drink options, including seafood and coffee, are available nearby, ensuring a delightful stay for those looking to immerse themselves in the island's unique offerings.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Cape Verde

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just be sure to return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Cape Verde

The best value period to rent a car in Cape Verde is August, when prices are slightly low and demand is high. This month offers a good balance for travelers. Nearby months like June and July also show average demand and prices, making them reasonable options. However, December tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and low demand. January and February follow closely, also falling into the pricier category for rentals.

Find Cape Verde Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Cape Verde car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Cape Verde, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Cape Verde offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Cape Verde car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Cape Verde to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Cape Verde airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Cape Verde rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Cape Verde airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent a car one-way in Cape Verde?
Yes, one-way car rentals are available in Cape Verde, offering flexibility for travelers who want to explore different islands or cities without returning to their original pickup location. For example, you could pick up your car in Sal and drop it off in Santa Maria, which is ideal for exploring Sal Island. A one-way drop-off fee usually applies, and this fee can be higher over longer distances or between islands, so it's always a good idea to confirm the details when booking your car rental on Expedia.
Which airports in Cape Verde can I pick up a rental car?
Cape Verde has several international airports where you can conveniently pick up a rental car, allowing you to start your journey right after you land. Choosing the airport nearest your starting city helps keep your travel plans smooth and efficient. You can compare rental rates and availability at each on Expedia.
What are the best road trips in Cape Verde by rental car?
A rental car is an excellent way to explore the diverse landscapes and charming towns across Cape Verde's islands. A car allows you to fully experience the beauty of individual islands. Consider these road trip ideas:
Which side of the road do you drive on in Cape Verde?
In Cape Verde, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. If you're accustomed to driving on the left, it's wise to give yourself a little extra time to adjust to the local driving style. Pay particular attention at intersections and roundabouts, which will flow in the opposite direction to what you might be used to. Keeping to local speed limits and traffic laws can help ensure a safe and enjoyable drive as you explore the cities like Sal, Santa Maria, and Praia, and the roads between them.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Cape Verde?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Cape Verde. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Cape Verde?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Cape Verde?
Budget car rental in Cape Verde can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Cape Verde?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Cape Verde. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Cape Verde car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Cape Verde?
To rent a car in Cape Verde, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Cape Verde car rental?
If you need to cancel your Cape Verde car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation