Chamarel Car Rental — from €25/day

Car Rental in Chamarel, Mauritius

Just 5 kilometers from the Seven Colored Earths, a rental car in Chamarel opens up the spectacular Black River Gorges National Park and the entire southwest coast of Mauritius. With your own wheels, you can easily venture along the scenic B104, stopping at viewpoints and hidden beaches at your leisure, transforming your Mauritian adventure into an unforgettable journey.

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Car Rental in Chamarel, Mauritius

Chamarel, Mauritius

Where to drive

Drive to the Black River Gorges National Park (≈10 km, 15-20 minutes) for hiking trails and incredible viewpoints, then continue to the Alexandra Falls viewpoint.
Visit the famous Seven Coloured Earths Geopark and Chamarel Waterfall (both within 5 km of Chamarel village, 5-10 minutes drive).
Head to Le Morne Brabant (≈20 km, 30-40 minutes) for its stunning beach and the iconic UNESCO World Heritage mountain.
Explore the charming coastal towns of Flic en Flac or Tamarin (≈25-30 km, 40-50 minutes) for beaches, restaurants, and watersports.
Journey to Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao), a sacred Hindu site (≈25 km, 35-45 minutes), nestled in the volcanic crater.
Discover the Bois Cheri Tea Plantation (≈35 km, 50-60 minutes) for a tea tasting and scenic views.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Mauritius, you will generally need a valid national driving license from your home country, a passport, and a major credit card for the security deposit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, especially if your national license is not in English or French. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and to have held their license for a minimum of 1-2 years.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Chamarel vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars typically start from around €30-€40 per day during off-peak months, while SUVs or premium vehicles can range from €60-€100+ daily. Prices can increase by approximately 20-40% during the peak tourist season from November to April.

Price by month, €

55€

Jan

50€

Feb

45€

Mar

40€

Apr

35€

May

30€

Jun

30€

Jul

35€

Aug

40€

Sep

45€

Oct

50€

Nov

60€

Dec

Demand by month

85%

Jan

75%

Feb

70%

Mar

65%

Apr

50%

May

45%

Jun

40%

Jul

55%

Aug

60%

Sep

70%

Oct

80%

Nov

95%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

Driving in Mauritius is on the left side of the road. Speed limits are typically 40 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on main roads, and 110 km/h on motorways. The legal alcohol limit is 0.05%. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child safety seats are required for children under 5 years old. Headlights must be used in tunnels and during periods of reduced visibility.

Parking

In Chamarel village, parking is generally free and available, particularly at tourist attractions like the Seven Coloured Earths and Chamarel Waterfall. In larger towns or popular beach areas, you might find paid parking zones or designated parking lots. Always look for signs and adhere to local regulations to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are available in larger towns and along main roads across Mauritius, though less frequent directly within Chamarel itself. It's advisable to fill up in nearby towns like Rivière Noire or La Gaulette. Unleaded petrol and diesel are widely available. Prices are government-regulated and generally affordable, paid in Mauritian Rupees (MUR) by cash or card.

Which car to choose

For Chamarel's often winding and sometimes narrow roads, a compact or economy car is often sufficient and easier to maneuver. If you plan to explore more adventurous routes or have significant luggage, a small SUV might offer more comfort and ground clearance. Automatic transmission is widely available and recommended for those unfamiliar with driving on the left side of the road.

Pros

Unrestricted access to natural attractions like the Seven Coloured Earths and Black River Gorges.
Flexibility to explore at your own pace, stopping wherever you wish.
Ability to reach remote beaches and hidden gems off the main tourist routes.
Convenience for carrying snorkeling gear, picnic supplies, or hiking equipment.
Cost-effective for groups or families compared to multiple taxi fares or guided tours.

Cons

Driving on the left side of the road can be challenging for some visitors.
Roads can be narrow and winding, especially in the Chamarel area.
Navigation can be tricky in some rural areas, though GPS is generally reliable.
Traffic in larger towns, particularly around Port Louis, can be heavy during peak hours.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Chamarel?

Most rental companies in Mauritius require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some may have a surcharge for drivers under 25.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for Chamarel?

While a valid national driver's license from your home country is often accepted, an IDP is highly recommended, especially if your license is not in English or French, to avoid any potential issues.

What payment methods are accepted for car rental?

Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are typically required for the security deposit and often for the rental payment. Some local providers might accept cash for the rental fee but will still require a credit card for the deposit.

Can I pick up my rental car at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU)?

Yes, many car rental companies offer pick-up and drop-off services directly at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), which is about an hour's drive from Chamarel. This is often the most convenient option for arriving travelers.

What is the cancellation policy for car rentals?

Cancellation policies vary by rental company. It's crucial to check the specific terms and conditions when booking, as some offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before pickup, while others may charge a fee.

Are there automatic transmission cars available?

Yes, automatic transmission cars are widely available from most rental agencies in Mauritius, though they may be slightly more expensive than manual transmission vehicles. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability.

Available cars — Chamarel