Car Rental in Savsat

Where to drive

• Drive to Karagol-Sahara National Park (≈40 km, 1 hour) to witness its stunning glacial lake and diverse flora and fauna, perfect for hiking and photography.
• Visit the historic Savsat Castle (Savsat Kalesi) located just outside the town center, offering panoramic views of the valley and a glimpse into the region's past.
• Embark on a scenic route to Borcka Karagol Nature Park (≈90 km, 2 hours), another breathtaking glacial lake surrounded by dense forests, ideal for picnics and nature walks.
• Explore the nearby villages of Tibet and Papart (distances vary, within 1-2 hours) to experience traditional Georgian architecture and local culture.
• Take a longer day trip to the city of Artvin (≈70 km, 1.5 hours) to see the Artvin Castle and enjoy views over the Coruh River.
• Discover the pristine Kure Mountains National Park (distances vary, 2-3 hours), known for its untouched forests, canyons, and waterfalls.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Turkey, you generally need a valid national driving license (held for at least 1-2 years), your passport, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin script or does not clearly state 'driving license'. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, and drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Savsat vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium vehicles could range from 50-80 EUR or more. Prices typically peak during the summer months (July-August) and decrease in the colder, less touristy periods.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Turkey, general speed limits are approximately 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. The blood alcohol limit is very strict, practically zero (0.05% for private vehicles, 0.00% for commercial drivers). Headlights are required in tunnels and during low visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under a certain height or age.

Parking

In Savsat town, parking is generally free and readily available, especially outside the very central areas. For popular attractions like Karagol-Sahara National Park, there might be designated parking areas, sometimes with a small fee. Always look for official parking signs.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are available in Savsat and along main roads. Prices for gasoline and diesel are comparable to European averages, though they can fluctuate. Most stations accept major credit cards, but it's always wise to have some Turkish Lira cash for smaller, more remote stations.

Which car to choose

Given Savsat's mountainous terrain and the often unpaved or winding roads leading to natural attractions, an SUV or a higher-clearance compact car with good handling is highly recommended. Automatic transmission can make driving more comfortable on hilly routes. For city driving only, an economy car is sufficient, but for exploration, something more robust is better.

Frequently asked questions