Why rent a car at Praia Airport
Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) is the main entry point to Santiago, the largest island of Cape Verde. Renting a car on arrival lets you start your trip without depending on taxis, buses or hotel transfers — and usually saves money if you're staying more than two days.
The alternative is renting in central Praia, which means an initial taxi ride (around 1,500-2,500 CVE) and handling logistics again on return. For most travellers, the airport counter is the right call.
Step by step
- Book online before you arrive. Usually cheaper than sorting it on arrival, and it secures a car. On Elos you see the local rental companies in one place, with the total price before you book.
- Landing + baggage. After immigration, head to the rent-a-car counters in the arrivals hall. If your company has no desk, agree on an airport handover with it.
- Pickup. Show your booking (email or app), driving licence, passport and credit card for the deposit. Typical turnaround: 15-20 minutes.
- Car inspection. Check scratches, fuel and tyres before driving off. Take timestamped photos with your phone — that's your insurance if there's a dispute at return.
Companies at the airport
On Elos you see the Santiago rental companies that deliver at the airport, with each one's total price and terms, at Car Rental in Santiago.
Santiago's rental companies have varied fleets — from economy (Hyundai i10, Kia Picanto) to SUVs (Suzuki Jimny, Hyundai Tucson) and 7-seat vans for groups.
Average prices (2026)
Prices vary by season and duration, but a realistic starting point for airport rentals:
- Economy (manual, 4-seat): 2,800 – 4,500 CVE/day
- Compact / sedan: 4,000 – 6,500 CVE/day
- SUV / 4x4: 6,500 – 10,000 CVE/day
- 7-seat van: 7,500 – 12,000 CVE/day
Bookings of 7+ days are typically 10-20% cheaper per day. High season (December-February, July-August) runs up to 30% above base.
Required documents
- Valid driving licence (held for at least 1 year at most companies; 2 years at premium)
- Passport (or national ID for residents)
- Credit card in the driver's name — for deposit
- Legal minimum age: 18 (some companies/categories may require a higher age)
- Booking voucher (paper or phone)
Licences from ECOWAS, the EU, Brazil or the USA are accepted. Other origins may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Opening hours
Most counters follow flight schedules, open from the first arrival (~04:30) to the last (~23:00). For flights outside that window, confirm with the company at booking — some charge an out-of-hours fee.
Typical routes from the airport
Once you're out of the car park, you're 10 minutes from downtown Praia. Popular routes for the first days:
- Airport → Downtown Praia: 15 km, 15 min. Paved, easy.
- Airport → Cidade Velha (UNESCO): 25 km, 40 min. Winding but very scenic. A must.
- Airport → Tarrafal (north beaches): 75 km, 1h30. Good main road, pair with stops in Assomada and Serra Malagueta.
An SUV is recommended to explore the north — the main road is fine but some beaches and trails need 4x4.
Money-saving tips
- Book early — 2-4 weeks ahead can save 15%
- Weekly rate — for 5+ days, ask for a weekly rate (usually better value)
- Fuel — return the car at the same level. Agency refuels are always pricier
- Full insurance — compare against your credit card; some Gold/Platinum include rental insurance
- Unlimited mileage — confirm it's included (standard in Cape Verde)
FAQ
Can I rent without a credit card? Most companies require a credit (not debit) card in the driver's name for the deposit. Some accept debit with a higher held amount.
Can I return the car on a different island? No. In Cape Verde, rental cars stay on the island where you picked them up. For multi-island trips, book one car per island.
What if my flight is delayed? As long as the counter is open, your booking is held. It's recommended to email/WhatsApp the company for delays over 2 hours.
Are there taxis if I decide not to rent? Yes, but for 3+ day stays renting almost always pays off. Taxi to downtown Praia costs 1,500-2,500 CVE per trip.
Ready to book? Check cars available in Santiago or browse our full fleet listing.
