How to find a cheap car hire deal in Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI)
Looking for a cheap Nelson Mandela International Airport rental car? With prices averaging $106 a day, you're in gear for serious savings. Whether you're after a zippy little number, a spacious family car, or something in between, we compare all the best deals to get you more for your money.
Lock in your ride in September and cruise away with savings. It's the cheapest time of year to rent a car in RAI, with average daily rates of $91.
Get the timing right and book around two weeks ahead to score a cheap RAI rental car.
Line up your ride with Fernando Rent a Car, Route 238 or Alucar, some of the most trusted providers at Nelson Mandela International Airport.
Whether you go with Fernando Rent a Car or a different supplier, double-check the coverage on your Nelson Mandela International Airport car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others charge extra for it.
Choosing a one-way car hire is often a great hack for finding a deal. Check 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for rent in RAI. Providers sometimes need to move vehicles from one branch to another, which means you can lock in some fantastic one-way prices.
Skip the sneaky refueling fees by choosing a car hire at Nelson Mandela International Airport with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Begin and end your trip with a full tank, paying only for what you use.
Explore without limits by searching for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you like without paying more.
Once you've grabbed the keys to your RAI car hire, it's time to map out your journey. Central Praia is about 5 kilometres south-west and a drive of roughly 5 minutes if that's where your journey begins.
You can also book a car hire in Praia. If you don't need a ride right after you arrive, wait until you're in the city and avoid paying for extra rental days.
Compare car hire types from Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI)
Small: Whether you're zipping around busy cities or taking a quick trip, this cheap Nelson Mandela International Airport rental car category delivers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can expect great mileage and easy handling.
Medium: A reliable pick when you want something that has a few more features but is still easy to drive. This category covers compact and intermediate models that come with a little extra leg space compared to smaller options.
Large: Offering a more comfortable ride and extra tech features, this RAI car hire category includes full-size cars. With larger back seats and ample storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: SUVs are made for plans that change mid-journey. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and country backroads alike.
Van: Choose this category of vehicle when you need a car for rent in Nelson Mandela International Airport that can handle the big jobs. Featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to carry more, whether that's equipment, suitcases or big groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers what you'd otherwise have to pay if your RAI car hire is stolen or damaged. While not mandatory, it helps cover you in a tough spot. Keep in mind that policies differ from one provider to another, so make sure you know exactly what's offered.
Level up your ride with handy extras like a reverse camera and GPS unit. These add-ons can make your drive smoother and more enjoyable when you rent a car in Nelson Mandela International Airport.
Good to know
Age requirements often vary by company (and even car type), so know the rules before you book. Some providers in Cape Verde may rent to younger drivers for an extra fee. If you're outside the typical age range, just uncheck 'Driver aged between 25–70' and then enter how old you are to browse your options.
Add a car seat to your RAI car hire reservation if you're bringing the kids. Regulations change from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their size, weight and age is always the safest option.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI)
Explore some of the top attractions in Praia before doing anything else. Prainha Beach and Praia de Gamboa Beach set the tone for a great trip.
Buckle up and make tracks to Assomada. Around 26 kilometres north-west of RAI, you'll find well-known sights like Centro cultural Noverto and Assomada Market.
Add Tarrafal to your journey too. Roughly 48 kilometres north-west of the airport, head there in your Nelson Mandela International Airport car hire to see leading attractions like Tarrafal Beach and Rock of Tarrafal Beach.
Keep things moving and road-trip it to Sao Filipe, about 113 kilometres west of RAI. First, visit Praia da Bila, then spend some time at Igreja Nossa Senhora da Conceicao sao filipe.