Renting a car in Seychelles is one of the best ways to explore its stunning beaches, scenic drives, and lush interiors at your own pace. But nothing ruins a great travel experience faster than unexpected fees that creep into your rental bill.
Whether you’re booking through a global aggregator or directly via a Seychelles car rental online service, it’s important to know exactly what you’re paying for. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common hidden fees you should look out for when you rent a car in Seychelles, and how to avoid them.
1. Fuel Charges: Full-to-Empty Traps
Many travelers are caught off guard by fuel policies. Some rental companies give you a full tank and expect you to return the car empty, charging you a hefty price per litre (often much higher than local fuel rates).
How to Avoid It: Choose a full-to-full fuel policy, where you return the vehicle with the same amount of fuel it had at pickup. Always refuel at a nearby station just before returning the vehicle and keep the receipt.
2. Airport Surcharges
If you’re picking up your car directly at Seychelles International Airport, some companies add a location surcharge to cover their airport operating costs.
Tip: With Seychelles car rental online booking platforms like Discover Seychelles Car Hire, airport pickup is often included or clearly mentioned up front, so you’re not blindsided when you arrive.
3. Insurance Add-Ons You Don’t Need
When you rent a car in Seychelles, basic insurance (like Collision Damage Waiver) may be included—but agents sometimes pressure you to purchase extra coverage on arrival, even if your travel insurance or credit card already covers it.
How to Avoid It: Confirm what coverage is included before booking. If you already have travel insurance or card-based protection, you can confidently decline unnecessary upgrades.
4. Excess Mileage Fees
Seychelles is relatively small, but if you're planning to explore Mahé in depth or travel across islands, you should check the rental’s mileage policy. Some providers cap daily kilometers and charge extra per km if you go over.
How to Avoid It: Opt for unlimited mileage when booking your Seychelles car rental online. This gives you the freedom to explore without watching the odometer.
5. Late Return Fees
Returning the car just an hour late can result in a full extra day’s charge. This is especially frustrating if your flight is delayed or if you miscalculate your schedule.
Pro Tip: Always confirm the grace period for returns. Some companies allow up to 59 minutes, while others charge immediately.
6. Young Driver or Additional Driver Charges
Drivers under 25 (or in some cases under 23) may be charged extra. Likewise, adding a second driver—like your spouse or travel partner—can come with a daily fee.
Solution: Choose a provider that offers free additional drivers and transparent age requirements. At Discover Seychelles Car Hire, we keep it simple and upfront.
7. Cleaning Fees
Beach trips can get sandy, and some companies charge for returning the vehicle with excess dirt or odor.
How to Avoid It: Return the car clean and free of trash. If you’ve had a messy day, consider a quick car wash before drop-off—it’s usually cheaper than the cleaning fee.
8. Hidden Taxes and Admin Fees
Some quotes exclude local taxes or admin fees that get added only at checkout.
How to Avoid It: Always use a reputable Seychelles car rental online platform that displays the full price upfront, inclusive of all taxes and fees.
Final Thoughts
Renting a car is essential to making the most of your Seychelles getaway—but it shouldn’t come with nasty surprises. By understanding and avoiding hidden fees, you can enjoy a smooth and cost-effective experience.
At Discover Seychelles Car Hire, we believe in clear pricing, no hidden charges, and honest service. Whether you're exploring Mahé, Praslin, or La Digue, we make it easy to rent a car in Seychelles with peace of mind.
Ready to Explore Without the Extra Costs?
Book with Discover Seychelles Car Hire—the trusted choice for transparent, reliable, and affordable Seychelles car rental online.