Mostly staying on the coast? The city car.
If your stay revolves around the western beaches (Ermitage, Boucan Canot), restaurants and a few walks, a city car does the job perfectly. Economical, nimble, easy to park along the lagoon on a Sunday lunchtime — and believe us, parking in Saint-Gilles matters. It's the smart choice for a controlled budget. See cars →
Heading into the highlands? The SUV / 4x4.
Maïdo, Piton de la Fournaise, Cilaos, Plaine des Cafres… As soon as it climbs and winds, an SUV or 4x4 changes everything: a high seating position, more pulling power on the climbs, and that feeling of calm in the bends when the fog rolls down. A true 4x4 is rarely essential (the roads are paved), but the comfort is felt quickly. Great for families too. See SUVs and 4x4s →
Want economy and freedom? The scooter.
For the coast and short trips, the scooter is unbeatable: cheap, you park anywhere, you slip through Saint-Gilles or Saint-Pierre. Save it for the fine days and short distances — in a tropical downpour or to climb up to the Volcano, we'd gently advise against it. See scooters →
Travelling as a tribe? The van.
With five, six or more, don't complicate your life with two cars. A van means space, luggage that fits, and everyone in the same vehicle for the road trip around the island. Often more economical and clearly more sociable. See vans →
In a nutshell
- Beaches, town, budget → city car or scooter
- Highlands, Volcano, Maïdo, family → SUV / 4x4
- Group, road trip → van
- A special occasion → luxury vehicle
The best way? Compare local agency offers and decide in two minutes on Tropiloc.