4Drive Mauritius rental terms, policies and conditions
Welcome to 4Drive Mauritius. By booking a car rental with us at 4drivemauritius.com, you agree to the following terms and conditions. Please read them carefully before confirming your reservation. These terms govern all rentals in Mauritius, including pickups at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (SSR, MRU) near Mahebourg and hotel deliveries across the island, from Grand Baie in the north to Flic-en-Flac in the west, Tamarin, Belle Mare, Le Morne, Port Louis, and beyond.
4Drive operates as a direct car rental provider in Mauritius. We specialise in no deposit and no credit card rentals, allowing you to pay by debit card or cash. Full insurance is included in every rental, and we offer free cancellation on most bookings. Our fleet includes small automatic cars ideal for the island (Kia Picanto, Hyundai i10), compact sedans (Suzuki Swift, Nissan Almera), and SUVs (Suzuki Vitara, Toyota RAV4) suitable for reaching Chamarel, Black River Gorges National Park, and the winding roads of the Mauritian highlands.
1.1 About 4Drive Mauritius
4Drive Mauritius is a car rental service operating in the Republic of Mauritius. Our head office is located on the island, and we provide vehicles for tourism and business travel. We work directly with customers - no aggregator, no middleman. All bookings are confirmed by 4Drive and all vehicles are part of our own fleet.
1.2 Scope of Terms
These terms and conditions apply to all car rental contracts between 4Drive Mauritius and the customer (the "Renter"). By submitting a booking request on our website or by phone, email, or in person, you accept these terms in full. The contract becomes binding once 4Drive confirms the reservation and the Renter accepts the quoted price and conditions.
1.3 Language
These terms are provided in English and French. In case of dispute, the English version prevails. All communication regarding the rental (confirmation emails, invoices, vehicle handover documents) will be in the language chosen by the Renter at booking.
2.1 How to Book
You can book a car with 4Drive Mauritius through our website 4drivemauritius.com, by phone, or by email. The booking widget on our homepage and city pages allows you to select your pickup location (airport SSR or a specific city such as Grand Baie, Flic-en-Flac, Port Louis, Tamarin, Belle Mare, Mahebourg, or Le Morne), dates, and car category. A confirmation email will be sent once your reservation is accepted.
2.2 Confirmation
Your booking is confirmed when you receive a confirmation email from 4Drive. This email will include the rental details (vehicle type, pickup and return dates and locations, total price, insurance coverage, and any extras you have booked). Please check all details carefully. If you spot an error, contact us immediately.
2.3 Amendments and Cancellations
You may amend your booking (dates, pickup location, vehicle category) subject to availability. Changes requested more than 48 hours before pickup are usually free of charge. Changes within 48 hours may incur a fee. Free cancellation is available up to 48 hours before the scheduled pickup time. Cancellations made less than 48 hours before pickup, or no-shows, may result in a cancellation fee or loss of any prepayment. Contact us by email or phone to modify or cancel your reservation.
3.1 Minimum Age and Licence
The Renter must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid full driving licence (not a provisional or learner licence). Licences must have been held for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge, depending on the vehicle category.
3.2 Driving Licence and International Driving Permit
If your licence is not in English or French, or if it does not use the Latin alphabet, you must present an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original national licence. The IDP must be valid and issued in your country of residence. Licences from EU countries, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and other Commonwealth countries are generally accepted without an IDP (if in English), but we recommend bringing one to avoid any misunderstanding with local authorities.
3.3 Passport or ID
You must present a valid passport or national identity card at the time of vehicle pickup. The name on the licence and the identification document must match the name on the booking.
3.4 Additional Drivers
If you wish to add an extra driver, they must also meet the age and licence requirements and be registered on the rental contract. An additional driver fee may apply (often waived if booked in advance). All drivers must be present at pickup to sign the contract and present their documents.
4.1 No Deposit, No Credit Card Required
4Drive Mauritius offers no deposit rentals. We do not place a hold on your credit card and we do not require a credit card for most bookings. You can pay the rental fee by debit card (Visa Debit, Mastercard Debit) or by cash in euros (EUR), US dollars (USD), or Mauritian Rupees (MUR). This policy makes renting a car in Mauritius accessible to travellers who do not have a credit card or prefer not to use one.
4.2 Payment Method and Currency
Prices on our website are quoted in euros (EUR). You may pay in EUR, USD, or MUR. The exchange rate for cash payments in MUR or USD will be the prevailing rate on the day of pickup (we use an internationally recognised rate or the rate posted by local banks). Debit card payments are processed in EUR or MUR.
4.3 When to Pay
Payment is due at the time of vehicle pickup. If you have chosen a prepaid booking (prepayment by bank transfer or card before arrival), the balance or any extras (child seat, GPS, additional driver, fuel) will be settled at pickup. If you have not prepaid, the full rental amount plus any extras is payable when you collect the car.
4.4 Prepayment and Vouchers
For certain promotions or advance bookings, we may offer a discounted rate in exchange for prepayment. Once prepaid, these bookings are usually non-refundable (except in cases of free cancellation within the stated period). A prepayment receipt or voucher will be emailed to you and must be presented at pickup.
4.5 Security Deposit (Damage Waiver)
Although we do not take a traditional deposit, we may, in some cases, require a refundable security amount in cash if the Renter declines our full insurance coverage or if the vehicle is a high-value model (for example, a large SUV or a premium car). This is rare and will be communicated at the time of booking. For standard rentals with full insurance (CDW and theft protection), no deposit is required.
5.1 Included Insurance
All 4Drive rentals include full insurance:
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental vehicle in the event of an accident.
Theft Protection (TP) covers loss of the vehicle due to theft.
Third Party Liability (TPL) is mandated by Mauritian law and covers damage or injury to third parties.
This insurance package means that, in case of an accident or theft (where the Renter has not violated the terms of the rental agreement), the Renter is not liable for the repair costs or the value of the vehicle, beyond any applicable excess.
5.2 Excess and Super CDW
Standard CDW includes an excess (deductible). The excess is the maximum amount you would pay in case of damage. For example, the excess might be EUR 500 or EUR 800, depending on the vehicle category. If you wish to reduce or eliminate the excess, you can purchase Super CDW (also called Full Coverage or Zero Excess) at an additional daily cost. With Super CDW, your financial liability is reduced to zero (subject to terms, for example, damage caused by gross negligence or violation of the rental terms is not covered).
5.3 What Is Not Covered
Insurance does not cover:
Damage caused by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Damage resulting from reckless or illegal driving (for example, off-road driving where prohibited, or racing).
Damage to tyres, wheels, glass (windscreen, windows), mirrors, and the undercarriage of the vehicle, unless Super CDW is purchased and the damage is accidental.
Loss of keys, remote controls, or vehicle documents (you will be charged the replacement cost).
Damage or loss caused by leaving the vehicle unlocked or keys inside.
Mechanical breakdown due to negligence (for example, driving without oil or coolant, or ignoring warning lights).
Use of the vehicle in violation of Mauritian traffic law or these terms (for example, carrying more passengers than the vehicle is designed for, or towing without permission).
5.4 Roadside Assistance
In case of breakdown or accident, contact 4Drive immediately using the emergency phone number provided on your rental agreement. We will arrange roadside assistance or a replacement vehicle. Do not attempt to repair the vehicle yourself or engage a third-party mechanic without our authorisation, as this may void the insurance.
6.1 Pickup Locations
You may collect your car at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (SSR/MRU) in the south-east of Mauritius, near the town of Mahebourg. We also offer free delivery to your hotel or accommodation in popular areas such as Grand Baie (north), Flic-en-Flac (west coast), Port Louis (capital), Tamarin, Belle Mare (east coast), Le Morne (south-west peninsula), and other locations across the island. Delivery is usually free for rentals of three days or more; for shorter rentals, a small delivery fee may apply.
6.2 Pickup Procedure
At pickup, a 4Drive representative will meet you at the agreed location. Please have ready:
Your driving licence and IDP (if required).
Passport or national ID.
Booking confirmation (email or printed voucher).
Payment (cash or debit card).
You will inspect the vehicle with our representative. We will note any existing damage on a condition report, which both parties will sign. Take photos or video of the car if you wish. We will explain the vehicle controls, give you a contact number for emergencies, and answer any questions about driving in Mauritius (left-hand traffic, speed limits, local road conditions).
6.3 Return Locations and Times
Return the vehicle to the same location where you picked it up, unless you have arranged a different drop-off point (one-way rentals may incur a fee). The car must be returned by the date and time specified on your contract. If you need to extend the rental, contact us as soon as possible. Unauthorised late returns may result in additional charges (typically the daily rate plus a late fee).
6.4 Vehicle Condition on Return
The car should be returned in the same condition as it was provided, allowing for normal wear and tear. The fuel tank should be at the same level as when you received it (usually full). If the car is returned with less fuel, you will be charged a refuelling fee plus the cost of the missing fuel at a higher per-litre rate. Any new damage, excessive dirt (for example, mud caked inside after off-road driving, which is not permitted), or smoking odour will result in cleaning or repair charges deducted from your deposit (if applicable) or billed separately.
7.1 Permitted Use
The rental vehicle may be used only for lawful purposes, on public roads and official parking areas in Mauritius. You may drive anywhere on the island that is accessible by normal paved or maintained gravel roads. Mauritius has a good road network including the M1 and M2 motorways, coastal roads, and mountain roads to places like Chamarel (seven-coloured earth, waterfall, rum distillery), Black River Gorges National Park, and Trou aux Cerfs crater. The car is suitable for tourism, business meetings, and general travel.
7.2 Prohibited Use
You must not:
Drive off-road, on beaches (except designated vehicle areas), or on unmaintained tracks, unless you have rented a 4x4 vehicle and obtained written permission from 4Drive.
Use the vehicle for racing, rallying, or any competitive driving event.
Carry passengers or cargo in excess of the vehicle's rated capacity (check the rental agreement for the maximum number of passengers and weight limit).
Transport illegal goods or substances, or use the vehicle for any illegal activity.
Tow another vehicle or trailer without prior written authorisation from 4Drive.
Sublease or lend the vehicle to a third party not named on the rental contract.
Drive the vehicle outside Mauritius (for example, to Rodrigues island by ferry or by any other means). The insurance is valid only in Mauritius.
Allow anyone not registered as a driver on the contract to drive the car. If an unauthorised driver is involved in an accident, insurance is void and you are fully liable for all costs.
7.3 Traffic Rules and Regulations
Mauritius drives on the left-hand side of the road (a legacy of British colonial rule). Speed limits are typically 40 km/h in villages and urban areas, 80 km/h on open roads, and up to 110 km/h on the M1 and M2 motorways. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Using a mobile phone while driving (without a hands-free kit) is illegal. The legal blood alcohol limit is very low (effectively zero tolerance); we strongly advise not drinking any alcohol if you will be driving. Traffic police and speed cameras are common. Fines for speeding, illegal parking, or other violations are the responsibility of the Renter and must be paid before returning the vehicle or within the period stated on the ticket. Unpaid fines will be charged to you, plus an administrative fee.
7.4 Fuel Policy
All 4Drive vehicles are provided with a full tank of fuel. You must return the car with a full tank. If you return the car without refuelling, we will charge a refuelling fee (typically EUR 20 to EUR 30) plus the cost of the fuel at our supplier rate, which is higher than the pump price. Petrol stations are widely available across Mauritius, including near the airport in Mahebourg, in Grand Baie, Flic-en-Flac, Port Louis, Tamarin, and along the main roads. Most cars in our fleet run on unleaded petrol; a few larger vehicles use diesel. The fuel type is marked on the key tag and inside the fuel filler cap.
8.1 Child Seats
If you are travelling with young children, we provide child seats (infant seat, toddler seat, booster seat) at a small additional daily charge. Mauritian law requires children under a certain age or height to be in an appropriate child restraint. Please specify the age and weight of your child when booking so we can provide the correct seat. We will install the seat for you at pickup and show you how to adjust it.
8.2 GPS Navigation
GPS devices are available for a daily fee. The GPS will have maps of Mauritius preloaded and can help you find your way to beaches, hotels, restaurants, and attractions such as the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, Chamarel Waterfall, Grand Bassin sacred lake, and Ile aux Cerfs islet. However, mobile phone navigation apps (Google Maps, Waze) work well in Mauritius if you have a local SIM card or international data roaming, so a GPS rental is optional.
8.3 Additional Driver
Each additional driver is subject to a fee (which may be waived for advance bookings or longer rentals). The additional driver must meet the same age and licence requirements as the main renter and must be present at pickup to be added to the contract.
8.4 Airport Delivery Fee
Pickup and return at SSR Airport (Mauritius International) is usually free or included in the rental rate. If you request delivery to a remote location far from the airport, Grand Baie, or the west coast, a delivery fee may apply. This will be confirmed when you book.
9.1 In Case of Accident
If you are involved in a traffic accident, no matter how minor:
Stop immediately and ensure everyone is safe. Call emergency services (police 999, ambulance 114) if there are injuries.
Do not admit fault or sign any document you do not understand.
Exchange details with the other party (name, contact, vehicle registration, insurance).
Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions.
Obtain a police report. In Mauritius, it is often necessary to report any accident to the police, especially if there is injury or significant damage. The police will issue a report (constat), which you must provide to 4Drive.
Contact 4Drive as soon as possible, ideally within a few hours of the accident. Our emergency number is on your rental agreement. We will guide you through the process and, if the car is not driveable, arrange a replacement or tow service.
9.2 Theft or Break-In
If the vehicle is stolen or broken into:
Report it immediately to the police and obtain a theft report.
Notify 4Drive at once.
If you left the car unlocked, left keys inside, or parked in an unsafe area against our advice, the theft protection may not apply and you may be liable for the loss.
9.3 Breakdown or Mechanical Issue
Modern cars are reliable, but if you experience a breakdown (engine trouble, flat tyre, electrical fault):
Pull over safely and turn on hazard lights.
Call 4Drive. We have roadside assistance partners across the island. For a flat tyre, we can often guide you to change it yourself using the spare tyre and jack in the car, or we will send assistance.
Do not attempt major repairs yourself. If a garage or mechanic is needed, we will arrange it. Repairs carried out without our authorisation will not be reimbursed.
10.1 Traffic Fines
The Renter is responsible for all traffic fines incurred during the rental period (speeding, illegal parking, running a red light, using a mobile phone while driving, not wearing a seatbelt, etc.). If a fine is issued to 4Drive after you return the car, we will forward it to you along with an administrative fee (usually EUR 25 to EUR 50 per fine) to cover our processing costs. Please ensure you obey all traffic laws. Mauritian police can issue on-the-spot fines and also use speed cameras and traffic cameras in towns and on motorways.
10.2 Parking
Parking in Mauritius is generally straightforward. In Port Louis and larger towns, street parking may be metered or restricted during business hours. Pay attention to signs and markings. Illegal parking can result in a fine or the vehicle being towed. Most hotels, beaches (such as Flic-en-Flac, Grand Baie, Belle Mare, Le Morne public beach), and tourist attractions (Chamarel, Black River Gorges, Grand Bassin) offer free parking. Always lock the car and do not leave valuables visible inside.
10.3 Tolls
Mauritius does not currently have toll roads. All major roads, including the M1 and M2 motorways, are free to use.
11.1 Personal Data
When you book a car with 4Drive Mauritius, we collect personal information such as your name, date of birth, address, email, phone number, driving licence details, and passport number. We use this information solely to process your booking, provide the rental service, comply with legal obligations (for example, reporting to local transport or tax authorities), and communicate with you about your rental.
11.2 Data Storage and Security
Your data is stored securely on our servers and in physical files (rental agreements) at our office in Mauritius. We do not sell or share your data with third parties except as required by law or to provide the service (for example, sharing driver details with our insurance provider in case of a claim). We retain your data for the period required by Mauritian law (typically several years for accounting and legal purposes).
11.3 Your Rights
You have the right to access, correct, or delete your personal data. If you wish to exercise these rights, or if you have questions about how we use your information, please contact us by email or in writing. For full details, see our Privacy Policy.
12.1 Our Liability
4Drive Mauritius is liable for providing a roadworthy, insured vehicle in good working order. If the vehicle develops a fault due to our negligence (for example, we fail to maintain it properly), we will provide a replacement vehicle or refund the unused portion of your rental. However, we are not liable for indirect or consequential losses (for example, missed flights, hotel costs, loss of enjoyment) unless caused by our gross negligence or willful misconduct.
12.2 Your Liability
You are liable for all damage to the vehicle, theft, fines, and any costs arising from your breach of these terms (for example, off-road driving, allowing an unauthorised driver, or returning the car significantly late). If the vehicle is damaged or stolen due to your negligence, you will be charged the repair cost or the value of the vehicle, up to the limits of the insurance excess. If insurance is void because you violated the terms, you are liable for the full amount.
13.1 How to Complain
If you have a complaint or are unhappy with any aspect of your rental, please contact us as soon as possible, ideally while the rental is ongoing so we can address the issue immediately. You can reach us by phone, email, or in person at our office. We take all complaints seriously and aim to resolve them quickly and fairly. After your rental, you can submit a written complaint by email. We will acknowledge your complaint within 48 hours and provide a full response within 7 days.
13.2 Dispute Resolution
If a dispute cannot be resolved through discussion, both parties agree to attempt mediation before resorting to legal action. Any legal disputes arising from this rental agreement will be governed by the laws of the Republic of Mauritius and subject to the jurisdiction of the Mauritian courts. The place of jurisdiction is Port Louis, Mauritius.
Neither 4Drive nor the Renter is liable for failure to fulfil obligations under this agreement if such failure is due to force majeure (events beyond reasonable control, such as natural disasters, cyclones, floods, strikes, war, epidemic, government restrictions, or closure of the airport). If a force majeure event occurs, we will make reasonable efforts to provide an alternative solution or refund any prepaid amounts for unused rental days.
4Drive Mauritius reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions at any time. Changes will be posted on our website 4drivemauritius.com. The version of the terms in effect at the time of your booking will apply to your rental. We recommend reviewing the terms before each booking. Continued use of our services after changes have been posted constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.
16.1 Entire Agreement
These terms and conditions, together with your booking confirmation and rental agreement, constitute the entire contract between you and 4Drive Mauritius. Any verbal promises or agreements not included in writing are not binding.
16.2 Severability
If any provision of these terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable by a court, the remaining provisions remain in full force and effect.
16.3 Language
These terms are provided in English and French for your convenience. In case of conflict between the two versions, the English version prevails.
For questions about these terms and conditions, or for any matter related to your car rental with 4Drive Mauritius, please contact us:
4Drive Mauritius
Website: 4drivemauritius.com
Email: via our contact page
Phone: (available on booking confirmation and website contact page)
Office: Mauritius (full address provided upon booking)
Thank you for choosing 4Drive Mauritius for your car rental. We look forward to providing you with a reliable, comfortable vehicle and excellent service as you explore the beautiful island of Mauritius, from the turquoise waters of Grand Baie and Flic-en-Flac to the dramatic landscapes of Chamarel, the sacred crater of Grand Bassin, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Le Morne. Drive safely, respect the local traffic rules, and enjoy your stay on our island. If you have any questions or need assistance during your rental, do not hesitate to contact our team. We are here to help you have a wonderful experience on Mauritius roads.
Last updated: August 2026