Self-drive in Brazil

Being able to enjoy the freedom of the open road and to stop off wherever you please makes a self-drive trip through Brazil very enjoyable. Drive through small towns, have picnics on deserted beaches or park on top of a hill to take pictures. Our self-drive trips in Brazil include rental cars from a renowned car rental organisation with rental offices throughout South America.

Google Maps is generally a great way to find your way around in Brazil – although the app may not necessarily suggest the most scenic routes. Make sure to download your routes in advance, as internet coverage isn’t always reliable everywhere. Navigation itself usually works smoothly, but be cautious not to let Google Maps guide you through less safe areas as a shortcut.

Don’t stress if your phone dies or you’re offline for a while: you also get a super handy, self-drive route book that is relevant to your journey. This information kit has been carefully compiled with mile-by-mile instructions and maps, warnings for bad roads, and tips for beautiful places to stop along the way. The kit also provides directions to the pre-booked hotels or lodges you have chosen for your overnight stays. Before departure, we also recommend to check the current road conditions with the car rental company. They know exactly what the latest updates are.

We recommend sticking to main roads and avoid driving at night, particularly in rural or less populated areas. Always keep your doors locked and windows up, especially in cities or at traffic lights. Avoid leaving valuables visible in the car, and park in secure areas whenever possible. If you’re unsure about a route, ask locals or your accommodation for advice. By staying alert and planning ahead, you can enjoy a safe and stress-free journey through this beautiful country! Both the car rental company and our local partners are contactable (24 hours) in times of emergency.

As everywhere else in the world, reservations are based on the category and not on the make or type of car. The types mentioned are examples. If, contrary to expectations, the reserved category is not available, a higher class will be offered at the same price. If you want to rent a larger car on site, you will pay a surcharge according to local rates.

Hyundai HB20S 1.0 (or similar)

• 4-door
• Air-conditioning
• Manual transmission
• Suitable for 2 people
• Insurance included

Ford Ecosport 2.0 (or similar)

• 4-door
• Air-conditioning
• Automatic transmission
• Suitable for 2 people
• Insurance included

Spin LTZ 1.8 (or similar)

• 4-door
• Air-conditioning
• Automatic transmission
• Suitable for 4 people
• Insurance included

Included with car rental

• Unlimited mileage
• Local tax
• Self-driving information package with detailed roadbook and small maps
• Possible airport surcharge
• Drop off surcharge (if you return the car at a different location)

Rates include standard protection and third-party liability coverage

• Standard protection: CDW in the event of damage caused by collision, fire, theft and robbery of the vehicle with a limited excess (personal contribution). This also applies to damage or accidents caused by a third party.
• Civil liability coverage: property damage up to BRL 100.000,00 and bodily injury up to BRL 200.000,00.
• Optional additional coverage (full damage protection, window and tire coverage) is available at an additional cost.

Required documents

To rent a car you will need:
– a valid driving licence for at least 2 years
– credit card in the name of the main driver
– passport

An International Driver’s License for Brazil is not mandatory.

Driver’s age

To rent a car in Brazil you must be at least 21 years old.

Drop-off fees

These are the drop-off fees that are charged if you pick your rental car up in one location and leave it behind at another. These fees are included in the price of your trip.

Child seats

Car seats for children can be arranged in advance for a cost of US$ 10 per day. The use of seat belts in the back seat is mandatory.

Fuel

The rental car comes with a full tank. The intention is that the car is also returned with a full tank. If this is not the case, a refuelling fee will be charged. Make sure you refuel on time (especially in more remote areas it is recommended to keep your tank as full as possible) and at some gas stations you may only be able to pay in cash.