How can I find car hires near me in Papeete?

Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

How much does a Small car hire cost in Papeete?

A Small car hire in Papeete costs R848 per day, on average.

How much does a Large car hire cost in Papeete?

A Large car hire in Papeete costs R3 149 per day, on average.

How much does a Luxury car hire cost in Papeete?

A Luxury car hire in Papeete costs R1 027 per day, on average.

What type of car is recommended for driving in Papeete?

Assuming you’re travelling to French Polynesia to explore the wild wilderness it has to offer, you would be best to go with an SUV or 4WD for your car hire in Papeete. The interior mountains of Tahiti can only be accessed by 4WD or private tour, so selecting a compact or economy vehicle is really going to limit some of the options for your adventures. You will definitely want to ensure your car hire in Papeete has air conditioning, to keep you comfortable on your adventures, and a navigation system will be a bonus to ease your travels.

What’s the speed limit in Papeete?

The speed limit in Papeete is generally 40 km/h until you reach the open road. Most towns and villages, or simply the built-up areas, have the same limit of 40 km/h. Usually you will find the speed limit is 80 km/h on the open roads, but there is some random variation between these speeds in some areas, so be sure to pay close attention to signs.

Where are the best places to park in Papeete?

Parking in Papeete can be tricky, as the city was never really designed for traffic but now has plenty. There are a few paid public car parks in the city, with a rate for the day between F 750 and 850 (A$ 9.90 and 11.20) or around F 100 (A$ 1.32) for the first hour. It is ideal to find accommodation in Papeete that includes free secure parking and explore the city by bike or on foot. Once you head out of the city and into the wilderness of French Polynesia, you will have no problems with parking.

Car Hire in Papeete - Search for car rentals on KAYAK

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Booking Insights

KAYAK’s insights & trends for Papeete car hire

Check out the latest trends and booking tips to hire a car in Papeete with confidence.

How far in advance should you book car hire in Papeete?

You should book your car hire in Papeete around 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price.

What is the most popular car to hire in Papeete?

Hires in the Small category (Suzuki Swift or similar) are the most popular option in Papeete, costing R1 484/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as R707/day.

What is the cheapest month to hire a car in Papeete?

The cheapest month to hire a car in Papeete is February at an average cost of R1 081/day. June is the most expensive month to hire a car in Papeete when prices are R1 580/day on average, which tends to be 23% above the yearly average hire price for Papeete.

Which car hire company in Papeete has the most locations?

Avis, Hertz and Shouqi each operate 2 locations in Papeete, more than any other car hire company.

Find deals

Papeete car hire price comparison by vehicle type

Find the right car hire in Papeete by comparing prices across vehicle types.

Small

Medium

Large

4x4

Van

Luxury

	Small cars	R986 - R1 363
	All Car Types	R1 625 - R2 122

How much does it cost to hire a small car in Papeete?

How much does it cost to hire a medium car in Papeete?

How much does it cost to hire a large car in Papeete?

How much does it cost to hire an SUV in Papeete?

How much does it cost to hire a van in Papeete?

How much does it cost to hire a luxury car in Papeete?

Small car hire in Papeete typically costs around R1 214 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average R986 per day, which is about 19% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 38% cheaper than the average car hire in Papeete, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers.

Medium car hire in Papeete typically costs around R2 020 per day. The best time to book is March, when prices average R1 130 per day, which is about 45% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 4% more expensive than the average car hire in Papeete, offering a good balance of space and value.

Large car hire in Papeete typically costs around R2 404 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average R2 095 per day, which is about 13% less than the yearly average. Large cars are typically 20% more expensive than the average car hire in Papeete but offer more comfort for longer trips.

SUV hire in Papeete typically costs around R2 156 per day. The best time to book is November, when prices average R1 671 per day, which is about 23% less than the yearly average. SUVs are typically 10% more expensive than the average car hire in Papeete but provide extra space and capability for groups or road trips.

Van hire in Papeete typically costs around R3 002 per day. The best time to book is March, when prices average R2 577 per day, which is about 15% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 36% more expensive than the average car hire in Papeete but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.

Luxury car hire in Papeete typically costs around R1 150 per day. The best time to book is April, when prices average R964 per day, which is about 17% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are currently 41% cheaper than the average car hire in Papeete, which defies expectations.

Most popular car type
Small

Verified travelerJun 2026

Make sure to carefully check whether your rental includes unlimited mileage or how many kilometers are included, as some rentals in Papeete charge per kilometer driven. Also, if extra insurance is the very first thing they ask about before going through the rental details, take your time and review everything carefully before answering.

DaneJun 2025

Make the process for picking up a car much quicker. Many companies in the US offer express pick where you can walk out and drive out with the car and not even have to stop by the counter

Verified travelerMay 2024

No unlimited mileage - if you plan to drive around the island. Upgrade your plan. Don’t worry if you miss an exit because there are so many round about roundabouts. The locals are very nice - especially when they see the big rental sticker on your car and give you right of way.

WilliamApr 2024

Be aware that mileage is not included in the rental fee. Most cars are very small with limited inventory available. Be sure to reserve ahead online.

Verified travelerJan 2024

Small cars are best. Roads, parking, everything is tight. Lots of roundabouts on Tahiti particularly near Papeete. There are a lot of people riding motorcycles so it’s kind of mayhem but people are courteous. Take it slow and you won’t have any trouble.

Verified travelerJan 2024

The island takes about three hours to drive around its one and only highway. There is little reason for a car unless one plans to spend a lot of time at a beach.

Verified travelerNov 2023

Stay with a small car. Streets can be narrow and parking spots tight. Also you share the road with numerous motorcycles and scooters.

Verified travelerOct 2023

Don’t miss your turn

Verified travelerJul 2023

Go to one of the local companies like Tahiti Rent, they’re friendly, relaxed, great communication and fantastic value for money. Definitely recommend renting a car in Tahiti to maximise your trip

AndreaJul 2023

Driving in Papeete is easy once you figure out the two lane round abouts.

RobJul 2023

Signage could be better. Where there are signs, sometimes they are small and so plentiful you can’t read them all. Other than that, driving wasn’t too bad. Lots of roundabouts. If you plan on exploring at all, get a 4x4 or something that is at least somewhat rugged.

Verified travelerJul 2023

For international travelers, set out additional times for returning the vehicle.

Papeete car hire is the easiest way to get around the area, as public transport options are slim and taking taxis constantly can add up and take valuable time out of your travels. There is plenty to see and do in Papeete that having car hire will enable you to get to. The coastlines contain a lot of hidden gems, and the mountains and waterfalls are definitely worth the drive to see.
Sorting out your car hire in Papeete is easy at Faa'a International Airport (PPT), also known as Tahiti International Airport. As soon as you reach the arrivals area, you will see signs directing you to the hire car offices in Terminal 1. Be sure to bring your driver’s licence, credit card in your name and confirmation of your booking. A second driver can be nominated for your car hire in Papeete, and they will need to provide their driver’s licence as well.
Driving your car hire in Papeete is fairly straightforward. While you’re in the main area, there can be a bit of traffic, but there’s not much to watch out for. Once out of Papeete and driving in quieter areas, take it slow; pedestrians in more remote areas are not used to a lot of traffic, and stray dogs and wildlife tend to wander on the road. Locals can also do the opposite here, and they can overtake in some scary circumstances at times.
While the majority of French Polynesia has quiet roads, Papeete is the capital and has all the congestion as the arrival and exit point for tourism and travel. Vehicles, motorbikes and scooters are all trying to navigate a relatively small area, and it can get quite pushy and backed up, so allow a little time for traffic while still in the city.
Small hire cars in Papeete are around 57% cheaper than other car types, on average

What type of car is recommended for driving in Papeete?
Assuming you’re travelling to French Polynesia to explore the wild wilderness it has to offer, you would be best to go with an SUV or 4WD for your car hire in Papeete. The interior mountains of Tahiti can only be accessed by 4WD or private tour, so selecting a compact or economy vehicle is really going to limit some of the options for your adventures. You will definitely want to ensure your car hire in Papeete has air conditioning, to keep you comfortable on your adventures, and a navigation system will be a bonus to ease your travels.
What’s the speed limit in Papeete?
The speed limit in Papeete is generally 40 km/h until you reach the open road. Most towns and villages, or simply the built-up areas, have the same limit of 40 km/h. Usually you will find the speed limit is 80 km/h on the open roads, but there is some random variation between these speeds in some areas, so be sure to pay close attention to signs.
Where are the best places to park in Papeete?
Parking in Papeete can be tricky, as the city was never really designed for traffic but now has plenty. There are a few paid public car parks in the city, with a rate for the day between F 750 and 850 (A$ 9.90 and 11.20) or around F 100 (A$ 1.32) for the first hour. It is ideal to find accommodation in Papeete that includes free secure parking and explore the city by bike or on foot. Once you head out of the city and into the wilderness of French Polynesia, you will have no problems with parking.
How can I find car hires near me in Papeete?
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
How much does a Small car hire cost in Papeete?
A Small car hire in Papeete costs R848 per day, on average.
How much does a Large car hire cost in Papeete?
A Large car hire in Papeete costs R3 149 per day, on average.
How much does a Luxury car hire cost in Papeete?
A Luxury car hire in Papeete costs R1 027 per day, on average.

Hertz

7,1

Good

Cleanliness

8.4

Comfort

7.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.1

Value for money

6.8

2 locations in Papeete

Locations in Papeete

Faaa Intl Airport

+689 40 43 04 30

Monday	00:00 - 01:0005:00 - 23:59
Tuesday	05:00 - 23:5900:00 - 03:00
Wednesday	05:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Thursday	05:00 - 23:5900:00 - 03:00
Friday	00:00 - 01:0005:00 - 23:59
Saturday	05:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Sunday	00:00 - 03:0005:00 - 23:59

Route De Ceinture Tipaerui

+689 40 43 04 30

Monday	08:00 - 12:0013:30 - 17:00
Tuesday	13:30 - 17:0008:00 - 12:00
Wednesday	08:00 - 12:0013:30 - 17:00
Thursday	08:00 - 12:0013:30 - 17:00
Friday	13:30 - 17:0008:00 - 12:00

Filters

Reviews

2,0 Poor

Anonymous, Jun 2026

Economy

Until this experience, everyone we met in Tahiti reflected the warm island spirit. The first thing the agent asked us about was adding extra insurance, and after we declined it, his attitude noticeably changed. Also, it was the first time we rented a car with zero kilometers included and had to pay per kilometer driven. The car itself was fine, but the customer experience did not match the hospitality we experienced everywhere else in Tahiti.

2,0 Poor

Onnalisa, May 2026

Passenger van

They did not have the cars I reserved

8,0 Very Good

Anonymous, Dec 2025

Compact

The hertz representative was helpful, but I was asked to check that the condition of the vehicle matched what was annotate on the rental agreement. It was raining and dark a very poor situation to check the condition of the vehicle.

2,0 Poor

Anonymous, Mar 2025

Economy

That car had damage all over it. It was very scary being in another country and all they did was say take pictures.

10,0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Mar 2025

Economy

Everything was excellent. Your employee Christopher was excellent at explaining everything and very patient His customer service was excellent

4,0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Dec 2024

Compact

Very long wait for car

Avis

8,8

Very Good

Cleanliness

8.8

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

8.0

2 locations in Papeete

Locations in Papeete

56 Rue Des Remparts

+689 40 54 10 10

Monday	07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday	07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday	07:30 - 17:00
Thursday	07:30 - 17:00
Friday	07:30 - 17:00
Saturday	07:30 - 16:00

Terminal Building

+689 40 85 02 84

Monday	05:00 - 23:00
Tuesday	05:00 - 23:00
Wednesday	05:00 - 23:00
Thursday	05:00 - 23:00
Friday	05:00 - 23:00
Saturday	05:00 - 23:00
Sunday	05:00 - 23:00

Filters

Reviews

6,0 Okay

Anonymous, Jan 2025

Compact

Like the gas mileage Not like the condition of car

10,0 Wonderful

Lorin, Sept 2024

Compact

No English speaking in Bora Bora pick up point Would have been much better if they could speak a bit more English

Europcar

8,0

Very Good

Cleanliness

8.5

Comfort

7.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

7.5

One location in Papeete

Thrifty

5,3

Fair

Cleanliness

7.3

Comfort

6.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

4.6

Value for money

6.0

2 locations in Papeete

Locations in Papeete

Faaa Intl Airport

+689 40 43 04 30

Monday	05:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Tuesday	05:00 - 23:5900:00 - 03:00
Wednesday	05:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Thursday	05:00 - 23:5900:00 - 03:00
Friday	05:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Saturday	00:00 - 01:0005:00 - 23:59
Sunday	00:00 - 03:0005:00 - 23:59

Route De Ceinture Tipaerui

+689 40 43 04 30

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

4,0 Mediocre

Dane, Jun 2025

Economy

The pick up line was absolutely horrible, we waited over 2 hours in line to get our car. Their process seems to be very inefficient compared to other rental agencies in the US and Europe. After a long flight the last thing you want to do is stand in line for 2 hours waiting for a rental car.

2,0 Poor

Gonzalo, Jul 2024

Economy

The service at the office is disastrous. We had to wait 1:30 hours for check-in when our flight arrived at 11pm. So we left the office at 12:30 am. The drop-off was as well awful. The attending people were the most unpleasant people that we found in the whole island, very cocky and not helpful. Awful experience. They are a franchise of Hertz. Avis was more expensive but the service seemed much more professional. The counter is one in front of the other. Stay away from Hertz or Thrifty in Papeete!

Fox

No score available yet

One location in Papeete

Locations in Papeete

Europcar, Tahiti Faa'a Airport, Faa'a Centre

+1 800 225 4369

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

keddy by Europcar

No score available yet

One location in Papeete

Locations in Papeete

Papeete Faa'A Intl Airport (Tahiti)

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Shouqi

No score available yet

One location in Papeete

Locations in Papeete

Papeete Faa'a Intl Airport (tahiti)

+86 10 6064 1387

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

94 travellers who hired a car in Papeete gave the car agency they used an average rating of 7,2

Pick-up location	Papeete
Car types
Hire locations	8
Airport locations	5

Papeete car hire

Cheap car hire in Papeete

KAYAK’s insights & trends for Papeete car hire

How far in advance should you book car hire in Papeete?

What is the most popular car to hire in Papeete?

What is the cheapest month to hire a car in Papeete?

Which car hire company in Papeete has the most locations?

Papeete car hire price comparison by vehicle type

Find the right car hire in Papeete by comparing prices across vehicle types.

How much does it cost to hire a small car in Papeete?

How much does it cost to hire a medium car in Papeete?

How much does it cost to hire a large car in Papeete?

How much does it cost to hire an SUV in Papeete?

How much does it cost to hire a van in Papeete?

How much does it cost to hire a luxury car in Papeete?

Good to know

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Papeete car hire experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Papeete

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Papeete car rental reviews and directory

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