Car rental in Lanzarote is an ideal option for exploring the island with complete freedom. We guide you through the process with this practical guide, where we explain how to rent a car on the island from start to finish. Here, you’ll find everything from the requirements and vehicle pickup to useful tips to ensure a smooth experience.
Is It Possible to Rent a Car in Lanzarote?
Absolutely! Car rental is very common in Lanzarote as it is one of the most popular means of transportation. Consequently, there are plenty of companies offering this service. Since it’s an island, many tourists prefer to leave their own vehicles parked at home, as bringing them along can be a costly and somewhat cumbersome process.
While it’s true that there are good mobility alternatives such as public transport, where you can hop on the famous “guagua” (bus) or take a taxi—both of which are fairly economical options—they might not be the best when it comes to visiting remote areas. Therefore, renting a car is an excellent idea to ensure you don’t miss any of the wonderful spots this beautiful Canary Island has to offer.
What Are the Requirements to Rent a Car in Lanzarote?
To rent a car in Lanzarote, you will need to present a valid driver’s license and an ID or passport when picking up the vehicle. You must also provide a payment method accepted in Spain, such as a credit or debit card (depending on the rental category).
What if You Are a Foreigner?
If you are from a foreign country, presenting your passport as an identification document will be sufficient. However, make sure your driving license is valid for driving in Spain.
If you are from the European Union or the European Economic Area (Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway), you are free to drive in Spain, including Lanzarote, as long as you have the proper valid documentation. However, if you are from a different country, you must check that you comply with the regulations outlined in Article 21 of Spain’s General Drivers’ Regulation.
How Is the Pick-up and Return of the Vehicle in Lanzarote?
The process for picking up and returning a rental car in Lanzarote may vary depending on the company chosen. Generally, the steps you need to follow are as follows:
- Go to a specific location to choose the model you want. Some companies also offer the option to complete this step online.
- Next, you will need to present your documents and sign a rental contract at a specific point. The contract will outline conditions such as the return date of the vehicle or mileage limits.
- Usually, you will pay the corresponding price, receive the keys, and start driving the vehicle from the same location. Depending on the company, payment can be made in cash and/or with a bank card.
- After you’ve enjoyed the car, you will need to return it to the same place where you picked it up, in the same condition. Most companies require the car to be returned clean and with a minimum fuel level.
From Where Can I Rent a Car in Lanzarote?
You can rent a car directly from Lanzarote Airport. There, you will find various companies ready to offer you the best services. Some even provide a free shuttle bus from the airport to the facility where they store their rental cars.
And if you prefer to compare rental prices before arriving in Lanzarote, remember that you can check the conditions of many companies offering this service online. Some of them allow you to complete the booking online, greatly speeding up the process.
Do Rental Cars in Lanzarote Have Insurance?
Yes, car rental companies take care of all the procedures related to the ownership of the vehicle, including obtaining car insurance, which usually covers both personal and third-party damages.
How Are the Traffic Regulations in Lanzarote?
The traffic regulations in Lanzarote follow the guidelines set by the Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) for the entire Spanish territory. In general, they are very similar to traffic rules in other European countries.
What Tourist Sites Are There in Lanzarote That You Can Only Reach by Car?
Indeed, there are some true wonders in Lanzarote that you can only fully enjoy by car. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic places:
Parque Nacional de Timanfaya
This is the crown jewel of Lanzarote. There is no way to reach it other than by car. Here, you’ll find impressive volcanic formations such as the Fire Mountain, Montaña Rajada, the Hilario Islet, and the Caldera del Corazoncillo.
Punta del Papagayo
A set of paradisiacal beaches that can only be reached by car, traveling along an unpaved road. The shortest route starts near Playa Blanca, a beautiful coastal town ideal for staying, located in the south of the island. Without a doubt, it’s quite an adventure!
Mirador del Río
This is one of the architectural creations by the famous artist César Manrique. Mirador del Río is located in the north of Lanzarote, perched on a steep volcanic rock cliff in the Famara massif. The views are truly spectacular.
Tips for Renting a Car in Lanzarote
Renting a car in Lanzarote is an excellent way to explore the island at your own pace, but it’s important to keep a few tips in mind to make the experience as smooth as possible:
- Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure the availability of your preferred vehicle.
- When picking up the car, thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s condition and make sure everything is documented.
- Familiarize yourself with local traffic regulations and check if you need additional insurance to be covered in any situation.
- Don’t forget to bring all the necessary documents, such as your driver’s license and a valid payment method.