Car Rental in Maputo - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Maputo offers flexibility for exploring Mozambique's stunning coastline and countryside, but requires careful consideration. The city drives on the left side of the road, which may challenge visitors from right-hand driving countries. Urban Maputo features congested traffic, narrow streets, and aggressive driving styles that can overwhelm unfamiliar drivers. Road conditions vary significantly – main routes are generally acceptable, but secondary roads may have potholes and lack proper signage. Car rental is most valuable for venturing beyond the capital to destinations like Inhambane, Tofo Beach, or Kruger National Park's border areas, where public transport options are limited. Within Maputo itself, taxis and ride-hailing services often prove more practical than navigating chaotic city traffic and limited parking. If you do rent, choose a vehicle with good ground clearance for rural areas, ensure comprehensive insurance coverage, and familiarize yourself with local traffic laws. International driving permits are typically required alongside your home license. Consider your itinerary carefully – if staying primarily in Maputo, skip the rental; if exploring the broader region, a car provides invaluable independence despite the initial learning curve.

International Driving Permit

An IDP is typically required for foreign visitors driving in Mozambique. Obtain this from your home country's automobile association before traveling to Maputo.

Valid Home Country License

You must present your valid driver's license from your home country along with your IDP. Both documents are generally required by rental agencies.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies in Maputo typically require drivers to be at least 21-25 years old. Some companies may charge additional fees for drivers under 25.

Credit Card

A valid credit card in the driver's name is generally required for the security deposit. Debit cards are often not accepted for this purpose.

Comprehensive Insurance

While basic insurance is typically included, comprehensive coverage with collision damage waiver (CDW) is strongly recommended due to local road conditions. Verify coverage details with your rental agency.

Additional Documentation

Carry your passport and rental agreement at all times while driving. Local authorities may request these documents during routine checks.

Rent from the airport for convenience, as major international agencies operate there with 24-hour service, though city center locations may offer competitive rates - compare options through booking platforms for current availability.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos, verify the spare tire and jack are present, and confirm the fuel policy (typically full-to-full) to avoid disputes at return.

Download offline maps for Maputo before your trip as GPS signal can be unreliable in some areas, and consider asking your rental agency for a local SIM card recommendation if you need mobile data for navigation.

Fuel stations are readily available in central Maputo but less common in outer areas - fill up before long trips and note that secure parking is essential; use guarded lots or hotel parking rather than street parking.

Allow extra time for vehicle inspection at return, especially at the airport during peak hours, and keep all fuel receipts if you're returning with a full tank to verify compliance with the rental agreement.

Road conditions in Maputo vary significantly, with potholes and uneven surfaces common even on main routes - drive cautiously and watch for sudden road deterioration, especially during and after the rainy season (November-March).

Traffic congestion is heavy during morning (7-9 AM) and evening (5-7 PM) rush hours on main arteries like Avenida Julius Nyerere and routes to/from the city center - allow extra travel time during these periods.

Local driving customs include frequent lane changes without signaling, informal right-of-way practices at intersections, and pedestrians crossing unexpectedly - defensive driving is essential as traffic rules may not be consistently followed.

Police checkpoints are common throughout Maputo, particularly on major routes - ensure you have your driver's license, vehicle documentation, and passport readily available, as officers may request these documents.