How do I book a hire car on Praslin through your platform?
You submit a request with your dates, preferred vehicle type, and collection point - usually Praslin Island Airport (PRI) or your hotel area. We forward your enquiry to rental operators on the island. They send quotes directly to you. You choose the offer that fits, then confirm with that company. The contract runs between you and the supplier.
What payment methods can I use when I book a car?
Each rental company sets its own accepted methods. Most take bank transfer, credit card (Visa, MasterCard), and occasionally mobile wallets. Full details appear on our payment methods page. The supplier will specify in your voucher whether you pay upfront or settle the balance on collection.
Do I pay a deposit, and if so how much?
Deposit terms vary by operator. Some require no deposit at all; others hold a pre-authorisation on your card. The amount depends on vehicle category and insurance level. Your voucher will state the exact figure and whether it is a hold or a cash payment. We list conditions from different suppliers so you can compare before you commit.
Can I cancel or change my booking after I have confirmed it?
Cancellation and amendment rules belong to the rental company you booked with. Many allow free changes up to 48 hours before pick-up; others charge a fee. Read the terms in your confirmation email. If you need to adjust dates or vehicle type, contact the supplier directly using the phone number or email on your voucher.
Where exactly do I collect the car when I land at Praslin Airport?
PRI is a small terminal. Most operators meet you outside the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name, or they park the vehicle in the adjacent lot and hand over keys at a desk inside. Your voucher will name the representative and include a local mobile number. The process takes five to ten minutes once you have your luggage. More specifics are on our airport page.
What documents do I need to bring when I pick up the hire car?
You must show a valid driving licence held for at least two years, your passport, and the booking voucher (printed or on your phone). If your licence uses non-Latin script, carry an international driving permit. The rental agent will photocopy these documents and ask you to sign the rental agreement before handing over the keys.
Can I collect the car at the airport and drop it off at my hotel, or vice versa?
One-way rentals between PRI and hotels in Grand Anse, Anse Volbert, or Baie Sainte Anne are usually possible. Some suppliers charge a relocation fee; others include it. State your preferred drop-off point when you request quotes so operators can confirm whether they serve that location and any extra cost involved.
What is the fuel policy - do I return the car with a full tank?
Most contracts are full-to-full: you collect with a full tank and return it full. Petrol stations operate in Grand Anse (near the police station) and Baie Sainte Anne (close to the jetty). Both close by early evening, so plan your final fill before you drop off. If you return the car empty, the supplier will deduct the cost of fuel plus a service charge.
What happens if I return the car late or need to extend my rental period?
Contact the rental company as soon as you know you will be late. Many can extend on the spot if the vehicle is not booked by another customer. They will charge for the extra day or hours. If you simply show up late without warning, you may face a penalty fee on top of the additional hire charge.
Is it difficult to drive on Praslin if I am used to right-hand traffic?
Seychelles drives on the left, with the steering wheel on the right side of the car. The island's main routes - the cross-island road from Grand Anse to Anse Volbert and the coastal loop - are narrow but paved. Traffic is light. Roundabouts run clockwise. Most visitors adjust within an hour. Take extra care at junctions and remember to look right first when pulling out.
What are the speed limits and are they enforced strictly?
Built-up areas have a 40 km/h limit; open roads allow 65 km/h. Police occasionally set up checks near Grand Anse and Baie Sainte Anne. In practice the winding terrain keeps speeds low anyway. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists, especially near schools in the mornings and afternoons around Amitie and Baie Sainte Anne.
Do I need any special permits or insurance to drive a hire car here?
Your standard driving licence is sufficient - no visitor's permit required. Insurance coverage is arranged by the rental company and detailed in your voucher. Collision-damage waiver and third-party liability are usually bundled. Read what the policy excludes (often tyres, undercarriage, windscreen) so you know your responsibility if something breaks.
Can I take the hire car on the ferry to La Digue or Mahe?
Almost all rental agreements prohibit taking the vehicle off Praslin. The Cat Cocos and Cat Rose ferries to La Digue and Mahe do carry cars, but you need written permission from the rental company and must pay the ferry's vehicle fare. Honestly, it is simpler to park your car at Baie Sainte Anne jetty, take the passenger ferry, and hire a bicycle on La Digue.
Where can I find help if the car breaks down or I have an accident?
Your voucher lists an emergency mobile number for the rental company. Call them first. Most suppliers can dispatch a replacement vehicle or arrange roadside assistance within 30 minutes on an island this size. If the incident involves another vehicle or injury, also notify the police station in Grand Anse (near the fuel pump). For any general queries before or during your hire, our contact page has our office details in Amitie.