How to find a cheap car hire deal in Ecuador
Pick up a cheap rental car in Ecuador from RM62 a day and hit the road happy. We do the hard work for you by searching trusted rental companies, putting amazing deals at your fingertips.
Longer adventures offer better value, starting at RM428 for a weekly rental.
Browse the car rentals in Quito and keep more cash in your pocket. It's the most affordable place in Ecuador to book a ride.
Overall, the most popular city to rent a car in is Manta.
Explore the deals from Europcar before making a decision. More people choose it than any other provider in Ecuador.
Collect your ride from the airport if you're flying in. Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport, Guayaquil Airport and Cuenca Airport offer car hire pickup locations either at the terminal or nearby.
Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca, Manta and Ambato are among the most convenient cities to organise a set of wheels.
Think about choosing a one-way rental. Providers often reduce prices on some routes to move vehicles between sites. When searching for a car for rent in Ecuador, select 'Return car to a different location' to access those deals.
Need wheels for a few weeks? Sometimes you can score a discount when you book for 30 days or more, so try tweaking your dates to find the best rates.
Avoid extra costs by booking a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up the car full and bring it back full, meaning you only pay for fuel you've used.
Unlimited mileage lets you focus on the journey rather than the odometer. Check for this feature under the 'Policies' filter and cover more ground without added fees.
Best time to book a car hire in Ecuador
Here's your insider tip for booking at the right time. Four weeks in advance gives you the best chance at finding the best price on a car hire in Ecuador.
The most affordable month to rent a car is October, with rates averaging RM168 a day.
August is the most expensive time of year.
Compare car hire types in Ecuador
Economy: Hit the road in one of these and make it easier to manage your travel budget. Lower daily rates and strong fuel efficiency mean you spend less overall while still getting a relaxed, easy-to-handle ride.
Small: Covering mini and economy classes, small cars are made for everyday travel. If you're looking for a cheap rental car in Ecuador, this is where some of the best deals live. They're perfect for city driving and short trips, with low fuel use, easy handling, and enough space for the essentials.
Medium: If you want something more spacious without going big, this hits the mark. Medium rentals offer more room for passengers and bags, as well as a nice balance of efficiency and power. You'll find compact and intermediate models here.
Large: Big journeys call for bigger thinking. Whether you're cruising with your crew or heading out for a longer drive, these full-size cars bring the extra space you need. Expect generous seating, serious luggage capacity and comfort that goes the distance.
SUV: These sport utility vehicles are ready for whatever your itinerary brings your way. Their capability across different terrain makes them a great fit for road trip plans that develop as you go. An elevated seating position enhances your view ahead, helping you feel more in control.
Van: When you've got plenty to carry, a van gets the job done. This type of car for rent in Ecuador handles everyone and everything with ease. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a practical option for group travel, moving or business transport.
Luxury: Want something that feels next level? From sleek design to cutting-edge tech and powerful performance, luxury vehicles dial up every part of the driving experience. This is what to book when only the best will do.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the fee you'd have to pay if your rental car is damaged or stolen. While not mandatory, it helps cover you in a tough spot. Just remember that policies differ from one provider to another, so make sure you know exactly what's offered.
From GPS units to mobile Wi-Fi, the right extras can seriously upgrade your ride. Think about which extras will suit your needs when you rent a car in Ecuador.
Driving in Ecuador: What you need to know
Check each company's age requirements before booking your rental in Ecuador. Rules can vary, and added costs or restrictions may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, just uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' filter and enter your age to browse your options.
Travel plans include the kids? Car seat requirements vary according to the location, and the best setup may depend on their height, weight and age. Be sure to add the right one to your car rental reservation in Ecuador.
You'll be asked for a few things when picking up your rental car: an official driver's licence, extra photo ID, and a credit card that can cover the security deposit. Debit cards aren't widely accepted. Any additional requirements will be listed in your booking.
Driving in Ecuador can seem unfamiliar if it's your first time. Keep in mind you'll need to stay on the right side of the road.
Follow the local speed limits. Most of the time that's around 45kph in built-up areas and 95kph or so on highways, unless signs say otherwise.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Ecuador is 0.03%. Because alcohol affects each person differently, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink at all.
