Car Rental at Felix Houphouet Boigny Airport (ABJ) – Pickup, Prices, and Local Driving Tips

Arriving at Felix Houphouet Boigny Airport and planning to explore Abidjan or beyond? Renting a car offers flexibility, but it’s good to know what to expect with the pickup process, potential costs, and local driving conditions. This guide will walk you through securing a rental car at the airport and navigating the roads of Ivory Coast.

Finding Your Rental Car

Rental car desks are generally located within the arrivals area of the airport. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Rental Cars’ after you collect your luggage. Most companies offer a shuttle service to the parking area where the cars are kept, though some have vehicles directly accessible from the desks. Several well-known companies typically operate at Felix Houphouet Boigny Airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. It’s always a good idea to compare options and book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Popular Car Choices at ABJ

The best car for you depends on your travel plans. For city driving and affordability, an economy or compact car is a good choice. If you plan on exploring outside of Abidjan, or prefer more space, consider an SUV. Here are some popular options you’ll likely find:

Prices change by season and availability.

What You’ll Need to Rent

Generally, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, and for international visitors, an International Driving Permit is often required. The minimum age to rent a car is usually 21 or 23, but drivers under 25 may face additional fees. Be prepared to present a valid passport and a major credit card in the driver’s name. Rental companies will typically place a security deposit on your card to cover potential damages or extra charges. The deposit amount varies, but it’s often the excess amount of your insurance coverage. Payment by debit card may be possible with some companies, but often comes with stricter requirements and may not be accepted for the deposit.

Understanding Your Insurance Options

Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself. Theft Protection covers the vehicle if it’s stolen. ‘Excess’ refers to the amount you’re still responsible for paying in case of damage or theft, even with CDW or Theft Protection. You can often reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance at the rental desk, but this adds to the cost. Check if your credit card or existing car insurance provides coverage in Ivory Coast before accepting additional insurance from the rental company. Don’t hesitate to ask the agent to clearly explain the terms of each insurance option.

Driving in Ivory Coast

Road conditions in Ivory Coast can vary. Main roads are generally well-maintained, but roads in more rural areas may be rougher. Tolls are common on highways, so keep some small bills handy. Parking can be found in cities, but it’s often paid. Speed limits are generally posted in kilometers per hour. Be aware of local traffic customs and drive defensively. It’s always wise to avoid driving at night outside of major cities.