Arriving at Pres. Medici Airport (RBR) in Rio Branco and planning to explore the region by car? Renting a vehicle offers fantastic freedom, but the process can feel a little daunting in a new country. This guide covers everything from finding your rental desk to understanding local driving conditions, helping you start your Brazilian adventure smoothly.
Rental car desks are generally located within the main airport terminal building. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Rental Cars’ after you’ve collected your luggage. Several companies typically operate at Pres. Medici Airport, offering a range of vehicles. You’ll commonly find options from well-known providers. Pickup points can vary, sometimes involving a short shuttle ride to an off-airport facility, so pay attention to the instructions in your confirmation email.
The best car for you depends on your travel plans. For solo travelers or couples sticking to city streets, an economy or compact car is often ideal. Families or those planning to explore beyond Rio Branco might prefer an SUV for extra space and comfort. Here’s a general idea of what’s available and typical price ranges (prices change by season and availability):
| Car Class | Typical Daily Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Economy | $25 - $40 |
| Compact | $35 - $50 |
| Intermediate | $45 - $65 |
| Standard | $55 - $80 |
| SUV | $70 - $120 |
| Luxury | $100+ |
Beyond these, you’ll likely find minivans for larger groups and premium vehicles for those seeking extra comfort.
To rent a car in Brazil, you’ll generally need a valid driver’s license (international permits may be required depending on your license’s origin – check current regulations before you travel), a passport, and a credit card in the primary driver’s name. The minimum age is usually 21, but some companies may have higher age restrictions and surcharges for younger drivers. Expect a deposit to be held on your credit card to cover potential damages or extra charges. This deposit can be substantial, so ensure your credit card has sufficient available credit.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself, while Theft Protection covers loss due to theft. Often, these come with an ‘excess’ – the amount you’re still responsible for paying in case of damage or theft. You can reduce this excess by purchasing additional insurance, but it adds to the overall cost. Carefully consider whether your existing travel insurance or credit card benefits already provide coverage before accepting additional insurance at the rental desk. Don’t hesitate to ask the agent to clearly explain the terms of each insurance option.
Driving in Brazil requires a bit of awareness. Toll roads are common, and it’s best to have some small bills or a pre-paid electronic toll tag if possible. Parking can be challenging in city centers; look for designated parking areas and be mindful of parking regulations. Speed limits are generally posted in kilometers per hour. Road conditions can vary, especially outside of major cities, so allow extra travel time. Be prepared for a more relaxed driving style than you might be used to, and always prioritize safety.
It depends on your home country. Check the current Brazilian regulations regarding driving permits before your trip.
Generally, a major credit card in the primary driver’s name is required for the deposit and rental fee.
If you have CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), it will cover the damage, but you may still be responsible for an excess amount.
It’s not always legally mandatory, but rental companies require you to have some form of financial protection for potential damage.
Yes, but they are often less common and may be more expensive than manual transmissions.
Carefully document any pre-existing damage with the rental company before leaving the airport to avoid being charged for it later.
Many roads have toll booths. Have small bills ready, or consider a pre-paid electronic toll tag if you plan to drive extensively.
Yes, but you’ll need to declare the additional driver at pickup and they may need to meet the same requirements as the primary driver.
Late returns usually incur extra charges, often calculated per hour or day.
A GPS or smartphone with a reliable map app is highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore areas outside of Rio Branco.
In Brazil, they drive on the right side of the road.
Be aware of speed limits, and always yield to pedestrians. It's also common to see motorcycles weaving through traffic.