Renting a Car in Fuerteventura: Tips for Kite Travellers
A rental car turns Fuerteventura from one-spot stay into a multi-spot adventure. This guide explains which car, which company, how much it costs and the practical tips that save kite travellers money and hassle.
1. Why Kite Travellers Need a Car
The kite spots are 90 km apart: Corralejo in the north, Sotavento in the south. Bus links are slow (3+ hours each way) and don't reach the best beaches. A small economy car (15-30 euros/day off-season, 30-60 euros high season) gives you flexibility to follow wind to the best spot each day.
2. Which Car Size for Kite Gear
For solo kiter with own gear: economy 5-door (Fiat Panda, Citroen C3) - 22-30 euros/day. For 2 kiters: compact SUV (Dacia Duster, Suzuki Vitara) - 35-50 euros/day. For 3+ kiters with multiple kites: minivan or 7-seater - 60-90 euros/day. Always confirm the trunk fits a 145 cm kite bag.
3. Getting There
- Pickup at FUE airport: all major brands (Cicar, Goldcar, Sixt, AutoReisen, Plus Car).
- Cicar: local Canarian brand with no excess insurance hassle, recommended.
- City pickup: some brands deliver to Corralejo hotels for free.
4. Insurance - The Important Detail
Always pick full insurance with no excess. Goldcar and Sixt charge 12-18 euros/day extra. Cicar includes it in the base price. Without full coverage, even a small scratch can cost 600-1.500 euros. Use an annual car hire excess policy (Insurance4carhire) at 50 euros/year if you rent often.
5. Driving and Parking Tips
Roads are excellent. Speed limits: 50 km/h urban, 90 km/h secondary, 120 km/h FV-2 highway. Police speed traps common around Caleta de Fuste. Parking at kite spots: Flag Beach free (along FV-1a), Sotavento free (Hotel Melia Gorriones), El Cotillo free at lighthouse. Never leave kite gear visible inside the car.
6. Recommended Nearby Spots
- FUE airport rental hub - all major brands in same location.
- Corralejo town - all rental companies have a local office.
- Costa Calma - Cicar and Goldcar local offices.
- Morro Jable - for travellers basing in the south.
7. Did you know…
Cicar (Canary Islands Car) has been operating since 1965 and is the only fully Canarian-owned rental brand. Their fleet renewal happens every 12-18 months so you almost always get a new car with low km.
8. Quick Practical Tips
- 🗓️ Book online 4-6 weeks ahead for best rates.
- 🧳 Petrol: tank policy 'pick up full, return full' is the most fair.
- 🌀 Drive safe: trade wind side gusts on the FV-2 highway.
- 📋 Document the car with photos at pickup for insurance evidence.
- 🌍 Never leave kite gear visible - basic theft precaution.
9. FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the cheapest car rental in Fuerteventura?
Goldcar and OK Mobility are usually the cheapest base price but charge extra for insurance. Cicar is often cheaper overall once full insurance is included.
Do I need a 4WD for Fuerteventura?
Only if you plan to drive to Cofete beach (rough dirt road). For all the kite spots and standard sightseeing, a normal economy car is fine.
Can I park my rental near Flag Beach overnight?
Yes, parking is free and legal along FV-1a above the beach. Avoid overnight inside the natural park (forbidden).
Book your stay in Fuerteventura
Combine car rental with apartments that have free parking - it makes daily kite trips effortless.
Choose your kite school in Fuerteventura
👉 Book a kite course with one of the certified kite schools listed in our directory.
🔗 Explore all the active kite schools in Fuerteventura: https://kiteschoolfuerteventura.com/kite-schools-fuerteventura