Car rental in Goa

Goa is one of the few places in India where many visitors drive themselves, and many also rent scooters. Even so, the roads are narrow and busy, and plenty of people take taxis or hire a car with a driver instead. A rental makes sense if you're staying in more than one area or planning day trips, especially with family or luggage. Prices vary by season, so compare current rates for your dates.

When a car is worth it

Old Goa and Panaji. The churches of Old Goa, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, and the state capital Panaji are about an hour from the Dabolim area. Go early to avoid the busiest hours.

Dudhsagar Falls. The base near Mollem is about 60 km from the Dabolim area, so allow one and a half to two hours each way. The last stretch to the falls is normally by shared jeep rather than your own car, and access is restricted in the monsoon, so check before you go.

South Goa beaches. Palolem and Agonda are about one and a half hours from the Dabolim area. The roads are generally quieter than in the north, and a car makes it easy to stop at smaller beaches on the way.

Before you book

Your licence. India generally expects your home licence plus an international driving permit issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. UK government travel advice, for example, asks for the 1949 permit alongside a UK licence. A permit issued under another convention, such as the 1968 Vienna one, may not be accepted. How long a foreign licence is valid can vary by state, so confirm with the rental company or an official source before you travel.

Where to collect the car. The options on this page are for the Mormugao area, around Dabolim airport. If you fly into Mopa airport in North Goa instead, ask the company whether it can deliver the car there. North Goa beaches such as Calangute are about one to one and a half hours from Dabolim, depending on traffic.

Insurance. Check the excess for damage and what is covered after an accident or a breakdown. Photograph the car before you drive off, including any existing scratches, and ask about the deposit.

A driver instead. If the roads sound stressful, ask about a car with a driver, which is common in India. Check whether the quote includes a driver or whether one can be added.

Driving in India

The basics. Traffic drives on the left. Expect constant horn use, scooters weaving between cars, and cows or dogs on the road. Drive defensively and avoid driving at night where you can.

Tolls. Toll sections on national highways are paid electronically with a FASTag. Ask whether the car has one and how toll charges are settled.

Traffic and parking. Lanes are narrow and parking near the beaches is tight. The roads around Calangute and Baga are especially busy in peak season, particularly in the evening.

Weather. Heavy monsoon rain from about June can flood roads, so check conditions before you set out.

Drinking. Don't drive after drinking, especially around beach bars at night.