Which Car Hire to Choose in Vava’u
Explore Vava’u at your own pace by hiring a car! Hiring a car makes it easy to stay out of town at one of Vava’u’s idyllic accommodations, yet you’re never too far from the essential services and activities in Neiafu. You’ll also be able to check out attractions like the Veimumuni Caves and the various beaches of the main island.
Admittedly, car rental companies in Vava’u are limited with limited fleets. Nevertheless, they are utterly affordable and well worth considering if you prefer to travel independently. We compare them all in this guide to car rentals in Vava’u!
Note that no insurance, vehicles with dents, and cash-only payments are all kind of common in Vava’u. For these and similar nuances of Tonga’s car rental industry, we advise you to take a look at The Guide to Car Hire in Tonga so you know what to expect.
Table of Contents
5 Things to Look For When Comparing Car Rentals in Vava’u
Before we dive into our comparison of the car hires in Vava’u, know what to look for with these car rental comparison tips.
1. Prices and Inclusions
Car rental companies in Vava’u have very few inclusions beyond the vehicle itself. Where they do differ, however, is their daily rental rates.
For further costs to consider for your car rental, check out the 10 Ways to Save Money on Car Rental in Tonga.
2. Vehicles Offered
Vava’u’s car rental companies are limited with limited but varied fleets. The size of your vehicle will matter depending on how many people are travelling in the vehicle. Due to recent road upgrades to the major sights of Vava’u, a 4WD is no longer necessary.
Learn more about what it is like to drive in our guide, How to Drive in Tonga.
3. Service
Once you have picked one or two car rental companies to compare, give them a phone call and ask them a few questions. See how helpful they are in their answers. This little test will give you an idea of how helpful the company will be should anything go wrong during your trip.
4. Payment Options
Nowadays, not everyone wants to have a credit card; not even car rental companies! Note that most car rental companies require a bond in cash (around TOP$200), some will accept card payments for the rental fee, while others only accept cash. Double-check which car rental companies accept other payment methods and be sure to have enough cash.
Learn more about where to get cash out in Neiafu in our guide to Information, Shops & Services in Vava’u.
Plus, learn more about paying for things in What is The Best Way to Pay in Tonga?
5. Location
Location is important if you’re hoping to hire a vehicle straight off the ferry or close to your accommodation. Some will deliver a vehicle to the wharf or airport.
(c) tongapocketguide.comTropicana Rentals (Tropo Rentals)
Tropicana Rentals, also known as Tropo Rentals, is a friendly, no-frills car hire service in the heart of Vava’u. Popular with both locals and visiting yachties, Tropicana Rentals makes it easy to get wheels for the day or longer, with a straightforward, down-to-earth approach and helpful local advice included.
The fleet has been streamlined to just three vehicle types, focusing on reliable, practical options rather than volume. Flexible half-day and full-day rentals are available, along with convenient accommodation or airport drop-off for multi-day hires. Optional baby seats are available, and Café Tropicana remains a handy hub for tourist information while you’re in town.
Book through the Tropicana Rentals website and hit the road with the island’s best range of vehicles and hassle-free service!
For more options in Tonga’s hotspot, check out the 5 Best Car Rentals in Vava’u.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
Pick-up and drop-off services are available for Vava’u accommodation or Lupepauʻu Airport for multi-day hires. Based in Neiafu at Cafe Tropicana.
Vehicles Available
Tropicana Rentals currently offers three vehicle types:
- Honda CR-V
- Mazda Demio
- Daihatsu Terios
- Mountain bikes – Learn more in Where to Rent Bicycles in Tonga.
Approximate Price
Prices are subject to change. daily rental rates are approximately TOP$125 per day for the Honda CR-V, TOP$90 per day for the Mazda Demio, and TOP$63 per day for the Daihatsu Terios. Payment is cash or card.
Insurance
No insurance is available. A bond is taken for all vehicle rentals via cash of around TOP$200 until the vehicle is returned. Damage fees will be negotiated with the rental operator. It’s best to be honest if something is broken.
© TongaPocketGuide.comVava’u Lahi Car Rentals
With a small but varied fleet, Vava‘u Lahi Car Rentals is a solid option for travellers seeking a reliable vehicle in Vava‘u. The company currently operates a limited fleet of around four vehicles, ranging from compact cars to larger SUVs and family-sized options, including a 7-seater.
Vava’u Lahi operates out of the Puataukanave Hotel, which also provides boat tours, whale tours, and hotel and backpacker accommodations. Due to the limited fleet size, booking in advance is strongly recommended, particularly during peak travel periods.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
Pick-up and drop-off services to Lupepauʻu Airport (or transfers to their depot) are offered for a fee of approximately TOP$50 one way. Otherwise, Vava’u Lahi is based at the Puataukanave Hotel on the Neiafu waterfront.
Vehicles Available
The fleet includes Mazda CX-5 SUVs and Mazda Demio compact cars, as well as a larger 7-seater vehicle suitable for families or groups.
Approximate Price
Prices are subject to change. SUV rentals generally range from approximately TOP$150–180 per day, with rates varying depending on vehicle size and type.
Insurance
An insurance excess reduction is available for approximately TOP$50. A bond is taken for all vehicle rentals via cash of around TOP$200 until the vehicle is returned. Damage fees are as stated on the car rental agreement.
© TongaPocketGuide.comMing Gui Gua (Elim) Car Rentals
Ming Gui Gua Car Rentals, or Elim Rentals, has the largest fleet of vehicles in Vava’u with around 20 vehicles. Rental agreements are pretty simple; pay the daily rate and the bond and you’re good to go. However, the only vehicles we’ve seen have visible damage, such as dents and cracks across the windscreens, so do with that information what you will.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
They are based at the Elim Hotel and Shopping Centre, Tu’i Road, Neiafu.
Vehicles Available
Vehicles offered by Elim Car Rentals range from Honda Fit compact cars to Suzuki minivans.
Approximate Price
Prices are subject to change. Cars with Elim Rentals cost approximately TOP$80-$100 per day for compact to medium cars and TOP$150-$200 for minivans. Payment is cash only.
Insurance
No insurance is available. A bond is taken for all vehicle rentals via cash of around TOP$200 (cash only) until the vehicle is returned. Damage fees will be negotiated with the rental operator. Note that vehicles are already likely to be damaged, so be sure to take photos upon pick-up for your records in case they try to charge you for the damage.
© TongaPocketGuide.comSam’s Rentals
Sam’s Rentals offers a convenient and flexible car hire service in Vava’u, bookable directly at Sam’s Restaurant in the Small Boat Marina or at the Fa Ko Fiemea Hotel reception in town. With a range of vehicles suited for solo travellers, couples, or families, Sam’s Rentals provides simple, reliable transport for exploring the islands at your own pace.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
You can book and collect your vehicle either at Sam’s Restaurant (Small Boat Marina) or at the Fa Ko Fiemea Hotel reception. Airport or specific location delivery is also available for an additional TOP$50, ideal for travellers flying into Vava’u or staying outside the main pick-up points.
Vehicles Available
Sam’s Rentals offers a straightforward fleet covering small economy cars, mid-range vehicles, and high-luxury options. Whether you’re after an affordable runabout, something more spacious, or a premium ride for added comfort, there’s a vehicle to match your needs.
Approximate Price
Prices are subject to change. Daily rates begin at approximately TOP$80 for small economy cars, TOP$150 for mid-range options, and TOP$200 for high-luxury vehicles. Payments are split into a 50% deposit at booking and the remaining balance on vehicle collection. A TOP$200 security deposit applies to all rentals.
Insurance
No formal insurance options are available. A refundable TOP$200 security deposit is required for all bookings, returned once the vehicle is returned in good condition. As always, it’s best to notify the rental operator immediately if anything is damaged during your hire.
© TongaPocketGuide.comAnatevunga Car Rental
Anatevunga Car Rental is a locally operated provider on Vava’u offering a small fleet. With flexible handover options and simple rental terms, they provide a convenient solution for visitors needing group transport or larger vehicles.
While service is friendly and straightforward, vehicle reliability can vary, so Anatevunga is best considered a backup option during peak travel periods.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
Travellers can arrange free pick-up from Anatevunga’s office, or opt for airport transfers. Airport pickup is TOP$50, while airport drop-off is TOP150 per way. Handover locations can be arranged depending on availability, simply specify your preference when booking.
Vehicles Available
Anatevunga’s fleet includes the Toyota Vanguard, Shadow 10-seater, and Shadow 15-seater, with vehicles generally around 10 years old. These options cater well to families, groups, and corporate teams needing spacious transport around Tongatapu.
Approximate Price
Prices are subject to change. Daily rates start from approximately TOP$180 per day for the Toyota Vanguard, TOP$250 per day for the Shadow 10-seater, and TOP$350 per day for the Shadow 15-seater.
Insurance
No traditional insurance coverage is offered. No bond is required for corporate or government bookings, while individual customers must provide a TOP$200 security deposit. Damage fees are discussed directly with the operator, so it’s best to be upfront if any issues occur.
© TongaPocketGuide.comOther Car Rentals in Vava’u
Like many local businesses in Tonga, there are some car rentals in Vava’a that are a bit off the radar. They are a more face-to-face business that you’ll be able to organise once you arrive on the islands.
Some alternative car rental options in Vava’u include:
- Vailmalo Fales (two rental cars for guests – Toyota and Honda hatchbacks for around TOP$60 per day)
- Ilena’s Rental (based out of Marlene’s Motel, cars around TOP$50 per day)
Learn more about the accommodations mentioned in the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Vava’u and Where to Stay in Vava’u.
More About Car Rentals in Vava’u and Tonga
That’s it for our list of the best car rentals in Vava’u. For more about driving in Tonga, take a look at the following:
- The Driving Times in Tonga You Need to Know
- 10 Safety Tips for Driving in Tonga
- 10 Best Car Rentals in Tonga
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Guide to Car Hire in Tonga.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Tonga and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tonga Tourism Authority (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Tonga Ministry of Tourism (FAQs about visiting Tonga - Updated [2025])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Revenue & Customs (Customs and immigration contacts - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Agriculture & Food, Forests and Fisheries (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Infrastructure (Land and aviation transport info - Updated [2025])
- Tonga Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
- Tonga Statistics Department (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
- Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Tonga - Updated [2025])
- Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Tonga - Updated [2025])
- Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Tonga - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At Tonga Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
