Popularly known by its original name, Galeão International Airport (GIG), GIG is the main airport serving Rio de Janeiro. Rio is not a city for the nervous driver, but if you have the courage and competence to take on its frantic roads, the city can offer some truly stunning sights.
Rio de Janeiro (Photo: Dennis Jarvis via Flickr/ CC BY 2.0)
As we published this article, the following companies were currently operating at the airport: Localiza, Hertz, Foco, Budget, Alamo, Movida, National and Unidas.
To determine which rental car companies offer the best options across our three categories (Most Affordable, Best for Luxury, Best for Minivans), TravelMag.com have carefully conducted research into all the agencies at GIG airport across several dates. Our findings are as follows.
Most Affordable: Movida
Brazilian-owned Movida was the best place for cheap car rentals at GIG Airport. As is the case throughout the country, renters particularly appreciate the cleanliness of the cars, the friendliness and efficiency of its staff and the overall value of its vehicles. On our sample dates, their cheap car rentals were consistently cheaper than the competition.
It’s worth noting that all rental car companies listed at RentalCars are trustworthy, so it’s quite safe to just pick the lowest rental for your dates. However, we would recommend that you stick with a company that is located at the airport terminal of GIG Airport.
Best for Luxury: Hertz
The choice of luxury rental cars is somewhat limited at GIG Airport, but renters looking for high-end vehicles should head to Hertz’s counter. If you fancy a premium sedan, then you can opt for their Toyota Corolla GLI or the Hyundai HB20S, or if you’d prefer something more robust, they have vehicles like the Jeep Renegade. Apart from offering a certain degree of extra security, this type of jeep is perfect for trips across more rugged terrains.
Best for Minivans: Hertz
With an affordable fleet of large sedans, SUVs and minivans, Hertz was also the clear choice for families at GIG Airport. Besides the aforementioned 5-seater Jeep Renegade, Hertz also has the 7-seater Fiat Diablo and the 7-seater Chevrolet Spin, an MPV produced by General Motors under the Chevrolet marque especially for the Brazilian and South American market. In addition to its famed luggage space, the Chevrolet Spin also has exceptional fuel economy making it the obvious choice of wheels for those looking to head down to Parati, or up towards Buzios.