If you’re visiting the South Pacific nation of Solomon Islands, and looking to rent a car then there are mot many options available there. After searching online with all the major rental car companies, I was not able to find any!
It is a great idea to rent a car and drive around the island to see all the amazing sights it has to offer. Although a 4×4 vehicle is recommended, it is definitely not necessary to have one! Most of the roads are in terrible conditions (potholes everywhere!), but a non-4×4 or non-4WD would definitely work for a tour around the island.
Google Maps shows some rental car companies but after I tried contacting a few, I didn’t get any response!
I stayed at King Solomon Hotel in Honiara, and they recommended one company that offered rental cars: Economy Car Rentals. Located just a 5-minute walk from King Solomon Hotel, they are a part of the ‘Solomon Motors Limited’ shop, in the same gas station.
Contact: +677-27100
Email: economycarrentals@solomon.com.sb; ecr@solomonmotors.com.sb
Type of vehicle: Different types
Transmission: Manual
Cost: Starts at SBD 500 (USD 58.75) per day (Costs as on August 2023)
Location: -9.430852634981816, 159.95511620183728 (Search for ‘Solomon Motors Limited’ on Google Maps)
Hours of operation: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm; Sat 8:00am-12:00pm; Sun closed
Considering they have 3-4 cars only, it’s highly advisable to book at least 1-2 days in advance.
Notes:
- A deposit of SBD 2000 (USD 235) is charged during pickup. Important – Make sure to take back the refund as soon as you return the car. They will tell you about doing it “later”, but insist on getting it done right away!
- There are no separate charges for insurance, and there is no insurance If anything goes wrong with the vehicle, you are liable to pay for the damages.
- Payment can be made via cash (SBD or AUD) or credit card.
- Drop-off and pick-up from their office.
- Return with fuel loaded as per pick-up levels.