Frequently Asked Questions

These are the most common questions asked when renting a car in Boa Vista, Cape Verde with OnCarus.
We’ve kept them simple and easy to read so you can quickly find the answers you need. 
For full details, please consult our Service Agreement with our Terms & Conditions, which contain the complete legal documentation.

  • Minimum rental: 1 day (24h). Even if you return earlier, 1 day will be charged.

  • Long‑term rentals: Discounts apply for rentals over 10 days.

  • Pick‑up & drop‑off times: Daily between 09:00 and 18:00.

  • We operate a Full‑to‑Full system: cars are delivered with a full tank and must be returned full.

  • Missing fuel is charged at €2 per liter, deducted from your deposit.

  • Age requirement: Minimum 23 years old.

  • License requirement: Must hold a valid license for at least 2 years.

  • Documents: Original passport/ID and driver’s license must be shown — copies are not accepted.

  • Additional drivers: Free of charge, but must be declared and present at pick‑up.

  • We guarantee the category booked (same transmission, doors, passenger/bag capacity).

  • Exact make/model depends on availability at collection.

  • Be on time
    Please arrive at the agreed pick‑up time. A 30‑minute grace period applies (except for documented flight delays if your flight number was provided).

  • All drivers must be present
    The main driver and any additional drivers must be physically present at pick‑up to sign the rental agreement.

  • Bring original documents 
    Each driver must show their passport or national ID and driver’s license. Copies, scans, or photos are not accepted.

  • Security deposit 
    The main driver must pay the refundable €400 deposit (cash or credit card in their own name).

  • A refundable deposit of €400 is required at pick‑up (cash or credit card).

  • This covers potential damage, missing equipment (like keys), or fuel shortages.

  • The deposit is refunded if the car and equipment are returned in the same condition.

  • Be on time — a 30‑minute grace period applies.

  • Exceptions only for flight delays (if flight number provided in advance).

  • All drivers must be present to sign the agreement and pay the deposit.

Do I need to clean the car?
Normal use is fine, but excessive dirt, sand, or stains may result in a cleaning fee (€25 exterior / €40 interior). Please return the car in reasonable condition.

  • Included: Third‑Party Liability + Personal Accident Insurance.

  • Excess (liability): €30,000 (equal to full vehicle value).

  • Premium Protection (€20/day): Reduces liability to €10,000 and covers tires + windshield.

  • Off‑Road Rescue (€10/day): Covers recovery if stuck in sand/difficult terrain. Without it, recovery costs €200.

 

What happens if I return late?
A fee equal to 50% of the daily rental rate per hour will be charged. If OnCarus must retrieve the vehicle, all associated costs will be billed.

Can I take the car outside Boa Vista? No — vehicles must remain on Boa Vista Island. Transporting cars by ferry, ship, or plane without written authorization is strictly prohibited.

Cancellation: Free up to 48h before pick‑up.
  • Less than 48h → 50% refund.
  • Less than 24h → no refund.
  • Bookings made within 48h of pick‑up → non‑refundable.
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Amendments: Changes allowed up to 48h before pick‑up by emailing us.

  • Within 48h → no changes accepted.

  • Removing Premium Protection restores full liability (€30,000).