SJZ Airport Car Rental — São Jorge Island Airport

São Jorge airport (IATA: SJZ) serves the island of São Jorge in the central group of the Azores, located approximately 5 km east of Velas center. With 9 car rental providers, it's the best place to secure transportation immediately upon arrival on this dramatic volcanic island. The airport is served by SATA Air Açores with connections to Pico, Faial, and Terceira.

The island stretches 55 km in an east-west direction and without a rental car you'll miss the fajãs such as Fajã dos Cubres and Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo, both approximately 25–35 km from the airport. The western headland Ponta dos Rosais with its abandoned lighthouse is reached in 45 minutes. Book your rental car before departure – availability on São Jorge is limited and the summer months are fully booked quickly.

Choose a car with high ground clearance for the narrow, steep roads down to the fajãs. Always fill up with a full tank in Velas as gas stations are rare in the eastern part of the island. How many car rental companies are at São Jorge airport?

There are 9 providers at SJZ, which is an unusually large selection for a small island – still, book well in advance during July–September. Do I need a rental car on São Jorge? Yes, public transportation is very limited and most attractions such as the fajãs and nature reserves are only accessible by car.

Can I take the rental car on the ferry to Pico or Faial? Most providers do not allow the car to be taken on the ferry to other islands. Rent a separate car on each island.

We compare prices from all major providers at São Jorge Island Airport so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.