Eloy Alfaro International Airport Car Hire (MEC)
See real-time prices from 6 car hire companies. Collect your car at arrivals and go.
Quick answer: At Eloy Alfaro International Airport you can compare rental cars from 6 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely - not just cheaply.
About Renting a Car at Eloy Alfaro International Airport
Eloy Alfaro International Airport (MEC) serves the coastal city of Manta and is a major hub for Ecuador's tuna exports and tourism. With 6 car rental companies available, it's easy to pick up a vehicle right after landing. The airport is located 3 km east of Manta's city center and provides quick access to Ecuador's Pacific coast.
From MEC, you can reach Manta's beaches of Murciélago and Tarqui in 10 minutes. Montañita, a popular surf beach, is 170 km south (approximately 2.5 hours). Bahía de Caráquez is accessible 90 minutes north along the coast via E15.
Rental cars are the best way to explore the remote beaches north of Manta that lack public transportation. Choose a high-clearance vehicle if you plan to visit Parque Nacional Machalilla. Refuel in Manta's city center where prices are lower than at the highway.
What destinations can I easily reach from Eloy Alfaro Airport? Puerto López (90 km, 1.5 h), Montañita (170 km, 2.5 h) and Bahía de Caráquez (120 km, 2 h) are popular destinations. Should I book a car in advance at MEC?
Booking well ahead is strongly recommended during high season (December–April) when vehicle availability may be limited. Can I return the car in another location? Some rental companies allow one-way rentals to Guayaquil or Quito for an additional fee-check when booking.
We compare prices from all major providers at Eloy Alfaro International 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.
Your 2-Minute Guide to Renting at Eloy Alfaro International Airport
🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms
- Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
- Extra driver: can cost extra - check before booking.
- Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents
- Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
- Passport or national ID
- Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup
- Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
- Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
- Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
Rental Companies at Eloy Alfaro International Airport
Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).
Essential Info for Renting at Eloy Alfaro International Airport
Practical answers and tips before you book.
✅ Quick Answers ▼
At Eloy Alfaro International Airport you can compare rentals from 6 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.
- Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
- Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
- Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in Ecuador ▼
In Ecuador you drive on the Right side.
- Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
- Rural roads: 90 km/h
- Motorway: 100 km/h
- Alcohol limit: 0,0 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼
Parking is usually available in cities, but can be limited.
Road tolls: Keep cash available for toll fees.
Frequently Asked Questions - Car Rental at Eloy Alfaro International Airport
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