Posted on December 07, 2009 by Fiona Hilliard

Tenerife airport is served by a number of top name car rental companies. Tenerife car hire desks are easy to find – you should spot them as soon as you enter the central arrivals hall of the airport.

Tenerife airport itself is small and compact, which means it’s easy to find your way around.  There are well-stocked shops selling everything from holiday essentials such as sunscreen and flip-flops to a duty free where you can treat yourself to a new bottle of perfume or aftershave. Not feeling the best? No matter what time you arrive, you’ll find a 24-hr pharmacy and medical centre ready to serve your needs. If you’re running low on cash, there are several ATMs dotted around the place.

By law, the minimum age to hire a car in Tenerife is 21. You’ll find that car rental rates for the Canary Islands are much lower than in mainland Spain.

New to the island? Don’t worry if you’re not 100% sure where you’re going, that’s what car rental agents are there for – especially if you haven’t reserved a GPS unit.

When signing for your car, take advantage of the free maps at the desk. Ask the agent to make the best route from the airport to your destination on the map. Before you exit the airport, check that your vehicle has been provided with two red emergency triangles, a box of spare bulbs and insurance papers.

Generally speaking, Tenerife’s roads don’t get too busy, but like anywhere, you should still remain cautious as some corners and bends (especially on back roads) might prove difficult to negotiate.

Good to Know:

• By law, you must leave a space of between 30cm ( around 1 ft) between you and the next vehicle when parking.

 

• Driving licences must be carried at all times. If you are stopped and fail to produce a licence, you are liable for a fine of €60 (£55).

 

• Seatbelts must be worn by law. If you are caught not wearing a seatbelt you may be fined €90 (£82).