Australia
New Zealand
Other Countries
24/7 SupportCar Rental Kangaroo Island
Compare with Road Genius
Free comparison tool · 1000s of rental cars · Major brands · No booking fees
Compare 1,000s of Car Rentals
No Booking Fees
No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
Find Low Prices
Save by finding great deals and securing low price rentals
Find low car rental prices in Kangaroo Island with Road Genius. Check live rates of SUVs, hatchbacks, minivans and reserve with no booking fees. A car is essential on this huge island, as its famous attractions are spread far apart. We help you compare renting directly at Kingscote Airport or Penneshaw against bringing a mainland rental on the ferry.
Car Hire Locations and Options
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Penneshaw (Ferry Terminal) |
|
|
| Kingscote Airport |
|
|
| Adelaide + Ferry |
|
|
Important Rental Information
Kangaroo Island has only two main car rental companies: Budget Rent-A-Car Kangaroo Island and Kangaroo Island Car Rentals (KIC). They have few cars available, so booking early is very important, especially during summer (December-February) and Easter. Island rental prices are much higher than mainland prices - a 2-day rental on KI often costs almost the same as a 5-day rental in Adelaide.
Mainland vs. Island Rental Decision
When choosing between bringing a mainland rental or renting on the island:
- Ferry cost: Car ferry is about $200 both ways, plus passenger tickets
- Rental rules: Mainland companies require you to tell them if taking their car to KI
- Insurance: Some insurance has limits during ferry crossing
- Choice: Island rental avoids ferry car fee but costs more per day
Car Rental Prices
Saving Tips
- Do the math on the ferry. For short trips (1-2 days), grabbing a car on the island is often cheaper. For longer stays (3+ days), paying the ~$200 ferry fee to bring a less expensive mainland rental can save you cash.
- Travel like a penguin, not a summer tourist. Visiting during the off-season (May to September) offers the best rates. If you must go in summer, book your car months ahead as the island's small fleet sells out fast.
- Don't splurge on a big rig. A standard 2WD car is all you need to reach the main sealed-road attractions like Remarkable Rocks and Seal Bay.
- Fuel on the island can be pricey. If you're bringing a car from the mainland, fill your tank in Adelaide before you board the ferry.
Parking and Local Driving
| Location | Car Parking | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Flinders Chase National Park | Dedicated spots at visitor centre and all major sites | National park entry fee required. Purchase at visitor centre. |
| Remarkable Rocks | Large area for cars plus short walk to formation | Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour buses. |
| Seal Bay | Visitor centre car park | Guided tours only to beach; boardwalk self-guided. Pay entry fee at centre. |
| Kingscote Town | Free street spaces throughout | Plenty of room even during busy periods. Easy walking to shops and cafes. |
| Penneshaw Town | Free spots near ferry terminal and main street | Extra space at Hog Bay Beach and lookouts. |
| Beaches & Lookouts | Informal areas at most beaches | Keep to designated spots to protect vegetation. |
Local Driving Rules
- Speed limits: 100 km/h on main highways, 80 km/h on secondary roads, 50 km/h in towns
- Wildlife caution: Island has extremely high wildlife activity. Reduce speed around dawn and dusk.
- Night driving: Many rental companies prohibit driving between dusk and dawn due to wildlife collision risk
- Unsealed roads: Driving on unsealed or gravel roads is often restricted or prohibited by rental agreements, even for AWD or 4WD vehicles. Always check your contract terms for restrictions.
- Off-road driving: Strictly prohibited throughout the island
- Fuel: Available in Penneshaw, Kingscote and Vivonne Bay. Fill up when you can as distances are significant.
Special Considerations
- No traffic lights anywhere on the island
- No toll roads or paid car spaces
- Allow extra time between attractions due to wildlife and photo stops
- Mobile coverage is limited outside towns. Download offline maps
FAQs
Can I drive rental cars on all roads on Kangaroo Island?
Many rental agreements restrict driving on unsealed roads, while some local providers permit certain well-maintained gravel roads; off-road/4WD tracks remain prohibited. The main highways and roads to major attractions are sealed, but many beach access roads and remote areas have gravel or dirt roads. Always check your rental contract. Unauthorised driving on prohibited unsealed roads could void your insurance coverage.
Is it worth bringing a car from the mainland or better to rent on the island?
For visits of 3+ days, bringing a mainland rental is often more economical despite the ferry fee (around $220–$260 round-trip for a standard vehicle, excluding passenger fares and varying by season). For shorter visits, renting on the island avoids the ferry vehicle charge. Calculate total costs including ferry fees and higher island rental rates, and confirm your rental company permits travel to Kangaroo Island.
How much time should I allow to see the main attractions?
A minimum of two full days is recommended to see the key attractions without rushing. Three days allows a more comfortable pace and four or more days permits exploration of less-visited areas. Distances between attractions are significant, so budget driving time accordingly.
Are there special driving challenges on Kangaroo Island?
Wildlife on roads is the biggest challenge, particularly at dawn and dusk. Drive cautiously, scan the roadside constantly and be prepared to slow or stop for animals. Some rental companies prohibit driving after dark due to wildlife collision risk.
What happens if I have a breakdown on a remote part of the island?
Rental vehicles include roadside assistance, but response times may be longer in remote areas. Mobile phone coverage is limited outside towns. If possible, inform someone of your route if heading to isolated areas. Carrying water and supplies is recommended for longer drives.
