Car Rental Guide at Maceió Airport (MCZ)
Navigating Car Rentals at Maceió-Zumbi dos Palmares Airport (MCZ)
Welcome to Maceió, the sun-kissed capital of Alagoas! With its stunning coastline, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture, you've made an excellent choice for your Brazilian getaway. A rental car is your key to freedom and flexibility to explore the region's incredible beaches and attractions.
This guide makes the car rental process at Maceió-Zumbi dos Palmares International Airport (MCZ) simple and stress-free. The facilities are conveniently located right inside the airport terminal, so you'll be on your way in no time.
Finding the Car Rental Center in the Terminal
Once you land and collect your luggage, the next step is to find the car rental desks. The process is very straightforward.
Exit Baggage Claim: After retrieving your bags from the carousels, proceed through the exit into the main public arrivals hall on the ground floor (Térreo).
Look for Signage: As you enter the arrivals hall, look for the overhead signs. You will see directional signs for "Car Rental" and its Portuguese equivalent, "Locadoras de Veículos."
Locate the Rental Desks: Follow the signs. The car rental companies are grouped together in a dedicated area within the arrivals hall. The entire area is compact and located just steps from where you exit baggage claim.
Car Rental Agencies at MCZ Airport
You will find several of Brazil's most reputable car rental companies operating directly from the MCZ terminal. Below are the primary agencies, their typical hours, and their local contact numbers.
Important Note:
While many airport locations operate 24/7, hours can change based on flight schedules, seasons, and public holidays. It is highly recommended that you verify the operating hours directly with the company for your specific arrival date and time.
From Counter to Car: The Pick-Up Procedure
After completing the rental agreement and paperwork at the counter inside the terminal, the agent will give you the keys and direct you to the vehicle.
Terminal to Vehicle Area
The vehicle pick-up area at Maceió Airport is conveniently located a very short walk from the arrivals hall. The agent will typically point you toward the main exit of the terminal. You will walk across the passenger drop-off lane to a dedicated parking lot ("Pátio") situated directly in front of the terminal building.
Vehicle Location
This lot is reserved for rental cars, and the parking bays are usually numbered, corresponding to the number on your key or rental agreement. Simply locate your assigned parking space and you'll find your vehicle ready to go.
Quick Vehicle Check
Before leaving, do a quick visual inspection of the vehicle's exterior. Take note of any existing damage and ensure it matches the condition report provided by the rental agent. This quick check will save you time and prevent any issues upon return.
Complete Rental Company Information
| Company | Operating Hours | Phone Number | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Localiza | 24/7 | +55 (82) 3322-1101 | Largest Network |
| Movida | 24/7 | +55 (82) 3322-2990 | Premium Service |
| Unidas | 24/7 | +55 (82) 3322-1928 | Business Focus |
Key Tips for a Hassle-Free Pick-Up
Have all your documents ready at the counter to speed up the process. You will need:
- Valid Driver's License: Your home country's license is required. While often not mandatory for rental, carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly advised as a certified translation.
- Passport: A valid passport is necessary for identification.
- Credit Card: A physical credit card in the main driver's name is required for the security deposit. Debit cards are generally not accepted for the deposit.
- Rental Voucher: Have your reservation confirmation (printed or on your phone) handy.
Before you leave the parking lot, walk around the car and inspect it carefully for any pre-existing damage. Check for scratches, dents, and scuffs on the body, wheels, and bumpers. Point out any findings to the rental agent and ensure they are noted on your rental contract. For your own peace of mind, take time-stamped photos and a short video of the car's condition.
If your flight is significantly delayed and you are arriving outside the rental company's standard hours, don't panic. When you make your reservation, always include your flight number. This allows the rental agency to track your flight and ensures an agent will wait for you in case of a delay. Having the local branch's phone number saved is also a great backup.
While your car should come with a full tank, it's wise to know where the nearest gas station ("Posto de Gasolina") is. There are several located just a few minutes' drive from the airport complex. It's a good idea to top off the tank before heading to more remote beach areas, just in case.
Ready to Explore Alagoas
By following these simple steps, picking up your rental car at Maceió Airport will be an efficient and seamless part of your arrival. With your keys in hand and your luggage loaded, you are now officially ready to hit the road and discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Maceió and the entire state of Alagoas.
Enjoy your trip!