Car Rental in South Africa
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Cheapest Car Rental Rates
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The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 14:03 on 2021-10-25. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
Travel Information
Language
IsiZulu,
IsiXhosa,
Afrikaans
IsiXhosa,
Afrikaans
Currency
ZAR
Country code
27
Traffic direction
Left-hand
Speed limit out of town
100 km/h
62 mi/h
Speed limit within town
40 km/h
25 mi/h
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.05%
Why rent a car in South Africa?
From famous cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg to nature areas and an extensive coastline, South Africa really seems to have everything. The large distances can sometimes feel overwhelming, but the road network is generally in good shape and even if you choose to stick to just one region of the country, you’ll most likely end up being surprised by the incredible diversity that you’ll find.
If you want to know more about renting a car in South Africa, don't miss our complete guide.
One-way Car Rentals in South Africa
Here are the most popular one-way rental options for pickup in South Africa and drop off in another country:
- From South Africa to Namibia - 92 offers from US$ 44.16 per day
- From South Africa to Lesotho - 10 offers from US$ 26.49 per day
- From South Africa to Botswana - 35 offers from US$ 30.81 per day
- From South Africa to Swaziland - 10 offers from US$ 26.49 per day
Top ways to enter South Africa
- Johannesburg Airport: The busiest not just in the country, but in all of Africa, Johannesburg Airport handled 28 million travelers in 2019. A hub for the South African carrier Airlink, it also has flights by more than 30 other airlines that connect the city with destinations all over the globe. Johannesburg is also served by Lanseria Airport which offers domestic flights.
- Cape Town Airport: Serving the city of Cape Town as well as the larger Western Cape Province, this airport handles about ten million travelers every year. In addition to many domestic connections, Cape Town Airport has direct flights to and from France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Singapore, and many other international destinations.
- Durban King Shaka Airport: Serving South Africa’s third-largest city, King Shaka Airport offers plenty of domestic connections, as well as flights to and from such countries as Mauritius, Turkey, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
Top cities and places to visit
- Cape Town: The capital of Western Cape Province, Cape Town is one of the most visited cities in Africa for a reason. Attractions like the Bo-Kaap or Malay Quarter and Robben Island provide an important insight into South Africa’s history while nature lovers will no doubt appreciate the penguin colony at nearby Boulder Beach.
- Johannesburg: The largest city in the country, ‘Jozi’ is better known for its economic prowess, but also has plenty for a curious traveler to explore. Attractions include some of South Africa’s best museums, centers of traditional culture, old gold mines, and nearby nature sites like the Suikerbosrand Reserve and Lion & Safari Park.
- Kruger National Park: There are many great national parks in South Africa, but Kruger in the Limpopo Province is one of the most notable ones. Located along the borders with Zimbabwe and Mozambique and the size of a small country, it has nine entry gates, two of which, Malelane and Phabeni, are about a five-hour drive from Johannesburg. All of the most notable and famous South African wildlife species can be found here. Visit the park’s website to learn more.
Most popular rental car
The most popular rental car types in South Africa are mini, economy, and intermediate, while the most popular rental cars are the Nissan Micra, Hyundai i20, and Datsun Go.
Picking a smaller car is fine for getting around cities and traveling along major highways, but if you plan to explore some nature during your trip, getting a sturdier and more powerful vehicle might be necessary.
Driver license requirements
- South Africa recognizes foreign driver’s licenses if they are valid, if the license is in English, and if you are visiting on a trip that’s shorter than one year. If you’re a foreign national permanently residing in South Africa, you need to acquire a local license.
- If your driver’s license is not English, you need to provide an official translation or have an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Similarly, if your driver’s license doesn’t show your photograph, you might be required to have an IDP.
- Even if you have an IDP, you also need to carry the driver’s license from your country as you might be required to present both.
- You must carry your driver’s license, not a copy, with you at all times.
- You need to have had your driver’s license for at least two years.
- Some rental car suppliers charge a young driver fee for drivers between the ages of 22 and 25 and a senior driver fee for drivers over the age of 65.
- There may be additional requirements depending on the car supplier and category, so make sure to check rental conditions before booking.
Crossing Borders
South Africa has land borders with six countries — Lesotho (an enclave completely surrounded by South Africa), Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland).
South Africa and each of its six neighbors have their own unique visa policy, so, depending on your citizenship, you may or may not need a visa to visit them. If you plan to visit any of South Africa’s neighbors during your trip, make sure to consult your Ministry of Foreign Affairs in advance to find out about entry requirements for citizens of your country.
One-way rentals between South Africa and its neighboring countries are rarely permitted. You might find some suppliers that allow trips between South Africa and Lesotho, Eswatini, or Botswana, very few allowing trips to Mozambique and Namibia and likely none to Zimbabwe. You can find car rental companies that permit one-way rentals by entering your car pick-up and drop-off locations when searching. Another option is to drop off your car in South Africa, travel by public transportation, and pick up a new car when arriving at your destination.
Due to their proximity to popular South African destinations, some travelers might want to do a short car trip to Lesotho, Eswatini, Botswana, or Mozambique and later return to South Africa. However, if you plan to do this, make sure to not only check if you need a visa to visit the other country, but also to ask your rental car supplier in advance if they permit it. Most rental car companies do not permit crossing the border in a rental car (you might find some who permit entering Lesotho or Eswatini, but very few for Botswana and Mozambique).
Top driving routes
- Garden Route. Both a very scenic drive and a tourist attraction, the Garden Route is a 300km-long (180-mile) coastal stretch on the Western Cape. Home to the most beautiful beaches in South Africa (and, according to some, the world), it is known for the stunning views, surfing, Tsitsikamma National Park, and much more.
- Durban. Located on South Africa’s eastern coast, the country’s third-largest city is another rising travel destination. Notably influenced by its large Indian diaspora, it offers an interesting cultural heritage, as well as attractions like the coastal stretch of Golden Mile, skydiving, and many nearby nature areas.
- Northern Cape. Quite literally off the beaten track, the Northern Cape Province remains an uncharted territory for most foreign visitors. Traveling there takes some serious planning — there’s not much tourist infrastructure and even finding a gas station can be a challenge at times — but those who are serious enough about it will be rewarded with national parks with very few other visitors and hauntingly beautiful landscapes unlike anywhere else. Kimberly is the main city of the region, the location of an airport, and a good hub from which to explore the rest of the province.
Car Rental Prices
- Station wagons - from $50 per day
- Large cars - from $43 per day
- Medium cars - from $24 per day
- People Carriers/Vans - from $73 per day
- Premium cars - from $65 per day
- Small cars - from $20 per day
- SUVs - from $59 per day
How can I save money on my rental car?
You can do a number of things to get a good car rental deal in South Africa:
- Compare rates of different rental car providers
- Book your rental car well in advance
- Plan your route before you go
- Know your fuel and mileage requirements
- Visit on the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting South Africa is the cheapest in May when renting a car is about 29% cheaper than the yearly average and about 56% cheaper than renting a car in November.
Top 20 Most Popular Cities in South Africa
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Car Rental in Johannesburg from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental in Port Elizabeth from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental in Nelspruit from $20.56 per day
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Car Rental in Pretoria from $17.74 per day
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Car Rental in George from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental in East London from $9.10 per day
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Car Rental in Bloemfontein from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental in Pietermaritzburg from $14.00 per day
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Car Rental in Polokwane from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental in Stellenbosch from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental in Richards Bay from $14.00 per day
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Car Rental in Kimberley from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental in Upington from $14.00 per day
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Car Rental in Hermanus from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental in Paarl from $18.05 per day
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Car Rental in Sishen from $9.28 per day
Top 20 Most Popular Locations in South Africa
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Car Rental at Cape Town Airport from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental at Tambo International Airport from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental at Johannesburg Lanseria Airport from $14.00 per day
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Car Rental at King Shaka International Airport from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental at Port Elizabeth Airport from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental at George Airport from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental at Wonderboom Airport from $13.05 per day
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Car Rental at East London Airport from $14.00 per day
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Car Rental at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental at Nelspruit Airport from $19.61 per day
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Car Rental in Cape Town Milnerton from $28.34 per day
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Car Rental in Cape Town Century City from $18.05 per day
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Car Rental at Bloemfontein Airport from $10.29 per day
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Car Rental at Pietermaritzburg Airport from $14.00 per day
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Car Rental at Polokwane Airport from $10.29 per day
Map of Car Rental Locations
Which is the cheapest month to rent a car in South Africa?
The cost of renting a car in South Africa depends on the time of year. This graph compares price changes from month to month in order to find the best offer.
Average Rental Price in South Africa
The cheapest month of the year to rent a car in South Africa is May — prices start from $29.18 for an Economy class vehicle. This is 32% cheaper than the yearly average and 59% cheaper than renting a car in the month of November (when prices start at $71.44 for a Compact class). This information can help you identify the low season. But these are only average numbers. The exact price for your trip will depend on the length of your rental and the number of days until your rental period begins. Just enter your dates in the form at the top of the page to see exact prices and offers.
What’s the average rental length in South Africa?
The average length differs from month to month. The longest rental periods are in January — an average of 13 days. The shortest are in June — an average of 7 days.
Average Rental Length in South Africa
What’s the most popular time for renting a car in South Africa?
Discover Cars users search for cars in a lot of locations daily. We gathered this information in order to analyze car rental popularity in South Africa. The most popular month is October, while the least popular is June.
Popularity of Car Rental in South Africa by Monthly Searches
Most Popular Car Models of Rental Suppliers
| Rental Agency | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLUU | Kia Picanto | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
| Firefly | Toyota Agya | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Firefly | Toyota Starlet | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Hertz | Toyota Agya | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| BLUU | Hyundai i10 | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| Firefly | VW Polo | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| Firefly | Toyota Corolla Quest | 4 | 2 | Medium cars |
| BLUU | Hyundai i20 | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| Budget | VW Polo | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| BLUU | Audi A3 | 4 | 2 | Large cars |
Our Customers Reviews
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have an option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic, verified, and trustworthy.
TC
Spain
Audi A3
April 12, 2021
I am South African so l practically went home
KR
United Kingdom
Hyundai i20
March 6, 2021
My car hire was in South Africa, Capetown, for me this is thee most wonderful place, there is so much to do, see and experience in this beautiful country. Hiking, sampling the most exquisite vineyards, gourmet meals alongside the everyday meal, both are to an exceptionally high standard, water adventures along with all of the other sights that the Cape has to offer. I could wax lyrical however that would be too boring for the reader, I’d strongly suggest just come to this country and experience it for yourself.
CA
United Kingdom
Toyota Starlet
February 21, 2021
But not for you!
JH
South Africa
Kia Picanto
February 17, 2021
I was around in Ekurhuleni visiting my relatives. Relax and enjoy your trips, park the car in a safe place during the day and at night and remember to drive according to the road speed limit.
GB
South Africa
Nissan Qasqhai
February 17, 2021
I will rent provided that i don't get a Haval. If the only car available is a Haval then i will definitely look somewhere else, mind you there was nothing wrong with car per say. I just found it annoying that i couldn't even connect my cellphone through Bluetooth.
NZ
United Kingdom
Hyundai i20
January 20, 2021
I visited Sun City in North West and Sudwala caves in Mpumalanga provinces,Mount Amanzi and many other little resorts around Jo,burg
I thoroughly enjoyed my stay knowing my car would take me anywhere without hassles
RY
South Africa
VW Polo Vivo
January 8, 2021
Great place
MM
South Africa
Nissan Micra
December 19, 2020
Do not go to Kimberley, there are more potholes than road. There's an amazing Karoo accommodation called Sweetfontein Boutique Farm Lodge near Bristown, this place is exceptional if you want peace, quiet and space and Karoo landscape. The area around Bethlehem and Clarens and Ficksburg is very very beautiful and peaceful. Durban accommodation is affordable and the sea is warm in winter.
MN
South Africa
Nissan Almera
October 5, 2020
The service is great
EE
South Africa
Kia Picanto
September 27, 2020
I visited my family only
TL
South Africa
Datsun Go
July 14, 2020
I have only ever rented through Firefly and Hertz and they have just been the best. I can highly recommend them.
MM
South Africa
Toyota Corolla
March 28, 2020
Durban weather is great!! Generally Durban people are friendly and loving ❤️
JB
South Africa
Hyundai i10
March 19, 2020
We stayed out of town at Chintsa it was a lovely getaway for the week end.
DB
Israel
Ford Fiesta
March 19, 2020
We did an amazing road trip into the western cape
LH
South Africa
Kia Picanto
February 26, 2020
The Cape Coast is very beautiful. A definite must is Paternoster. But please don't buy the Crayfish, they are on our red list and in short supply.
SR
South Africa
Renault Clio
February 25, 2020
Stick on highway to airport for as long as possible. Don't go through the suburb's
HG
South Africa
Toyota Rav4
February 10, 2020
Easy to find, friendly representative, car clean and in excellent condition.
IO
United Kingdom
Honda BR-V
January 12, 2020
I felt safer than expected given the publicity. Would recommend the apartheid museum, Rhino and Lion park and going up to the Pilanesberg.
CR
Canada
Toyota Corolla
January 6, 2020
Since they were a few shops down we didn't locate them immediately , but once we did it was pretty slick--no hassles--on our way in no time!
RL
South Africa
VW Polo
December 30, 2019
Excelent service
Top 9 Suppliers in South Africa in 2021
Hertz
+27219354760
GH04, Crystal towers, Century Blvd, Century City, Cape Town, 7441
Working hours
Mon:08:00-17:00
Tue:08:00-17:00
Wed:08:00-17:00
Thu:08:00-17:00
Fri:08:00-17:00
Sat:08:00-12:00
SIXT
+27112309999
Cape Town Int. Airport
Keddy
+27219358600
Cape Town International Airport
Working hours
Mon:00:01-23:59
Tue:00:01-23:59
Wed:00:01-23:59
Thu:00:01-23:59
Fri:00:01-23:59
Sat:00:01-23:59
Sun:00:01-23:59
Europcar
+27219358600
Car Rental Terminal, Parow East, 7501 Cape Town
Working hours
Mon:00:01-23:59
Tue:00:01-23:59
Wed:00:01-23:59
Thu:00:01-23:59
Fri:00:01-23:59
Sat:00:01-23:59
Sun:00:01-23:59
BLUU
+27219272750
Cape Town Intl Airport, Main Building Unit BG12, Central Car Rental Building, Central Boulevard 7525
Working hours
Mon:06:00-21:00
Tue:06:00-21:00
Wed:06:00-21:00
Thu:06:00-21:00
Fri:06:00-21:00
Sat:06:00-21:00
Sun:06:00-21:00
Budget
+27219278800
Cape Town International Apt
Working hours
Mon:00:00-23:59
Tue:00:00-23:59
Wed:00:00-23:59
Thu:00:00-23:59
Fri:00:00-23:59
Sat:00:00-23:59
Sun:00:00-23:59
Avis
27219278800
Cape Town International Apt
Working hours
Mon:00:00-23:59
Tue:00:00-23:59
Wed:00:00-23:59
Thu:00:00-23:59
Fri:00:00-23:59
Sat:00:00-23:59
Sun:00:00-23:59
Thrifty ZA
+270219362121 / +270796878773
Unit BG6 Car Rental Building, Central Boulevard, Cape Town International Airport, Cape Town, 7525
Working hours
Mon:07:00-20:00
Tue:07:00-20:00
Wed:07:00-20:00
Thu:07:00-20:00
Fri:07:00-20:00
Sat:07:00-20:00
Sun:07:00-20:00
GreenMotion
+27313503383 / +27828852750
33/34 Huguenot Rd, Franschhoek, Cape Town, 7690
Working hours
Mon:00:00-23:59
Tue:00:00-23:59
Wed:00:00-23:59
Thu:00:00-23:59
Fri:00:00-23:59
Sat:00:00-23:59
Sun:00:00-23:59