Car Rental in Johannesburg
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The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 00:47 on 2021-04-19. 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 Johannesburg?
Johannesburg is one of the most impressive urban centers in Africa. From grand history to varied cultural influences and countless landmarks, this city has plenty to offer, but it’s number one attraction is its unique atmosphere. Get a rental car and see as much as you can, and then travel to nearby cities and natural areas!
One-Way Car Rentals in Johannesburg
The most popular one-way rental options for pick up in Johannesburg and drop off in another city include:
- From Johannesburg to Cape Town - 247 offers from US$ 22.59 per day
- From Johannesburg to Durban - 219 offers from US$ 22.53 per day
- From Johannesburg to Bloemfontein - 89 offers from US$ 22.59 per day
- From Johannesburg to Nelspruit - 51 offers from US$ 22.59 per day
- From Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth - 89 offers from US$ 22.59 per day
Top ways to enter Johannesburg
- Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport. With 21 million travelers served every year, Johannesburg Airport is one of the busiest in Africa. It has domestic air routes, flights to other African countries, and flights to Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The airport is about 20 km (12 mi) northeast of the city center.
- Johannesburg Lanseria Airport. The smaller of the two international airports serving Johannesburg, Lanseria is 47 km (29 mi) northwest of downtown Johannesburg. As of 2019, the airport only has domestic flights.
- Gaborone Airport. Serving the capital of neighboring Botswana, this international airport is just a five-hour drive from Johannesburg. Do keep in mind, however, that you’d be crossing a national border, so first, make sure that your car rental provider permits it.
- Durban King Shaka Airport. Located on the Indian Ocean, this international airport serves Durban, South Africa’s third largest metropolis. It is about a six-hour drive east of Johannesburg.
- By rail. If you arrive in Johannesburg by train, you can conveniently pick up your rental car at Johannesburg Park Station.
Useful city facts
Although only 957,000 people live in Johannesburg proper, its wider metro region has a population of more than 9 million, making it one of the 50 most populous urban areas in the world. It is also the fourth largest city in Africa, with only Cairo, Lagos, and Kinshasa having a higher population.
Locals sometimes say that Johannesburg is Africa in miniature. Indeed, you can find Somali, Nigerian, Ethiopian, Cameroonian, Sudanese, and many other ethnic neighborhoods in the city, each with their own culture, cuisine, and atmosphere that is fascinating to explore.
Top destinations and activities
- Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden. There are many beautiful nature reserves near Johannesburg, but even within the city, you can find large green areas. Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden is home to such different animals as reptiles, jackals, and beautiful Verreaux eagles. Learn more about the opportunity to visit from the garden’s official website.
- The Apartheid Museum. Telling the very important story of South Africa’s recent complicated past, the Apartheid Museum is one of the landmarks of Johannesburg. The museum includes many artifacts, testimonies, pictures, and videos from the victims and survivors of the Apartheid regime.
- Origins Centre - The South African Museum of Rock Art. Telling the story not only of South Africans, but, quite possibly, of all humanity, the Origins Center features many unique fossils, artworks, and other artifacts from prehistory. The museum is located on the campus of the University of the Witwatersrand, locally known as “Wits”.
- The South African Museum of Rock Art. Also known as the Wits Origins Center, this unique museum is dedicated to the different peoples that used to inhabit the area. With a collection of rock art, fossils, stone tools, weapons, and other artifacts, it provides a fascinating glimpse into a way of life that once was. The museum is located on the West campus of the University of Witwatersrand in the Braamfontein area where you can also find a very fun night market taking place every Saturday.
Traffic and parking tips
- Unless specifically indicated otherwise, the speed limits are 120 km/h (74.5 mph) on freeways, 100 km/h (62 mph) on any public road outside of an urban area that is not a freeway, and 60 km/h (37 mph) on any public road within an urban or built-up area.
- Plan your route around the city in advance and always ask trustworthy locals for advice. While many parts of Johannesburg are safe, certain areas are not, and you would not want to drive or get stranded in them.
- The legal alcohol limit is 0.05% per 100ml of blood and 0.24% per 1000 ml of breath for experienced drivers and is 0.00% for novice drivers. Exceeding the allowed limit can lead to large fines, deportation, or imprisonment.
- Proof of insurance and the car’s registration needs to be in the car whenever you’re driving.
- If you’re the driver, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
Toll roads
There are many toll roads in South Africa. However, unlike in most of the world, no payments are made on the highway, neither in cash nor by credit card. Instead, a vehicle is identified either by an electronic tag that is on the vehicle or by the vehicle’s licence plate number.
Many rental cars are equipped with an e-tag that will be used for making toll payments. Some rental car providers will charge an additional fee for this service. Ask your car rental provider about it beforehand.
The exact fee for using the toll roads depends on the type of road. See more information about the latest toll road fees on this website.
If your rental car is not equipped with an e-tag, the bill for using the toll roads will be sent to your car rental provider. Due to delays in the South African toll road system, you could be billed and charged after the end of your rental period.
Ideas for a day-trip
For more about traveling around South Africa with a rental car, check out our complete guide.
- Old Kromdraai Gold Mine. One of the oldest mines in South Africa, gold was extracted in Old Kromdraai before the big gold rush of South Africa began. If you visit, also drive to the nearby Wonder Caves, a truly impressive place that’s believed to be more than 2.2 billion years old. The gold mine is located about 40 minutes northwest of Johannesburg.
- Lion & Safari Park. Visiting this nature area will let you see lions, as well as giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and many other animals. It is possible to drive through the lion enclosures, but for safety reasons, make sure that your windows are closed at all times. The Lion Park is about an hour’s drive north of Johannesburg.
- Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve. A mouthful to pronounce, but a truly beautiful place, Suikerbosrand is the place to go when you want to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are many great hiking trails or spots for picnics and relaxation. The reserve’s inhabitants include aardvarks, kudus, cape foxes, and hyenas. The nature reserve is just a 35-minute drive south of Johannesburg.
- Cradle of Humankind. With a similar theme as the Museum of Rock Art, the Cradle of Humankind is an archaeological site where some of the oldest human fossils have been found. Found in the long cave systems of the area, these early inhabitants are estimated to be more than 2.3 million years old. Many of the caves are now open to tourists, and some can even be explored by boat. There is also the Cradle of Mankind Exhibition and Education Center (located in nearby Maropeng), and a rhino and lion nature reserve. Located just some 50 km (31 miles) northwest of Johannesburg, the site can be reached in about one hour.
Most popular rental types and cars
The most popular rental car type in Johannesburg is mini, followed by economy and compact. The most popular rental car is the Kia Picanto. Travelers also pick the Toyota Corolla and the Ford Figo AMB a lot.
Further destinations
- Durban. The third-largest city in South Africa is an interesting place to visit. Located on the coast of the Indian Ocean, it is known for the beautiful Golden Mile, surfing, awesome diving (and skydiving), a good number of interesting museums, green areas, and some of the best, Indian-influenced cuisine in all of the country. Located about 570 km (354 miles) southeast of Johannesburg, it can be reached in six hours.
- Botswana. A country with perhaps even more impressive wildlife areas than South Africa (largely thanks, perhaps, to its much lower population density), Botswana is a destination you don’t want to miss if you’re in the region. Calm and relaxed, it is best enjoyed at your own pace and with the freedom of your own ride. Botswana’s capital Gaborone is just around a four-and-a-half hour drive northeast of Johannesburg. Keep in mind that you’ll be crossing a national border, so first, ask if your car rental provider permits this. Alternatively, you can drop off your rental car in South Africa and pick up another in Botswana. Also, check to see if you require a visa to enter Botswana and the process for obtaining one if so.
- Lesotho. A small country surrounded on all sides by South Africa, Lesotho is known as the Kingdom of the Sky thanks to its high altitude. This means that it is also one of the coldest countries of Africa, but the immense hospitality of the locals and the breathtaking views from its mountains more than make up for it. Maseru, Lesotho’s capital, is just a tad more than a four-hour drive south of Johannesburg. Keep in mind that you’ll be crossing a national border, so first, ask if your car rental provider permits it. Alternatively, you can drop off your rental car in South Africa and pick up another in Lesotho. It should also be noted that Lesotho’s entry requirements may significantly differ from those of South Africa, so be sure to check if you require a visa or not.
- Eswatini. Previously known as Swaziland, the Kingdom of Eswatini is another small and fascinating country bordered only by South Africa and Mozambique. An absolute monarchy, but much more accessible to citizens of most countries than Lesotho or many other African destinations, Swaziland attracts visitors with its unique culture, wildlife areas, and surprisingly diverse nature. Its capital Mbabane is just a four-hour drive west of Johannesburg. Do keep in mind that you’ll be crossing a national border, so first, ask if your car rental provider permits it. Alternatively, you can drop off your rental car in South Africa and pick up another in Swaziland. Also, be sure to check the latest visa requirements.
Car Rental Prices in Johannesburg
- Large cars - from $39 per day
- Medium cars - from $25 per day
- People Carriers/Vans - from $77 per day
- Premium cars - from $60 per day
- Small cars - from $20 per day
- SUVs - from $58 per day
How can I save money on my rental car?
These are some of the tricks you can try to land a good car rental deal in Johannesburg:
- Compare the 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 during the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Johannesburg is the cheapest in November when renting a car is about 53% cheaper than the yearly average. Come see Johannesburg in South African spring!
Top 12 Cities near Johannesburg
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Durban Car Rentals from $18.29 per day515.3 km / 320.2 miles away
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Nelspruit Car Rentals from $10.60 per day323.2 km / 200.8 miles away
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Port Elizabeth Car Rentals from $10.60 per day907.4 km / 563.8 miles away
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Pretoria Car Rentals from $18.29 per day45.8 km / 28.5 miles away
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Bloemfontein Car Rentals from $10.60 per day373.1 km / 231.8 miles away
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East London Car Rentals from $9.38 per day753.2 km / 468.0 miles away
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Pietermaritzburg Car Rentals from $14.43 per day462.6 km / 287.4 miles away
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Polokwane Car Rentals from $10.60 per day290.4 km / 180.4 miles away
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Richards Bay Car Rentals from $14.43 per day502.5 km / 312.2 miles away
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Upington Car Rentals from $14.43 per day711.8 km / 442.3 miles away
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Kimberley Car Rentals from $10.60 per day437.8 km / 272.1 miles away
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Sishen Car Rentals from $9.56 per day523.2 km / 325.1 miles away
Top 20 Locations near Johannesburg
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Johannesburg Lanseria Airport Car Rentals from $14.43 per day16.8 km / 10.4 miles away
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O.R. Tambo International Airport Car Rentals from $10.60 per day27.3 km / 17.0 miles away
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Pretoria Hatfield Car Rentals from $18.29 per day45.8 km / 28.5 miles away
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Wonderboom Airport Car Rentals from $13.45 per day53.9 km / 33.5 miles away
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Polokwane Airport Car Rentals from $10.60 per day290.4 km / 180.4 miles away
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Nelspruit Airport Car Rentals from $20.22 per day301.3 km / 187.2 miles away
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Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport Car Rentals from $10.60 per day323.2 km / 200.8 miles away
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Bloemfontein Airport Car Rentals from $10.60 per day373.1 km / 231.8 miles away
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Kimberley Airport Car Rentals from $10.60 per day437.8 km / 272.1 miles away
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Pietermaritzburg Airport Car Rentals from $14.43 per day462.6 km / 287.4 miles away
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King Shaka International Airport Car Rentals from $10.60 per day499.2 km / 310.2 miles away
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Richards Bay Airport Car Rentals from $14.43 per day502.5 km / 312.2 miles away
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Sishen Airport Car Rentals from $9.56 per day523.2 km / 325.1 miles away
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Upington Airport Car Rentals from $14.43 per day711.8 km / 442.3 miles away
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East London Fort Hare University Car Rentals from $9.38 per day753.2 km / 468.0 miles away
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East London Airport Car Rentals from $14.43 per day773.2 km / 480.4 miles away
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Port Elizabeth Rhodes University - Grahamstown Car Rentals from $8.95 per day816.4 km / 507.3 miles away
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Port Elizabeth Airport Car Rentals from $10.60 per day907.4 km / 563.8 miles away
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George Airport Car Rentals from $10.60 per day1032.0 km / 641.3 miles away
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Paarl Val De Vie Car Rentals from $18.61 per day1219.7 km / 757.9 miles away
Map of Car Rental Locations
Which is the cheapest month to rent a car in Johannesburg?
Car rental prices in Johannesburg vary a lot according to the time of year. This graph compares month-to-month price changes to help you find the best offer.
Average Rental Price in Johannesburg
The best month to rent a car in Johannesburg is November (when prices for an Economy class start from $19.34). This is 54% cheaper than the yearly average and 71% cheaper than renting in January (when rental prices start at $66.42 for a Compact class). Knowing this can help you find the best price.
What’s the usual rental length in Johannesburg?
Travel lengths vary from month to month: in May, travelers rent a car for an average of 16 days in October, the average rental period is 7 days.
Average Rental Length in Johannesburg
What's the most popular month to rent a car in Johannesburg?
While travelers visit Johannesburg year-round, the most popular month for renting a car is October, and the least popular is September.
Popularity of Car Rental in Johannesburg by Monthly Searches
Most Popular Car Models of Rental Suppliers
| Rental Agency | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firefly | Toyota Starlet | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Firefly | Toyota Agya | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Bidvest | Kia Picanto | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
| Firefly | Toyota Corolla Quest | 4 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Firefly | Toyota Fortuner | 5 | 1 | SUVs |
| Budget | VW Polo | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| Hertz | Toyota Starlet | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Firefly | VW Polo | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| Bidvest | Hyundai i20 | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| Bidvest | Toyota Rav4 | 5 | 3 | SUVs |
Our Customers Reviews
MC
South Africa
Datsun Go
November 13, 2020
Plan your route well before leaving the airport.
DL
South Africa
Kia Picanto
September 19, 2020
be sure to have waze or google maps on your phone or installed in the car for ease of finding your way around. in Joburg always stick to main routes due to high crime rates; never leave your hire car in the street over night. try to rent the best quality car you can afford and insist that an inspector checks the car with you on site before driving off.
CJ
Australia
Datsun Go
March 7, 2020
I visited the Lion Park, SWOETO, Mandela House, Sendton, The King’s Empire mall, stayed in Kempton Park and went to Sun City while in Joburg. I also had the opportunity to get my hair done in the city of Joburg.
The trip was spectacular because it was my first time in Africa and SA has been on my bucket list for some time now. I especially enjoyed the Lion Park and my tour around SWOETO up to Beverly Hills and the food and clothing locally made.
South Africa 🇿🇦 is beautiful
SB
India
VW Kombi
September 29, 2019
It is a long drive to Kruger park. Allow at least 5 hours from airport. The roads to the park and in the park are good roads. Have cash as there are many tolls to pay.
WF
South Africa
Toyota Corolla
September 27, 2019
It was great having my own transport in Johannesburg, the car provided comfort and space.
GPS helped us get where we need to be, promptly while driving in Johannesburg and Pretoria. However trying to return the car to the Hertz drop off point, should be programmed into the GPS systems that work underground.
ED
India
Toyota Fortuner
June 18, 2019
A great place, centrally located which gives good access to numerous tourist attractions around the wider locality.
MK
Australia
Honda BR-V
May 28, 2019
Johannesburg makes for challenging driving, otherwise trips to the coast and to Kruger Park are to be highly recommended. Stopping at service stations in South Africa is a real treat 😎
PD
United Kingdom
Chevrolet Spark Lite
March 1, 2019
Beautiful surrounding areas. Stay safe and always communicate with the locals regarding high risk areas, especially at night.
VK
United Kingdom
Toyota Corolla
January 11, 2019
Johannesburg roads are easy to navigate but always be vigilante. The outskirts near Pretoria have hidden gems such as game sanctuaries and wilderness easy to drive to for day trips with lots of friendly helpful people. Drove from South Africa to Zimbabwe all paperwork to cross over was in order making it an easy passage. beautiful scenery Mussina South Africa to Gwanda Zimbabwe good for the thrill seekers whether hiking or cycling.
CB
United Kingdom
Toyota Corolla
December 7, 2018
South Africa is a great place to visit, varied and beautiful countryside, I would thoroughly recommend it
NH
United Kingdom
Toyota Avanza
November 7, 2018
Pilanesberg wonderful
Dinokeng ( Pride of Africa, Siyaya Bush Lodge) fantastic
VH
Ireland
VW Polo
November 7, 2018
I was travelling up to Marloth park in Mpumalanga province. It was about 5 HR drive from the airport. It wouldn't have been easy to get there without a car. A map or GPS is necessary to find your way out of Johannesburg from the airport as the signs don't give much information. Better signage on the return journey but again I needed a map to find a petrol station to refill car as there is none very close to the airport.
MB
United Kingdom
Toyota Avanza
September 15, 2018
Driving in Johannesburg is quite daunting as it seems there are no road rules and you have to have your wits about you. Pedestrians run out in front of cars which is scary. We have lived in South Africa and found it tricky to navigate the roads. Hiring a car is the only way to get around though, so grit your teeth and good luck!
EK
Slovenia
Ford Fiesta
July 8, 2018
Rather hectic to get out of the city. If you're not used to driving on the left sidenof the road, managing this plus the busy roads to get out of the city isn't so easy.
MG
Argentina
Toyota Corolla
June 11, 2018
Rent a car the first day you arrived Johannesburg is the best option to enjoy this city and to travel around south africa
Top 9 Suppliers in Johannesburg in 2021
Hertz
+270115493100 / +27112882799
Monument Toyota, Cnr Hendrik Potgieter & Rhinoceros Roads, Weltevreden Park
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
SIXT
+27100012514
Cnr Rietfontein&North Rand Rd
Keddy
+27115489000
Main Terminal Building
Working hours
Mon:08:00-20:30
Tue:08:00-20:30
Wed:08:00-20:30
Thu:08:00-20:30
Fri:08:00-20:30
Sat:08:00-20:30
Sun:08:00-20:30
Bidvest
+27873507747
Corner Hammer Ave, Gerhardus St, Strydompark, Johannesburg, 1679
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:08:00-13:00
Sun:08:00-13:00
Europcar
+27113903909
O.R. Tambo International Airport Kempton Park, O.R. Tambo, Johannesburg, 1627
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:08:00-13:00
Budget
+27116591415
Lanseria Airport
Working hours
Mon:06:00-20:00
Tue:06:00-20:00
Wed:06:00-20:00
Thu:06:00-20:00
Fri:06:00-20:00
Sat:06:00-20:00
Sun:06:00-20:00
Avis
27116591415
Lanseria Airport
Working hours
Mon:06:00-20:00
Tue:06:00-20:00
Wed:06:00-20:00
Thu:06:00-20:00
Fri:06:00-20:00
Sat:06:00-20:00
Sun:06:00-20:00
Thrifty ZA
+27112305087 / +27762554465
Lanseria International Airport, Airport Road, Lanseria, 1739
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:07:00-12:00
Sun:13:00-18:00
GreenMotion
+27119756790 / +27716800727
Airport Rd, Lanseria, 1748
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