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South Africa

Cheap Car Hire in South Africa from R228

This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a Cheapflights user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car hire in South Africa with a pick-up date of 23/12 and drop-off date of 31/1. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of hire. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
Driver's age: 26-65
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South Africa car hires in 2024

Get helpful information to start your search for the perfect car hire in South Africa. The average price data is based on the last 12 months and was last updated on 18 December 2024.

Most popular company

CarWiz

Most common car type

Economy

Average price per day

R847

Cheapest price per day

R228

What are the car hire prices for popular cities in South Africa?

Discover the price range for hiring a car in popular cities across South Africa, helping you budget and make informed decisions for your upcoming travel. There are 796 pickup locations in South Africa to choose from. Price data has been averaged over the last 12 months and was last updated on 18 December 2024.

Price

R287 - R415

Out of all the popular cities in South Africa, Bloemfontein is the cheapest city to hire a car in at just R287/day. Hiring a car in Bloemfontein is 31% cheaper than hiring one in Richards Bay where the per day rate is around R415. Other fairly inexpensive cities in South Africa to get a car hire in are: Durban (R294/day), Port Elizabeth (R302/day), and Johannesburg (R308/day). While these cities typically have cheaper prices than the rest of the country, travellers looking to hire a car in Cape Town should expect to spend around R412/day on their transportation. The most popular city to hire a car in South Africa is Cape Town.

What is the cheapest time to rent a car in South Africa?

Discover the most affordable period to rent a car in South Africa and save money on your trip. The monthly average price data is based on historical data over the last year and was last updated on 18 December 2024.

January

R486

February

R576

March

R576

April

R594

May

R594

June

R576

July

R540

August

R522

September

R540

October

R594

November

R558

December

R576

Currently, the cheapest month to rent a car in South Africa is January. The most expensive time to rent a car is April. The cheapest prices for each month are shown above, but prices will vary based on availability, how far out you book your rental car, and of course, car type.

Popular car types in South Africa

Explore the most popular car models available for hire in South Africa and choose the one that suits your needs. The price data is sourced from various car hire companies and was last updated on 18 December 2024.

There are, in total, 1 340 car hire locations in South Africa that are operated by 35 companies. In the past week, small car is the cheapest car type users can hire (cheapest price last found: R249/day). Explore 6 car types currently offered from South Africa hire providers:

Economy

Economy

Compact

Compact

Intermediate

Intermediate

Full-size

Full-size

People carrier

People carrier

Full-size SUV

Full-size SUV

Mini

Mini

Premium

Premium

R1 264+

Compare available car types for rental in South Africa

Compare and contrast the various car types offered for hire in South Africa to find the perfect fit for your trip. Price data is based on averages over the last 12 months and was last updated on 18 December 2024.

Small cars

R453 - R739

All Car Types

R977 - R1 698

To hire a small car in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R591/day. August is the cheapest month to hire a small car in South Africa (~R453/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is February (~R739/day). In fact, August is about 24% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a small car hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a small car saves you 54% in costs. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa small car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a medium car in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R1 321/day. December is the cheapest month to hire a medium car in South Africa (~R1 092/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is February (~R1 696/day). In fact, December is about 18% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a medium car hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a medium car is 4% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa medium car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a large car in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R2 160/day. November is the cheapest month to hire a large car in South Africa (~R1 851/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is February (~R2 706/day). In fact, November is about 15% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a large car hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a large car is 42% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa large car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a SUV in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R1 453/day. June is the cheapest month to hire a SUV in South Africa (~R1 172/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is February (~R1 980/day). In fact, June is about 20% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a SUV hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a SUV is 13% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa SUV hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a van in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R1 905/day. September is the cheapest month to hire a van in South Africa (~R1 504/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is February (~R2 530/day). In fact, September is about 22% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a van hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a van is 34% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa van hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a pickup truck in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R1 789/day. July is the cheapest month to hire a pickup truck in South Africa (~R1 300/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is January (~R2 510/day). In fact, July is about 28% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a pickup truck hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a pickup truck is 30% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa pickup truck hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a luxury car in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R2 426/day. November is the cheapest month to hire a luxury car in South Africa (~R1 811/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is February (~R2 974/day). In fact, November is about 26% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a luxury car hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a luxury car is 48% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity.

Volkswagen PoloR249/day
2
M
A/C
Volkswagen Polo
Chevrolet SparkR250/day
2
M
A/C
Chevrolet Spark
Volkswagen Polo VivoR262/day
2
M
A/C
Volkswagen Polo Vivo

Tips for hiring a car in South Africa

Browse helpful tips for hiring a car in South Africa including age restrictions, car type suggestions and more. Tips were last updated on 18 December 2024.
  • South Africa boasts an extensive network of well-maintained roads, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking to hire a car. The N1 is the country's longest road, spanning from Cape Town to Johannesburg, offering a scenic journey through diverse landscapes. The N2 runs along the beautiful Garden Route, showcasing coastal splendour. The N3 is the primary route between Johannesburg and Durban, often travelled for business and leisure. Additionally, the N4 connects Pretoria to Mozambique, passing through Mpumalanga's scenic panoramas. These major routes are just a glimpse of the country's road network, ensuring that hiring a car in South Africa opens up a world of exploration, from breathtaking coastlines to lush national parks.
  • Tolls are a common feature on many major highways and roads in South Africa. One of the most well-known toll routes is the N1 between Johannesburg and Pretoria. Other major toll routes include the N3 between Johannesburg and Durban, the N4 between Pretoria and Nelspruit and the N2 along the Garden Route. In addition to these highways, various other roads and bridges across the country may also have tolls. These tolls help fund road maintenance and development. Travellers looking to hire a car in South Africa should be prepared to pay tolls when using these routes, and it's advisable to carry cash for this purpose, as not all toll booths accept credit cards.
  • In South Africa, having a credit card is often a standard requirement when hiring a car. Most hire agencies prefer credit cards because they can pre-authorise funds for the hire deposit and any potential additional charges, such as fuel, insurance or damage fees. However, some hire companies may accept debit cards, provided they have the necessary funds available for the pre-authorisation. It's essential for travellers to check with their chosen hire agency regarding their specific payment policies and requirements. Having a credit card can make the process smoother, but it's possible to find agencies that accommodate debit card hires with certain conditions and restrictions.

Top rental agencies in South Africa

Explore the leading car hire agencies in South Africa known for their outstanding service and extensive range of vehicles to choose from. There are currently 8 car hire companies in South Africa. Reviews were last updated on 18 December 2024.
Book your reservation with one of the top car hiring agencies located in South Africa, including those serving the greater Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban area. Browse through some of the top car hire agencies in South Africa, including locations around Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban.

keddy by Europcar

138 locations

Bluu

114 locations

Avis

108 locations

Bidvest

104 locations

Budget

99 locations

Europcar

81 locations

1First Car Rental

76 locations

Sunnycars

76 locations

Best South Africa car hire deals found

Browse through a selection of recently found affordable car hiredeals in South Africa. Plan your trip with ease and find the perfect rental option for your needs. There are currently 8 hire car agencies in South Africa with an average daily rate of R552. Data was last updated on 18 December 2024.
These are some of the most attractive deals we've found on car hires within the South Africa region, including options close to Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. If these deals don't match what you're looking for, not to worry -- deals are updated on a regular basis.
Volkswagen PoloR249/day
2
M
A/C
Volkswagen Polo
Chevrolet SparkR250/day
2
M
A/C
Chevrolet Spark
Volkswagen Polo VivoR262/day
2
M
A/C
Volkswagen Polo Vivo

Car hire FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions about car hires in South Africa, including policies, requirements, and more. FAQs were last updated on 18 December 2024.
  • Should I hire a car in South Africa?

    Hiring a car in South Africa is often a smart choice, primarily due to the limited availability and reliability of public transport in certain areas. While major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg have decent public transit systems, many of South Africa's most captivating attractions, like Kruger National Park, the Garden Route and Drakensberg Mountains, are located in more remote or less urbanised regions where public transport options are limited. Having a hire car provides the freedom to explore these picturesque areas at your own pace. You can embark on safari adventures, visit quaint coastal towns and enjoy scenic drives through the country's diverse landscapes.

  • What is driving like in South Africa?

    Driving in South Africa offers a mix of experiences. While major highways are well-maintained, rural roads may have potholes and rough surfaces. Adherence to road rules varies, with some drivers following diligently while others exhibiting risky behaviour. Defensive driving is recommended. Minibus taxis, a popular mode of public transportation, can be unpredictable, often stopping abruptly and sometimes disregarding road rules. Despite these challenges, driving allows you to explore South Africa's diverse landscapes and attractions at your own pace, making it a rewarding way to experience the country. Staying vigilant and adaptable is crucial for a safe and enjoyable journey.

  • How old do I have to be to hire a car in South Africa?

    In South Africa, the minimum age requirement to hire a car is typically 18 years old, although some hire companies may require hirers to be at least 23 or 25 years old, depending on the agency and the car category. Drivers under the age of 25 often face an additional charge known as the "young driver surcharge" due to the perceived higher risk associated with younger drivers. To hire a car, you will need a valid driver's licence, and international visitors should have an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in English. It's essential to check with your chosen hire agency for specific age policies to understand any associated fees or restrictions before making a reservation, as they can vary between companies.

  • Which car hire company is considered to be the best in South Africa?

    Taking our users’ ratings and reviews into consideration, Thrifty (10,0 rating), keddy by Europcar (10,0 rating) and 1First Car Rental (9,5 rating) seem to be the best car hire companies in South Africa.

  • What is the most popular car hire provider in South Africa?

    The most popular car hire company at South Africa is Avis. With prices on ECONOMY starting at R278/day about 556% more people book with Avis than other companies in the country.

  • What is the cheapest city to get a rental car in South Africa?

    At R430/day, it is 55% cheaper on average to rent a car in Margate than any other city in South Africa. The cheapest price found in South Africa was for R297/day in Margate.

  • What side of the road do you drive on in South Africa?

    Cars in South Africa are to be driven on the left side of the road.

Small car hires in South Africa

Find small car hire deals in South Africa from well-known providers in the area and save on gas mileage with the options provided below. small car hires in South Africa cost an average of R298 per day. Price data was last updated on 18 December 2024.
Suzuki SwiftR228/day
2
M
A/C
Suzuki Swift
Chevrolet SparkR247/day
2
M
A/C
Chevrolet Spark
Renault KwidR250/day
2
M
A/C
Renault Kwid

Car hires by fuel type in South Africa

Browse car hires by fuel type in South Africa. Currently, Petrol/Diesel cars are the cheapest to rent in South Africa. Deals were last updated on 18 December 2024.

Browse through car hire deals by fuel type in South Africa. There are currently 2 fuel types to choose from with Petrol/Diesel being the cheapest (R22+).

Hybrid

Hybrid

Petrol/Diesel

Petrol/Diesel

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