Johannesburg Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Johannesburg

Renting a car in Johannesburg offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, visiting key attractions such as Nelson Mandela Square, Gold Reef City Theme Park, and the Apartheid Museum becomes a convenient and enjoyable experience. You can manage your luggage easily and adapt your travel plans without being tied to public transport schedules.

A rental car is particularly beneficial for various types of travellers, whether you are seeking a city-themed adventure, family experiences, or a business trip. You can also venture to nearby destinations like Pretoria, where you can see the Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument, or explore Kempton Park, which features the South African National Museum of Military History. Additionally, the Sandton neighbourhood offers attractions such as the Johannesburg Botanical Garden and 4th Avenue Parkhurst. Overall, having your own vehicle allows you to make the most of your time in and around Johannesburg, ensuring a comfortable and flexible trip experience.

Most popular car rentals in Johannesburg

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for many travellers in Johannesburg, accommodating up to 5 people with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking for an economical and efficient way to explore the city. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate urban areas while still providing comfort and flexibility for your travel plans.
• Compact: If you're travelling with up to 5 passengers and require a bit more luggage space, the Compact car is an excellent option. With capacity for up to 3 medium suitcases, it strikes a balance between size and efficiency. Ideal for families and couples, this car type allows you to travel comfortably while enjoying the freedom to explore Johannesburg and its nearby attractions at your leisure.
• Midsize: The Midsize car is designed for couples or families needing extra luggage space, accommodating up to 5 travellers with room for 3 large suitcases. This option offers a comfortable ride while ensuring you have ample space for your belongings. Perfect for those who prefer a bit more room without sacrificing maneuverability, the Midsize car provides a great blend of comfort and practicality for your Johannesburg journey.

Top rated car suppliers in Johannesburg

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Johannesburg, offering 2 rental locations throughout the area. Known for its quick pickup and well-maintained vehicles, Alamo’s most booked options include the Economy SUV and Midsize cars. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of their vehicles and the hassle-free return process, making it a reliable choice for exploring Johannesburg at your own pace.
• Sixt: With 2 rental locations in Johannesburg, Sixt is another top supplier that caters to diverse needs. Travellers often opt for the Fullsize Van and Midsize vehicles, which are ideal for families or groups. Sixt is praised for its efficient service and well-maintained fleet, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience during your stay in the city.
• Avis: Avis stands out with over 5 rental locations in Johannesburg, providing extensive accessibility for travellers. Their most booked vehicles include the Economy and Mini cars, perfect for navigating the urban landscape. Avis is well-regarded for its customer service and competitive pricing, making it an excellent option for those looking to explore both Johannesburg and its surrounding areas conveniently.

Where to stay in Johannesburg

• Pretoria: Located near Johannesburg, Pretoria offers a blend of cultural and family experiences. Visitors can explore highlights such as the historic Union Buildings, the Voortrekker Monument, and the Kruger Museum, all of which are suitable for cultural holidays. Additionally, Pretoria features shopping malls and cafes, making it a convenient base for tourists seeking local food and entertainment options.
• Kempton Park: Situated within easy reach of Johannesburg, Kempton Park is ideal for city-themed and family-oriented trips. Key attractions include the modern Nelson Mandela Square, the thrilling Kyalami Racetrack, and the South African National Museum of Military History. The area also boasts shopping centres and recreational areas, along with diverse dining options suitable for different tastes.
• Sandton: Sandton, a vibrant neighbourhood just around Johannesburg, is perfect for business and family experiences. Notable sites include Nelson Mandela Square and the Johannesburg Botanical Garden, which is great for outdoor activities. The area features numerous shopping malls and cafes, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment. Sandton’s event conference venues also cater to business travellers.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Johannesburg

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car to keep costs down, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most beneficial option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable too; however, ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Johannesburg

The best time to rent a car in and around Johannesburg is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. This period offers great value for those looking to explore the city. July and August also present moderately priced options with average demand. However, April tends to be the most expensive month, characterised by high prices and high demand. March and November can also see slightly elevated prices as demand varies during these months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	59.0°F (15.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	53.2°F (11.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	53.1°F (11.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
August	58.8°F (14.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
December	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average