Bulawayo Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bulawayo

Renting a car in Bulawayo offers you the freedom to explore this vibrant city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. Key attractions such as the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, Matobo National Park, and Centenary Park are all within reach, allowing for enjoyable family outings and outdoor experiences. For those looking to venture further, destinations like Matopos, located 46 km away, and Figtree, 42 km away, provide additional opportunities for exploration, featuring entrances to Matobo National Park and stunning scenery. Additionally, you can conveniently visit Southdale, which is in the area, and offers attractions like the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair and The Nesbitt Castle. Having a rental car means you can enjoy the beauty of Bulawayo and its surroundings without the constraints of public transportation, making your travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals in Bulawayo

• Economy: The Economy car is an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those seeking an affordable vehicle that allows easy navigation around Bulawayo while providing the freedom to explore attractions at your own pace. Its compact size makes it ideal for city driving and parking, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV offers a blend of comfort and versatility, making it suitable for families or groups of up to 5 travellers. With the capacity for 3 medium suitcases, this vehicle provides ample luggage space for your journey. It is a fantastic option for those looking to delve into the diverse landscapes around Bulawayo, offering a higher driving position and enhanced stability without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
• Fullsize Pickup AWD: The Fullsize Pickup AWD is designed for adventure travellers, families, or groups needing extra space, accommodating up to 6 travellers and allowing for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those planning to embark on more rugged explorations around Bulawayo, providing the power and utility to handle various terrains. Perfect for larger groups, it combines comfort with the capability to transport all your gear efficiently.

Top rated car suppliers in Bulawayo

• Europcar: Europcar has established itself as a popular choice among travellers in Bulawayo, with one convenient rental location in the area. Customers frequently opt for their Economy and Compact SUV vehicles, which are well-suited for navigating both urban and rural areas. Europcar is praised for its efficient service and clean, well-maintained cars, making it a reliable option for those looking to explore the city at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget also offers a single rental location in Bulawayo, providing travellers with easy access to economy car rentals. The Economy vehicles are particularly popular, catering to budget-conscious visitors seeking flexibility in their travels. Budget is acknowledged for its straightforward booking process and competitive pricing, ensuring a hassle-free experience for tourists wanting to discover the attractions of Bulawayo and its surroundings.

Where to stay in and around Bulawayo

• Matopos: Located 46 km from Bulawayo, Matopos is renowned for its outdoor and adventure experiences, making it an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes of Matobo National Park, which is ideal for outdoor activities and offers spectacular scenery. The Matobo National Park Main Entrance and Arboretum Entrance provide excellent starting points for hiking and family outings. With its recreational areas and fairground shows, Matopos is a picturesque retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
• Figtree: Situated 42 km from Bulawayo, Figtree is another destination perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic views. The area is close to attractions such as the Matobo National Park Main Entrance, which caters to outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. Additionally, visitors can explore the Matobo Hills, known for their breathtaking beauty. Figtree offers a tranquil environment, making it an ideal spot for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle for a while.
• Southdale: Nestled within the Bulawayo area, Southdale provides a blend of cultural and recreational experiences. Key points of interest include the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, suitable for families seeking outdoor activities, and The Nesbitt Castle, a charming landmark perfect for romantic outings. The proximity to Matobo National Park adds to its appeal, offering opportunities for adventure and exploration right at your doorstep. Southdale serves as a convenient base for those looking to enjoy both culture and nature.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and features that suit your needs. Whether you're after an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available to them. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most cost-effective option. Other agreements may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bulawayo

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bulawayo is June, when both prices and demand are low. November also offers low prices and quiet demand, making it another good option. In contrast, May tends to be the most expensive month, with higher prices and lower demand, while April sees increased prices and average demand. August is particularly busy and pricey, creating challenges for those seeking rentals during that time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
May	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	High
June	58.6°F (14.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Low
July	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Low
August	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	High
September	70.9°F (21.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
December	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average