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, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed, making it ideal for family trips, business visits, or cultural explorations. You can visit key attractions such as Nelson Mandela Square, Gold Reef City Theme Park, and the Apartheid Museum, all located conveniently within the city. Additionally, having a car allows you to venture beyond Johannesburg to nearby destinations like Pretoria, where you can see the Union Buildings and Voortrekker Monument, or Kempton Park, featuring Kyalami Racetrack and military history. Sandton, another nearby neighbourhood, offers the Johannesburg Botanical Garden and additional shopping experiences. Whether you are travelling with family or embarking on a business trip, a rental car provides the convenience to effortlessly navigate between these sites, enhancing your overall experience in and around Johannesburg.

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 for its convenient locations in Johannesburg. With a focus on Economy SUVs and Midsize vehicles, Alamo offers a great balance of comfort and space for your travels. Customers often praise the quick pickup process and the cleanliness of their cars, making for a hassle-free experience. With a solid reputation for customer satisfaction, Alamo is an excellent option for those looking to explore Johannesburg at their own pace.
• Sixt: Sixt stands out with its two rental locations in Johannesburg, providing flexibility for tourists. This supplier is particularly noted for its Fullsize Vans and Midsize vehicles, catering to both families and groups. Travellers appreciate the quality and reliability of Sixt's cars, along with efficient service. With positive feedback regarding their well-maintained fleet, Sixt is a dependable choice for those seeking a comfortable driving experience in and around Johannesburg.
• Avis: Avis boasts over five rental locations in Johannesburg, making it highly accessible for visitors. Known for its Economy and Mini cars, Avis offers budget-friendly options without compromising on quality. Customers often highlight the ease of the rental process and the friendly staff. With a strong presence in the area, Avis is a trusted supplier that allows you to navigate the vibrant city of Johannesburg with convenience and confidence.

Where to stay in Johannesburg

• Pretoria: Located close to Johannesburg, Pretoria offers a blend of city-themed and family experiences. Notable attractions include the historic Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument, both ideal for cultural enthusiasts. The Kruger Museum, a historic house, also adds to the cultural offerings. With shopping malls and cafes available, Pretoria serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding areas, especially during the spring months when the city's flowers are in bloom.
• Kempton Park: This vibrant city near Johannesburg is perfect for those seeking city-themed, family, and business experiences. Key points of interest include Nelson Mandela Square, a modern square great for leisurely strolls, and the Kyalami Racetrack, which caters to sports and adventure fans. The South African National Museum of Military History is also nearby, appealing to culture lovers. Kempton Park features plenty of dining options and recreational areas, making it a comfortable place to stay.
• Sandton: As a prominent neighbourhood in Johannesburg, Sandton combines city-themed, business, and family experiences. Highlights include the bustling Nelson Mandela Square, ideal for shopping and dining, and the tranquil Johannesburg Botanical Garden, perfect for outdoor activities. 4th Avenue Parkhurst provides a lively street atmosphere for exploration. With its shopping centres and cafes, Sandton is a sought-after area for travellers, particularly during the cooler months when outdoor activities are more enjoyable.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect 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 before your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded 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 vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure that you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Often, there is a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
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 Johannesburg

The best time to rent a car in and around Johannesburg is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March also offers good value with similar characteristics. In contrast, April tends to be the most expensive month, with both prices and demand on the higher side. Following April, May remains slightly high in price but sees lower demand, making it a potential option for those looking to avoid the busiest periods. June through August see average prices and lower demand levels.