Car Rentals in Bloemfontein, ZAF

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Bloemfontein

Renting a car in Bloemfontein gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as you wish. This is particularly appealing for those seeking cultural, city, or business-themed experiences.

There are many key attractions to visit in Bloemfontein. The Supreme Court of Appeal offers a historic cultural experience, while Naval Hill provides a landmark for leisurely exploration. Families and couples will appreciate the Free State National Botanical Garden, which is perfect for outdoor activities. Additionally, neighbourhoods such as Dan Pienaar and Generaal de Wet feature interesting sites like the Anglo Boer War Museum and Oliewne Art Gallery, all easily accessible by car. If you wish to venture further, the nearby city of Thaba Nchu is also within reach. Overall, hiring a car makes navigating Bloemfontein and its attractions straightforward, allowing you to make the most of your visit without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car hires in Bloemfontein

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for travellers in Bloemfontein, comfortably accommodating up to 5 passengers along with up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families who wish to explore the area without the burden of heavy luggage. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate city streets and park in smaller spaces, providing the perfect balance of comfort and convenience for your travels.
• Mini: The Mini car type is an excellent option for those seeking a lightweight and efficient vehicle. Accommodating up to 4 travellers with 2 small suitcases, this option is particularly suited for solo explorers or couples. Its smaller dimensions enhance manoeuvrability in the city, allowing for stress-free driving and parking. With a Mini, you can enjoy the freedom of travel while keeping things simple and hassle-free.
• Compact: The Compact car is a versatile choice that caters to groups of up to 5 passengers, along with the capacity to carry up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for families or friends who require a bit more room without compromising on ease of driving. With its efficient use of space, a Compact car allows you to manage luggage effectively while enjoying a comfortable ride throughout your journey in Bloemfontein.

Top rated car suppliers in Bloemfontein

• Europcar: Europcar is a popular choice among travellers in Bloemfontein, offering a rental location conveniently situated in the area. Customers frequently opt for the Fullsize Pickup AWD and Mini models, which are well-suited for various travel needs. The service is known for its efficiency and the cleanliness of the vehicles, making it an appealing option for those looking to explore the city and beyond.
• Budget: Budget provides a reliable car hire experience with its single rental location in Bloemfontein. It is favoured for its Economy SUV and Premium Van options, catering to different group sizes and preferences. The company is recognised for its competitive pricing and straightforward rental process, ensuring that travellers can manage their itineraries with ease while enjoying their time in the Free State.
• Avis: Avis is another excellent supplier with a rental location in Bloemfontein. Known for its Economy and Compact vehicles, Avis appeals to those looking for efficient and affordable options. The company is commended for its straightforward booking process and the quality of its cars, making it a solid choice for tourists eager to navigate the attractions of Bloemfontein at their own pace.

Where to stay in Bloemfontein

• Dan Pienaar: Dan Pienaar is a charming neighbourhood in Bloemfontein, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the iconic Naval Hill, known for its scenic views, or enjoy a relaxing day at the Orchid House urban park. For those interested in culture, the Oliewne Art Gallery offers a delightful experience with its captivating exhibitions. This area is well-suited for a leisurely stay, especially during the pleasant spring and autumn months.
• Generaal de Wet: Situated in Bloemfontein, Generaal de Wet is rich in historical significance. The Anglo Boer War Museum and the National Women's Monument and War Museum provide profound insights into local history, making it a great choice for culture enthusiasts. Families can also unwind at the Petrus Schoeman urban park. This neighbourhood is particularly inviting in the cooler months, providing a comfortable environment for exploration.
• Brandwag: Brandwag is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its sports and cultural activities. Visitors can appreciate the historic architecture of the Supreme Court of Appeal and Bloemfontein City Hall, both of which reflect the area's civic pride. The lively Twell Crescent street offers a taste of local life and community events. This area is best enjoyed during the warmer months, making it perfect for those who appreciate an active holiday atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Bloemfontein

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for better affordability, utilise the filters on Expedia to assist you in finding the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary according to 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 benefit from greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy locations. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise 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—may not be accessible. This can also pertain to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which can be acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in this instance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You are often subject to a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience it offers may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra 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 Bloemfontein

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bloemfontein is July, when both prices and demand are low. This month offers competitive rates and a quieter rental experience. Following July, August and September also present slightly lower prices with average demand. However, June tends to be the most expensive month, with moderately high prices and average demand. February can be particularly busy and pricey as well, making it one of the peak rental months for the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Low	Moderately High
February	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Average
March	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
April	62.1°F (16.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
May	56.1°F (13.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
June	49.1°F (9.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	48.9°F (9.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
August	54.3°F (12.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
September	62.8°F (17.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
October	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
November	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
December	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Average