Car Rentals in Cape Town, ZAF

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Cape Town

Renting a car in Cape Town offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city's diverse attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit iconic sites such as Camps Bay Beach, known for its beautiful coastal experiences, and Table Mountain, perfect for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. The convenience of a car allows for effortless luggage management, making it ideal for families or business travellers with specific schedules.

Moreover, a rental car facilitates day trips to nearby destinations like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, both renowned for their stunning landscapes and cultural experiences. Explore Dorp Street and the Franschhoek Wine Tram without the constraints of public transport. Additionally, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is easily accessible, where you can visit attractions like the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa. With so much to see in and around Cape Town, having a rental car ensures you can maximise your travel experience while enjoying the scenic routes and beautiful surroundings of the Western Cape.

Most popular car hires in Cape Town

• Economy: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for 2 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or families. The Economy car offers a practical balance of size and affordability, allowing you to navigate through Cape Town's attractions with ease while managing your luggage comfortably.
• Compact: Also accommodating up to 5 travellers, the Compact car provides space for 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those looking for a blend of comfort and efficiency, particularly for couples and families. Its size makes it easy to manoeuvre around the busy streets of Cape Town, ensuring a relaxing driving experience while exploring the city.
• Mini: The Mini car is perfect for up to 4 travellers and can manage 2 small suitcases. This option is particularly suited for solo adventurers and couples seeking a more intimate travel experience. With its smaller size, the Mini car is highly manoeuvrable, making it an excellent choice for navigating the vibrant streets of Cape Town.

Top rated car suppliers in Cape Town

• Hertz: With 5 rental locations throughout Cape Town, Hertz provides great flexibility for tourists. Known for their friendly service, they boast an impressive overall rating of 8.6 out of 10. Their most popular vehicles include Compact SUVs and Economy cars, making them an excellent choice for travellers looking to explore the area comfortably and conveniently.
• Europcar: Europcar also has over 5 rental locations in Cape Town, ensuring that you have easy access to a vehicle wherever you are. Renowned for providing service as expected and friendly assistance, Europcar is a reliable option for car hire. Their most booked vehicles are Economy and Compact cars, perfect for navigating the city and its surroundings with ease.
• Avis: With more than 5 locations in Cape Town, Avis stands out for their short wait times, allowing you to get on the road quickly. They are well-regarded for their efficient service and offer a selection of Economy and Compact vehicles that cater to various travel needs. Avis is a great choice for those seeking a hassle-free car hire experience.

Where to stay in Cape Town

• Stellenbosch: Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Stellenbosch is renowned for its romantic charm and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the scenic Jonkershoek Nature Reserve and indulge in a variety of activities, such as golf and body treatments. The vibrant Dorp Street is perfect for leisurely strolls, while Fick House offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. With numerous wineries and restaurants nearby, Stellenbosch is an ideal base for wine lovers and those seeking relaxation amidst beautiful landscapes.
• Cape Town City Centre: A bustling hub for families and business travellers alike, Cape Town City Centre boasts an array of shopping areas and educational venues. Long Street and Kloof Street provide a vibrant atmosphere, lined with trendy shops and eateries. The Castle of Good Hope stands as a historic landmark, adding a touch of culture to the urban experience. With family-friendly beaches and a convention centre nearby, this neighbourhood is well-suited for those looking to immerse themselves in the city's dynamic lifestyle.
• Franschhoek: Known as the food and wine capital of South Africa, Franschhoek offers a romantic and outdoor escape. The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a must-try, allowing visitors to sample exquisite wines while enjoying the stunning scenery. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Franschhoek Pass provides breathtaking views, perfect for photography. With its charming restaurants and proximity to nature, Franschhoek is an idyllic spot for couples and anyone wishing to experience the region's culinary delights and stunning landscapes.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Cape Town

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you identify the ideal 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain more favourable rates and enjoy greater 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 options 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 categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. 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 typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this may be justified by the added convenience it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment purposes.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take 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 license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Cape Town

The best value period to rent a car in and around Cape Town is June, when prices are at their lowest and demand is also minimal. Following June, July and August offer average prices with low to moderate demand, making them favourable options as well. However, April tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. January and February also see high demand, leading to higher rental costs during those months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	70.7°F (21.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
February	70.7°F (21.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
March	68.5°F (20.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	64.6°F (18.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
June	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
July	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
August	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	64.6°F (18.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High