Car Rentals in Johannesburg, ZAF

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Johannesburg

Renting a car in Johannesburg allows you the freedom to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like Nelson Mandela Square, a modern hub perfect for city experiences, and the Apartheid Museum, which offers deep cultural insights. Families can enjoy a day at the Gold Reef City Theme Park, ensuring entertainment for all ages. The convenience of having a car also enables you to venture beyond Johannesburg to nearby destinations such as Pretoria, where you can see the Union Buildings and Voortrekker Monument, or Kempton Park, known for its historical sites. If you're in the mood for nature, Sandton offers lovely spots like the Johannesburg Botanical Garden. A rental car simplifies luggage management and allows for flexible travel plans, making it an excellent choice for families, business travellers, or anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the local culture. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or family fun, a car hire provides the opportunity to tailor your journey, ensuring you make the most of your visit to Johannesburg and its surroundings.

Most popular car hires in Johannesburg

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for those travelling in groups of up to five. It comfortably accommodates up to two medium suitcases, making it ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families. This option allows you the freedom to explore Johannesburg at your leisure while providing an economical solution for your travel needs.
• Compact: Offering a bit more space than the Economy option, the Compact car also accommodates up to five travellers but allows for up to three medium suitcases. This makes it a versatile choice for those travelling together, whether as a couple or with family. Its size strikes a balance between comfort and convenience, perfect for navigating Johannesburg's roads.
• Fullsize SUV: If you're travelling with a larger group or require extra luggage space, the Fullsize SUV is an excellent option. It accommodates up to six travellers and has the capacity for either three large suitcases or five medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for families or groups who want to enjoy a comfortable ride while exploring Johannesburg and its surroundings with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Johannesburg

• Avis: Avis boasts 10 rental locations throughout Johannesburg, making it a convenient choice for travellers. With an overall rating of 7.6 out of 10, Avis is recognised for its friendly service, short wait times, and well-maintained vehicles. The most popular options among customers are Economy and Compact cars, providing excellent choices for those looking to explore Johannesburg comfortably and efficiently.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo operates 1 rental location in Johannesburg, offering a straightforward and reliable service. It is particularly favoured for its Economy SUV and Midsize SUV options, which are ideal for families or groups needing extra space. Customers appreciate the ease of the rental process, making Alamo a solid choice for those seeking a hassle-free experience while exploring the city.
• Hertz: With 5 rental locations in Johannesburg, Hertz is a well-established option for car hire. It is known for its range of vehicles, particularly Compact and Standard SUVs, which are perfect for navigating both urban and rural landscapes. Hertz's convenient locations and selection of well-maintained vehicles make it a popular choice among travellers aiming to discover the attractions of Johannesburg and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Johannesburg

• Pretoria: This vibrant city offers a rich blend of culture and history, making it an ideal base for exploring attractions such as the Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument. Both landmarks are within a short distance and provide insight into South Africa's heritage. Families and business travellers will appreciate the nearby shopping centres and cafes, making Pretoria a convenient and engaging choice for your stay.
• Kempton Park: Known for its modern amenities, Kempton Park is perfect for those seeking a city-themed experience. Highlights include the Nelson Mandela Square and the South African National Museum of Military History, both accessible within a short distance. The area also boasts several shopping malls and recreational spaces, ideal for families and business visitors. Dining options abound, ensuring a delightful stay.
• Sandton: This upscale neighbourhood is a hub for business and leisure, featuring attractions like the Johannesburg Botanical Garden, perfect for families and nature lovers. Additionally, the lively Nelson Mandela Square offers great shopping and dining experiences. With its proximity to recreational areas and event venues, Sandton presents a well-rounded choice for travellers seeking both relaxation and urban excitement.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, 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 based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in bustling 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 can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on 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 advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the added cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car hire providers exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, search for 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, as prices are slightly low and demand is slightly high. January also offers decent value, but demand is similarly elevated. March presents average pricing and demand, while April tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. Following that, May and June are more affordable, with average prices and slightly low demand, before the busier months return later in the year.

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