Car Rentals in Pietermaritzburg, ZAF

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Pietermaritzburg

Renting a car in Pietermaritzburg offers you the freedom to explore this vibrant city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. Whether you are seeking a romantic outing or an outdoor adventure, having your own transport allows you to visit iconic sites without the constraints of public transport. Key attractions in Pietermaritzburg include the historic Pietermaritzburg City Hall and The Old Prison, both of which provide rich cultural experiences. Additionally, Queen Elizabeth Park offers a serene setting for relaxation. If you're eager to explore further afield, cities such as Hilton, just 9 km away, and Howick, 20 km away, feature delightful spots like the National Botanical Gardens and Howick Public Falls. Camperdown, located 21 km from Pietermaritzburg, is home to the Phezulu Safari Park and beautiful Hindu temples. A rental car enhances your travel experience, making it convenient to enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer.

Most popular car hires in Pietermaritzburg

• Economy: This car option accommodates up to 5 travellers and is suitable for those with up to 2 medium suitcases. The Economy car is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking for an economical and practical choice to explore Pietermaritzburg. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate the city, while still providing enough space for your luggage.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the Standard SUV also accommodates 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This option combines comfort with versatility, allowing you to enjoy the scenic routes around Pietermaritzburg. With its spacious interior, this SUV is a great choice for those who prefer a higher driving position and more room for passengers and their belongings.
• Midsize: The Midsize car option is designed for those who require a bit more space, accommodating 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for couples and families who may have more luggage or are planning longer journeys. The Midsize car offers a balance between comfort and practicality, ensuring that you can travel comfortably while exploring the attractions in and around Pietermaritzburg.

Top rated car suppliers in Pietermaritzburg

• Avis: Avis has a rental location conveniently situated in Pietermaritzburg, making it easily accessible for travellers. Known for its reliability, Avis offers a selection of vehicles with Economy and Mini models being the most booked options. This supplier is highly regarded for providing a smooth rental experience, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace while managing your luggage effortlessly.
• Budget: Another excellent choice for car hire in Pietermaritzburg is Budget, which also boasts a single rental location in the city. Budget is popular among travellers for its competitive pricing and a diverse vehicle selection, with Standard SUVs and Economy cars being the top picks. Their focus on customer satisfaction ensures that you receive a vehicle that suits your travel needs, giving you the freedom to enjoy the beautiful KwaZulu-Natal region.
• Europcar: Europcar offers a reliable service with a rental location in Pietermaritzburg, making it a convenient option for those looking to hire a vehicle. They feature a range of cars, particularly popular are the Mini and Compact models. Customers appreciate Europcar for its well-maintained fleet and the flexibility it provides, making it a great choice for exploring the city and surrounding attractions comfortably.

Where to stay around Pietermaritzburg

• Hilton: Located 9 km from Pietermaritzburg, Hilton offers a delightful mix of outdoor and adventure experiences. This city is perfect for those seeking recreational activities, shopping, and vibrant local markets. Key attractions nearby include the historic Pietermaritzburg City Hall, Queen Elizabeth Park for nature enthusiasts, and the National Botanical Gardens, ideal for families and couples. Dining options abound, making it a great base for exploring both city and nature.
• Camperdown: Situated 21 km from Pietermaritzburg, Camperdown is an excellent choice for eco-friendly and sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy its golf courses and resorts, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Key points of interest include the Phezulu Safari Park, which offers a rich wildlife experience, and the historic Old Prison, ideal for culture seekers. With dining options readily available, Camperdown provides a relaxed atmosphere for a memorable stay.
• Howick: Located 20 km from Pietermaritzburg, Howick is a haven for outdoor and adventure lovers. The area is renowned for its stunning scenery, including the picturesque Midmar Dam and the captivating Howick Public Falls, both perfect for romantic outings or adventurous explorations. The Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve offers breathtaking views and is an excellent spot for nature walks. With resorts and body treatment options, Howick caters to those looking for relaxation amidst their adventures.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical 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 significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy 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 busy 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, while 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 under 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 economical option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but this may be justified by the added convenience it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies predominantly accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can assist in avoiding unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should the unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance while booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek out 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 Pietermaritzburg

The best value period to rent a car in and around Pietermaritzburg is June, which tends to have lower prices and demand. This is closely followed by July, also offering slightly low prices and low demand. September and October see average prices but higher demand, while March is the most expensive month with slightly high prices and average demand. April typically experiences high demand with average pricing, making it a busier time for car hires.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	67.8°F (19.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
February	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
April	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
May	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	55.0°F (12.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
August	58.3°F (14.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
September	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
November	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low