Cheap Car Hire & Car Rental at Pietermaritzburg Airport, Pietermaritzburg

Reasons to book a car hire at Pietermaritzburg Airport

Renting a car at Pietermaritzburg airport is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans on the go. This is especially beneficial for those seeking adventure and culture as you can visit numerous attractions at your own pace. Notable sites include the Pietermaritzburg City Hall and the statue of Gandhi, both located just 5 km away, as well as The Old Prison, which is 4 km from the airport. Beyond the immediate vicinity, you can easily venture into nearby destinations such as Hilton, 14 km away, where you can find beautiful parks, or Camperdown, 17 km away, known for attractions like Phezulu Safari Park. With a rental car, you're not limited to public transport schedules, allowing you to relish the beauty of Pietermaritzburg and its surroundings. Whether you are a culture enthusiast or an adventure seeker, having your own set of wheels makes exploring this charming region a breeze.

Most popular car hires near Pietermaritzburg Airport

• Economy: The Economy car option is a popular choice at Pietermaritzburg airport, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This makes it perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for an economical way to explore the area. With its compact size, it's easy to navigate through city streets while providing comfortable seating for your journey.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is another highly booked option at Pietermaritzburg airport, also accommodating 5 travellers with room for 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for couples, families, or groups seeking a bit more space and comfort during their travels. Its versatility makes it suitable for both urban and rural driving, allowing you to enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
• Midsize: The Midsize car option stands out for those needing extra luggage capacity, accommodating up to 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for couples and families who may be carrying more belongings. The Midsize car offers a comfortable ride while still being easy to handle, making it a great fit for your exploration around Pietermaritzburg airport.

Top rated car suppliers near Pietermaritzburg Airport

• Budget: With a rental location less than 1 km away from Pietermaritzburg airport, Budget is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. The most booked cars with Budget include Standard SUVs and Economies, making it suitable for various travel needs. Their proximity to the airport ensures a quick and easy pickup process, allowing you to start your journey in no time.
• Avis: Also located less than 1 km from Pietermaritzburg airport, Avis is a trusted name in car hire, offering a selection of Economy and Mini vehicles that cater to different preferences. Their efficient service and close proximity to the airport facilitate a seamless car hire experience, ideal for both short trips and extended explorations around the area.
• Europcar: Situated less than 1 km away from Pietermaritzburg airport, Europcar provides a range of Mini and Compact cars, perfect for travellers looking for economical options. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and easy access from the airport make Europcar a reliable choice for those wishing to explore the region at their own pace.

Where to stay near Pietermaritzburg Airport

• Pietermaritzburg: As the city surrounding the airport, Pietermaritzburg offers a range of accommodations suitable for various tastes. Visitors can explore the historic Pietermaritzburg City Hall and The Old Prison, both significant cultural sites. The city is also close to Queen Elizabeth Park, a lovely reserve perfect for outdoor experiences. With its vibrant market and shopping areas, it’s an ideal base for those wishing to immerse themselves in the local culture.
• Hilton: Located 14 km away from the airport, Hilton is known for its outdoor and adventure experiences. The area features recreational venues and shopping opportunities. Key attractions include the National Botanical Gardens, which is ideal for family and romantic outings. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Queen Elizabeth Park, adding to the outdoor allure of the area. Hilton's dining options provide a delightful experience for food enthusiasts.
• Camperdown: Situated 17 km from Pietermaritzburg, Camperdown is perfect for those seeking an eco-friendly and outdoor experience. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the local golf courses, while family-friendly attractions like Phezulu Safari Park offer unique wildlife encounters. The Old Prison is also within reach for those interested in cultural exploration. With its dining options, Camperdown provides a relaxed atmosphere for travellers wishing to unwind after a day of adventure.

9 tips to save on your Airport car hire near Pietermaritzburg

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 the summer months, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It is generally advisable to book your airport car hire as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Making your reservation 1-3 months ahead is ideal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. 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—may have restricted availability. This also applies to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalising your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to hire and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver’s name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary to hire a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car from Pietermaritzburg Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Pietermaritzburg Airport is June, when prices are slightly low and demand is also low. This month is followed closely by July, which continues the trend of lower prices and demand. However, March stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. April and August also see higher demand, contributing to increased rental costs during those months.

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