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South Africa

Cheap Car Hire in South Africa from R200

This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a Cheapflights user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car hire in South Africa with a pick-up date of 3/7 and drop-off date of 31/7. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of hire. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
Driver's age: 26-65
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South Africa car hires in 2025

Get helpful information to start your search for the perfect car hire in South Africa. The average price data is based on the last 12 months and was last updated on 30 May 2025.

Most popular company

Tempest Car Hire

Most common car type

Mini

Average price per day

R461

Cheapest price per day

R200

What are the car hire prices for popular cities in South Africa?

Discover the price range for hiring a car in popular cities across South Africa, helping you budget and make informed decisions for your upcoming travel. There are 661 pickup locations in South Africa to choose from. Price data has been averaged over the last 12 months and was last updated on 30 May 2025.

Price

R302 - R404

Out of all the popular cities in South Africa, Durban is the cheapest city to hire a car in at just R302/day. Hiring a car in Durban is 25% cheaper than hiring one in Pietermaritzburg where the per day rate is around R404. Other fairly inexpensive cities in South Africa to get a car hire in are: East London (R304/day), Port Elizabeth (R305/day), and Johannesburg (R313/day). While these cities typically have cheaper prices than the rest of the country, travellers looking to hire a car in Cape Town should expect to spend around R318/day on their transportation. The most popular city to hire a car in South Africa is Cape Town.

Cheapest time to rent a car in South Africa

Discover the most affordable period to rent a car in South Africa and save money on your trip. The monthly average price data is based on historical data over the last year and was last updated on 30 May 2025.

January

R464

February

R535

March

R500

April

R535

May

R446

June

R517

July

R535

August

R500

September

R535

October

R571

November

R535

December

R607

Popular car types in South Africa

Explore the most popular car models available for hire in South Africa and choose the one that suits your needs. The price data is sourced from various car hire companies and was last updated on 30 May 2025.

There are, in total, 1 362 car hire locations in South Africa that are operated by 35 companies. In the past week, small car is the cheapest car type users can hire (cheapest price last found: R200/day). Explore 7 car types currently offered from South Africa hire providers:

Economy

Economy

Compact

Compact

Intermediate

Intermediate

Standard

Standard

Full-size

Full-size

SUV

SUV

People carrier

People carrier

Full-size SUV

Full-size SUV

Compare available car types for rental in South Africa

Compare and contrast the various car types offered for hire in South Africa to find the perfect fit for your trip. Price data is based on averages over the last 12 months and was last updated on 30 May 2025.

Small cars

R432 - R679

All Car Types

R974 - R1 327

To hire a small car in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R547/day. May is the cheapest month to hire a small car in South Africa (~R432/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is January (~R679/day). In fact, May is about 22% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a small car hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a small car saves you 52% in costs. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa small car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a medium car in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R1 182/day. May is the cheapest month to hire a medium car in South Africa (~R903/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is July (~R1 575/day). In fact, May is about 24% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a medium car hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a medium car is 5% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa medium car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a large car in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R1 970/day. July is the cheapest month to hire a large car in South Africa (~R1 742/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is February (~R2 266/day). In fact, July is about 12% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a large car hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a large car is 43% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa large car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a SUV in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R1 287/day. June is the cheapest month to hire a SUV in South Africa (~R1 051/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is February (~R1 659/day). In fact, June is about 19% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a SUV hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a SUV is 13% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa SUV hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a van in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R1 755/day. September is the cheapest month to hire a van in South Africa (~R1 424/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is March (~R2 093/day). In fact, September is about 19% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a van hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a van is 36% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa van hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a pickup truck in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R1 728/day. June is the cheapest month to hire a pickup truck in South Africa (~R1 275/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is October (~R2 230/day). In fact, June is about 27% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a pickup truck hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a pickup truck is 35% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa pickup truck hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

To hire a luxury car in South Africa, you would pay an average price of R2 219/day. November is the cheapest month to hire a luxury car in South Africa (~R1 868/day), while the most expensive month to rent that same car type is June (~R2 501/day). In fact, November is about 16% cheaper than prices during the rest of the year to book a luxury car hire for South Africa. When comparing with other car types available for hire in South Africa, renting a luxury car is 50% more expensive. Please note that average prices are based on historical data and can vary depending on how early you book, availability for your travel dates, and vehicle popularity. Here are the best South Africa luxury car hire prices found by Cheapflights users in the past 7 days:

Suzuki CiazR200/day
4
M
A/C
Suzuki Ciaz
Hyundai i20R223/day
2
M
A/C
Hyundai i20
Volkswagen PoloR225/day
2
M
A/C
Volkswagen Polo

Tips for hiring a car in South Africa

Browse helpful tips for hiring a car in South Africa including age restrictions, car type suggestions and more. Tips were last updated on 30 May 2025.
  • South Africa boasts an extensive network of well-maintained roads, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking to hire a car. The N1 is the country's longest road, spanning from Cape Town to Johannesburg, offering a scenic journey through diverse landscapes. The N2 runs along the beautiful Garden Route, showcasing coastal splendour. The N3 is the primary route between Johannesburg and Durban, often travelled for business and leisure. Additionally, the N4 connects Pretoria to Mozambique, passing through Mpumalanga's scenic panoramas. These major routes are just a glimpse of the country's road network, ensuring that hiring a car in South Africa opens up a world of exploration, from breathtaking coastlines to lush national parks.
  • Tolls are a common feature on many major highways and roads in South Africa. One of the most well-known toll routes is the N1 between Johannesburg and Pretoria. Other major toll routes include the N3 between Johannesburg and Durban, the N4 between Pretoria and Nelspruit and the N2 along the Garden Route. In addition to these highways, various other roads and bridges across the country may also have tolls. These tolls help fund road maintenance and development. Travellers looking to hire a car in South Africa should be prepared to pay tolls when using these routes, and it's advisable to carry cash for this purpose, as not all toll booths accept credit cards.
  • In South Africa, having a credit card is often a standard requirement when hiring a car. Most hire agencies prefer credit cards because they can pre-authorise funds for the hire deposit and any potential additional charges, such as fuel, insurance or damage fees. However, some hire companies may accept debit cards, provided they have the necessary funds available for the pre-authorisation. It's essential for travellers to check with their chosen hire agency regarding their specific payment policies and requirements. Having a credit card can make the process smoother, but it's possible to find agencies that accommodate debit card hires with certain conditions and restrictions.

Top rental agencies in South Africa

Explore the leading car hire agencies in South Africa known for their outstanding service and extensive range of vehicles to choose from. There are currently 8 car hire companies in South Africa. Reviews were last updated on 30 May 2025.
Book your reservation with one of the top car hiring agencies located in South Africa, including those serving the greater Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban area. Browse through some of the top car hire agencies in South Africa, including locations around Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban.

keddy by Europcar

10,0
Wonderful
2 reviews139 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

10,0

Comfort

8,6

Overall

10,0

Pick-up/drop-off

9,3

Value

8,6

Firefly

10,0
Wonderful
2 reviews65 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

10,0

Comfort

10,0

Overall

10,0

Pick-up/drop-off

10,0

Value

10,0

Thrifty

10,0
Wonderful
7 reviews44 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

10,0

Comfort

10,0

Overall

10,0

Pick-up/drop-off

10,0

Value

10,0

1First Car Rental

9,6
Wonderful
4 reviews76 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

10,0

Comfort

9,2

Overall

9,6

Pick-up/drop-off

10,0

Value

9,6

Budget

8,7
Very Good
29 reviews99 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

9,3

Comfort

9,2

Overall

8,7

Pick-up/drop-off

8,5

Value

8,4

Avis

7,9
Good
26 reviews105 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

8,5

Comfort

8,3

Overall

7,9

Pick-up/drop-off

8,1

Value

8,0

Europcar

6,8
Okay
23 reviews83 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

8,7

Comfort

8,4

Overall

6,8

Pick-up/drop-off

7,5

Value

7,4

Hertz

6,8
Okay
14 reviews50 locations
Overview

Cleanliness

8,0

Comfort

7,7

Overall

6,8

Pick-up/drop-off

7,2

Value

7,1

Best car hire deals found in South Africa

Browse through a selection of recently found affordable car hiredeals in South Africa. Plan your trip with ease and find the perfect rental option for your needs. There are currently 8 hire car agencies in South Africa with an average daily rate of R348. Data was last updated on 30 May 2025.
These are some of the most attractive deals we've found on car hires within the South Africa region, including options close to Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban. If these deals don't match what you're looking for, not to worry -- deals are updated on a regular basis.
Suzuki CiazR200/day
4
M
A/C
Suzuki Ciaz
Mazda Mazda3R220/day
5
M
A/C
Mazda Mazda3
Nissan AlmeraR223/day
2
M
A/C
Nissan Almera

Car hire FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions about car hires in South Africa, including policies, requirements, and more. FAQs were last updated on 30 May 2025.
  • Should I hire a car in South Africa?

    Hiring a car in South Africa is often a smart choice, primarily due to the limited availability and reliability of public transport in certain areas. While major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg have decent public transit systems, many of South Africa's most captivating attractions, like Kruger National Park, the Garden Route and Drakensberg Mountains, are located in more remote or less urbanised regions where public transport options are limited. Having a hire car provides the freedom to explore these picturesque areas at your own pace. You can embark on safari adventures, visit quaint coastal towns and enjoy scenic drives through the country's diverse landscapes.

  • What is driving like in South Africa?

    Driving in South Africa offers a mix of experiences. While major highways are well-maintained, rural roads may have potholes and rough surfaces. Adherence to road rules varies, with some drivers following diligently while others exhibiting risky behaviour. Defensive driving is recommended. Minibus taxis, a popular mode of public transportation, can be unpredictable, often stopping abruptly and sometimes disregarding road rules. Despite these challenges, driving allows you to explore South Africa's diverse landscapes and attractions at your own pace, making it a rewarding way to experience the country. Staying vigilant and adaptable is crucial for a safe and enjoyable journey.

  • How old do I have to be to hire a car in South Africa?

    In South Africa, the minimum age requirement to hire a car is typically 18 years old, although some hire companies may require hirers to be at least 23 or 25 years old, depending on the agency and the car category. Drivers under the age of 25 often face an additional charge known as the "young driver surcharge" due to the perceived higher risk associated with younger drivers. To hire a car, you will need a valid driver's licence, and international visitors should have an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in English. It's essential to check with your chosen hire agency for specific age policies to understand any associated fees or restrictions before making a reservation, as they can vary between companies.

  • What is the most popular car hire provider in South Africa?

    The most popular car hire company at South Africa is Tempest Car Hire. With prices on ECONOMY starting at R180/day about 273% more people book with Tempest Car Hire than other companies in the country.

  • What is the cheapest city to get a rental car in South Africa?

    At R301/day, it is 51% cheaper on average to rent a car in Pietermaritzburg than any other city in South Africa. The cheapest price found in South Africa was for R246/day in Pietermaritzburg.

  • What side of the road do you drive on in South Africa?

    Cars in South Africa are to be driven on the left side of the road.

Car hires by fuel type in South Africa

Browse car hires by fuel type in South Africa. Currently, Petrol/Diesel cars are the cheapest to rent in South Africa. Deals were last updated on 30 May 2025.

Browse through car hire deals by fuel type in South Africa. There are currently 2 fuel types to choose from with Petrol/Diesel being the cheapest (R17+).

Hybrid

Hybrid

Petrol/Diesel

Petrol/Diesel

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