Johannesburg Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Johannesburg

Renting a car in Johannesburg allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can manage your luggage easily and create a travel itinerary that suits your needs, whether you're seeking city experiences, family outings, or business-related activities. You can visit notable attractions such as Nelson Mandela Square, a modern hub perfect for city experiences, and the Apartheid Museum, which offers deep cultural insights. For family fun, Gold Reef City Theme Park is also nearby, ensuring entertainment for all ages.

In addition to Johannesburg, a rental car makes it convenient to explore surrounding areas like Pretoria, where you can see the Union Buildings and Voortrekker Monument. Kempton Park offers attractions like the South African National Museum of Military History, while Sandton features the beautiful Johannesburg Botanical Garden. With so many diverse experiences within a short drive, renting a car truly enhances your trip and allows you to discover the rich offerings of Johannesburg and its vicinity.

Most popular car rentals in Johannesburg

• Economy: The Economy car type is an excellent choice for up to 5 travellers, accommodating up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is particularly suited for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for an affordable and efficient way to explore Johannesburg. With its compact size, navigating the city streets and finding parking becomes much easier, allowing you to make the most of your trip without the hassle of larger vehicles.
• Compact: Similar to the Economy, the Compact car option also accommodates up to 5 travellers, but with the added advantage of fitting up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it a great choice for those who need a bit more space for luggage without sacrificing manoeuvrability. Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the Compact car provides a comfortable ride while still being practical for city exploration and longer drives.
• Fullsize SUV: For families or groups needing extra space, the Fullsize SUV is the top choice. This vehicle can comfortably accommodate up to 6 travellers and carries up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. Its spacious interior and robust design make it perfect for those planning to travel together while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of a larger vehicle. This option is ideal for anyone looking to explore Johannesburg and its surroundings with ease and comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in Johannesburg

• Budget: With over 10 rental locations throughout Johannesburg, Budget is a top choice for travellers seeking convenience. Known for its friendly service and minimal wait times, this supplier ensures a smooth rental experience. Economy and Compact cars are the most popular options, making it easy to find the perfect vehicle for your journey around the city.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo operates 2 rental locations in Johannesburg, offering competitive pricing that aligns with traveller expectations. This supplier is particularly favoured for its Economy SUV and Midsize vehicles, providing a comfortable and reliable ride for exploring the vibrant attractions in and around the city.
• Europcar: With more than 5 rental locations in Johannesburg, Europcar is another excellent option for renters. This supplier is well-regarded for its diverse range of vehicles, including Economy and Fullsize Pickup AWD options. Europcar’s presence in the area makes it easy to pick up your rental and hit the road with confidence.

Where to stay in Johannesburg

• Pretoria: A vibrant city located near Johannesburg, Pretoria offers a mix of cultural and family experiences. Key attractions include the historic Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument, both suitable for culture enthusiasts. The Kruger Museum adds to the historical allure, while shopping centres and cafes provide convenient options for dining. This city is perfect for those seeking a blend of educational and recreational activities.
• Kempton Park: Situated close to Johannesburg, Kempton Park is an excellent choice for city-themed, family, and business experiences. Visitors can explore the modern Nelson Mandela Square and the Kyalami Racetrack for motorsport enthusiasts. The South African National Museum of Military History offers insights into the country’s past. With numerous shopping centres and dining options nearby, Kempton Park caters to diverse interests.
• Sandton: Known for its upscale vibe, Sandton is a bustling neighbourhood around Johannesburg that attracts families and business travellers alike. Key highlights include the modern Nelson Mandela Square and the serene Johannesburg Botanical Garden, perfect for outdoor lovers. The area is also home to 4th Avenue Parkhurst, a lively street filled with cafes and dining options. Sandton’s blend of leisure and commerce makes it an ideal destination for various types of travellers.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify 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 car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and 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 making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical option. Other policies may include 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: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long 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 required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Johannesburg

The best value period to rent a car in and around Johannesburg is September, when prices are typically lower and demand is slightly low. July and November also offer reasonably priced rentals with moderate demand. However, March tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. January and February follow closely with average prices and moderately high demand, making them busier times for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
March	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
May	59.0°F (15.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	53.2°F (11.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
July	53.1°F (11.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
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	Average	Slightly Low
October	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average