Car Rental Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Intl. Airport (BUQ)

Reasons to book a car rental at Bulawayo International Airport

Renting a car at Bulawayo Airport (BUQ) is an excellent option for tourists looking to explore the area with ease and flexibility. With a rental vehicle, you can manage your luggage conveniently and create a travel itinerary that suits your interests. Whether you are in Bulawayo for business or leisure, having a car allows you to visit key attractions at your own pace. You can explore the National Art Gallery Bulawayo and the Natural History Museum, both located just 16 km away from the airport. Additionally, you can venture into the city of Bulawayo itself, which features popular sites such as the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair and Matobo National Park. For those interested in nearby locations, Highmount is only 11 km away, while Southdale is 23 km from the airport, each offering unique cultural and recreational experiences. Renting a car not only enhances your sightseeing experience but also caters to a wide range of travellers, from families seeking cultural experiences to business professionals needing efficient transportation. Overall, a rental car provides the freedom and flexibility to fully enjoy your visit to Bulawayo and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals near Bulawayo Airport

• Economy: A popular choice among travellers, the Economy car accommodates 5 passengers and can carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for an affordable and efficient way to explore the Bulawayo area. Enjoy the flexibility to travel at your own pace while managing your luggage with ease.
• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is another highly booked option, offering space for 5 travellers and accommodating up to 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle combines comfort and versatility, making it ideal for solo explorers, couples, or families who may require a bit more room for their gear. With a Compact SUV, you can easily navigate both urban roads and more rugged terrain around Bulawayo.
• Fullsize Pickup AWD: For those seeking adventure or travelling with a larger group, the Fullsize Pickup AWD is an excellent choice. It accommodates up to 6 travellers and can hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it well-suited for families or groups who need extra space and capability. Experience the freedom to venture off the beaten path while ensuring everyone and their luggage stays comfortably accommodated.

Top rated car suppliers near Bulawayo International Airport

• Europcar: Europcar is a popular choice among travellers due to its convenient location, situated less than 1 km from Bulawayo airport. This supplier is well-regarded for its efficient service and offers a selection of vehicles tailored to different needs, with the Compact SUV and Economy models being the most booked options. Customers appreciate the flexibility of renting from Europcar, allowing them to explore the attractions around Bulawayo at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget also provides an excellent rental experience with a location less than 1 km away from Bulawayo airport. Known for their competitive pricing, Budget focuses on delivering value to travellers, especially with its popular Economy car option. With a straightforward booking process and easy access to the airport, Budget is an ideal choice for those looking to manage their travel plans smoothly while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Bulawayo.

Where to stay near Bulawayo International Airport

• Highmount: Located 11 km from Bulawayo (BUQ-Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Intl.), Highmount offers a quaint village atmosphere with access to historical and cultural sites. Visitors can explore the City Hall, a significant civic government building, and the National Art Gallery Bulawayo, both suitable for a culture-focused holiday. This area is perfect for those looking to experience local art and history while remaining close to the airport.
• Southdale: Situated 23 km from Bulawayo (BUQ-Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Intl.), Southdale combines rich history with stunning scenery. Highlights include the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, ideal for family and outdoor experiences, and the picturesque Matobo National Park, great for adventure seekers. The Nesbitt Castle adds a romantic touch to the area, making it appealing for various travellers seeking both culture and nature.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near Bulawayo

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those summer drives, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, use Expedia's filters to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it’s generally advisable to book your BUQ car rental as early as possible. Aiming to finalize your booking 1-3 months in advance is optimal, especially during peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements prior to confirming your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good balance of 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 car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in those cases.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver’s name for the security deposit. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Bulawayo Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Bulawayo Airport is June, when both prices and demand are low. This can be a great time for budget-conscious travellers. Following June, September and October offer average prices with steady demand. However, May tends to be the most expensive month, featuring high prices and low demand, making it less ideal for rental. Additionally, July experiences high demand, further impacting rental costs during that time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
May	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	High
June	58.6°F (14.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Low
July	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Low
August	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	High
September	70.9°F (21.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
December	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average