Africa Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in Africa

Renting a car in Africa offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the continent at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it convenient to visit a variety of attractions. For instance, you can drive to the Giza Pyramid Complex for a glimpse of ancient culture, or venture into Kruger National Park for outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. If you prefer beach experiences, Naama Bay is another great destination that showcases Africa's natural beauty.

A rental car also allows you to discover popular countries like Morocco, where you can visit the Majorelle Garden and Agadir Beach, or Mauritius, known for its beautiful Flic-en-Flac Beach and Turtle Bay. Cape Verde is another option, with attractions such as Santa Maria Beach and the lively Santa Maria Town Square. With a rental car, you can navigate these diverse landscapes and experiences with ease, making your trip more enjoyable and tailored to your interests.

Most popular car rentals in Africa

• Economy: The Economy car option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for solo travellers, couples, and families who seek an affordable and efficient way to explore Africa. Its compact size allows for easy manoeuvrability in urban areas while providing sufficient space for luggage, ensuring your travels remain stress-free.
• Compact: A Compact car is another popular choice, accommodating 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for those travelling solo, as well as couples and families who require a bit more luggage capacity. The Compact car offers a balance of space and fuel efficiency, making it a smart choice for navigating both city streets and rural routes across Africa.
• Midsize: The Midsize car option accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples and families who need extra space for their belongings. This car type provides a comfortable interior for longer journeys, allowing passengers to travel in comfort while enjoying the flexibility that renting a car in Africa offers. Its larger size helps ensure that everyone and their luggage can travel together without hassle.

Where to stay in Africa

• Morocco: Known for its rich culture and vibrant markets, Morocco is an ideal destination for family and business-themed experiences. Visitors can explore attractions like the history museum and the art museum while enjoying local cafes and dining options. Key highlights include the beautiful Majorelle Garden, perfect for outdoor family holidays, and the stunning Hassan II Mosque, suited for a cultural experience. Agadir Beach offers a relaxing spot for those seeking a beach holiday, all within a short distance of each other.
• Mauritius: This tropical paradise is renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities, making it perfect for families. The beautiful Flic-en-Flac Beach and Trou aux Biches Beach are ideal for beach holidays, while Turtle Bay offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor experiences. Visitors can also enjoy local golf courses and private clubs, along with nearby wineries and alcohol distilleries that provide a taste of local flavours. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from May to December, when the weather is pleasant.
• Cape Verde: With its picturesque beaches and rich cultural heritage, Cape Verde is a fantastic choice for beach and outdoor enthusiasts. Santa Maria Beach is well-suited for beach holidays, while the Santa Maria Town Square provides a glimpse into the local culture. For adventure seekers, Mindelo Marina offers various outdoor activities and stunning views. The region also features local markets where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample delicious cheese, making it a versatile destination for all types of travellers.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Africa

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 added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal choice for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require 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 provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but this can be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in the event of unforeseen incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Africa

The best value period to rent a car in Africa is February, when prices are slightly low and demand remains high. January also offers decent rates, though demand increases slightly. For a shoulder period, March and April see average pricing and demand, making them reasonable choices. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly high prices, making it a busy time for rentals. July and early September also follow this trend with elevated demand levels.