Pietermaritzburg Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Pietermaritzburg

Renting a car in Pietermaritzburg offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With convenient luggage management, you can easily hop from one site to another without the hassle of public transportation schedules. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or an outdoor adventure, having a rental car allows you to tailor your travel plans to suit your interests. Key attractions within Pietermaritzburg include the historic Pietermaritzburg City Hall and The Old Prison, both ideal for culture enthusiasts, as well as Queen Elizabeth Park, perfect for a leisurely stroll. For those wanting to venture beyond the city, popular destinations such as Hilton, only 9 km away, offer additional sites like the National Botanical Gardens. You can also explore Camperdown, located 21 km from Pietermaritzburg, which features Phezulu Safari Park and Hindu temples. Additionally, Howick, about 20 km away, boasts natural wonders like Midmar Dam and Howick Public Falls. A rental car makes it easy to discover these diverse experiences and create lasting memories during your trip.

Most popular car rentals in Pietermaritzburg

• Economy: This car option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families. The Economy car accommodates up to 5 travellers and has space for 2 medium suitcases. It offers an excellent balance of affordability and practicality, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore Pietermaritzburg while managing their luggage easily.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or small groups, the Standard SUV can comfortably accommodate 5 travellers and handle up to 2 medium suitcases. This option provides a bit more space and versatility compared to the Economy car, allowing for a more comfortable ride while exploring the various attractions in and around Pietermaritzburg.
• Mini Van: The Mini Van is an excellent choice for larger families or groups, as it can accommodate up to 8 travellers and carry up to 6 large suitcases. This option allows for more flexibility in travel plans, making it easier to transport everyone and their belongings comfortably while discovering the sights of Pietermaritzburg.

Top rated car suppliers in Pietermaritzburg

• Avis: Avis is a popular choice for travellers in Pietermaritzburg, known for its convenient rental location in the area. Customers frequently book Economy and Compact cars, making it an excellent option for those seeking efficiency and value. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Avis provides reliable vehicles that enable you to explore the city and its surroundings with ease.
• Budget: Budget also has a rental location in Pietermaritzburg, catering to a wide range of needs. Their most booked vehicles include Mini Vans and Economy cars, which are ideal for families or groups looking for spacious options. Budget is appreciated for its competitive pricing and straightforward rental process, making it a great choice for those planning an adventurous trip.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with its rental location in Pietermaritzburg, offering Premium vehicles that cater to travellers seeking a touch of luxury. Known for its exceptional customer service, Enterprise is praised for its helpful staff and flexible rental options. This makes it a fantastic choice for those who value comfort and a high-quality driving experience while exploring the region.

Where to stay around Pietermaritzburg

• Hilton: Located 9 km from Pietermaritzburg, Hilton offers a delightful outdoor and adventure experience. Popular activities include visits to the local recreational area and shopping venues. Key attractions such as the historic Pietermaritzburg City Hall, Queen Elizabeth Park, and the National Botanical Gardens make it a cultural hub for travellers. Dining options are available nearby, perfect for enjoying a meal after a day of exploration.
• Camperdown: Situated 21 km away from Pietermaritzburg, Camperdown is ideal for those seeking an eco-friendly and sports-oriented getaway. The area features engaging activities such as golf and visits to the Phezulu Safari Park, which is great for family outings. Cultural highlights include The Old Prison and local Hindu temples, providing a rich historical context. Dining options complement the outdoor adventures available in this vibrant city.
• Howick: Located 20 km from Pietermaritzburg, Howick is a charming destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy scenic views at Midmar Dam and the Howick Public Falls, both ideal for outdoor and romantic experiences. The Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve offers a tranquil escape into nature. With various resorts and body treatment venues, Howick provides a relaxing atmosphere alongside its natural beauty.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most beneficial option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just be sure to return the vehicle empty in that situation.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There’s often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the expense.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards as a payment method.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Pietermaritzburg

The best value period to rent a car in and around Pietermaritzburg is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is average. Following closely, June through August typically see low demand and moderately low prices, making them another good option. However, May tends to be the most expensive time for rentals due to higher demand, while February experiences the highest demand and pricing. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	67.8°F (19.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
February	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Moderately High
March	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
July	55.0°F (12.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
August	58.3°F (14.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
September	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	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	Moderately High