Car Rental Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB)

Reasons to book a car rental at Pietermaritzburg Airport

Renting a car at Pietermaritzburg Airport offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy spontaneous stops along your journey. This is particularly appealing for tourists seeking adventure experiences. Key attractions around the airport include the Pietermaritzburg City Hall, located 5 km away, and The Old Prison, just 4 km from the airport, both rich in cultural experiences. You can also visit the statue of Gandhi, another landmark situated 5 km away. Furthermore, the cities of Hilton and Camperdown, located 14 km and 17 km away respectively, provide additional opportunities for exploration, featuring sites like Queen Elizabeth Park and Phezulu Safari Park. Having a rental car allows you to conveniently navigate these destinations, making your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. Whether you are interested in culture, history, or nature, renting a car at Pietermaritzburg Airport is an excellent choice to enhance your travel experience in South Africa.

Most popular car rentals near Pietermaritzburg Airport

• Economy: The Economy car option accommodates 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases. This choice is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for a convenient and budget-friendly way to explore the attractions around Pietermaritzburg airport. With its compact size, an Economy car offers easy manoeuvrability, making it perfect for navigating through the city or surrounding areas.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV can comfortably accommodate 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for couples, families, or groups who prefer a bit more space and capability. An SUV provides a higher driving position and extra room for passengers, making it a great choice for those wanting a comfortable ride while experiencing the beautiful landscapes around Pietermaritzburg airport.
• Mini Van: The Mini Van is designed for larger groups, accommodating up to 8 travellers with space for 6 large suitcases. This option is particularly ideal for families or groups looking to travel together. The Mini Van offers ample room for both passengers and luggage, ensuring everyone can enjoy the journey without feeling cramped. It’s a fantastic choice for those planning to explore the Pietermaritzburg area with family or friends.

Top rated car suppliers near Pietermaritzburg Airport

• Avis: Avis is a popular choice for travellers at Pietermaritzburg airport, with a rental location conveniently situated less than 1 km away. Known for its reliable service, Avis offers a selection of Economy and Compact vehicles, making it an excellent option for those looking for efficient and budget-friendly transportation. With easy access and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Avis is well-regarded among visitors seeking to explore the area.
• Budget: Budget provides a solid rental experience at Pietermaritzburg airport, located less than 1 km from the terminal. This supplier is particularly favoured for its range of Mini Van and Economy vehicles, catering to families and travellers looking for spacious options. With a focus on affordability and convenience, Budget helps ensure a smooth start to your journey in South Africa.
• Europcar: Europcar is another top supplier located less than 1 km from Pietermaritzburg airport, making it easily accessible for travellers. With a strong emphasis on customer service, Europcar's most booked vehicle is the Economy, which is perfect for those looking to navigate the region comfortably and efficiently. The combination of competitive pricing and a straightforward rental process makes Europcar a favourite among visitors.

Where to stay near Pietermaritzburg Airport

• Pietermaritzburg: Located at the airport, Pietermaritzburg offers a vibrant city experience with attractions such as the historic Pietermaritzburg City Hall and The Old Prison, both ideal for culture enthusiasts. Nearby, Queen Elizabeth Park provides a serene outdoor escape, making it suitable for various travellers seeking both city and outdoor experiences. The area features local markets and shopping areas, ensuring convenient access to food and drinks, especially coffee.
• Hilton: Situated 14 km from Pietermaritzburg, Hilton is known for its outdoor and adventure experiences. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the National Botanical Gardens or enjoy recreational activities in the local parks. The area features shopping venues and dining options, providing a comfortable stay with easy access to attractions like Queen Elizabeth Park and Pietermaritzburg City Hall, perfect for those looking for a blend of city charm and outdoor adventures.
• Camperdown: Located 17 km away from Pietermaritzburg, Camperdown offers an eco-friendly and sports-focused environment. It is home to attractions such as Phezulu Safari Park, which caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Golf lovers can enjoy the local golf courses, while dining options abound in the area. The proximity to nature reserves and cultural sites like The Old Prison makes Camperdown an appealing choice for those seeking adventure and a touch of history.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Pietermaritzburg

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer driving, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally advisable to reserve your airport car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months ahead is particularly beneficial, especially before busy travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years. Always verify the age requirements before finalising 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 crowded 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, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be suitable—just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver’s name for security deposits, and debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs 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 Pietermaritzburg Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Pietermaritzburg Airport is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is average. This month is followed closely by June, which sees the lowest demand and moderately low prices. March and April also offer average pricing with steady demand, making them good options. However, May tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand and prices. February and July can also be quite busy, typically resulting in higher rental costs.

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