Cape Town car rental information
| Pick-up location | Cape Town |
|---|---|
| Car types | Compact, Compact SUV, Economy, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Mini, Passenger van, Standard SUV |
| Rental locations | 81 |
| Airport locations | 24 |
| Popular agencies | Hertz, Woodford, 1First Car Rental, GREEN MOTION , Enterprise Rent-A-Car |
Cheap car rentals in Cape Town
| Economy | $14/day |
| Compact | $18/day |
| Intermediate | $21/day |
| Full-size SUV | $50/day |
| Mini | $13/day |
| Passenger van | $34/day |
| Compact SUV | $20/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $32/day |
| Standard SUV | $35/day |
Top tips for renting a car in Cape Town
- You should rent a car from one of the cheap car rentals in Cape Town when in the city if you love exploring new destinations. This is because, with a rental car from a cheap car rental in Cape Town, you’ll be able to easily drive to superb destinations within and outside of Cape Town. Some of the superb destinations on the outskirts of Cape Town you can easily drive to include the Cape Peninsula, 43 mi away, Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, 29 mi away, Cape Winelands, 32 mi away, and Hermanus, which is 75 mi. All these destinations are within 2h of Cape Town.
- In Cape Town, over-speeding is highly penalized. If you’re caught violating the speed limit by 21km/h to 25km/h, you’ll be ZAR 750 (USD 44), while if you’re caught exceeding the speed limit by 31km/h to 35km/h, you’ll be fined ZAR1 250 (USD 73). In case you’re found driving at a speed of 36km/h to 40km/h above the speed limit, you’ll be fined ZAR1 500 (USD 88). Given that these fines are hefty, from the moment you pick up your rental car of choice from your preferred cheap car rental in Cape Town to when you return it, it’s in your best interest to observe the set speed limits.
- In Cape Town and the whole of South Africa, children below the age of four are required to sit in SABS-approved child seats when riding in a car. As this is the case, if you plan on driving around with your child in Cape Town, you should ensure that you have an appropriate child car seat installed in the rear of your car. All cheap Cape Town car rentals offer child car seats upon request at an additional cost.
- Public transportation around Cape Town is quite limited. For this reason it will be more convenient for you to rent a car during your stay. Having a rental car will enable you to visit exciting places such as De Hoop Nature Reserve, Groote Post Country Market, and Table Mountain, where you can hike and enjoy a variety of other outdoor activities.
- You’ll also enjoy a number of modern conveniences when flying into the Cape Town Airport. This includes access to several rental car companies. Located in the center of the airport, there are rental desks for Hertz, Avis, Dollar, and a number of local agencies. Rent an economical car or a luxurious vehicle during your stay in Cape Town -- it’s all up to you.
- Driving in Cape Town will require an adjustment for you since drivers there must drive on the left side of the road. You’ll also need to become familiar with the metric system as gas levels, speed limits, and road signs will be in liters and kilometers as opposed to gallons and miles.
- Traffic can be a little busy during rush hour on weekdays. To avoid getting caught in traffic jams, you’ll want to drive during non-peak hours. Morning rush hour in Cape Town runs from around 6:15 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. (especially 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.). The evening commute also begins at around 4 p.m. but is most congested between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.
- 25% of our users found rental cars in Cape Town for $20 or less
- Book your rental car in Cape Town at least 2 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Off-airport rental car locations in Cape Town are around 122% more expensive than airport locations on average
- Compact rental cars in Cape Town are around 24% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Cape Town
What type of car is recommended for driving in Cape Town?
A standard car will suffice while driving around the city of Cape Town. However, if you plan on driving through one of the national parks, a 4x4 might be best for tackling the rough terrain. Consider renting a Jeep or a mid-size SUV. Be sure to make reservations for your car in advance so you can ensure that you get the car you want.
What’s the speed limit in Cape Town?
When driving on the freeway, you’ll be able to drive at a maximum speed of 75 mph (or 100 km). While you are driving in residential areas of Cape Town, be careful to stay under 35 mph (or 60 km). Keep an eye out for signs as speed limits drop when you are around churches or schools.
Where are the best places to park in Cape Town?
There are many eclectic shops, boutiques, and chic restaurants to dine in around downtown Cape Cod. While in the city center however, you will have to find a place to park. There is paid street parking in the central business district. Additionally, there are several parking garages close to the waterfront.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Cape Town?
On average a rental car in Cape Town costs $28 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in Cape Town found in the last 2 weeks is $12.
What is the cheapest car rental company in Cape Town?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($13/day), GREEN MOTION ($14/day) and 1First Car Rental ($15/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at Enterprise Rent-A-Car Car Rental Term Cape Town Intl 7490 (9 miles from city center).
Can I rent an automatic car in Cape Town?
Yes, automatic cars are available in most car renting companies in Cape Town. As cars with manual transmission are more common in many countries, you might have to pay an additional charge for renting an automatic car.
How much is gas price in Cape Town?
The average gas price in Cape Town is $4.80 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $58 and $77, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Cape Town?
Compact (Toyota Urban Cruiser or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Cape Town.
Which car rental companies are at Cape Town Intl airport (CPT)?
Car rental companies onsite at Cape Town Intl airport include Europcar, Woodford, GREEN MOTION, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, 1First Car Rental, Hertz, keddy by Europcar, Bidvest, Bluu and Sixt.
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Cape Town Intl airport (CPT)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Cape Town Intl airport to off-airport locations include First Car, Europcar, Woodford, Hertz, keddy by Europcar, Bidvest, Sixt, Avis, Tempest Car Hire, and Budget.
How can I find car rentals near me in Cape Town?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does a Compact car rental cost in Cape Town?
A Compact car rental in Cape Town costs $49 per day, on average.
How much does an Economy car rental cost in Cape Town?
An Economy car rental in Cape Town costs $22 per day, on average.
How much does a Mini car rental cost in Cape Town?
A Mini car rental in Cape Town costs $24 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in Cape Town?
In Cape Town, cars are most frequently rented at GREEN MOTION Cape Town Airport (10 miles from city center).
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Cape Town?
On average a rental car in Cape Town costs $194 per week ($28 per day).
How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Cape Town?
On average a rental car in Cape Town costs $832 per month ($28 per day).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Cape Town?
Most car rental providers in Cape Town offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Cape Town, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Cape Town?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 25 car rental agencies in Cape Town.
Which car rental companies in Cape Town have updated their vehicle cleaning and safety policies because of Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Some car rental companies in Cape Town which have updated their car rental health and safety policies due to COVID-19 to make sure vehicles are clean and disinfected include Europcar, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Hertz
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Cape Town?
Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).
Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in Cape Town?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Cape Town so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
Are there any parking lots near Cape Town’s city center?
If you’d like to park your car in a parking garage a short distance from Cape Town’s city center, you’ll have many options, as the city center features several parking garages. Some of the said garages include ParkUpp Parking Garage on 2 Croxteth Road, 42 Strand Street Garage, 58Q Strand Street Garage, Lowe Plein Street Garage, and Upper Wandel St Parking.
Can I rent a car in downtown Cape Town?
If you want to rent a car in downtown Cape Town, you’ll get the chance to do just that, as there are several cheap car rentals in this part of town. In downtown Cape Town, Avis has a branch on 46 Strand Street, Hertz has one on 40 Loop Street, and Europcar has a branch at 34 Prestwich Street.
Cape Town car rental reviews and directory
Avis
8.5
Very good
51 reviewsCleanliness
8.0
Comfort
8.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.3
Value for money
8.5
5 locations in Cape Town
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Reviews
6.0 Okay
Mar 2019
Pros:
Picking up the vehicle was easy and we were treated well. The staff at the pick up area was helpful and friendly.Cons:
Returning the car was not as smooth as the pick up. The staff members tried to make us sign a paper assuming responsibilities for damage to the front left wheel. We refused to sign because the "damage" they claimed the wheel suffered was barely visible. We felt targeted.8.0 Very good
Mar 2019
Pros:
Bad initial experience. The car was supposed to carry 5 people and carry 2 suitcases. It was 1.1 litre inderpowered (hyundai?) and barely suitable. The car battery was dead and car hsd benn previously jump started. Needed replacement vehicle. Lost 2days of holiday as a result but new car excllentCons:
Avis Strand office at Somersetwest responded excellently in providing replacement car but CT airport should never have allowed the first substandard car to have been issued.7.6 Good
May 2018
Pros:
Staff at avis was really friendly. Car they gave me has less milage on it.Cons:
When car was handed over to me was not clean and had no floor mats inside.6.0 Okay
Apr 2018
Pros:
Everything was great except that I cant figure out how to access my final receipt.Cons:
Everything was great except that I cant figure out how to access my final receipt.10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2018
Pros:
I liked walking into a busy office with a long line and walking right up to the preferred customer desk. It was an amazing feeling. Checkin was quick and easy, our car ran smoothly on a long road trip. When we returned it we didn't have to even go inside. We were met outside right away. Great experience.Cons:
Our car had an awkward luggage cover up that we were constantly battling. A quirk of the Toyota Avanza I suppose.10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2018
Pros:
Professional and helpful staff. Easy pickup and drop off.Cons:
NothingHertz
6.8
Okay
85 reviewsCleanliness
7.6
Comfort
7.4
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.3
Value for money
6.9
5 locations in Cape Town
Filters
Reviews
4.0 Mediocre
Sep 2023
2.0 Poor
Nov 2021
4.0 Mediocre
Jan 2020
Pros:
The staff had to make efforts to explain the extra money they charge...and its very uncofortable to accept the explanation, and unacceptable, once I'd payed for the rental and insurance previously! It was a bad holiday begining... After this experience, I'm checking my VISA account all the time, to verify the expected refund. The drop off was ok.Cons:
You must change the way of doing business. More clear, transparent and balanced value for money. Ca'nt recomend Hertz! Hope Kayak as some usefull feedback to our total insatisfaction!6.0 Okay
Jan 2020
Cons:
We waited for an hour and 45 minutes for our car. This has been our experience the last few times we’ve used Hertz. No apologies or discounts.5.6 Fair
Oct 2019
Cons:
Well, the car had too many smart features, which were annoying.10.0 Wonderful
Sep 2019
Pros:
Gentleman behind the counter was very knowledgeable, helpful and professional.Cons:
Drop off location signs were a little confusing.keddy by Europcar
10.0
Wonderful
1 reviewCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.0
Value for money
10.0
10 locations in Cape Town
Locations in Cape Town
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2023
1First Car Rental
10.0
Wonderful
3 reviewsCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
9.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
5 locations in Cape Town
Budget
10.0
Wonderful
3 reviewsCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
4 locations in Cape Town
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Reviews
9.6 Wonderful
Mar 2018
Pros:
The car worked well, and the checkout process was well done. THe people at the counter were extremely patient as I needed to check on Collisions Damage Waiver, etc. with another company. The coverage offered by Kayak at the bottom of the confirmation email was much less expensive, so I definitely recommend taking this if you want coverage.Cons:
Optional coverage was outrageous. Signage to return the car was poor. It's marked something like Rental Car Shade or something strange like that.Alamo
10.0
Wonderful
1 reviewCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Cape Town
Woodford
9.6
Wonderful
5 reviewsCleanliness
9.6
Comfort
9.2
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.6
Value for money
8.8
2 locations in Cape Town
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2023
10.0 Wonderful
May 2023
8.0 Very good
May 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2023
10.0 Wonderful
May 2023
Sixt
8.4
Very good
2 reviewsCleanliness
8.0
Comfort
9.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.0
Value for money
10.0
3 locations in Cape Town
Europcar
2.0
Poor
4 reviewsCleanliness
8.0
Comfort
8.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.0
Value for money
2.0
7 locations in Cape Town
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Aug 2018
Pros:
Easy to pickup, friendly sales staff, and the car was clean and reliable.7.6 Good
Mar 2018
Pros:
Caught dishonesty on the return. The damage was only marked on one copy. There it appeared as though we had damaged the car.10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2016
Pros:
I love my hire car I was given a 5 door Ford ECO sport far better than expected. Lots of room for our cases and golf clubs.Cons:
Everything was gtear.2.0 Poor
Aug 2023
Firefly
4.8
Mediocre
No reviews available
6 locations in Cape Town
Dollar
No score available yet
2 locations in Cape Town
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2017
Pros:
The price!Cons:
The reservation took a while to show up in the system but finally showed up just before I had to pay more to rent.3.6 Poor
Oct 2017
Cons:
When I booked the car on line, the total cost was 212 ZAR. When I picked the car up, I had to pay 301 ZAR, which included 52.63 ZAR contract fee and they threw in a VAT of 37.05 ZAR. Very disappointed!2.0 Poor
Feb 2017
Pros:
Company refused to run my card so I never got the car. Spent a long time waiting in line for nothing. Went to another dealership and that was much better.4.4 Mediocre
Jan 2017
Pros:
friendly serviceCons:
old car in bad condition4.4 Mediocre
Dec 2016
Pros:
They didn't have the car ready when I booked it so I had to change it (all online b/c they wouldn't help). When I did I was told I would get a VW Polo sedan but if ended up with DustuCons:
The drop off was efficient10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2016
Pros:
Best value car rental I've found in Cape Town, quick pick up and drop off, helpful staff, good car.Thrifty
No score available yet
One location in Cape Town
Filters
Reviews
9.2 Wonderful
Jan 2017
Pros:
Good car, value and service for a last-minute rentalCons:
Limited opening hours on a Sunday (only until 3pm) and no ability to leave car after hours.5.2 Fair
Nov 2016
Pros:
I like how well the car worked and it's ability to transport us to wine country.Cons:
They inspected the car and noticed something that had been there prior to our rental agreement. And we were forced to pay it.2.0 Poor
Jan 2016
Cons:
I got an unknown charge on my credit card without any explanation.6.8 Okay
Jan 2016
Pros:
The Value for money (for the car itself) was great. Dropoff was also very fastCons:
At the pickup time the car was not available. 5 other consumers also waiting for their cars. Our car arrived after 1,5 hours waiting. Thats very poor!!!8.4 Very good
Nov 2015
Pros:
The car was as expected. Can't complain because it was so cheap!Cons:
Inconvenient drop off time. The office closes by 3pm on the weekends.7.2 Good
Oct 2015
Pros:
Picked up downtown and dropped off at airportCons:
Had to go into my home e-mail to print off confirmation as they said LDW insurance was mandatory and they wanted proof i had a contract without taking the insurance. No final paperwork was provided at the airport and I will have to check my credit card receipts to confirm the deposit was refunded.8 locations in Cape Town
from $20/dayLocations in Cape Town
16, 18 Beach Rd, Strand
+27 31 350 3383
33-34 Huguenot Rd
+27 31 350 3383
341 Koeberg, Brooklyn
+27 21 555 9561
Cape Town Airport
+27 215 559 561
Colinton Rd, Newlands
+27 31 350 3383
Corner Of Century Boulevard And, Rialto Rd, Century City
+27 31 350 3383
Vineyards Office Estate, 99 Jip De Jager Dr, Tyger Valley
+27 21 555 9561
W Quay Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
+27 31 350 3383
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No reviews available
4 locations in Cape Town
Locations in Cape Town
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4 locations in Cape Town
from $18/dayLocations in Cape Town
212 Durban Road
+27 219 462 493
Cape Town Airport
+27 842 341 120
Corner of Wale & Buitengracht Street
+27 842 341 117
Silwood Centre,Campground Road Rondebosch
+27 214 819 860
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No reviews available
3 locations in Cape Town
from $15/dayLocations in Cape Town
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No reviews available
2 locations in Cape Town
from $24/dayLocations in Cape Town
33 Bree Street (Corner of Bree and Riebeek Streets)
+27 21 418 5232
Cape Town Intl Airport, Main Building Unit BG12, Central Car Rental Building, Central Boulevard 7525
+27 21 927 2750
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No reviews available
One location in Cape Town
Locations in Cape Town
Cape Town International Airport
+27 219 347 165
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No reviews available
One location in Cape Town
from $34/dayLocations in Cape Town
Cape Town Airport
+27 213 865 500
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No reviews available
One location in Cape Town
Locations in Cape Town
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One location in Cape Town
Locations in Cape Town
Unit 6 , Airport Business Park
+27 213 862 411
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No reviews available
One location in Cape Town
from $20/dayLocations in Cape Town
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One location in Cape Town
Locations in Cape Town
Car Rental Parking
+27 219 347 499
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No reviews available
One location in Cape Town
Locations in Cape Town
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One location in Cape Town
Locations in Cape Town
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