How to find a cheap car hire deal in Cape Town
In search of a cheap rental car in Cape Town? With an average price of 215 € a day, you're on the road to big savings. Whether you're after a zippy economy ride, a spacious family car, or something else entirely, we round up all the top offers to help you spend less.
Lock in your ride in December and keep your spending in low gear. It's the cheapest time of year to rent a car in Cape Town, with average daily rates of 17 €.
Timing makes all the difference when it comes to finding a cheap rental car in Cape Town. Book around one week before you travel to score the best price.
Check out car hire deals in Cape Town from leading providers like Green Motion, Europcar and U-Save.
Whether you choose Green Motion or a different supplier, be sure to check the coverage on your Cape Town car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others charge extra for it.
Booking a one-way car hire can be the key to cheaper deals. Simply check 'Return car to a different location' when browsing for a car for rent in Cape Town. Providers sometimes have to move vehicles from one site to another, which means you can score some excellent one-way prices.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in Cape Town with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. No surprise fuel add-ons when you hand back the keys either.
Explore without limits by booking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you want without extra charges.
Jetting into Cape Town? Consider booking one of the car rentals in Cape Town International Airport. That way, you can take off on your terms not long after arrival.
Compare car hire types in Cape Town
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap rental car in Cape Town makes getting around affordable and hassle-free. These compact, fuel-efficient cars are great for short trips and city driving.
Medium: A solid choice when you want something that has a few more features but is still easy to drive. This category includes compact and intermediate models that come with a bit of extra room compared to smaller cars.
Large: You've got the bags, the kids, the snacks, the works. Large vehicles have got the space to fit it all in without a hassle. Ideal for long-distance journeys, this Cape Town car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are made for plans that change mid-journey. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and country backroads alike.
Van: Choose this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Cape Town that can handle the big jobs. Typically featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to transport more, whether that's equipment, baggage or big groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the cost you'd have to pay if your Cape Town car hire is stolen or damaged. While not compulsory, it's a smart add-on if you'd rather play it safe. Just remember that not all insurance policies are the same, so make sure you understand exactly what's included.
Make driving easier when you rent a car in Cape Town by adding some handy extras. Think things like a GPS unit to make wrong turns a thing of the past, or reverse cameras that make parking feel effortless.
Good to know
Age requirements for rentals vary by supplier and even car type, so be clear on the rules before you book. Some companies in South Africa may rent to younger drivers for an extra fee. If you fall outside the typical age bracket, just uncheck 'Driver aged between 25–70' and then enter how old you are to browse your options.
Bringing the kids with you? Car seat requirements vary according to the location, and the best setup may depend on their age, weight and height. Make sure you add the right one to your Cape Town car hire reservation.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Cape Town
Explore the biggest attractions in the city once you've found your car hire deal in Cape Town. Table Mountain and Cecilia, Table Mountain are highlights you'll want to catch before heading off.
If you're after somewhere to stay in Cape Town while taking in the sights, consider DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town - Upper Eastside or Taj Cape Town.
Around 56 kilometres north-east of central Cape Town, Paarl deserves a spot on your itinerary. Head straight for must-see sights like Zandwijk Wines and Skydive Africa.
Comfortable accommodation options in Paarl include Zeederberg Corner and A' Queenslin Guesthouse.
Alternatively, collect your cheap car hire in Cape Town and then head for Worcester. Roughly 97 kilometres east of Cape Town, Karoo Desert Garden and Kleinplasie Living Open Air Museum are among the highlights that make the drive worthwhile.
Relax after a day out and about in Worcester at The Habit Guesthouse. Or trade the open road for a quiet stay at Cumberland Hotel Worcester.
Not ready to hit the brakes just yet? Motor on to Vredenburg, about 121 kilometres north of Cape Town. From Jacobs Bay Beach to Forest Fiends Urban Farm, it's the grand finale your trip deserves.
The only thing left on your to-do list now is sleep. Vredenburg Boutique Lodge and Spacious 1bed + Braai 13km to Paternoster Beach are ready with a room in Vredenburg.
