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 South Africa Car Rentals

Car Hire South Africa

Hiring a car in South Africa is the best way to explore the country safely, comfortably, and on your own schedule. From vibrant cities and coastal highways to wildlife reserves and wine regions, South Africa is built for road travel.

With Rhino Car Hire, you can compare trusted local and international suppliers across South Africa, book with transparent pricing, and collect your car at major airports and city locations nationwide.


Why Hire a Car in South Africa with Rhino Car Hire?

Nationwide Coverage

Car hire available across South Africa, including:

  • Major airports

  • City centres

  • Business hubs

  • Coastal towns and regional airports

This makes it easy to start your journey wherever you arrive.

Clear, Upfront Pricing

All mandatory charges included in your quote. No hidden fees at pick-up.

Vehicles for Every Journey

Choose from:

  • Economy and compact cars for city driving

  • Sedans and estates for longer distances

  • SUVs and 4x4s for rural roads and safari regions

  • Automatic vehicles widely available

  • Short-term and long-term rentals

One-Way Car Hire Across South Africa

Pick up your car in one city and return it in another (subject to availability). Popular one-way routes include:

Ideal for business travel, relocations, and scenic road trips.

24/7 Customer Support

Booking assistance and roadside support available throughout South Africa.


Top Places to Explore by Car in South Africa

Cities & Urban Travel

  • Johannesburg & Sandton

  • Cape Town

  • Durban

  • Pretoria

  • Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)

Scenic Drives & Road Trips

  • Garden Route

  • Panorama Route (Mpumalanga)

  • Cape Winelands

  • Wild Coast

  • Drakensberg Mountains

Wildlife & Nature

  • Kruger National Park

  • Pilanesberg National Park

  • Addo Elephant Park

  • Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park

A rental car allows access to destinations that are difficult or unsafe to reach by public transport.


Driving in South Africa – What to Know

  • Drive on the left

  • Speed limits:

    • 60 km/h in towns

    • 100 km/h on rural roads

    • 120 km/h on motorways

  • Speed cameras are common

  • Avoid night driving in unfamiliar rural areas

  • Fuel stations are widely available on highways and in cities

  • Carry your driving licence at all times


South Africa Car Hire FAQs

Is hiring a car in South Africa recommended?

Yes. Public transport is limited, and a car offers greater safety, flexibility, and access.

Do I need an International Driving Permit?

Licences in English are accepted. An IDP is recommended for non-English licences.

Are automatic cars available?

Yes. Automatic vehicles are widely available across South Africa.

Is unlimited mileage included?

Most rentals include unlimited mileage. Always check your booking terms.

Can I drive to neighbouring countries?

Cross-border travel may be possible but must be arranged in advance with the rental supplier.


How to Book Car Hire in South Africa

  1. Choose your South Africa pick-up location

  2. Compare vehicles and prices

  3. View the full price upfront

  4. Book securely online

  5. Collect your car and travel freely


Book Your South Africa Car Hire Today

From city business travel to coastal drives and safari adventures, South Africa is best explored by car. Rhino Car Hire makes booking simple, affordable, and reliable nationwide.

Book online today and explore South Africa with confidence.


📞 Contact & FAQs


Need help or ready to book your car in South Africa?

Check our FAQs for quick answers.
📧 Email: info@rhinocarhire.com
📞 UK: +44 (0)345 508 9845
🌍 International: Find local numbers on our Customer Service page.

📱 Follow Us:

💬 Still need help? We’re here for you 24/7 — just get in touch!
 

Cheapest car hire in South Africa

Toyota Agya

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 15.70 EUR/day
Toyota Agya

7 Days rental at 109.95 EUR from 23/03/2026

  1 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Toyota Agya

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 15.70 EUR/day
Toyota Agya

7 Days rental at 109.95 EUR from 23/03/2026

  1 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Toyota Agya

4 Adults, 5 Doors

From 15.70 EUR/day
Toyota Agya

7 Days rental at 109.95 EUR from 23/03/2026

  1 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Kia Sonet

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 19.42 EUR/day
Kia Sonet

7 Days rental at 135.97 EUR from 23/03/2026

  3 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Kia Sonet

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 19.42 EUR/day
Kia Sonet

7 Days rental at 135.97 EUR from 23/03/2026

  3 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Hyundai Venue

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 19.42 EUR/day
Hyundai Venue

7 Days rental at 135.98 EUR from 23/03/2026

  2 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Volkswagen Polo Vivo

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 17.26 EUR/day
Volkswagen Polo Vivo

7 Days rental at 120.86 EUR from 23/03/2026

  2 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Volkswagen Polo Vivo

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 17.26 EUR/day
Volkswagen Polo Vivo

7 Days rental at 120.86 EUR from 23/03/2026

  2 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Hyundai Grand i10

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 17.40 EUR/day
Hyundai Grand i10

7 Days rental at 121.83 EUR from 23/03/2026

  2 |
  Manual |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Xpander

7 Adults, 5 Doors

From 35.99 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Xpander

7 Days rental at 251.96 EUR from 23/03/2026

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Xpander

7 Adults, 5 Doors

From 35.99 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Xpander

7 Days rental at 251.96 EUR from 23/03/2026

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Mitsubishi Xpander

7 Adults, 5 Doors

From 35.99 EUR/day
Mitsubishi Xpander

7 Days rental at 251.96 EUR from 23/03/2026

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Suzuki Ciaz

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 18.68 EUR/day
Suzuki Ciaz

7 Days rental at 130.80 EUR from 23/03/2026

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Suzuki Ciaz

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 18.70 EUR/day
Suzuki Ciaz

7 Days rental at 130.95 EUR from 23/03/2026

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Corolla Quest

5 Adults, 4 Doors

From 20.13 EUR/day
Toyota Corolla Quest

7 Days rental at 140.93 EUR from 23/03/2026

  4 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 50.56 EUR/day
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

7 Days rental at 353.94 EUR from 23/03/2026

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 50.56 EUR/day
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

7 Days rental at 353.94 EUR from 23/03/2026

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

5 Adults, 5 Doors

From 50.56 EUR/day
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

7 Days rental at 353.94 EUR from 23/03/2026

  2 |
  Automatic |
  Yes

Top tips when hiring a car in South Africa

  • Choose Rhinocarhire: Opt for Rhinocarhire, a reputable provider known for its reliable service and transparent pricing in South Africa.
  • Insurance Coverage: Understand the insurance options provided by Rhinocarhire, including coverage for collision damage, theft, and liability. Consider additional insurance for comprehensive protection, especially for driving in diverse terrains and urban areas.

  • Road Conditions Awareness: Be prepared for varying road conditions in South Africa, from well-maintained highways to gravel and dirt roads in rural areas. Drive cautiously and be mindful of potholes, wildlife crossings, and pedestrians, especially in urban areas.

  • Traffic Regulations: Familiarize yourself with South Africa's traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits, road signs, and parking rules. Respect local driving customs and be cautious of other road users, particularly in busy cities.

  • Explore Natural and Cultural Attractions: Utilize your rental car to explore South Africa's diverse landscapes, including national parks like Kruger and Table Mountain, as well as cultural attractions such as Robben Island and the Apartheid Museum. Plan your routes to discover the best of South Africa's natural beauty and historical sites.

 

Popular car hire destinations in South Africa

Laws and rules of the road when driving in South Africa

  •  

    L

    Road Driving Side

  •  

    60kph

    Urban speed Limit

  •  

    100kph

    Rural Speed Limit

  •  

    120kph

    Motorway Speed Limit

  •  

    ZAR  15.82/Ltr

    Current Petrol Price

  •  

    50mg

    Drink Drive Limit

  •  

    ZAR

    Currency

  •  

    YES

    Tolls

  •  

    18

    Min Rental Age

    18

    Min Driving Age

  •  

    Front and Rear

    Seatbelts

  •  

    Fixed and Mobile

    Speed Cameras

  •  

    Hands Free Only

    Mobile Phones

Compare car rental agents in South Africa

Rental Agent
Locations
Rating (/10)
Customer Reviews
Mini (€/day)
Compact (€/day)
Intermediate (€/day)
Standard (€/day)
 Firefly powered by hertz
17
9.1/10
1,454
€ 15.70
€ 20.25
€ 41.56
 Woodford exclusive rentals
4
9.0/10
28
€ 32.55
€ 35.84
€ 53.53
 Tempest
22
8.9/10
2,205
€ 17.55
€ 21.83
€ 36.53
€ 66.31
 Avis
71
8.8/10
3,154
€ 17.70
€ 38.70
€ 22.41
€ 105.82
 Bluu car rental
34
8.8/10
3,058
€ 17.55
€ 21.98
€ 51.56
€ 57.56
 Enterprise
6
8.8/10
142
€ 18.67
€ 26.08
€ 27.38
€ 83.34
 Alamo
6
8.6/10
204
€ 17.78
€ 24.84
€ 26.08
€ 78.95
 Europcar
38
8.6/10
1,903
€ 17.55
€ 22.14
€ 80.99
€ 135.14
 Budget
73
8.5/10
3,889
€ 17.55
€ 38.55
€ 22.27
€ 45.18
 First
43
8.5/10
1,590
€ 17.55
€ 22.11
€ 30.11
€ 60.99
 Sixt
21
8.5/10
643
€ 17.77
€ 23.27
€ 44.81
 Hertz
24
8.4/10
1,602
€ 17.69
€ 23.27
€ 70.27
€ 48.41
 Green motion
13
8.3/10
446
€ 17.41
€ 19.42
€ 20.13
€ 38.28
 U-save
11
8.0/10
302
€ 17.41
€ 19.42
€ 18.68
€ 38.28

Car rental agent statistics in South Africa

  • Highest Rated Agent Icon
    9.4/10
    Highest rated agent:
    FIREFLY POWERED BY HERTZ
  • Lowest Rated Agent Icon
    7.7/10
    Lowest rated agent:
    U-SAVE
  • Total Number of Reviews Icon
    20,620
    Total number of reviews in
    South Africa
  • Most Locations Icon
    67
    Most Locations in South Africa:
    BUDGET
  • Average Wait Time Icon
    20
    Average wait time
    (Min.)
  • Total Rental Companies Icon
    19
    Total rental companies
     

Average prices per day for car hire in South Africa

ItemPercent
January€ 51
February€ 57
March€ 49
April€ 45
May€ 47
June€ 48
July€ 47
August€ 48
September€ 46
October€ 44
November€ 46
December€ 54
ItemPercent
January€ 34
February€ 36
March€ 34
April€ 31
May€ 32
June€ 33
July€ 32
August€ 33
September€ 33
October€ 31
November€ 32
December€ 36
ItemPercent
January€ 97
February€ 113
March€ 95
April€ 89
May€ 94
June€ 98
July€ 96
August€ 95
September€ 97
October€ 89
November€ 90
December€ 116
ItemPercent
January€ 70
February€ 76
March€ 64
April€ 58
May€ 60
June€ 62
July€ 62
August€ 63
September€ 61
October€ 60
November€ 63
December€ 75
ItemPercent
January€ 120
February€ 128
March€ 110
April€ 91
May€ 98
June€ 94
July€ 105
August€ 116
September€ 116
October€ 115
November€ 104
December€ 134
ItemPercent
January€ 27
February€ 28
March€ 26
April€ 24
May€ 24
June€ 25
July€ 25
August€ 25
September€ 25
October€ 24
November€ 25
December€ 28
ItemPercent
January€ 114
February€ 128
March€ 109
April€ 89
May€ 89
June€ 94
July€ 85
August€ 88
September€ 88
October€ 87
November€ 94
December€ 113
ItemPercent
January€ 67
February€ 75
March€ 66
April€ 66
May€ 64
June€ 67
July€ 65
August€ 63
September€ 63
October€ 58
November€ 65
December€ 73

Select category to see average car hire prices in South Africa

*average daily rates based on 7 day rental, search for today's best prices.

Fuel prices in South Africa

DieselUnleaded
Feb , 2025

€ 1.20

€ 1.15

Mar , 2025

€ 1.15

€ 1.11

Apr , 2025

€ 1.02

€ 0.99

May , 2025

€ 1.04

€ 1.01

Jun , 2025

€ 1.04

€ 1.03

Jul , 2025

€ 1.05

€ 1.03

Aug , 2025

€ 1.10

€ 1.03

Sep , 2025

€ 1.07

€ 1.03

Oct , 2025

€ 1.09

€ 1.06

Nov , 2025

€ 1.09

€ 1.04

Dec , 2025

€ 1.14

€ 1.07

Jan , 2026

€ 1.11

€ 1.06

Month, YearDiesel €/ltrUnleaded €/ltr
Jan , 2026 1.11 1.06
Dec , 2025 1.14 1.07
Nov , 2025 1.09 1.04
Oct , 2025 1.09 1.06
Sep , 2025 1.07 1.03
Aug , 2025 1.10 1.03
Jul , 2025 1.05 1.03
Jun , 2025 1.04 1.03
May , 2025 1.04 1.01
Apr , 2025 1.02 0.99
Mar , 2025 1.15 1.11
Feb , 2025 1.20 1.15

Car rental price statistics in South Africa

  • Average Price Icon
    € 109.90
    Average price:
    (per week)
  • Highest Daily Price Icon
    € 444.27
    Highest daily price:
    BMW M4 Convertible
  • Total Vehicles Icon
    5,169
    Total cars available
     
  • Most Popular Car Model Icon
    582
    Most popular model:
    Toyota Corolla Quest
  • Locations with Most Cars Icon
    286
    Location with most cars:
    Johannesburg - Airport - O.r. Tambo
  • Cheapest Daily Price Icon
    € 15.7 per day
    Cheapest daily price:
    FIREFLY POWERED BY HERTZ - Richards Bay - Airport
FAQs - How can we help?

There are always some points on which you are not sure when hiring a car, so we have done our best to answer the frequently asked questions. Just click this link and you will find the questions are sorted by category for easy navigation.

 Book Your Car Hire Now

 

Ready to explore South Africa and its stunning surroundings at your own pace? Book your car hire with Rhino Car Hire today and take advantage of our affordable rates, wide vehicle selection, and exceptional service. Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended stay, our hassle-free booking process and dedicated customer support make renting a car in South Africa simple and convenient. Don’t wait – secure your car hire now and start your adventure in this beautiful country!

Other Car Hire Locations in South Africa

We specialise in car rentals throughout South Africa to find you the best price and that's a promise...

Cape Town
€11.5
 
 
Mini 5 4 1 from €11.5 /day
Compact 5 5 3 from €15.1 /day
Economy 5 5 3 from €12.7/day
Durban
€11.9
 
 
Mini 5 4 1 from €11.9 /day
Compact 5 5 3 from €14.8 /day
Economy 5 5 3 from €13.3/day
Johannesburg
€11.2
 
 
Mini 5 4 1 from €11.2 /day
Compact 5 5 3 from €14.0 /day
Economy 5 5 3 from €12.7/day
Pretoria
€11.9
 
 
Mini 5 4 1 from €11.9 /day
Compact 5 5 3 from €14.8 /day
Economy 5 5 3 from €13.3/day