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Car hire in Johannesburg – Uncover South Africa’s financial capital
The South African city of Johannesburg rose from a humble gold-mining settlement to become the country’s largest city. The city is a mixing pot of cultures and influences. Once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, the city portrays much of the struggles of that era through wonderful museums and touristic points-of-interest. The local landscape is beautiful and blessed with practically all-year-round sunshine. With a low-cost car rental in Johannesburg visitors can uncover more of what this region has to offer. With convenient pick-up locations in downtown Johannesburg, and at both local airports, a car hire in Johannesburg is a great option. Consider driving to Cape Town, and viewing the iconic tabletop mountain, or pay a visit to Durban and enjoy the stunning golden mile beaches.
With more than 65 years of worldwide car hire industry experience, Auto Europe through its long-standing partners is well poised to offer its customers amazing rates on their car rentals. Together with regular promotions and deals, you’re sure to find the right rental for your budget. Along with standard car hire, we also provide luxury car hire, motorhome hire and a transfer service. With a large vehicle fleet to choose from, and convenient locations, have a look on our website to see what best suits you. If you haven’t used our car hire service before, have a read of our car hire reviews in Johannesburg to see feedback from previous customers.
For more information on renting a vehicle in Johannesburg, click on the car hire related topics listed below:
| Suppliers | Car Hire FAQs | Travel Guide |
Where to pick up a car hire in Johannesburg
It is straight forward to book a car rental in Johannesburg. Having partnered with numerous local, national and international car rental suppliers means that you’re sure to find the right deal for your budget. With great rates and regular promotions, all our members also receive up to 5% off when logged into their account. We are based at convenient locations throughout South Africa, including in central Johannesburg, at Johannesburg International Airport and at the Johannesburg Lanseria Airport. Hiring a car in Johannesburg is simple, and we have multiple car hire categories in which to choose from. From a Mini category all the way to a large SUV category – we’ll no doubt have the right vehicle for your needs.
To view a list of which car hire suppliers are available, use our secure online booking engine. Simply enter your desired location, dates and then click on “All Locations”, and a full list of available car rental suppliers for those dates will be shown. Results can further be filtered by car type, engine side, number of doors and more. If you are under 26 years of age, don’t forget to let us know by adding your age to the booking engine before commencing your search. This will allow our search engine to just show suppliers that are willing to rent their cars to your age group. Overall, we are extremely confident that our system will allow you to find the very best rent a car deals in Johannesburg.
Johannesburg International Airport
Johannesburg International Airport or commonly known as O.R. Tambo International Airport, is one of two airports serving the city of Johannesburg. It is South Africa’s largest and busiest airport, providing much needed air routes nationally and internationally. Yearly the airport receives around 21 million annual passengers. This airport is the hub for South Africa Airlines and also handles intercontinental flights to London, Berlin and more. It is located around 13 miles northeast of downtown Johannesburg. Contained in its two terminals you’ll find everything you’d need for a safe and secure onward journey, including, shops, amenities, restaurants, coffee houses, ATM machines and free Wi-Fi. Car rental desks can be found at P2 south level one car park upon exiting the terminal.
Johannesburg International Airport (JNB)
Website: Johannesburg Airport
Address: O R Tambo Airport Road, Kempton Park, Johannesburg 1627, Gauteng, South Africa
Telephone: +27 (0)11 921 6262
Johannesburg Lanseria Airport
Johannesburg Lanseria Airport is a privately owned airport located northwest of Johannesburg. Its sole purpose was to alleviate air traffic from the already heavily congested Johannesburg International Airport. With one terminal building and one runway strip, the airport can handle passenger and cargo. With national links to Durban and Cape Town, the airport is also home to National Airways and a hub for Kulula, Solenta, FlySafair and Comair. In 2017 the airport administration entered into discussions with Air Botswana, Air Mauritius, Kenya Airways and Air Namibia in an effort to create more connections across the African continent. The airport has all the necessary facilities for a safe and secure onward journey, including restaurants, coffee houses and shops. Numerous car rental suppliers are present here and are located on the ground floor of the multi-storey car park.
Johannesburg Lanseria Airport (HLA)
Website: Johannesburg Airport
Address: Airport Rd, Lanseria, 1748, South Africa
Telephone: +27 11 367 0300
Book with the best car hire suppliers in Johannesburg
Have a look on our website to find some great deals when you next rent a car in Johannesburg. Along with an unbelievable rate, customers will also get regular promotions and deals worldwide. For those that become members, a standard 5% discount is available on bookings when logged into your account. With our award-winning customer service team, you’re in safe hands should you need any assistance during your car rental. Our team is also available after your car hire, should you require them.
In Johannesburg we have partnered with two of the best car hire suppliers in the country. These are First Car and Budget – both of which available in downtown Johannesburg, and at both airports. With a one-way car hire you can collect your vehicle in downtown Johannesburg and drop it off at any airport or city of your choosing, such as George. These are great options and only costs a minimal daily fee. Through these suppliers, you’re sure to get a great rate, a large fleet of vehicles in which to choose from, and convenient locations. To view which suppliers are available during our rental dates, simply conduct a search on our website and all suppliers will be shown. These results can further be filtered by vehicle type, engine size and more.
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If you need more information about what car hire companies are available in Johannesburg or about their policies, please contact one of our reservation agents via email or by phone.
Frequently asked questions about renting a car in Johannesburg
Following is a useful list of the most asked questions by our previous customers that have decided on hiring a car in Johannesburg. These questions and answers should give you a greater understanding on renting a car in Johannesburg. However, if you have any further car hire related concerns or questions, please contact our agents and they will be more than happy to help. Some of our trained agents have local knowledge and will be able to assist with South African focused issues.
Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Johannesburg?
Yes – a valid credit card is needed in Johannesburg for the car rental supplier to release the car to you. Depending on the car type, more than one credit card may be needed. This normally applies to luxury car hire. The credit card must be under the main driver’s name and contain enough funds for a security deposit to be held on it. The security deposit will be released back onto your credit card once the car is returned and in the same condition as when it left. This means that it is vitally important that you inspect the car before driving off. Note anything of concern on the pick-up slip. We recommend if possible, taking photographic and video evidence.
Upon your return make sure a member of the car hire supplier team reinspects the vehicle and signs it off as okay. Only then can the deposit be released back onto your card. Please allow up to 14-days for this to show on your bank statement. Debit cards are not accepted for security deposit purposes by the suppliers. To check which credit cards are accepted, please refer to the “Info Icon” once you have selected your supplier. The relevant information is shown under “Supplier Payment Policy” and is also contained on your rental voucher’s terms and conditions. To find out more consult our credit cards and deposit section.
What insurance do I need for my car rental in Johannesburg?
All shown rates on our booking engine come with the minimum legally required insurances for the country. These are Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Liability Insurance and Theft Protection (TP). These insurances do not cover every eventuality and damage. Due to this we recommend taking out Full Damage & Theft Protection Cover during the booking process. This cover will provide protection for damage caused to the vehicle’s mirrors, glass, roof, misfuelling, undercarriage and damage or loss to the car keys. It will also cover administration and towing charges. The cost of this cover will depend on the vehicle type, duration of rental and location. Fees can be viewed under “Info Icon” upon clicking “Additional Information”.
It is important to note that many suppliers will try and sell extra insurance during your pick-up. These are fully optional and for the most part, if you already have our Full Damage & Theft Protection Cover, it shouldn’t be needed. Commonly sold insurances include Super CDW, Personal Effects Insurance, Breakdown Assistance and many more. Auto Europe does not endorse or profit from said insurances. Any insurances bought directly with the local supplier is not refundable by Auto Europe, even if deemed to have not been necessary afterwards. Consult our car hire coverage options to learn more on this complex topic.
How is the traffic in Johannesburg?
Traffic congestion in Johannesburg can be extremely problematic especially within the city centre and at main interchanges. The M2 which cuts right through Johannesburg experiences very heavy congestion during rush hour and at its junction with the M1. Much of the city’s central roads are congested throughout the day and especially during the weekends. That being said, a car rental in Johannesburg is still one of the best ways to get around the city, as its local transport can be problematic at times. Roads heading out to both airports can experience traffic as well as the motorways that link Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban and as far as Port Elizabeth. If you haven’t driven in the country before we highly recommend having a look at our road rules and regulations section to familiarise yourself with the South African way of driving.
Where can I park my car hire in Johannesburg?
There is plenty of free on-street parking in the city, however, for your own safety and security we advise using one of the many available parking garages scattered throughout the city. These parking garages are generally located near points-of-interest, tourist attractions and in shopping centres. For a small fee your car will be safer with 24-hour security. Although we always advise never leaving anything in the car that is valuable. Many restaurants and hotels have free parking. On-street parking that is paid for will have signage stating this. With a metre located nearby.
Do I need to pay tolls when driving my car hire in Johannesburg?
Yes, South African national roads operate a toll system, so it is recommended you plan you journey in and around Johannesburg beforehand. Make sure you carry enough money upon your person to be able to pay for the toll gates, as only African credit cards are accepted as form of payment. Toll gates are manual except for the one in Gauteng which operates an e-toll system. To use an e-toll, you must register online first. Day passes are available to buy and will allow you to use the toll gates for 24 hours. There are currently toll roads on motorways from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Johannesburg to Durban and Johannesburg to Gauteng. The only toll-free routes from Johannesburg are to Pretoria and Rustenburg. Rented out vehicles come already fitted with an e-tag for ease. The supplier receives a detailed list of charges uncured each day, these of which will be added to your rental's final bill. If any charges are received after the return of the car, this will be invoiced and charged to the original card used for the rental. If there are delays from the South African National Road Agency in providing daily lists of toll charges, customers will be invoiced accordingly as and when these charges are provided. Please note that an e-tag administration fee applies of ZAR 20 per rental.
Do I need an international driving license to hire a car in Johannesburg?
If you are hiring a car with First Car, then an International Driving Permit is required only if your driving licence is not in English. Both your licence and the International Driving Permit must be provided together and kept together during the duration of your rental. Your driving licence is only valid when companied by the International Driving Permit. If hiring with Budget, then an International Driving Permit is compulsory in all circumstances. Failure to have these documents means that the car rental supplier will refuse to release the vehicle. We recommend also confirming that your driving licence is in date and has the right car categories before arriving.
Can I hire a campervan in Johannesburg?
Yes, campervan hire is available through us in Johannesburg. We highly recommend this option as an alternative and more exciting way to uncover what this magical country has on offer – from George to Nelspruit. With various motorhome types available, from two passenger to six passenger options, have a read of our Johannesburg section to see our extensive offerings. Many campervans come with heating, utensils, bedding and much more, for a pleasant journey.
Johannesburg Travel Guide
Even though Johannesburg is the country’s largest city and its financial capital, with so much to see and do here, we recommend exploring more of what the region has on offer with your vehicle. The neighbouring districts of Soweto for example is where Nelson Mandela once lived and a good place visit. Heading north you’ll come to Pretoria, another fabulous city and region to uncover. Both airports are well connected to the city and similarly local. The local landscape is dry and arid, however contains plenty of wildlife. Hiring a car in South Africa is pretty straight forward, however, younger aged drives should note the minimum age requirements for hiring a car. If you are eligible there is little doubt that a vehicle will allow you to experience parts of the country many can't get to.
Best day trips with my car rental in Johannesburg
Johannesburg is one of the best cities in the country to start commencing your exploration from. With motorways linking the city to many of the country’s other great cities, with your car hire from Johannesburg you’ll easily get to where you need to go. From Port Elizabeth to Pretoria and Cape Town, the choice is yours. You could even consider going on a safari or visiting the iconic tabletop mountain or the wonderful beaches scattered around the coastline. Following is what we would recommend as the ideal road trip with your car hire.
Pilanesberg National Park Safari: By far the most popular thing to do whilst in South Africa for visitors is a wildlife safari and a desire to see the Big Five – elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino and a leopard. Luckily in the Pilanesberg National Park it's easy to find these and more of Africans amazing wildlife. Located near the Sun City, this national park provides guided tours twice daily. Known as the game drive, you can be guided through the part by 4x4 vehicles, fully air-conditioned and safe. With transfer available from Johannesburg, this safari day is perfect for a day trip.
Maropeng Cradle of Humankind & Sterkfontein Cave: The continent of Africa has been long regarded as the birthplace of mankind, so it is only fitting that an area has been dedicated to humankind and how they lived, migrated across the world. An UNESCO World Heritage Site, a visit to the Cradle of Humankind and Sterkfontein Cave is an essential part of understanding where we came from. The limestone caverns were once home to our earliest ancestors, with fossils dating back more than 3 million years. During your visit you can enjoy interactive exhibits, and even a boat ride.
Executive Capital of Pretoria: South Africa has no less than three capital cities. These are Bloemfontein – the judicial capital, Cape Town – the legislative capital and Pretoria – the executive capital of South Africa. Pretoria is in the Gauteng Province and makes for a great day trip from Johannesburg. The city is also known locally as Jacaranda City, due to the abundance of jacaranda trees. Take a guided tour of Pretoria and visit places such as church square, Union buildings, Melrose House and the Voortrekker Monument.
Cullinan Diamond Mine: South Africa attracted many settlers due to its mines and rich resources such as gold and diamonds. Many a fortune was made, but also many a soul was broken – discover these stories and more during a visit to the Cullinan Diamond Mine. An inspiring and sober place, this beautiful mine lies in Cullinan and provides two different tours. The options are a 2-hour surface tour or a 4-hour underground tour – which we highly recommend. This mine is still in operation today, as is one of the world's only working mine that allows visitors.
What to do in Johannesburg
Johannesburg is the country’s largest city and as such is a wonderful melting pot of different cultures and traditions. This in part is reflected in its vibrant marketplaces and wonderful culinary treats. With plenty of restaurants, traditional downtown coffee houses and eateries, you’ll certain enjoy exploring the city. Consider hiring a cheap car in Johannesburg to make uncovering what the city has to offer easier. Why not chare the joy of driving with a free additional driver, a great offer which is available on many of our rentals. We recommend the following things to see and do in Johannesburg.
- Apartheid Museum: You cannot visit South Africa or indeed Johannesburg without taking he opportunity to learn about its apartheid era. Visiting the Apartheid Museum, visitors will gain a brutal reminder of this country’s dark past. The museum comes highly recommended and is beautifully laid out. It depicts the Apartheid story well, until present day – covering around 100-years. With lots of stories, artifacts and video clips on offer, visitors will gain a wonderful insight into the life of African people and Nelson Mandela himself. Many visitors combine this with a visit to Constitution Hill, where you’ll find Johannesburg’s old prison and court.
- Mandela House: Many tourists who visit Johannesburg head at some point to view where Nelson Mandela once lived. Located southwest of central Johannesburg is a district known as Soweto. Here, you’ll find the rather modest Mandela House. The area is rich in history and culture, whilst the house has been beautifully preserved and provides an overview of Mandela’s life, his children and wives. The guides are informative and extremely warm and friendly.
- Gold Reef City: If you’re looking for some entertainment for the whole family, pay a visit to Gold Reef City in the south of Johannesburg. Only 20-minutes from Johannesburg International Airport, this entertainment park has been developed with a mining town atmosphere. On-site visitors will find two hotels, a casino, a theatre, a theme park, a conference hall and other teambuilding facilities. Also present is a large array of restaurants, coffee houses, eateries and fast-food establishments.
- The Playground: If you are looking for an authentic new-age South African atmosphere, consider a visit to “The Playground”. This new-age market is open every weekend and hosts various delights to tantalize both your taste and sights. An artisan market, here you’ll find gourmet street food, wonderful cocktails and regular live music and DJ’s. This marketplace focuses on providing an environment for young local artists to show off their talents to the wider public.
- Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial: This museum was opened in 2002 and depicts the tragic events that lead to the massacre by the police of the Sowetan school children in 1976. A painful and thought-provoking museum to visit, nevertheless it helps to remind us of the tragic events that took place. The museum has been laid out to take you on a story of what happened during this student uprising on the 16th June 1976. The whole experience should take you up to an hour and a half. Consider having a look at all the bricks located next to the ticket office past the red door. Each brick depicts a school kid that list their life on that day.
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