Top 10 Car Rentals in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s vibrant economic hub, is a sprawling metropolis best explored with the freedom of a rental car. From visiting iconic sites like the Apartheid Museum to embarking on a safari adventure, a reliable car rental ensures flexibility and convenience. This evergreen guide highlights the top 10 car rental companies in Johannesburg for 2025, selected based on affordability, vehicle variety, customer reviews, and accessibility. Whether you’re a tourist navigating O.R. Tambo International Airport, a business traveler in Sandton, or a local planning a road trip, these companies offer budget-friendly economy cars, luxury vehicles, and SUVs tailored to your needs. With insights on pricing, booking tips, and nearby attractions, this article is your go-to resource for securing the best car rental deals in the City of Gold, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.

List of Top 10 Car Rentals in Johannesburg

1. Avis

  • Location: O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), 1 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, Johannesburg, 1632; additional branches in Sandton and Park Station

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Price Range: R232–R1,500/day (e.g., Economy from R232, SUV from R600)

  • Key Features: Offers 24/7 service at JNB with a wide fleet, including Kia Picanto, Toyota Corolla, and Toyota Fortuner. Provides GPS, child seats, and full-to-full fuel policy. Known for loyalty programs and international visitor discounts.

  • Why Choose?: Ideal for travelers seeking reliable service, airport convenience, and flexible payment options (credit, debit, EFT).

  • Contact: +27 11 923 3660, avis.co.za

2. Budget

  • Location: O.R. Tambo International Airport, Kempton Park, Johannesburg; branches in CBD and Marlboro

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (Customer feedback)

  • Price Range: R230–R1,200/day (e.g., Volkswagen Polo from R230, SUV from R500)

  • Key Features: Offers economy cars, SUVs, and bakkies with monthly rentals from R5,799. Features QuickPass for faster pickups and free cancellations. Full-to-full fuel policy applies.

  • Why Choose?: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers needing affordable rates and a fair fuel policy.

  • Contact: +27 11 398 0123, budget.co.za

3. Sixt

  • Location: O.R. Tambo International Airport, Park Station, Sandton, Lanseria Airport (HLA)

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Price Range: R300–R2,000/day (e.g., Economy from R300, BMW 1 Series from R800)

  • Key Features: Premium fleet with BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and SUVs. Offers 24-hour returns at JNB, E-Toll Service, and GPS add-ons. Flexible bookings with no cancellation fees.

  • Why Choose?: Great for business travelers or those seeking luxury vehicles with hassle-free airport access.

  • Contact: +27 11 230 9999, sixt.com

4. Europcar

  • Location: O.R. Tambo International Airport, Sandton, Park Station

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Price Range: R245–R1,800/day (e.g., Compact from R245, SUV from R600)

  • Key Features: Diverse fleet including Suzuki Swift, Toyota Urban Cruiser, and minivans. Offers flexible rentals (daily, monthly) and one-way options to Cape Town or Durban. Requires two credit cards for premium vehicles.

  • Why Choose?: Best for families or groups needing spacious vehicles and flexible drop-off locations.

  • Contact: +27 11 479 4000, europcar.com

5. Hertz

  • Location: O.R. Tambo International Airport, Kempton Park; branches in Pretoria and Sandton

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (Customer feedback)

  • Price Range: R250–R2,500/day (e.g., Suzuki Swift from R250, Toyota Fortuner from R700)

  • Key Features: Offers economy cars, bakkies, and luxury models like BMW 1 Series. Provides unlimited mileage and motorcycle rentals. Full-to-full fuel policy.

  • Why Choose?: Ideal for long road trips with unlimited mileage and diverse vehicle options.

  • Contact: +27 11 390 9700, hertz.co.za

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6. Pace Car Rental

  • Location: 39 5th St, Marlboro, Johannesburg; branches in Kempton Park

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Price Range: R226–R1,500/day (e.g., Economy from R226, bakkie from R500)

  • Key Features: Proudly South African, offering cash, debit, and EFT payments. Stocks bakkies, minibuses, and economy cars. Monthly rentals from R5,999. Known for excellent customer service.

  • Why Choose?: Perfect for locals and businesses needing flexible payment options and affordable long-term rentals.

  • Contact: +27 11 262 5500, pacecarrental.co.za

7. First Car Rental

  • Location: O.R. Tambo International Airport, 1 Jones Rd, Kempton Park; Sandton branch

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Price Range: R232–R1,600/day (e.g., Kia Picanto from R232, SUV from R600)

  • Key Features: Offers economy, compact, and 4×4 vehicles with one-way rentals to Nelspruit or Bloemfontein. Provides GPS and child seats. Popular for competitive pricing.

  • Why Choose?: Great for tourists planning cross-city trips with reliable vehicles and airport convenience.

  • Contact: +27 11 230 9999, firstcarrental.co.za

8. Thrifty

  • Location: O.R. Tambo International Airport, Kempton Park; off-airport shuttles available

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (Customer feedback)

  • Price Range: R245–R1,400/day (e.g., Compact from R245, SUV from R550)

  • Key Features: Offers economy, intermediate, and SUVs with full-to-full fuel policy. Provides last-minute deals and long-term rentals. Known for efficient service at JNB.

  • Why Choose?: Suitable for spontaneous travelers needing quick bookings and airport pickups.

  • Contact: +27 11 390 2342, thrifty.co.za

9. Woodford

  • Location: O.R. Tambo International Airport, Kempton Park; Sandton branch

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Price Range: R230–R1,300/day (e.g., Economy from R230, SUV from R500)

  • Key Features: Offers compact cars, SUVs, and vans with flexible rental periods (daily, weekly, monthly). Provides shuttle services from JNB to off-airport locations. Competitive rates for small cars.

  • Why Choose?: Ideal for budget travelers seeking affordable rates and convenient airport access.

  • Contact: +27 11 979 0001, woodford.co.za

10. Tempest Car Hire

  • Location: O.R. Tambo International Airport, Park Station, Sandton

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (Customer feedback)

  • Price Range: R250–R1,500/day (e.g., Economy from R250, SUV from R600)

  • Key Features: Offers Mini, Economy, and Intermediate cars like Suzuki Swift. Provides one-way rentals and loyalty programs. Known for transparent pricing and customer support.

  • Why Choose?: Best for cost-conscious travelers needing reliable cars and flexible drop-off options.

  • Contact: +27 11 394 8626, tempestcarhire.co.za

Why Choose Car Rentals in Johannesburg?

Renting a car in Johannesburg offers unmatched benefits:

  • Flexibility: Explore attractions like the Cradle of Humankind or Soweto at your own pace, unlike crowded public transport.

  • Affordability: Economy cars start at R226/day (Pace), with monthly deals as low as R5,799 (Budget).

  • Variety: From Kia Picanto (First Car Rental) to BMW 1 Series (Sixt), there’s a vehicle for every need.

  • Accessibility: Major companies like Avis and Sixt operate 24/7 at O.R. Tambo Airport, with city branches in Sandton and Park Station.

  • Adventure: One-way rentals (Europcar, First Car Rental) enable road trips to Kruger National Park or Cape Town.

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Types of Vehicles Available

Johannesburg’s car rental companies offer diverse options:

  • Economy: Kia Picanto, Suzuki Swift (Avis, Tempest) for city driving.

  • Compact: Toyota Urban Cruiser, Volkswagen Polo (Europcar, Budget) for fuel efficiency.

  • Intermediate: Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Venue (First Car Rental, Thrifty) for mid-range comfort.

  • SUV: Toyota Fortuner, Suzuki Jimny (Hertz, Woodford) for safaris and rugged terrain.

  • Luxury: BMW 1 Series, Mercedes-Benz (Sixt) for premium experiences.

  • Vans/Minibuses: VW Transporter, Mercedes Vito (Pace, Europcar) for groups.

Factors Affecting Rental Costs

  • Vehicle Type: Economy cars (R226/day, Pace) are cheapest; luxury models (R2,000/day, Sixt) cost more.

  • Season: January is the cheapest month (R22/day for small cars); October is priciest.

  • Rental Duration: Weekly rentals (R43/day, Tempest) are cheaper than daily rates.

  • Add-Ons: GPS (R100/day), child seats (R50/day), or additional drivers (R200) increase costs.

  • Location: Airport pickups (JNB) may include kiosk fees; off-airport locations (Pace, Marlboro) are cheaper.

How to Choose the Right Car Rental

  • Budget: Opt for Budget or Woodford for rates from R230/day; Sixt for luxury from R800/day.

  • Location: Choose Avis or Sixt for 24/7 airport access; Pace for Marlboro-based cash rentals.

  • Trip Purpose: Select economy cars (Tempest) for city tours, SUVs (Hertz) for safaris, or vans (Europcar) for groups.

  • Reviews: Check Google Reviews or X posts, e.g., Sixt’s 4.6/5 for premium service.

  • Extras: Prioritize GPS (Avis) for navigating “spaghetti” junctions or E-Toll Service (Sixt) for motorways.

Tips for Renting a Car in Johannesburg

  • Book Early: Reserve in January for rates as low as R22/day; avoid October for savings.

  • Compare Deals: Use platforms like kayak.com or vipcars.com to find rates from R226/day.

  • Check Fuel Policy: Choose full-to-full (Budget, Europcar) to avoid refueling surcharges.

  • Request GPS: Essential for navigating complex junctions near JNB or Sandton’s rush hours.

  • Verify Requirements: Bring a valid driver’s license, passport, and credit card; international licenses needed for non-English licenses.

  • Drive Safely: Lock doors, keep windows up, and avoid night driving due to dim lighting.

Benefits of Renting a Car in Johannesburg

  • Cost-Effective: Economy rentals (R226/day, Pace) are cheaper than tours for attractions like Pilanesberg National Park.

  • Convenience: 24/7 airport desks (Avis, Sixt) and city branches (Tempest, Pace) ensure easy access.

  • Exploration: Drive to Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve or Magaliesberg for self-guided adventures.

  • Flexibility: One-way rentals (First Car Rental) allow drop-offs in Durban or Cape Town.

  • Comfort: Air-conditioned SUVs (Hertz) are ideal for summer (November–February).

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

  • Traffic: Sandton’s rush hours (6:30–9 AM, 3:30–6 PM) and FNB Stadium events cause delays. Solution: Plan routes via GPS and check stadium schedules.

  • Safety Concerns: Crime risks require vigilance. Solution: Lock doors, park in secure lots with car guards, and avoid night driving.

  • Hidden Fees: Airport kiosk fees or add-ons increase costs. Solution: Book off-airport (Pace) and confirm all-inclusive rates.

  • Navigation: Complex junctions near JNB confuse drivers. Solution: Rent GPS or use Google Maps.

  • Fuel Policies: Some companies charge for unused fuel. Solution: Choose full-to-full policies (Budget, Thrifty).

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Best Areas for Car Rental Pickups in Johannesburg

  • O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB): Avis, Sixt, Europcar offer 24/7 desks opposite Domestic Arrivals.

  • Sandton: Sixt, First Car Rental serve business travelers near Sandton City Mall.

  • Park Station: Tempest, Sixt cater to train travelers in the CBD.

  • Marlboro: Pace offers cash rentals for budget-conscious locals.

  • Lanseria Airport (HLA): Sixt, Europcar provide alternatives for northern suburbs.

Things to Do Near Rental Locations

  • O.R. Tambo Airport: Visit Emperor’s Palace Casino (5 km) or shop at East Rand Mall (10 km).

  • Sandton: Explore Nelson Mandela Square or Sandton City Mall for dining and shopping.

  • Park Station: Tour the Johannesburg Art Gallery or Constitution Hill in the CBD.

  • Marlboro: Check out Alexandra township’s cultural tours or Greenstone Shopping Centre.

  • Lanseria: Visit Lion & Safari Park (20 km) for a quick wildlife experience.

Safety and Practical Tips

  • Safe Areas: Sandton and Woodmead are secure; use Uber in CBD after 6 PM.

  • Best Time to Rent: January for lowest rates (R22/day); avoid October for cheaper deals.

  • Driving Rules: Drive on the left, obey speed limits (60 km/h city, 120 km/h freeways), and carry your license.

  • Parking: Use secure lots with car guards; tip R5–R10 for their service.

  • Emergency Contacts: Police (10111), Avis roadside assistance (+27 11 923 3660).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest car rental in Johannesburg?

Pace offers rates from R226/day, followed by Budget and Woodford at R230/day. January is the cheapest month.

Are there car rentals at O.R. Tambo Airport?

Yes, Avis, Sixt, Europcar, Hertz, and others operate 24/7 desks opposite Domestic Arrivals at JNB.

Can I rent a car without a credit card in Johannesburg?

Pace accepts cash, debit, and EFT payments, unlike most companies requiring credit cards for deposits.

What vehicles are best for Johannesburg?

Economy cars (Kia Picanto, Avis) suit city driving; SUVs (Toyota Fortuner, Hertz) are ideal for safaris.

Can I drop off my rental in another city?

Yes, Europcar, First Car Rental, and Sixt offer one-way rentals to Cape Town, Durban, or Nelspruit.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 10 car rental companies, from Pace’s budget-friendly R226/day rentals to Sixt’s premium BMWs, offer diverse vehicles and services for every traveler. Book early via avis.co.za or sixt.com, choose full-to-full fuel policies, and request GPS to navigate Jozi’s roads safely. Explore the Apartheid Museum, drive to Pilanesberg National Park, or enjoy Sandton’s nightlife with the flexibility of a rental car. Pair your trip with visits to Nelson Mandela Square or Lion & Safari Park for a memorable experience. For the latest deals, check pacecarrental.co.za or europcar.com to hit the road affordably in the City of Gold.