Car Hire, Self-Drive and Transfers in South Africa
Car Hire, Self-Drive & Private Transfers
There’s no better way to explore South Africa than by car. With good roads, easy parking, and the freedom to stop wherever you choose, you’ll never miss a thing.
Driving in South Africa is easy, especially if you’re used to driving on the left. The highway code is similar to the UK’s, and you’ll quickly pick up local terms like “robots” (traffic lights) and “traffic circles” (roundabouts).
If you do not need car hire, then see our Transfers section below for information on airport pick-ups drop-offs and transfers with safe and reliable drivers.
Choosing the right vehicle
We recommend a mid-sized vehicle, even for just two people. Journeys can be long, and a mid-sized car offers more comfort. For shorter trips around Cape Town and the Winelands, a smaller-budget rental is fine. For families, MPVs are ideal for luggage and shopping.
Our exclusive, fun and exciting Suzuki Jimnys for your 4x4 camping and outdoor adventures:
Our modified 3 or 5-door Jimnys are anything but ordinary:
Upgraded tyres for better grip
Upgraded suspension to improve performance
Lighter on fuel - 25% less than an average 4x4
Unlimited km rates because your exploring needs no limits
Plus a Thule roof box, camping gear, fridge and coffee maker at no extra charge
Get your Jimney with all the gear you need for a self-drive adventure in Africa (we can provide a list of all the options available, from kitchen and electrical gear to trailer, safety equipment and much more!)
See the image gallery on this page for more information
* The Suzuki Jimney range has separate hire terms and conditions. We will provide those when we send you our proposal.
** Our Suzuki Jimneys can be picked up from Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Huidspruit, and Kruger Airport.
Car hire locations and services
Car hire offices are located at most airports and in major towns and cities. Service is generally excellent, though waiting times at major airports can be long at peak arrival hours. In most cases, our reputable car hire operator can deliver a car to your hotel and handle the paperwork there, at a time convenient for you.
Best driving routes in South Africa
We have compiled sample self-drive itineraries which take in the best driving routes through South Africa, including:
Cape Town along the Garden Route
Exploring KwaZulu-Natal, from the Midlands to the Drakensberg Mountains and on to the Battlefields
Driving to Kruger National Park from Johannesburg
The wild desert beauty of the Northern Cape
Check out our itineraries under "Places to Visit" and "Safaris & Tours". These are broken down by region, and we will tailor the perfect itinerary to meet your interests.
Important notes about cross-border travel
Crossing borders into neighbouring countries like Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho, and Eswatini is excluded from our standard car hire terms. If you intend to cross a border, speak to us before booking your car hire.
Enjoy the journey
Stops and rest breaks are a great part of the experience, with excellent roadside cafes, restaurants, and even fresh produce sold by the roadside.
All-inclusive car hire*
We work on an “all-inclusive” basis when it comes to insurance and waivers. No arriving at the car hire desk to be confronted by 20 questions about what add-ons may be needed. It's all included, and here is the detail:
One additional driver
Premium Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Premium Theft Loss Waiver (TLW)
Unlimited kilometres
Claim admin fee (only in the event of an accident/theft)
Value Added Tax 15%
Sandblasting damage
General Public Liability Insurance
Windscreen damage waiver
Tyre damage waiver
Water and undercarriage damage
Rim and hubcap damage
One-way fees within South Africa
Young driver surcharge
Contract Fee
*The above does not apply to our Suzuki Jimney range, where other hire conditions apply.
Private Transfers
We can arrange all transfers, including meet-and-greet services at airports, lodges, or hotels. We can provide long-distance transfers if you prefer not to drive. Vehicles are generally mid-sized saloon cars and MPVs, all in excellent condition with air conditioning and water provided.
Let’s chat and work out the best route for your South African driving holiday!
Car Hire Groups & Transfer Fleet
Your Adventure, Your Way
All good things start with a conversation and planning your holiday shouldn't be like flicking through a catalogue. Email us, book a free consultation, or give us a call, to get your next bespoke adventure underway.
Phone Number:
+44 (0)7516 766404
Email Address: