How to find a cheap car hire deal in Pretoria
Whether you need a compact for zipping through the city streets or bigger wheels for bigger plans, we'll help you find a cheap rental car in Pretoria. Pick from options averaging R 1,441 a day and get on the road for less.
The cheapest daily rental price in Pretoria is R 351.
Staying a while and want to explore beyond the tourist trail? R 2,456 is the best rate for a weekly rental.
Pick up the best price on a Pretoria car hire by booking in advance. You're more likely to get a better deal and more choice.
Enterprise, Sixt and Europcar are some of the most reliable providers in the city. They're a smart place to start comparing offers.
The coverage Enterprise or another company offers for your Pretoria car hire can differ, so remember to read the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will apply a surcharge for it.
Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to lock in a good deal if the provider needs to shift vehicles between branches. Find the best available rates by selecting 'Return car to a different location.'
Avoid any surprise charges by booking a ride with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start your journey with a full tank and return it the same, and only pay for what you actually use.
Hit the road without watching the miles and racking up additional fees. Go to the 'Policies' filter and choose 'Unlimited mileage' to find a ride that lets you roam without limits.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll get the best value with this company. Prices average R 967 a day.
Next in line is [this provider](this provider](https://www.skyscanner.co.za/car-hire/car-hire-with-provider/thrifty/660)), offering daily rates of around R 896.
The third option won't stretch your budget either. You'll pay roughly R 933 a day with this supplier.
Want a car that makes sense for everyday trips? The Compact rental category comes in as the leading choice for travellers visiting Pretoria.
Compare car hire types in Pretoria
Small: These cheap rental cars in Pretoria may be small in size, but they're big on practicality. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're easy to manoeuvre, great on mileage, and perfect for city driving or short trips.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine comfort, space and fuel efficiency. Easy to handle in traffic and with enough space for longer drives, they work well for most plans.
Large: Offering greater driving comfort and improved tech features, this Pretoria car hire category includes full-size cars. With roomier rear seats and ample storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: SUVs are your four-wheel fix for wanderlust. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and scenic backroads alike.
Van: Go for this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Pretoria that can handle the heavy stuff. Featuring options like commercial vans and trucks, they're built to carry more, whether that's supplies, suitcases or groups of people.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but is something you should consider. If your vehicle is damaged, no matter how minor, it can help you avoid paying a big excess fee. Different Pretoria car hire providers have varying insurance policies and cover levels, so check the details before booking.
Travel smarter when you rent a car in Pretoria by adding a few nifty extras. Think things like a navigation system to make sure you never miss a turn, or reverse cameras that upgrade your parking game.
Good to know
Check each supplier's age requirements before booking your rental in South Africa. Rules can differ, and added fees or restrictions may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, simply uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' box and enter your age to explore your options.
Travelling with kids? Car seat laws differ from place to place, and the right setup may depend on their height, age and weight. Check if you need to add one to your Pretoria car rental reservation.
You'll likely be asked for these three things when collecting your rental car: a valid driver's licence, another form of photo ID, and a credit card with room to cover the excess. Debit cards are generally not accepted. Any extra must-haves will be shown in your booking.
Spend some time getting acquainted with your rental. Adjust your seat and mirrors, test the brakes and blinkers, and get a feel for its handling before you drive away. And remember to stick to the left side of the road in South Africa.
Local speed limits are often about 55kph through built-up areas and around 110kph on highways. Road signs will indicate if the limit is different.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in South Africa is 0.05%. Because alcohol affects everyone differently, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink anything at all.
One of the busiest times for traffic in this destination is around 7am. Make driving smoother by avoiding rush hours in general.
You'll be using the South African rand (ZAR) on your trip here. Along with your bank cards, consider taking some cash for smaller purchases.
Best hotels in Pretoria for drivers
Spend less time worrying about where to park and more time enjoying the comfort of Hotel 224 & Apartments. About 5 kilometres from central Pretoria, it comes with parking, a restaurant and air conditioning.
Or take advantage of the accessible parking at Waterkloof Mansion Boutique Hotel. The city centre is roughly 8 kilometres from this stay, which also features air conditioning and room service.
Need more ideas before you book? Browse the full lineup of hotels in Pretoria. You can narrow things down using the filters — try 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' or 'Valet parking.' If your car's electric, you can use the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter.
After you've found a car hire deal in Pretoria and the right hotel, it's time to plan your first stops. Statue of Nelson Mandela, Museum of Natural History and Idube Game Reserve are some of the city's best experiences.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Pretoria
Around 56 kilometres south of central Pretoria, Johannesburg should be on your itinerary. Make your way to can't-miss sights like Apartheid Museum and Nelson Mandela Statue.
They've got hospitality down to a fine art at City Lodge Newtown, Johannesburg and Reef Hotel, two accommodation options with parking in Johannesburg.
Or pick up your cheap car hire in Pretoria and drive around 72 kilometres southwest to Soweto. Featuring Soweto and Hector Pieterson Museum, it's every bit as good as advertised.
If the road's still calling, make the journey to Newcastle. It's about 290 kilometres southeast of Pretoria. Carnegie Art Museum gives your detour a little something extra.
Book a room at African Sky Newcastle Inn or Tramonto Boutique Hotel. They're an ideal base for exploring everything Newcastle has to offer. They come with room for your wheels too.
