Africa car rentals
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Car rental directory
keddy by Europcar car rental locations in Africa
321 Locations
Avis car rental locations in Africa
272 Locations
Europcar car rental locations in Africa
239 Locations
Sunnycars car rental locations in Africa
193 Locations
Budget car rental locations in Africa
188 Locations
Hertz car rental locations in Africa
183 Locations
1First Car Rental car rental locations in Africa
181 Locations
Sixt car rental locations in Africa
161 Locations
Bluu car rental locations in Africa
132 Locations
Bidvest car rental locations in Africa
126 Locations
GREEN MOTION car rental locations in Africa
84 Locations
Firefly car rental locations in Africa
76 Locations
Good to know
Most popular car type | Economy |
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When to book a rental car in Africa
Top tips for renting a car in Africa
- Book your rental car in Africa at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Economy rental cars in Africa are around 62% more expensive than other car types, on average
- Given the diversity in terrain in Africa, a sturdy 4x4 is a wise option for navigating both the golden deserts of Morocco and the lush jungles of Central Africa. Keep an eye out for varied weather patterns – it could be sunny in one region and pouring cats and dogs in another. Considering the vastness, have a detailed map and perhaps a GPS handy. Don't forget to check the local advice on areas to avoid for a safe journey. It's all about getting the nitty-gritty right for a smashing African road trip.
- Now, if you're keen on exploring a bit of everything, Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) is a splendid starting point; it gives easy access to not only South Africa's gems but neighbouring countries too. For a northern adventure, touching down at Cairo International Airport (CAI) in Egypt lets you dash to various historical spots with ease. And don't overlook Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) in Ethiopia, which is practically a gateway to Eastern Africa's wonders.
- To cross any border, it's vital to have the necessary car documentation, like the vehicle registration and a cross-border letter from the car hire company. In Southern Africa, driving from South Africa to Namibia or Botswana is generally fuss-free, but steer clear of taking hire cars into Zimbabwe due to stringent restrictions. Remember, a valid passport and visa are a must. Don't forget your international driver's permit along with your home driving licence.
- When driving in Africa, consider the eclectic mix of road conditions. In Namibia, many roads are untarred, making a detailed map invaluable for navigation. Meanwhile, in South Africa, beware of the "smash and grab" – always keep valuables out of sight, especially at traffic lights. In Ethiopia, the Julian calendar is used, which might affect the dates on some local documents. Lastly, in Morocco, drivers frequently use their horns to communicate, so don't be alarmed by the frequent honking; it's just a way of signalling on the roads.
FAQs about renting a car in Africa
What is the most popular rental car in Africa?
Economy (Class Economy Car or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Africa.
What is the best rental car company in Africa?
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental company in Africa is Avis (6.9, 72 reviews).
How can I find car rentals near me in Africa?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
Where should I rent a car in Africa?
Based on car searches on KAYAK, the most popular cities to rent a car in Africa are Saint-Denis (33% of total searches of users looking to rent a car in Africa), Marrakech (33%) and Johannesburg (33%).
Should I hire a car in Africa?
Car hire in Africa opens up a treasure trove of experiences you might miss out on otherwise. For starters, it gives you the freedom to explore breathtaking landscapes and attractions at your own pace. Imagine driving through South Africa's scenic Garden Route or winding your way to Morocco's Atlas Mountains. In many parts, public transport isn't the most reliable, making a car the go-to option. Moreover, certain attractions like Namibia's Sossusvlei or Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater are more accessible with a personal vehicle.
What is driving like in Africa?
Generally, North African countries like Egypt have bustling, fast-paced road scenes. As you move down to East Africa, you'll notice a calmer driving style, albeit with the challenge of navigating through unpaved roads at times. Southern Africa boasts well-maintained roads, especially in South Africa with its fantastic Garden Route. Watch out for occasional toll roads in countries like Morocco and South Africa. In most African countries, they drive on the right, except for nations like South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania where they use the left side.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in Africa?
When you're planning to hire a car in Africa, you should know that the minimum age requirement can vary between countries. Generally, you'll need to be at least 23 years old, but this might fluctuate. For instance, in South Africa and Morocco, you can hire a car from 18, though many companies require you to be at least 21 and to have held a licence for more than a year. If you're under 25, most companies add a surcharge for being a young driver. Remember to carry an International Driving Permit alongside your valid driving licence, as many African countries require it.