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Cheap Car Hire Johannesburg International Airport

Cheap Car Hire Johannesburg International Airport
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Debit Card Accepted
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Cheaper to Buy
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Hassle-free Experience
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Zero Excess

Welcome to Johannesburg: the Beating Heart of South Africa!

Johannesburg is without a doubt, at the heart of South Africa’s cultural, political, and economic life. - a city, affectionately known as Jo'burg that tells a fascinating story. Few places are such a byword for resilience and national identity with its colourful art, poignant history, and buzzing street life. From its thought provoking Apartheid landmarks to its cutting-edge theatre scene, Johannesburg offers travellers an experience like no other. Once you touch down at Johannesburg International Airport (O.R. Tambo), grab your hire car and dive into the city’s rich cultural tapestry thanks to the flexibility and freedom of exploring the city and its surroundings with your own set of wheels. Johannesburg has much to offer—whether it's the dynamic Maboneng Precinct, the iconic Apartheid Museum or the simple urban energy of downtown. You can also head out on an epic road trip to other incredible South African destinations like Cape Town with its waterfront galleries, bars and cafe scene or the scenic beach attractions and highly acclaimed food scene in coastal Durban.


At Johannesburg International (O.R. Tambo), the car hire desks are conveniently located within the airport, so picking up your vehicle is a breeze. If you're planning to stay within the city and visit sites like Constitution Hill, the Johannesburg Art Gallery, and the buzzing Newtown Cultural Precinct, a compact car is perfect for navigating the city streets and finding easy parking. But let’s face it—Johannesburg has much more to offer than just the city centre. For those planning to venture out to the nearby Cradle of Humankind or take a scenic drive through the Magaliesberg Mountains, a mid-sized SUV or sedan will provide comfort and a little more space for those longer trips. Thinking of extending your adventure to other amazing South African destinations such as the cities of Cape Town or Durban? Your hire car can take you there too! With great highways connecting South Africa’s major cities, you can explore Cape Town’s Table Mountain, Durban’s golden beaches or the pretty Jacaranda-lined streets of capital Pretoria with ease. Just make sure to request a one-way rental for seamless pick-up and drop-off between cities.

Driving in Johannesburg

In South Africa, people drive on the left side of the road, so if you’re used to driving on the right, take a moment to get comfortable behind the wheel at Johannesburg International before hitting the streets. The city is well-signposted, and main roads like the M1 and N1 are in good condition, making it easy to navigate. Johannesburg drivers can be assertive, so it’s important to stay alert, especially during rush hour. Parking is generally available around key sights, but in busy areas like Sandton or the Maboneng Precinct, you might need to search for a spot or use a paid parking garage. Don’t forget to keep a few rand handy for the parking attendants, who will help keep an eye on your car for a small tip.

Whether you’re collecting a car hire at Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport, or the car rental zone at Durban International Airport, booking a vehicle in advance guarantees better rates and availability, especially during peak seasons like December or Easter. Inspect your car before leaving the airport, taking photos of any dents or scratches and make sure they’re noted in your rental agreement. That way, there’s no confusion when you return the car. Johannesburg is a big city with many suburbs and townships, so having GPS or a navigation app is a lifesaver. It’ll make finding hidden gems like Soweto’s Vilakazi Street or the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens much easier! A rental car from Johannesburg International (O.R. Tambo) helps the city—and the whole of beautiful South Africa—to open up before you! Whether you’re checking out the local theatre scene at the Market Theatre, learning about the country’s history at the Apartheid Museum, or enjoying a meal in the trendy neighbourhood of Melville, Johannesburg promises an unforgettable experience. And when you’re ready for more, the highways to Durban’s beaches or Cape Town’s wine country await. Enjoy the drive!


Johannesburg, South Africa

Population: Approximately 6.1 million (Greater Johannesburg)

Annual Visitor Figures: Around 4.5 million international visitors

Average Summer Temperatures: 25°C (77°F)

Average Winter Temperatures: 11°C (52°F)

Time Zone: GMT +2 (South Africa Standard Time)


Our Protection Levels for you
Basic protection
Basic
Market Standard
Basic coverage with standard experience
Coverage LevelLow
Credit Card DeductibleVery High
Additional Journey30+ mins
ExperienceExpect upsell & hassle
Credit Card NeededALWAYS
Plus protection
Plus
Exclusive to ReservAway!
Lower Deductible with an improved experience
Coverage LevelLow
Credit Card DeductibleMedium - High
Additional Journey30+ mins
ExperienceExpect upsell & hassle
Credit Card NeededALWAYS
Best protection
Best
Exclusive to ReservAway!
Zero Deductible with the best experience
Coverage LevelFull
Credit Card DeductibleZero
Additional JourneyZero
ExperiencePremium & Smooth
Credit Card NeededUsually NOT
Want to understand your options better?

Protection Comparison

Hassle-Free Desk*
Credit Card Deductible
Cover Level
How to Claim
Protection Provider
Market Standard
ReservAway Exclusives
Basic protection
Basic
Plus protection
Plus
Standard protection
Standard
Best protection
Best
High
High
Low
None
Basic
Full
Partial
Full
N/A
Reimburse
N/A
N/A
Direct
3rd Party
Direct
Direct

*Hassle-Free Desk: The dreaded moment when the rental company hits you with upsells, extra inspections, or credit card dramas—turning what should be a quick pick-up into a drawn-out negotiation.


Third-Party Protection: What you need to know
Some companies might call it 'Full Protection' or 'Premium Protection', but we're here to tell you the facts.
Third-party protection does cover you fully against damage costs, just like our best product. However, the rental desk experience? That's still going to be the same as if you'd picked the basic option.
What is Third-Party Protection?It's an independent coverage that protects you from damage costs the rental company could charge. It works well but doesn't change how things go down at the rental desk.If you're interested in third-party protection, Rental Cover is our preferred partner. You can learn more or purchase coverage directly by visiting their website.
What is expected at the Rental Desk:Even with third-party protection, you'll still face the usual desk drama—deposits, credit card holds, and those upsell attempts. While you're financially protected, the hassle at the desk doesn't go away.We believe in keeping things clear: while third-party protection covers you well, the customer experience remains basic.
The Role of the Car Rental Company:Rental companies insure their cars, and they need you to either buy their protection or leave a deposit. Third-party protection takes care of the financial risks, but the rental company still holds the cards at pick-up.Want to avoid the hassle entirely? Read more about our Best Protection, which keeps both your wallet and your rental process smooth.

Why book with us?

If you're still unsure, see more reasons to book with ushere..
Shield check iconNo hidden fees. Ever.
Open lock iconFree cancellation.
Chat support iconAlways here to help.
Tailoring Your Rental Experience
Understanding Your Needs
At ReservAway.com, we understand that every traveler is unique, and that is why we are dedicated to meeting your specific needs and preferences. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a business trip, or a weekend getaway, we are here to ensure that your car rental experience is tailored to suit you.
Tailored Recommendations
Our user-friendly platform allows you to input your travel dates, locations, and preferences, so we can provide personalized recommendations that match your requirements. Whether you prioritize price, convenience, or specific vehicle features, we'll help you find the perfect rental option.
Expert Guidance
Not sure where to start? Our team of car rental experts is here to assist you every step of the way. From selecting the right vehicle to understanding insurance options and navigating potential fees, we'll provide expert guidance to ensure that your rental experience is smooth and hassle-free.
Empowering Your Travel Experience
At ReservAway.com, we are dedicated to empowering you to make informed decisions and ensuring a seamless travel experience. With transparent pricing, comprehensive information, dedicated customer support, and by exclusively presenting options available directly at the rental car company's desk, we are here to assist you in maximizing your journey.
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Key Information to Help You Decide

Not sure where to start? Let us guide you through the car rental process, from start to finish:

Once you've searched for your dates and locations, consider these critical factors when selecting a car rental company:


Your Needs: Tailor your search to match your specific requirements for the journey. Use filters to narrow down options and ensure that the rental meets your exact needs.
Price: Compare prices from multiple suppliers to find the best deal that fits your budget. Our platform allows you to easily compare rates and choose the most cost-effective option for your trip.
Customer Scores: Check customer reviews and ratings to understand satisfaction with your chosen provider. Hearing from fellow travelers can provide valuable insights into the quality of service and overall experience.
Convenience: Evaluate the pickup and drop-off locations to ensure ease and accessibility during your trip. Choose locations that are convenient for your itinerary and minimize travel time to and from rental sites.

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What Do You Need to Pick Up the Car
To pick up your rental car, you'll need the following:
Car license icon
Driving license
A valid driving license in the name of the main driver.
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Identification
A passport or other form of identification.
Credit card icon
Credit card
A credit card in most cases is required in the name of the main driver with sufficient funds.
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Voucher
A printed Voucher or an e-Voucher, where available.

More Information Made Simple

Wondering about extras like additional drivers, one-way fees, reduced security deposits, or cross-border fees? we have got you covered. Our straightforward explanations and easy-to-use filters make renting a car a breeze.
Confused? Still have questions? Our friendly car hire advisors are here to assist you every step of the way. Get in touch, and we'll ensure everything is crystal clear for your rental experience. You can also click below to read more detailed explanations.

Questions?

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