Last updated: April 2026
Why Rent a Car in Cape Town?
Cape Town offers world-class driving — Chapman's Peak Drive clings to cliffs above the Atlantic, the Cape Winelands of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are 45 minutes away, and the Garden Route stretches east along the coast.
🏆 Top Drive from Cape Town
Chapman's Peak Drive and Cape Point — this is the drive that makes renting a car in Cape Town truly worthwhile.
Compare Car Rental Providers in Cape Town
Cape Town's rental market is South Africa's largest and most competitive. International brands compete with strong local operators, and the price difference between peak (December–January) and off-peak can be 50%+.
| Provider | Coverage | Best For | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economybookings.com | 160+ countries, 50,000+ pickup locations... | Travelers who want to compare the widest range of ... | Check Prices |
| QEEQ | ~200 countries, strongest in Europe, Nor... | Tech-savvy travelers who want a modern booking exp... | Check Prices |
Driving Tips for Cape Town
Cape Town is in South Africa, where you drive on the left side of the road. The motorway speed limit is 120 km/h and the average fuel price is ZAR 24/L. An International Driving Permit is required for foreign drivers.
Local tip: Choose well-lit, secured parking and avoid driving after dark in unfamiliar areas.
Car Hire at Cape Town Airport (CPT)
Most visitors pick up their rental car at Cape Town Airport (CPT). The rental car desks are located in the arrivals terminal, and most providers also offer shuttle buses to nearby off-airport depots for even better rates. For terminal maps and arrival info, visit the Cape Town Airport official website.
Full Cape Town Airport Guide →