$21 Car Rental Cape Town

These Cape Town insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 16, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Cape Town

Renting a car in Cape Town offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit top attractions like Camps Bay Beach, known for its beautiful shoreline, and Table Mountain, perfect for outdoor adventures and stunning views. Long Street, a hub for city experiences, is also within reach, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture.

A car rental is especially convenient for families, providing ample space for luggage and allowing everyone to stay together while exploring. You can also embark on day trips to nearby destinations such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, renowned for their wine culture and scenic beauty. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, featuring cultural sites like the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, is easily accessible as well. With a rental car, there are no rigid schedules or public transport hassles, making your travel experience more enjoyable and tailored to your interests.

Most popular car rentals in Cape Town

• Economy: The Economy car type is a popular choice among travelers in Cape Town, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families looking to navigate the city comfortably without excess weight. Its compact size allows for easy parking and maneuvering in urban areas, making it a practical choice for exploring Cape Town's attractions at your own pace.
• Compact: The Compact car offers a bit more space than the Economy option, also accommodating up to 5 travelers, but with the added benefit of fitting up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for those who may be traveling with extra luggage. Whether you're on a family getaway or a couple's retreat, the Compact car provides a balance of comfort and agility, ideal for exploring the scenic routes and vibrant neighborhoods around Cape Town.
• Mini: For smaller groups or solo travelers, the Mini car is an excellent option, accommodating up to 4 passengers and allowing for 2 small suitcases. This car type is particularly suited for couples or individuals who prioritize efficiency and ease of driving in city settings. Its smaller size makes it easy to navigate tight streets and find parking, allowing you to enjoy the freedom of exploring Cape Town’s attractions without the hassle of larger vehicles.

Top rated car suppliers in Cape Town

• Budget: Budget has established itself as a popular choice among travelers in Cape Town, boasting over 5 rental locations throughout the area. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget offers a great selection of vehicles, with Economy and Mini cars being the most booked options. This supplier provides the flexibility that many tourists seek, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable exploration of Cape Town and its surroundings.
• Europcar: Europcar is another top contender for car rentals in Cape Town, featuring 5 rental locations within the vicinity. Travelers frequently opt for Economy and Compact vehicles, which are well-suited for navigating the city and its attractions. Europcar is recognized for its reliable service, making it an excellent choice for visitors looking to manage their travel plans with ease and convenience.
• Avis: Avis stands out with its 5+ rental locations in Cape Town, offering travelers a solid option for their car rental needs. The most popular choices among customers are Economy and Compact vehicles, which facilitate easy travel around the city. Avis is known for its well-maintained fleet and efficient service, ensuring a pleasant experience for tourists eager to explore the beautiful landscapes of the Western Cape.

Where to stay in Cape Town

• Stellenbosch: Known for its romantic and outdoor experiences, Stellenbosch is a charming city located near Cape Town. Visitors can enjoy popular activities like golfing and body treatments. Local attractions include the historic Fick House and the scenic Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. For food and drinks, there are numerous wineries and restaurants to explore. The picturesque Dorp Street is perfect for a city vacation, just a short distance from family-friendly beaches.
• Cape Town City Centre: The heart of Cape Town, the City Centre offers a blend of family, business, and city life experiences. It features vibrant shopping areas and educational venues. Key landmarks include Long Street and Kloof Street, which are ideal for city vacations, as well as the culturally rich Castle of Good Hope. Nearby beaches and a convention centre make it a versatile destination for both leisure and business travelers.
• Franschhoek: A delightful city that appeals to those seeking romantic and outdoor adventures, Franschhoek is famed for its stunning landscapes and culinary experiences. Visitors can explore the heritage-rich Franschhoek Wine Tram, while the scenic Franschhoek Pass provides breathtaking views. The area is also home to golf courses and private country clubs. Additionally, the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is nearby, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Cape Town

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the type of vehicle and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well before your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans include lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Cape Town

The best value period to rent a car in and around Cape Town is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is high. January and February are generally quieter months, allowing for better deals. Following these, April and May provide moderate pricing with average demand. However, June sees the highest rental prices, with slightly high demand that can make it less appealing. July stands out as the quietest month, but the prices remain slightly low, while December remains busier and pricier with typical demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	70.7°F (21.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	70.7°F (21.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly Low
March	68.5°F (20.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
April	64.6°F (18.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
July	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
August	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
October	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	64.6°F (18.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Cape Town

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Cape Town into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Cape Town and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Cape Town

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Cape Town. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Cape Town

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $21.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals