Car Rental at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Intl. Airport (BUQ)

Reasons to book a car rental at Bulawayo International Airport

Renting a car at Bulawayo Airport is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the area at their own pace. The convenience of having a rental car allows for easy management of luggage and flexible travel plans, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. With a vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the National Art Gallery Bulawayo and the Natural History Museum, both located just 10 miles from the airport. Additionally, you can explore the vibrant city of Bulawayo, which features highlights like the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair and Matobo National Park.

For those interested in venturing a bit further, Highmount and Southdale are nearby cities, 7 miles and 14 miles away respectively, offering more cultural experiences and natural beauty. Renting a car not only enhances your sightseeing capabilities but also gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems in and around Bulawayo. Whether you're traveling with family or seeking a friendly local experience, having your own transportation makes your trip more enjoyable and allows you to create your own schedule.

Most popular car rentals near Bulawayo Airport

• Economy: The Economy car is a fantastic option for those traveling solo, as couples, or with families. This vehicle comfortably accommodates up to 5 travelers and can handle up to 2 medium suitcases, making it perfect for navigating the roads around Bulawayo. Its compact size allows for easy maneuverability, enhancing your exploration experience while providing the freedom to manage your luggage effortlessly.
• Compact SUV: If you’re looking for a bit more space without sacrificing maneuverability, the Compact SUV is an excellent choice. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families seeking an adventurous driving experience around Bulawayo. Its versatility ensures comfort and ample storage for your travel essentials.
• Fullsize Pickup AWD: Adventure travelers, families, and groups will find the Fullsize Pickup AWD to be the perfect fit. This vehicle can accommodate up to 6 travelers and offers the capacity to transport either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. With its all-wheel drive capability, it’s an ideal choice for those who may want to explore a variety of terrains around Bulawayo. Enjoy the extra space and comfort while embarking on your journey.

Top rated car suppliers near Bulawayo International Airport

• Europcar: Europcar is a popular choice for travelers looking to rent a car near Bulawayo airport. Located less than 1 mile away, this supplier offers a convenient pickup option. Their most booked vehicles include Compact SUVs and Economy cars, making them ideal for various travel needs. With a focus on providing a seamless rental experience, Europcar is a great option for those wanting to explore the area at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget is another excellent choice for car rentals at Bulawayo airport, also situated less than 1 mile from the terminal. Known for their competitive pricing, Budget primarily offers Economy cars, which are perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Their easy pickup process allows for a smooth start to your journey, enabling you to quickly hit the road and enjoy everything Bulawayo has to offer.

Where to stay near Bulawayo International Airport

• Highmount: Located 7 miles from Bulawayo, Highmount is a charming village offering a glimpse into local culture. Visitors can explore the historic City Hall, which reflects the region's civic heritage, or immerse themselves in the arts at the National Art Gallery Bulawayo. This area provides a peaceful retreat, ideal for travelers seeking a blend of culture and history while remaining close to the vibrant city of Bulawayo.
• Southdale: Situated 14 miles from Bulawayo, Southdale offers a unique experience for those looking to explore both culture and nature. Key attractions include the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, perfect for family-friendly outings, and the stunning Matobo National Park, known for its breathtaking scenery and adventure opportunities. Additionally, The Nesbitt Castle adds a romantic touch, making Southdale a delightful base for various interests.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near Bulawayo

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally advisable to reserve your BUQ car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Ideally, you should make your booking 1-3 months ahead of time, especially before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars tend to be more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just remember to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra charges during longer trips.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Bulawayo Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Bulawayo Airport is February, when demand is low and prices are slightly lower than average. March and April also offer reasonably priced rentals with average demand. As the year progresses, prices begin to rise, especially in July and August, which see higher demand and slightly elevated rates. The most expensive period tends to be October, when both prices and demand increase.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
February	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
March	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
June	58.6°F (14.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
July	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
September	70.9°F (21.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average