1. Re: is it safe to rent car & drive self in Johannesburg? Yes it’s perfectly safe to drive around Jhb: along with a couple of million other people I do it most days of my life. And if you are going from the airport to the Lion & Rhino Park to Rosebank you will be on freeways most of the way.
Is it safe to drive a rental car in South Africa?
South Africa is a beautiful country and the best way to explore it is by rental car. South Africa has a good road system and we found driving to be very safe throughout the country.
Should I rent a car in Johannesburg?
Public transport is minimal in the cities and essentially non-existent in rural areas. Renting a car is also one of the best ways to get around and explore the country at your leisure. I’ve road tripped in South Africa many times, and can honestly say that renting a car is cheap, safe and highly recommended.
What are the risks of renting a car?
What bad things can happen?
- Third Party Liability. Damaging someone else (bodily injury or property damage) and getting sued by the injured person. …
- Theft if renter is careless. …
- Collision/Loss for whatever reason. …
- Personal Accident Medical Costs. …
- Personal Effects Loss.
Is it a good idea to rent a car?
Whether you have a new car and you want to keep the mileage low, or you have an old car and you’re trying to keep it going, renting a car is a great way to save the wear on your vehicle. Rather than take your auto on the highway for a cross-country journey, consider renting a car for that next road trip!
What should I know before renting a car?
8 Things You Need to Know Before Renting a Car
- Your Credit Card May Provide an Insurance Policy. …
- But Credit Cards May Not Cover Everything. …
- Every Driver Counts — and Costs. …
- Youth Drivers Cost Even More. …
- Stick to the Paved Roads. …
- Fill Up the Tank Before Returning the Vehicle. …
- Avoid the Extra Airport Fee.
Can foreigners drive in South Africa?
Who can drive in South Africa? Anyone who is aged 18 and older and has a valid driver’s license can drive in South Africa. However, certain medical conditions may disqualify someone from driving. International residents and tourists with valid foreign licenses may also drive in the country.
Is driving easy in South Africa?
Roads in South Africa are well maintained and easy to navigate, and for the most part travelers who hire a car to explore the country say it’s a piece of cake. Roads in rural areas present more of a challenge to drivers and can be dangerous.
Do I need a 4×4 in South Africa?
It doesn’t require off-road expertise unless there’s been snow or heavy rain, but it shouldn’t be attempted without a 4×4. Finally, you won’t need a 4×4 to visit any of South Africa’s major wildlife parks, but the extra height is an advantage for spotting game. A 4×4 with a roof tent also allows the option to camp.
How much do you pay to rent a car in South Africa?
On average a car hire in South Africa costs R17 508 per month (R584 per day).
Do I need insurance to rent a car?
Do you need insurance to rent a car? No, you don’t need to have insurance because rental cars are already insured. That said, some form of rental insurance is strongly advised because if you rent a car without insurance, you are responsible for any damages to the vehicle.
Are there cameras in rental cars?
Rental cars typically do not have hidden cameras in them, as that would violate multiple federal laws. However, depending on what type and model of the vehicle you are buying, you can have backup and rearview cameras as part of a safety package. These cameras are there for safety reasons.
What are the requirements to hire a car in South Africa?
In South Africa you need to be 18 years or older to rent a car and must have held a valid driver license for a year. If you are younger than 25 a Young Drivers Surcharge will be applied. This will automatically be added to your quote when booking online.
What is the process of getting a rental car?
How to Rent a Car: A Step-By-Step Process
- Have a valid driver’s license. You can’t rent a car unless you have a valid, unexpired driver’s license. …
- Verify age restrictions. …
- Pick a rental car company. …
- Select the vehicle of your choice. …
- Have a valid form of payment. …
- Return your vehicle on time.
How do I avoid getting ripped when renting a car?
But you don’t have to get ripped off at the car rental counter.
“For refueling, there are typically three options available,” he explains.
- Buy a full tank at the start. You pay for a full tank in advance and then return the car on empty. …
- Let the car rental company refuel the vehicle. …
- Refill the car before you return it.
Do all rental cars have GPS?
All the major car rental agencies provide some type of optional GPS service, but they aren’t all the same. Most GPS units are reserved when you book your vehicle, and there isn’t always a lot of information available before then.
How much do you pay to rent a car in South Africa?
On average a car hire in South Africa costs R17 508 per month (R584 per day).
How old do you have to be to drive a rental car in South Africa?
18 years or older
In South Africa you need to be 18 years or older to rent a car and must have held a valid driver license for a year. If you are younger than 25 a Young Drivers Surcharge will be applied.
Is driving easy in South Africa?
Roads in South Africa are well maintained and easy to navigate, and for the most part travelers who hire a car to explore the country say it’s a piece of cake. Roads in rural areas present more of a challenge to drivers and can be dangerous.
Can you drive in South Africa with a US license?
To drive in South Africa, foreigners must have a full license from their country of residence. Licenses printed in English are valid, an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) must be obtained if the license is in any other language.
What happens if you get caught driving without a license in South Africa?
According to the National Road Traffic Act, driving without a licence can result in a penalty of between R1,000 and R2,000 depending on the vehicle class. Hence, not carrying a licence does not fit the bill for arrest – however the associated fine (R1,000) is more accurate.
What happens if you forget your license and get pulled over in South Africa?
“You can get issued with a fine for driving without a licence or an alternative charge of failing to carry your driving licence. There is no ‘on the spot fee’. If it is a SAPS officer pulling you over for a traffic violation, they will produce a J534. You will then be issued with a fine.” Lt Raymond Deokaran.