Start your Cape Town journey right from the airport with our convenient car hire service. Renting a car from Cape Town Airport allows you to explore the city and its stunning surroundings with ease. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, our vehicles offer the flexibility you need.

Secure the best car hire options and rates at Cape Town Airport by contacting us today. Begin your Cape Town adventure smoothly with us!

Our Fleet at Cape Town Airport

Our Cape Town Airport fleet offers a range of vehicles to meet the needs of both business and leisure travellers from arrival to departure. Compact cars like the Nissan Micra are perfect for city driving, while our SUVs provide ample space and comfort for family trips and longer journeys. Renting a vehicle at Cape Town Airport allows you to explore the city’s highlights, such as the V&A Waterfront and the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, right from the moment you land. Each vehicle in our Cape Town Airport fleet is meticulously maintained and equipped with the latest features to ensure your driving experience is exceptional.

Top 5 Attractions to Visit Near the Airport: Itinerary

Exploring Cape Town from the airport by car offers the convenience of starting your journey immediately upon arrival. Our fleet at Cape Town Airport provides a variety of vehicles to meet all travel needs, from compact cars perfect for city driving to spacious SUVs for family adventures in the city. Here are some of the best places to take a drive out in Cape Town, all in one trip.

Boulders Beach

Overview: Drive to this famous beach to see the colony of African penguins up close.

Route Options:

  • Option 1: N2 and M3
    • Route: Take the N2 from the airport towards the city. Merge onto the M3, then take the exit toward Simon’s Town. Continue on M4 Main Road to reach Boulders Beach.
    • Distance: Approximately 45 km.
    • Average Petrol Consumption: Around 6-8 litres (depending on vehicle efficiency).
    • Traffic: Moderate to heavy during peak hours.
    • Landmarks and Things to Look Out For: You will pass by the University of Cape Town and the picturesque Constantia wine region.
    • Tips: Look for signs to Simon’s Town along the M4, and be mindful of speed limits as there are pedestrian crossings in the area. Check for penguin crossing signs near Boulders Beach; drive slowly to ensure the safety of these animals.
  • Option 2: N2 and M5
    • Route: Take the N2 towards the city, then merge onto the M5. Continue on M5 to M4, and follow the signs to Simon’s Town and Boulders Beach.
    • Distance: Approximately 47 km.
    • Average Petrol Consumption: Around 6-8 litres.
    • Traffic: Can be heavy during peak hours, but usually lighter than the M3.
    • Landmarks and Things to Look Out For: Beautiful views of False Bay along the route.

Signal Hill

Overview: Enjoy a short drive to this viewpoint for panoramic views of Cape Town and Table Bay.

Route Options:

  • Option 1: N1
    • Route: From Boulders Beach, take the M4 back towards the city and then the N1 into the city. Take the Strand Street exit and follow the signs to Signal Hill.
    • Distance: Approximately 45 km.
    • Average Petrol Consumption: Around 6-8 litres.
    • Traffic: Usually heavy during peak hours.
    • Landmarks and Things to Look Out For: Cape Town’s cityscape and waterfront views.
    • Tips: When approaching Signal Hill, follow the signs from Strand Street. The drive up the hill offers stunning views, so consider stopping at designated viewpoints for photos.
  • Option 2: M3 and N2
    • Route: Take the M4 to the M3, then merge onto the N2 into the city. Take the Buitengracht exit and follow the signs to Signal Hill.
    • Distance: Approximately 47 km.
    • Average Petrol Consumption: Around 6-8 litres.
    • Traffic: Can be heavy during peak hours.
    • Landmarks and Things to Look Out For: Scenic views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Seaboard.

Robben Island (Ferry Terminal)

Overview: Take a drive to the ferry terminal and visit the historic site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

Route:

  • Route: From Signal Hill, head back down to the city via the Strand Street exit. Proceed to the V&A Waterfront where the ferry terminal is located.
    • Distance: Approximately 5 km.
    • Average Petrol Consumption: Less than 1 litre.
    • Traffic: Light to moderate.
    • Landmarks and Things to Look Out For: V&A Waterfront’s shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
    • Tips: The ferry terminal is located at the V&A Waterfront. Parking can be challenging, so use the underground parking facilities for convenience and security.

Groot Constantia

Overview: Explore South Africa’s oldest wine estate, offering wine tastings and beautiful grounds.

Route Options:

  • Option 1: M3
    • Route: From the V&A Waterfront, take the N2 out of the city, then merge onto the M3 towards Muizenberg. Take the Constantia exit and follow the signs to Groot Constantia.
    • Distance: Approximately 20 km.
    • Average Petrol Consumption: Around 3-4 litres.
    • Traffic: Moderate.
    • Landmarks and Things to Look Out For: Beautiful wine estates and the lush Constantia Valley.
    • Tips: Follow the signs to Groot Constantia once you exit the M3. The estate is well-marked, and the drive through Constantia is scenic with vineyards and historic buildings.
  • Option 2: M5 and M41
    • Route: Take the N1 out of the city and then merge onto the M5. Follow M5 to M41 and take the exit toward Constantia.
    • Distance: Approximately 22 km.
    • Average Petrol Consumption: Around 3-4 litres.
    • Traffic: Moderate.
    • Landmarks and Things to Look Out For: Scenic vineyard views and historic wine estates.

Camps Bay

Overview: Drive along the coast to one of Cape Town’s popular beaches, with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning sunsets.

Route Options:

  • Option 1: M3 and Kloof Nek Road
    • Route: From Groot Constantia, take the M3 towards the city. Merge onto Kloof Nek Road and follow the signs to Camps Bay.
    • Distance: Approximately 15 km.
    • Average Petrol Consumption: Around 2-3 litres.
    • Traffic: Light to moderate.
    • Landmarks and Things to Look Out For: Table Mountain views and the vibrant Camps Bay strip.
    • Tips: Drive along Victoria Road for beautiful coastal views. Parking is available along the beach, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends and during summer. Be patient and look for parking spots a little further from the main strip if necessary.
  • Option 2: M41 and Victoria Road
    • Route: Take M41 from Groot Constantia, then merge onto Victoria Road towards Camps Bay.
    • Distance: Approximately 18 km.
    • Average Petrol Consumption: Around 3-4 litres.
    • Traffic: Light to moderate.
    • Landmarks and Things to Look Out For: Stunning coastal views along Victoria Road.

Summary of Total Distance and Petrol Consumption

  • Total Distance: Approximately 175 km.
  • Average Petrol Consumption: Around 24-30 litres for the entire trip.

Tips for the Journey

Traffic:

  • Plan to travel outside peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) to avoid heavy traffic. Cape Town can be quite congested during these times, especially on major routes like the N1, N2, and M3. Leaving early in the morning or mid-morning can help you enjoy a smoother drive.

Petrol Stations:

There are several petrol stations along the main routes. For example:

  • On the N2, you’ll find petrol stations at Engen One Stop, Shell Ultra City, and BP on your way from the airport.
  • On the M3, there are stations like Engen Constantia and Shell Wynberg.
  • On the N1, you can stop at the Shell Garage at Cape Gate or the BP at Goodwood.

Safety:

  • Always lock your car and do not leave valuables visible inside the vehicle, especially in tourist areas like the V&A Waterfront, Boulders Beach, and Camps Bay. Car break-ins can occur, so it’s best to store your belongings in the trunk.
  • Be cautious in less populated areas, and park in well-lit spaces at night.

Navigation:

  • Use a GPS or mobile navigation app to ensure you stay on the correct route and receive real-time traffic updates. Apps like Google Maps or Waze are highly recommended for navigating Cape Town’s roads.
  • Look out for road signs to major landmarks like the V&A Waterfront, Signal Hill, and Groot Constantia to ensure you’re heading in the right direction.

Enjoy your journey through Cape Town’s beautiful landmarks and attractions!

Collecting and Dropping Off Your Rental Car at Cape Town International Airport

Collecting and dropping off your rental car at Cape Town International Airport is a breeze. The Central Car Rental Building is conveniently located right next to the main terminal. Simply follow the clearly marked signs to the car rental area, just a short walk from the arrivals hall. When it’s time to return your vehicle, follow the “Car Rental Returns” signs as you approach the airport. Remember to refuel the car and double-check for any personal belongings before handing over the keys. This efficient process ensures a smooth start and end to your Cape Town adventure.

Five Things Every Traveller Needs to Know About Cape Town International Airport

Currency:

Language:

  • While South Africa has 11 official languages, English is predominantly spoken and understood at the airport. Signage is in English, making it easy for international travellers to navigate. Staff at the airport are also multilingual, with Afrikaans and Xhosa commonly spoken.

Facilities and Services:

  • The airport is equipped with essential facilities such as free Wi-Fi, lounges, restaurants, and duty-free shopping. There are also information desks, medical services, and luggage storage options available to assist travellers.

Safety and Security:

  • The airport maintains high safety and security standards. Ensure that you keep your belongings secure, avoid leaving luggage unattended, and follow security protocols. It’s also recommended to have travel insurance for any unexpected medical emergencies and other safety issues during your trip to Cape Town.

By being aware of these key aspects, your arrival and departure from Cape Town International Airport will be smooth and hassle-free, setting the stage for a great visit to Cape Town.

Emergency Numbers for International Travellers at Cape Town International Airport

When travelling to Cape Town, it’s important to be aware of the key emergency numbers you might need during your stay. Here are the essential contacts:

Emergency Services:

  • General Emergencies: 112 (This number can be dialled from any cell phone and will connect you to emergency services including police, fire, and medical.)

Police:

  • South African Police Service (SAPS): 10111 (For any police assistance or to report a crime.)
  • Cape Town Airport Police Station: +27 21 927 2900 (For any airport-specific police assistance.)

Fire Department:

  • Fire and Rescue Services: 107 (From a landline) or 021 480 7700 (From a cell phone)

Medical Emergencies:

  • Ambulance Services: 10177 (For urgent medical assistance and transport to a hospital.)
  • ER24 Emergency Medical Services: 084 124
  • Netcare 911: 082 911

Hospitals:

  • Groote Schuur Hospital: +27 21 404 9111
  • Netcare Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital: +27 21 480 6111
  • Mediclinic Cape Town: +27 21 464 5500

Airport Medical Services:

  • Airport Clinic: +27 21 937 1285 (Located within the airport for immediate medical needs.)

Poison Information:

  • Poison Information Centre: 0861 555 777

Having these numbers handy can help ensure that you are prepared for any emergencies during your time at Cape Town International Airport and in the city. It’s also advisable to save these numbers in your phone and have a written copy accessible in case of an emergency.

What to Do if Something Goes Wrong with Your Rental Vehicle from Drive South Africa

If you encounter any issues with your rental vehicle from Drive South Africa, here’s a quick summary of the steps to follow and how we will assist you:

Contact Drive South Africa:

If you experience any problems with your vehicle, immediately contact Drive South Africa’s customer support. You can reach us via:

  • Phone: +27 21 423 1918
  • Email: info@drivesouthafrica.com
  • Website: Contact Us via our interactive contact form.

Types of Issues:

  • Mechanical Problems: If your vehicle has a mechanical issue, such as engine trouble or a flat tire, our support team will guide you on the next steps, which may include sending roadside assistance or arranging a replacement vehicle.
  • Accidents: In the event of an accident, ensure your safety first. Contact emergency services if needed, then inform Drive South Africa. We will assist you with the insurance process and arrange for a replacement vehicle if required.
  • Breakdowns: For breakdowns, our 24/7 roadside assistance will be dispatched to your location to help you get back on the road or arrange alternative transport.
  • Website Assistance: Our website offers detailed information on what to do in case of various types of issues. Navigate to the Help section for guidance on troubleshooting common problems, emergency contacts, and our policies.
  • Our Commitment: Drive South Africa is committed to ensuring your journey is as smooth as possible. We provide 24/7 support and roadside assistance to address any issues promptly. Our team is dedicated to getting you back on the road safely and quickly, minimising any disruption to your travel plans.

By following these steps and utilising our support resources, you can rest assured that any issues with your rental vehicle will be handled efficiently and effectively, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.

How to Book Your Cape Town Airport Car Rental Online

Flying into Cape Town? Drive South Africa makes booking a car rental at Cape Town Airport quick and hassle-free. Our efficient online process ensures you get the perfect vehicle for your needs. Follow these steps to secure your ride:

Step 1: Select Your Vehicle and Dates

Choose your vehicle type based on your needs and enter your pick-up and drop-off locations at Cape Town Airport, along with the dates and times for your rental period. Check vehicle availability for your specified dates.

Step 2: Customise Your Rental

Review available options and select any additional features or services you may need, such as GPS navigation, child seats, additional drivers, or insurance coverage. Understand the terms and conditions, including mileage limits, fuel policies, and any extra fees.

Step 3: Provide Personal and Payment Information

Enter your personal details, including your name, contact information, and driving licence details. Then, input your payment information to secure the booking. Most rental companies require a credit card for reservations. Double-check all information to avoid mistakes.

Step 4: Confirm and Review Your Booking

Review all details to ensure accuracy, including the vehicle type, rental period, pick-up and drop-off locations, and total cost. Once confirmed, you will receive a booking confirmation via email. Keep this confirmation handy for picking up your rental vehicle.

By following these steps, you can easily book a rental vehicle online and enjoy a smooth rental experience with Drive South Africa.