Compare cheap car hire at Cape Town Airport with desk locations, pickup details, driving routes and prices.
Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is the main gateway to South Africa’s Western Cape. Located around 20km from Cape Town city centre, it’s a modern and well-organised airport, making car hire straightforward and efficient.
Hiring a car here is the best way to explore Cape Town, the surrounding coastline and the famous Garden Route.
Exactly Where to Find the Car Hire Desks
Cape Town Airport is easy to navigate, even after a long flight.
- After landing, exit into the arrivals hall
- Follow signs for “Car Rental”
- You’ll be directed to a dedicated car rental centre just outside the terminal
The rental desks are located in a separate car rental building opposite the terminal, accessible via a short covered walkway.
Where You Collect the Car
Once your booking is complete:
- Vehicles are collected from the car rental parking area within the same complex
- Everything is within walking distance
- No shuttle bus is required
The process is efficient and clearly signposted.
Airport facilities and maps can be checked on the official Cape Town Airport website.
Flights from Ireland
There are no direct flights from Ireland to Cape Town.
- Dublin → Cape Town (via London, Dubai or Doha)
Total travel time is typically 12 to 16 hours depending on connections.
Car Hire Companies at Cape Town Airport
You’ll find a wide range of international and local providers.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Bidvest Car Rental
- First Car Rental
- SANI Car Rental
All are located within the same rental centre.
Typical Car Hire Prices in Cape Town
| Season | Economy | Family Car | Larger Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | R350 – R800 | R800 – R1300 | R1300 – R2100 |
| April – June | R250 – R600 | R600 – R1000 | R1000 – R1700 |
| July – August | R300 – R700 | R700 – R1200 | R1200 – R2000 |
| September – October | R350 – R850 | R850 – R1400 | R1400 – R2200 |
| November – December | R450 – R1000 | R1000 – R1600 | R1600 – R2500 |
Choosing the Right Car
Your choice depends on your itinerary.
- Small cars – ideal for city use
- Family cars – best for longer drives
- Estate cars – useful for luggage
- All-wheel drive vehicles – recommended for rural or gravel roads
For most travellers, a standard family car is more than sufficient.
Driving from Cape Town Airport
The airport connects directly to major routes.
- Cape Town city centre – about 20 to 25 minutes
- Camps Bay – around 30 minutes
- Stellenbosch – roughly 30 to 40 minutes
- Cape Point – about 1 hour 15 minutes
The N2 motorway provides direct access into the city and along the coast.
If you are planning a longer trip, you might also compare routes via Johannesburg Airport depending on your itinerary.
Driving in Cape Town and the Western Cape
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, similar to Ireland.
Key things to know:
- Roads are generally excellent
- Traffic can be busy during peak times in the city
- Fuel stations are widely available
Driving conditions are generally relaxed outside urban areas.
For travel advice, see South Africa tourism website.
Where a Car is Most Useful
A car is essential for exploring Cape Town’s surroundings.
- Cape Peninsula – Chapman’s Peak Drive and Cape Point
- Winelands – Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
- Garden Route – extended road trip east
- Hermanus – coastal whale watching town
Public transport is limited outside the city centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Cape Town Airport?
They are located in a dedicated car rental centre opposite the terminal.
Do I need a shuttle to collect my car?
No, the rental centre is within walking distance.
Is it easy to find the car hire area?
Yes, simply follow the “Car Rental” signs from arrivals.
Are there direct flights from Ireland?
No, flights require a connection.
Do I need a credit card?
Yes, most rental providers require one.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, though manual vehicles are common.
Is driving in Cape Town easy?
Yes, roads are modern and well maintained.
Can I rent a 7 Seater at Cape Town Airport?
Yes, these are widely available.
Is it safe to drive?
Yes, with sensible precautions.
Which side of the road do you drive on?
On the left-hand side.
