Compare cheap car hire at Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport with desk locations, pickup details, driving routes and prices.
Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) is the busiest airport in Africa and the main gateway to South Africa. Located around 22km from central Johannesburg, it’s the most common starting point for road trips across the country.
Hiring a car here is straightforward and often essential, especially if you plan to explore beyond the city.
Exactly Where to Find the Car Hire Desks
Johannesburg Airport is well organised, but slightly different from smaller airports.
- After landing, exit into the arrivals hall in Terminal A
- Follow signs for “Car Rental”
- You will be directed to a dedicated car rental parkade just outside the terminal
The rental desks are located on the ground level of the multi-storey car rental parkade opposite the terminal.
This is only a short walk from arrivals and clearly signposted.
Where You Collect the Car
Once your booking is complete:
- Vehicles are collected from the car rental parking area within the same parkade
- The rental offices are located at one end of the car park
- No shuttle transfer is required
The entire process is efficient despite the airport’s size.
Direct Flights from Ireland
There are no direct flights from Ireland to Johannesburg.
- Dublin → Johannesburg (via London, Dubai or Doha)
Total travel time is typically 11 to 15 hours depending on connections.
Car Hire Companies at Johannesburg Airport
You’ll find a large range of international and local providers.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Bidvest Car Rental
- First Car Rental
- SANI Car Rental
All major companies operate from the same car rental area, making it easy to compare options.
Typical Car Hire Prices in Johannesburg
| Season | Economy | Family Car | Larger Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | R300 – R700 | R700 – R1200 | R1200 – R2000 |
| April – June | R250 – R600 | R600 – R1000 | R1000 – R1700 |
| July – August | R300 – R750 | R750 – R1200 | R1200 – R2000 |
| September – October | R350 – R800 | R800 – R1300 | R1300 – R2100 |
| November – December | R400 – R900 | R900 – R1500 | R1500 – R2400 |
Choosing the Right Car
Your vehicle choice depends on your travel plans.
- Small cars – ideal for city driving
- Family cars – best for long-distance travel
- Estate cars – useful for luggage
- All-wheel drive vehicles – recommended for safari routes or rural areas
For most main routes, a standard family car is sufficient.
Driving from Johannesburg Airport
The airport connects directly to major highways.
- Johannesburg city centre – about 30 minutes
- Sandton – around 25 minutes
- Pretoria – roughly 45 minutes
- Kruger National Park (south gate) – about 4.5 to 5 hours
The R24 and N3 highways provide fast access out of the airport.
If you’re planning a wider trip, you might also compare routes via Cape Town Airport or Durban Airport.
Driving in Johannesburg and South Africa
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, similar to Ireland.
Key points:
- Roads are generally good on main routes
- Fuel stations are widely available
- Traffic can be heavy around Johannesburg
It’s best to avoid driving at night outside major areas.
Where a Car is Most Useful
A car is essential for exploring beyond Johannesburg.
- Kruger National Park – self-drive safaris
- Panorama Route – scenic mountain drives
- Pretoria – nearby city visits
- Drakensberg Mountains – longer road trips
Public transport is limited outside cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Johannesburg Airport?
They are located in a dedicated car rental parkade opposite the terminal.
Do I need a shuttle to collect my car?
No, the car rental area 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 Johannesburg difficult?
Traffic can be busy, but main roads are modern.
Can I rent a 7 Seater at Johannesburg 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.
