Car Hire in Durban

Hiring a car in Durban gives you access to beach towns along the North and South Coasts, cultural spots in the city, and inland destinations like Pietermaritzburg or the Midlands Meander.

Car Hire in Durban


Fleet of rental 4x4 vehicles in South Africa or similar

4.9 star rating from 91 reviews

Rent a Car in Durban

Our expert consultant, Robyn Kannemeyer, has selected four vehicles that might interest you. Book a vehicle, and our dedicated team will be available to assist you with any questions.

Hire a Compact Car in Durban

Find the best deal now. Pick your dates

3 Reasons You Can Trust Drive South Africa

Ample choices

We have a wide selection of vehicles for every need and preference.

Value for money

Our great prices ensure maximum value for your budget.

Rental expertise

We have an expert team providing seamless and reliable rental services.

What Our Durban Travellers Have to Say

Still unsure? Read testimonials from satisfied Drive South Africa customers who have explored Johannesburg and its surroundings.

Marcus Seidel

Sehr gute Organisation und sehr gutes Fahrzeug sowie Ausstattung. Nicht gut war, dass Bushlore zusätzlich zum bereits geschlossenen Vertrag noch einen weiteren Vertrag unterschrieben haben...

August, 2018

Robert Berry

Simple and easy and a good price.

March, 2023

Margaret Alderson

We live in the UK and make a trip to South Africa each winter. For the last two years we have booked our car hire...

December, 2023

Brigid Ballantyne

The website was easy to navigate and we had a prompt reply to our query.

April, 2021

Thomas Selighini

Living in Reunion Island, I contact Drive South Africa to book a 4X4 for 3 weeks in SA. I probably never get such fast answers...

December, 2024

Siwe Mbilase

My rating is solely on customer service, I have not used Drive SA service yet. I sent an enquiry about a rental and it was...

October, 2020

Top Tips for Durban Car Rental

Best Cars to Hire in Durban

Hatchbacks like the Kia Picanto, Toyota Starlet, or VW Polo are suited for city driving and short distances. If you’re planning longer road trips or family holidays, consider sedans like the Hyundai Accent or compact SUVs such as the Suzuki Vitara or Toyota Urban Cruiser.

Exploring Nearby Destinations

These areas are all reachable with a standard rental car:

  • Midlands Meander: Scenic inland drives with art galleries, farm stalls, and nature reserves.
  • South Coast: Easy access to Margate, Port Shepstone, and Uvongo.
  • iSimangaliso Wetland Park: Visit Lake St Lucia and Cape Vidal using tarred roads.
  • Drakensberg Mountains: Northern and central berg sections like Cathedral Peak and Giant’s Castle are accessible without needing a 4×4.

Collecting Your Vehicle at King Shaka International Airport

King Shaka International Airport (DUR) is located about 35 km north of Durban. Car hire companies operate from a designated car rental facility adjacent to the terminal building.

What To Do If You're in an Accident in Durban

  1. Stop and check for injuries.
  2. Call 112 or 10177 for emergency assistance if needed.
  3. Move the vehicle off the road if it’s safe.
  4. Contact the police and your rental provider.
  5. Document the scene with photos and gather information from others involved.
  6. File a report at the nearest police station within 24 hours.

How To Stay Safe in Durban

  • Lock doors while driving, especially in urban areas.
  • Avoid leaving valuables visible inside the car.
  • Park in secure areas at beaches or attractions.
  • Be cautious in unfamiliar areas after dark.
  • Stay alert during summer storms that can reduce visibility and road conditions.

FAQs About Hiring a Car in Durban

Yes, most rental companies have desks at King Shaka International Airport.

Yes, automatic and manual vehicles are available in various classes.

Yes. Stick to main routes, be alert, and take normal precautions.

Yes. You can add additional drivers during booking or collection.

If your licence is not in English, an International Driving Permit is required.

Durban Partner Information

Explore our trusted partners in Durban, their locations, and customer ratings.

4 Locations in Durban
  • Europcar Durban Airport - King Shaka International Airport
  • Europcar Durban City Centre
  • Europcar Margate Airport
  • Europcar Pinetown
1 Location in Durban
  • Hertz Durban Airport
2 Locations in Durban
  • Sani Car Rental Durban Airport
  • Sani Car Rental Pinetown Branch
4 Locations in Durban
  • First Car Rental Durban Airport (King Shaka Int)
  • First Car Rental Durban City Centre
  • First Car Rental Margate Airport
  • First Car Rental Pinetown
2 Locations in Durban
  • Tempest Car Hire Durban City Centre
  • Tempest Car Hire King Shaka International Airport
2 Locations in Durban
  • Bluu Durban Airport
  • Bluu Pinetown
5 Locations in Durban
  • Avis Amanzimtoti
  • Avis Durban Downtown
  • Avis King Shaka International Airport
  • Avis Margate
  • Avis Pinetown
1 Location in Durban
  • Kenings Car Van and Truck Hire King Shaka International Airport
View All Partners