Cape Town is one of South Africa’s most stunning destinations, with captivating ocean and mountain views and neighbourhoods that each have their own charm. There’s so much to see beyond the city centre that a self-driven itinerary lets you uncover those hidden gems.
Booking cheap car rentals in Cape Town is one of the smartest ways to see it all at your own pace. Economybookings makes it easy to find affordable car hire, with a secure and stress-free platform to arrange your rental for business, leisure, or a bit of both.
Tips when renting a car in Cape Town
- Book online in advance, especially during the busy summer season, to secure better rates and availability.
- Ensure your rental includes adequate insurance coverage, and consider extra protection for tires and windshields.
- Choose unlimited mileage if you’re planning longer drives beyond the city.
- Bring your valid driver’s licence, passport, and a credit card in the main driver’s name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if your foreign driver’s license isn’t printed in English and doesn’t have a photograph and a signature.
- Confirm the fuel policy, as most rentals operate on a full-to-full basis.
Driving tips in Cape Town
- Drive on the left-hand side of the road and overtake on the right.
- Be cautious around minibus taxis, which may stop suddenly or change lanes without warning.
- Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight at all times.
- At four-way stops, the first vehicle to arrive has the right of way.
- Traffic lights are commonly referred to as “robots.”
- Avoid peak traffic hours (typically 7:00–9:00 a.m. and 4:00–6:00 p.m.) on major highways like the N1 and N2.
Speed limits
Speed limits in Cape Town generally follow national guidelines. In urban and residential areas, the limit is 60 km/h, though it may be reduced in pedestrian-heavy zones. On rural roads, the maximum speed is usually 100 km/h, while highways and freeways allow speeds of up to 120 km/h.
Road signs
Road signage in Cape Town follows South African standards and is clear and easy to interpret. Regulatory signs are often circular with red borders, while warning signs are triangular with red edges. Stop signs are red and octagonal, with the word “STOP” prominently displayed.
Tolls and restricted zones
Cape Town has few toll roads compared to other major cities. The most notable is Chapman’s Peak Drive (M6), a spectacular coastal route between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. There’s also the Huguenot Tunnel on the N1 highway near Paarl, which cuts through the mountains.
Unlike some international cities, Cape Town does not have congestion charges or low-emission zones in the city centre.
Discover Cape Town by car
A trip to Cape Town means getting to drive along the Atlantic Seaboard for ocean views, visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach, or taking a scenic drive to Cape Point. A short ride brings you to the Cape Winelands, where you can explore historic towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
With a rental car, you’re free to explore when and where you choose, without waiting for buses or paying for multiple rides.
When to visit
Cape Town is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer (December to February) offers hot, sunny beach weather and a lively atmosphere, though it’s also the busiest period. Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) bring mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and excellent conditions for hiking and sightseeing. Meanwhile, whale watching is particularly popular from July to September.
Languages & communication
Cape Town is multilingual and culturally diverse. English is widely spoken and serves as the main language for tourism, business, and government. Afrikaans and isiXhosa are also commonly spoken throughout the region.
Currency & payments
The official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, parking attendants, and tips.
Top driving routes from Cape Town
Consider driving your rental car along these routes:
- Chapman’s Peak Drive: A coastal road with dramatic ocean views
- Cape Peninsula Loop: A full-day journey covering Camps Bay, Cape Point, and Boulders Beach
- Atlantic Seaboard (Victoria Road): A seaside drive past Clifton and Camps Bay
- Cape Winelands: Explore Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl for wine tasting and mountain scenery
- Route 62: A scenic inland route through valleys and desert landscapes
