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Compare rental car prices from leading suppliers at Durban Airport (DUR) with Road Genius. From small economy cars to luxury SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at low prices in convenient locations. Pick up on-airport at King Shaka International Airport, a short walk from arrivals, or compare Durban city centre and Umhlanga car hire to avoid airport surcharges. Book early for December–January and Easter and choose unlimited kilometres if you’re driving to the Drakensberg, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi or iSimangaliso.
Key Rental Locations and Options
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| On-site Airport Terminal |
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| Durban City Centre |
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| Umhlanga Area |
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Car Rental Prices
How to save?
- Compare pickup locations: Airport is easy but has surcharges. Durban city centre can be cheaper, but factor in R350–R450 for Uber/taxi from DUR. If you’re staying in Umhlanga, compare airport vs Umhlanga pickups since it’s closer and often less busy.
- Book smart for peak, watch prices off-peak: For December–January and Easter, book 3–6 months ahead. In May–August, especially August, prices at DUR are usually lowest, so monitor and rebook if rates drop.
- Shift your dates and times: Midweek, especially Wednesday pickups, often price better. Avoid after-hours pickups to skip extra fees.
- Choose the smallest car that fits: Compact or sedan covers most KZN trips and costs less than an SUV. Only size up if you truly need the space or higher clearance.
- Pick unlimited kilometres for long drives: Trips to Drakensberg, Hluhluwe or St Lucia add up fast. Unlimited km can beat per-km charges.
- Trim the extras: Limit additional drivers (about R300 each), return the car full using the petrol station near the airport, and compare one-way options with the fee range (R750–R2000) before deciding.
Car hire prices at Durban King Shaka Airport 2025/2026
Parking and Local Driving
Airport Car Storage:
| Car Storage Type | Location | Rates | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shaded Car Storage | Next to terminal | Check posted rates |
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| Open-air Car Storage | Short walk to terminal | Check posted rates |
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| Pick-up/Drop-off Zone | Terminal entrance | Time-limited; check posted rules |
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Local Driving Rules
- Drive on the left-hand side of the road
- Speed limits: 120km/h on highways, 100km/h on rural roads, 60km/h in urban areas
- Seatbelts mandatory for all passengers
- No mobile phone use while driving without hands-free kit
- Watch for speed cameras on N2 near the airport
Car Return Process
- Follow "Car Rental Return" signs when approaching the airport
- Well-marked rental return area
- Fuel stations available close to airport for filling up before return
- Allow 15-20 minutes for return processing
Why rent a car in Durban Airport
Rent a car to see:
- Durban City Centre
- Umhlanga
- Drakensberg
- iSimangaliso Wetland Park (St. Lucia)
- Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve
- South Coast beaches
FAQs
How far is King Shaka International Airport from Durban city centre?
The airport is about 35km north of Durban's city centre. You can expect a 30-40 minute drive, depending on the traffic.
Is it necessary to book a rental car in advance at Durban Airport?
Yes, especially during busy times like the December-January and Easter holidays. We strongly recommend booking 3 or more months in advance so you can get the car you want and a better price.
What documents do I need to rent a car at Durban Airport?
You will need a valid driver's licence (which you've had for at least one year), your passport and a credit card in your name. If your licence isn't in English, you will also need an International Driving Permit.
Are there any low-cost rental options at Durban Airport?
Yes, you'll find local companies that often offer good prices, as well as the big international brands. You can compare your options on price comparison websites to find the best deals.
Can I pick up a car at Durban Airport and drop it off in another city?
Yes, you can book one-way rentals to big cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. Just know that the rental company will usually charge a one-way fee of R750-R2000.
What's the best vehicle type for exploring KwaZulu-Natal?
A standard sedan will be fine for getting to most attractions. If you plan to visit the Drakensberg or rural areas, we recommend an SUV that sits higher off the ground. You will only need a 4x4 for certain off-road destinations.
How long does the rental pickup process take at Durban Airport?
When it's not too busy, it should take you about 15-20 minutes to pick up your car. During peak times, it can take 20-30 minutes.
Is it possible to add additional drivers to my rental at the airport?
Yes, you can add other drivers. They must be with you at pickup and have their driver's licence. The rental company might charge a fee of about R300 for each extra driver.
