Harare Airport, officially known as Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, is the main gateway to Zimbabwe's capital city. If you're planning a visit, hiring a car can be a convenient and flexible way to explore the area. Here’s everything you need to know about car hire at Harare Airport.
Several reputable car hire companies operate at Harare Airport, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets. Some of the well-known companies include:
It is highly recommended to book your car hire in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. This ensures that you get the vehicle of your choice and can often result in better rates. Most companies offer online booking options, making the process quick and convenient.
The car hire desks are located in the arrivals hall of the airport, making it easy to pick up your vehicle as soon as you land. When returning the car, follow the signs to the designated drop-off area. Ensure you allow enough time for the return process, especially if you have a flight to catch.
To hire a car at Harare Airport, you will need:
Driving in Harare can be a pleasant experience, but it’s important to be aware of local traffic rules and conditions. Always drive on the left side of the road, and be cautious of pedestrians and animals, especially in rural areas. Fuel stations are available throughout the city, but it’s wise to keep your tank topped up if you plan to travel long distances.
By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable car hire experience at Harare Airport, giving you the freedom to explore Zimbabwe at your own pace.
For those looking to rent an electric car at Harare Airport, there are several popular models available. The Nissan Leaf, known for its reliability and efficiency, is a common choice. The average daily rental rate for a Nissan Leaf is around ZWL 25,000. Another popular model is the BMW i3, which offers a blend of luxury and performance, with an average daily rate of ZWL 35,000.
For those seeking a more premium experience, the Tesla Model 3 is also available, boasting advanced features and a longer range. The average daily rental rate for a Tesla Model 3 is approximately ZWL 50,000. Additionally, the Renault Zoe, a compact and eco-friendly option, can be rented for around ZWL 20,000 per day.
These rates provide a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets, making it easier for travelers to choose an electric vehicle that meets their needs while exploring Harare and its surroundings.
For travelers looking to explore Zimbabwe beyond Harare, one-way car rental options at Harare Airport offer a convenient solution. Many car rental companies provide the flexibility to pick up a vehicle at Harare Airport and return it in another city, such as Bulawayo or Victoria Falls. This service is ideal for those planning a road trip or needing to travel for business without the hassle of returning to the starting point.
One-way rental fees can vary depending on the distance and the rental company. On average, you can expect to pay an additional fee ranging from €50 to €150 for returning the car in a different city. For example, renting a compact car from Harare to Bulawayo might cost around €70 extra, while a larger vehicle for a trip to Victoria Falls could incur a fee of approximately €120. Be sure to check with your chosen rental company for specific rates and availability.
Booking your car rental well in advance is a simple yet highly effective strategy for saving money. This becomes even more crucial in tourist hotspots, where the demand for rental cars often surges during peak travel seasons. Reserving early allows you to secure a more economical rate and guarantees the availability of your preferred vehicle type.
In Harare Airport, several car rental agencies provide "early-bird" discounts to those who reserve their vehicles weeks or even months before their intended rental period. These special rates can result in substantial savings, sometimes reducing the cost by 20% to 30% compared to standard pricing. Early booking becomes exceptionally advantageous if you're traveling during high-demand seasons when prices are prone to inflate.
Planning ahead not only saves you money but also offers the leeway to explore and compare rates among various providers. If you have flexible travel dates, you can align them with times when prices are more affordable, maximizing your savings even further.
To find the most competitive rates, we recommend using our website, r-tg.com. The platform consolidates pricing information from multiple suppliers, offering you a comprehensive source for comparison. Our site often highlights exclusive early-bird discounts and other promotional deals you won't easily find elsewhere, making it a valuable tool for securing the most cost-effective car rental in Harare Airport.
Scouring multiple sources for car rental rates is one of the best strategies to secure a cost-effective deal. Different rental companies have varying price structures, and the cost can differ widely even for identical vehicle categories.
Let's say you're interested in a compact vehicle like a Ford Fiesta. While you may initially lean toward established brands like sixt or budget, don't overlook smaller, local agencies. These lesser-known providers may offer enticing rates to lure customers away from larger competitors.
For example, renting a Ford Fiesta from sixt could set you back €19 per day, with basic insurance included. In contrast, budget might charge €40 per day for the same car, but with a limited mileage allowance. A more thorough search could reveal a local vendor offering the Ford Fiesta at a daily rate of just €14, with unlimited mileage to boot.
Utilizing discount codes can significantly reduce your car rental expenses in Harare Airport, offering opportunities to upgrade your car, extend your rental duration, or simply save more money. Far from being a tactic solely for bargain hunters, using promotional codes is a standard practice in the car rental industry.
A diverse range of discounts may be available to you. For example, AAA membership often includes perks like reduced rates or a free extra driver. Special rates for military members and their families are also common. Certain credit cards might even qualify you for special discounts or additional insurance coverage. It's worth investigating which discounts you're eligible for, as they can accumulate and lead to considerable savings.
You can find discount codes through multiple channels, such as:
Although discount codes can yield substantial savings, they often come with specific terms, such as blackout dates or restrictions on car types. Always scrutinize the details to ensure the discount is applicable to your specific rental situation.
Prepaid fuel may seem convenient, but it often comes at a higher cost. Filling up the tank yourself usually results in savings.
Opting for prepaid fuel means you pay for a full tank at the rental company's rates, which are usually marked up. Unused fuel is generally non-refundable.
If you won't drive much, prepaid fuel is less economical as you may return the car with unused gas.
Skipping prepaid fuel saves money but requires planning. Balance the savings against your time to decide if it's worth it.
In short, while prepaid fuel is convenient, self-refueling is often cheaper. A little planning can maximize your savings.
Selecting an economy car can significantly reduce both your rental and fuel expenses, a key advantage for long trips or in high-cost fuel areas.
Lower rental rates and better fuel efficiency make economy cars a smart choice, particularly in crowded or space-limited areas.
An electric vehicle (EV) might have a higher rental rate but can offer fuel cost savings and is eco-friendly.
Renting an EV like the Audi-E-tron could essentially eliminate fuel costs with free charging stations.
In some places, EVs have access to carpool lanes, adding time-saving value.
To wrap it up, economy or electric cars offer a budget-friendly, eco-conscious choice. Always weigh rental and likely fuel expenses to make the best decision for your trip.
Some travel websites offer all-inclusive packages that include flights, accommodations, and car rentals, often leading to significant discounts.
Reserving the cheapest, smallest car can be a smart strategy for securing a free upgrade, especially if you wouldn't mind a better vehicle.
Rental agencies often run out of economy cars, leading to free upgrades for those who booked them. You might get a midsize or even a sedan for the price of an economy car.
There's no guarantee, but the odds are better during busy seasons. You'll still save money if you end up with the small car.
Before purchasing the insurance package from the car rental company, it's advisable to consult your own auto insurance policy first. Determine whether it already covers rental vehicles. If it does, you can safely skip the additional insurance charge from the rental company, potentially saving yourself some money.
Car rental agencies in Harare Airport often offer special promotional rates and discounts, especially during holiday periods or low-demand seasons. To stay updated on these limited-time promotions, consider subscribing to their newsletters or regularly checking their websites. You can also follow them on social media platforms where they may announce exclusive deals.
Incorporating these strategies into your travel planning can significantly improve your chances of securing a great deal on your car rental. Being an informed and savvy consumer in this vibrant city can make a substantial difference in managing your travel budget effectively.
Don't overlook mileage limits in Harare Airport car rentals; they can lead to unexpected fees.
Rental firms offer unlimited, daily, or total trip mileage plans. Choose wisely to avoid extra costs.
Exceeding the limit can cost between $0.25 and $0.75 per extra km.
Inquire about mileage policies when you pick up the car and negotiate better terms if possible.
Being savvy about mileage can keep your travel budget on track.