We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Knysna. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Hire in Knysna in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.

  • Customer benefits:
  • Quality & Expertise
  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

Flexible Booking Process

No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Knysna and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.

Free Extras & Cancellation

In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Knysna and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Knysna so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


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Why rent a car in Knysna?

Renting a car in Knysna offers unparalleled flexibility to explore the town's diverse attractions, from the iconic Knysna Heads to the serene Featherbed Nature Reserve. With your own vehicle, you can easily access secluded beaches, lush forests, and nearby towns along the Garden Route at your own pace.

Public transportation options in Knysna are limited, making a rental car the most convenient way to navigate the area. Whether you're planning to visit local markets, embark on hiking trails, or enjoy the vibrant dining scene, having a car ensures you can make the most of your time in this picturesque region.

Car rental tips for Knysna

  • Knysna does not have its own airport; the nearest major airport is George Airport, approximately 70 kilometres away. Many car rental agencies operate from George Airport, allowing you to pick up a vehicle upon arrival and enjoy a scenic drive to Knysna along the N2 motorway.
  • While main roads in and around Knysna are well-maintained, some attractions like the Featherbed Nature Reserve require travel on gravel roads. Ensure your rental agreement permits driving on such surfaces, and consider opting for a vehicle with higher ground clearance if you plan to visit these areas.
  • Fuel stations are available in Knysna, but if you're planning longer trips along the Garden Route, it's wise to refuel before setting out, as stations can be sparse in more remote areas. Most fuel stations accept major credit cards, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller or rural stations.
  • South Africa drives on the left-hand side of the road. If you're unfamiliar with this driving orientation, take some time to adjust, especially at junctions and roundabouts. Be particularly cautious of pedestrians and cyclists, as they may not always be easily visible.

FAQs about renting a car in Knysna

What is the recommended car type/category?

A compact or mid-sized car is ideal for navigating Knysna's streets and nearby attractions. If you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path areas or nature reserves, consider renting a vehicle with higher ground clearance to handle gravel roads comfortably.

What are the parking options?

Knysna offers various parking options, including street parking and public parking lots, especially around the waterfront and town centre. During peak tourist seasons, parking can be limited, so it's advisable to arrive early or consider accommodations that offer private parking.

What's the speed limit?

In South Africa, the general speed limits are 60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas, 100 km/h (62 mph) on secondary roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways. Always adhere to posted speed limits and be cautious on winding coastal roads and in areas with pedestrian activity.

Popular attractions

  • Knysna Heads: These dramatic sandstone cliffs flank the entrance to the Knysna Lagoon, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the lagoon. The Eastern Head features a lookout point accessible by car, while the Western Head is home to the Featherbed Nature Reserve.
  • Featherbed Nature Reserve: Located on the Western Head, this privately owned reserve is accessible only by ferry. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that include a boat ride, a 4x4 drive to the top, and a scenic walk through coastal forest and fynbos, culminating in breathtaking views.
  • Knysna Elephant Park: Established in 1994, this park offers a unique opportunity to interact with rescued African elephants in a free-range environment. Visitors can learn about elephant conservation and even participate in feeding sessions.
  • Pledge Nature Reserve: Situated in the heart of Knysna, this 10-hectare reserve boasts over 350 plant species and numerous bird species. It offers tranquil walking trails and picnic spots, providing a peaceful retreat from the town's bustle.
  • Knysna Waterfront: A vibrant hub featuring a marina, boutique shops, and a variety of restaurants. It's an ideal spot to enjoy fresh seafood, shop for local crafts, or embark on a lagoon cruise.

More places to visit

  • Plettenberg Bay: Approximately 30 kilometres east of Knysna, this coastal town is renowned for its pristine beaches, Robberg Nature Reserve, and vibrant arts scene.
  • Tsitsikamma National Park: Located about 90 kilometres east of Knysna, this park is famous for its indigenous forests, dramatic coastline, and the Storms River Mouth suspension bridge.
  • George: Situated roughly 60 kilometres west of Knysna, George offers attractions like the Outeniqua Transport Museum and the Garden Route Botanical Garden.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Hire Brands in Knysna

Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.

National Car Hire

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Alamo Car Hire

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SIXT Car Hire

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Enterprise Car Hire

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Budget Car Hire

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Hertz Car Hire

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Europcar Car Hire

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Thrifty Car Hire

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Keddy Car Hire

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AVIS Car Hire

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Firefly Car Hire

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: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.

Find a car according to your needs


Small / Economy

You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!

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Hybrid / Electric

A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.

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Prestige Cars

Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.

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Stationwagon / Minibus

You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.

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Knysna: Most popular locations



The cheapest car rental deals


Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)

Website advantages

  • Destinations in almost every city in the world.
  • Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands
  • Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand
  • Multilingual website

Customer benefits

  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!

No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.

No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.