I use Avis with a coupon from the Entertainment book to save a little. You may need a 4x4 in Kosi Bay/Sodwana, depending on where you go.

What 4 days to kill? It's a full day to drive Kruger to KwaZulu Natal and a full day to drive back to JNB. So you have two days to dive and enjoy the Indian Ocean. If you have four days to kill, I'd look into an overnight walking safari in Hluhluwe-ImFolozi NP. Check the KZN parks website.

http://www.kznwildlife.com/old/index.php?/Imfolozi-Game-Reserve-Trails-Imfolozi-Wilderness-Area.html

Or try Tembe Elephant Park, Ndumo or Mkuze.

Regarding car rentals, I've always gone with the lowest price. You can use something like Expedia and see what various companies charge (best deals are for manuals, which may not be to your liking if you usually drive on the right because you'll be shifting with your left hand). I also check out companies like Kemwel and Sixt before making up my mind.

I've rented cars from Avis JNB three times. Most important for Kruger area are the windows. Too many compact cars, and even not compacts, have very racked back fronts with huge front/side pillars. Also small back windows that do not roll down. So try to get a car that sits high with big windows. And I like to rent from Avis because it is USA based and we are from USA so if any problems we can deal with them "locally", all at home. But never had any.

regards - tom

You surely will rent but I would also consider going through Kruger in a vehicle with driver. My idea for sightseeing would be to explore the area north of J'burg, west of Kruger. The Blyde River Canyon is impressive. Possible lunch stop at Graskop. There is an old mining town called Pilgrim's Rest. Lunch there at Royal Hotel. A highlight in the area is Maropeng out M5 from J'burg with a fine museum based on prehuman discoveries. www.maropeng.co.za This is known as the Cradle of Civilization. Not far away is Sterkfontein cave where prehistoric remains were discovered. One evening we enjoyed a visit with evening dinner and performance around a bonfire with the Shanagaan tribe. www.shanagaan.co.za

Bill in Boston

For driving yourself in Kruger, I'd suggest getting a vehicle that sits high off the ground -- a van or SUV or somesuch. You'll have a better view of what's lurking in the grass. Sometimes in a sedan, you're too low to see the leopard that might be hiding nearby. You could then change it for a regular car before driving to Kwa-Zulu.

We've done self-driving in Kruger and other SA parks many times, and we think a higher (taller) car is definitely worth the money.

Have a great time!