Get the Best Car Rental Deals at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport

Car Rental at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe Airport

Flying into Ndola? Renting a car at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (NLA) is the perfect way to begin your Copperbelt journey. Finalrentals offers hassle‑free airport pickup, competitive daily rates, and a wide selection of vehicles—from compact cars for city exploration to SUVs for scenic drives toward nearby Kitwe or heritage landmarks. Enjoy reliable service and flexibility to hit the road the moment you land.

Car Rental at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport: FAQs

Where is the car rental pickup location at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport?

Car rental desks are located just off the terminal, about 0.04 km (0.03 miles) from the arrivals hall, or up to 1.9 km away at nearby off-site offices. Free shuttle services connect you to these locations. This setup ensures flexibility—whether you want on-site convenience or often-lower rates slightly outside the terminal area. It’s helpful to ask your provider in advance where your specific pickup point is.

2. How far is the airport from Ndola city centre and Kitwe?

Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport is approximately 15 km west of Ndola city centre, near the Dag Hammarskjöld Crash Site Memorial. It's also well‑positioned to serve Kitwe, about 60 km northwest, making it an ideal launch point for exploring Copperbelt Province by car.

What are the benefits of renting a car at the Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe airport location?

Renting at the Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe airport means instant mobility upon arrival—no waiting for taxis or shuttle coordination. You'll avoid city traffic and get straight onto major highways bound for Ndola or Kitwe. Airport rental locations often provide better vehicle availability and flexibility for return times, including early-morning or late-night pickups and drop-offs.

What ID and documentation do I need to pick up a rental car?

Drivers must show a valid driver’s license, typically held for at least 12 months. International visitors with a U.S. or other recognised license can rent without an IDP if in Latin script; otherwise, an International Driving Permit may be required. A credit card in the primary driver’s name is mandatory for the security deposit. Booking confirmations or reservation emails are helpful to speed up check-in.

What age restrictions apply to renting at this airport?

Most car rental agencies in Ndola require drivers to be between 21 and 70 years old, with a license held for at least one to two years. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge. Some companies might waive the extra fee if you have an older additional driver listed—check terms before booking.

Does rental insurance cover me adequately?

Basic liability coverage is typically included, but this does not cover damage to the rental vehicle. Adding Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft protection significantly reduces financial exposure in the event of an accident. Road conditions can vary, so enhanced coverage is a smart choice for both peace of mind and potential out-of-pocket liability.

What fuels are available, and where can I refill near the airport?

Several fuel stations are located in Ndola city. Diesel and petrol are widely available, but remote stretches toward Kitwe or rural areas may lack service stations. Always top up before long drives. Typical fuel costs range between $1.00–$1.10 USD per litre, so expect comparable rates at Ndola.

What emergency services should I know while renting a car here?

In case of an accident or vehicle issue, contact your rental provider immediately. For emergencies, dial Zambia’s emergency numbers, such as 999 for police, ambulance, or fire services. Keep roadside assistance details provided by the agency easily accessible on your phone to avoid delays.

What are the speed limits and driving rules in Zambia

In Zambia, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. In urban areas, speed limits are typically 50–60 km/h, while highways allow up to 100 km/h. Overtake on the left only, and keep low headlights on rural roads. Always wear seat belts, and phone usage while driving must be hands-free.

Are there tolls on roads around Ndola and the Copperbelt?

There are no toll roads in the Copperbelt region, meaning you can travel freely without unexpected toll fees. However, car rentals may charge for extras like GPS, child seats, or additional drivers. Always look carefully at the fees in the rental quote before confirming.

What are typical car rental rates at Ndola Airport?

Rental rates at Ndola typically range from $40 to USD 100 per day, depending on vehicle type and season, with compact cars often the cheapest. Weekly bookings may offer volume discounts. Booking early, choosing economy vehicles, and avoiding peak travel periods can bring daily rates down significantly.

Where should I consider driving after picking up my car at the airport?

From the airport, scenic destinations like the Copperbelt Museum, Dag Hammarskjöld Crash Site Memorial, and Nsobe Game Camp are accessible by car. Road trips to Kitwe and excursions to nearby towns like Luanshya and Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage offer rich cultural and natural experiences.

What happens if I return the rental late or in a different location?

Returning your car late may incur extra charges or penalties, depending on your rental’s terms. Many providers allow one-way returns (e.g. pick-up at Ndola, drop-off in Kitwe), but these often come with a drop-off fee. Always confirm these policies upfront to budget accordingly.

How reliable is GPS for driving from the airport to remote areas?

GPS works well within Ndola and on main routes, but coverage may diminish in rural or less-travelled zones. Street signs can be limited outside major towns, so it's wise to download offline maps or carry a basic paper map. This ensures you stay on track in areas where connectivity may drop.

How can I avoid rush hour traffic delays in Ndola?

Ndola traffic peaks from 07:00–10:00 and 15:30–19:30, especially on roads linking to the Lusaka–Ndola highway. Heavy commercial trucks, buses, and cyclists share the roads. Starting early in the day and using alternate local routes can significantly reduce delays, especially useful if you’re heading into the city or towards Kitwe.