To car or not to car    

This is by far one of the questions we receive most frequently, and the short answer is: It depends on where you want to go. The longer answer is: You’ll probably need a car for some of your time in SA, but very likely not for all of it. Allow me to explain.

South Africa doesn’t have anywhere near the public transport infrastructure of Europe and North America, but we are making progress. In Gauteng (the area around Johannesburg and Pretoria) there is the very efficient and safe Gautrain which connects many key areas – including the airport. In Cape Town the MyCiTi rapid bus network does the same, and is a very cost effective way of getting around.

We personally find driving in the city – any city – annoying and impractical. For those inner-city instances when you do need a car, Uber is a great option and is available in Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth.

If you already know you need to rent a car then check our Car rentals special offers!

Road-tripping in the RSA

So if your trip only involves a week in Cape Town, the Peninsula, Winelands or Gauteng you could manage pretty easily with a combination of public transport, Uber and organised day tours. Planning some road-tripping? Then you’ll definitely need some wheels for at least part of your holiday.

The most popular road trip route by quite some margin starts in Cape Town and heads along the Garden Route to Knysna or further to Port Elizabeth. From there you can either fly onwards to the North for some safari time, or drive back to Cape Town along the alternative Route 62. Unless you go with a package tour, this trip is almost impossible to do without a car. Besides, you’ll likely miss out on all the unique little finds we love and that makes this trip so special.

Have any specific questions about driving in Cape Town and South Africa? Drop us a message or visit our Car rental special offers and we’ll be happy to help!