City in Eastern Cape, South Africa
Getting around Port Elizabeth
How to get around Port Elizabeth
Uber and Bolt are the practical way around. Buses are not recommended, and a rental car is useful for Addo, St Francis Bay and the Garden Route.
Ways to get around Port Elizabeth
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Uber / Bolt | R60–R120 for 5 km | Best for the beachfront, malls and restaurants |
| Rental car | From R400–R700 per day | Needed for Addo Elephant National Park and day trips |
| Long-distance coaches | About R250–R550 to Cape Town or Johannesburg | Intercape and FlixBus from the main terminal |
| Minibus taxis | About R15–R30 | Informal and not advised for visitors |
Ride-hailing apps in Port Elizabeth
A 5 km ride costs about R60–120 ($3.6–7.2).
- Metered taxis are few. Use apps rather than flagging taxis, and book airport transfers ahead.
Arriving in Port Elizabeth
Chief Dawid Stuurman International (Gqeberha) (PLZ)
About 5 km from the beachfront; Uber/Bolt R100–R200, 15 min. Shuttles and rental cars at the airport.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Not worth it; use Uber or rental cars.
- Driving: on the left. Licences in English with a photo are accepted; otherwise carry an IDP. Rental firms may still ask for one.
- Onward travel in South Africa: Cheap domestic flights (FlySafair, Airlink) cover long distances; Intercape buses and the Baz Bus link cities, and most visitors rent a car for the Garden Route and Kruger.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Port Elizabeth?
Yes. Apps that work here: Uber, Bolt.
What's the best way to get around Port Elizabeth?
Uber and Bolt are the practical way around. Buses are not recommended, and a rental car is useful for Addo, St Francis Bay and the Garden Route.
How do I get from the airport to Port Elizabeth?
About 5 km from the beachfront; Uber/Bolt R100–R200, 15 min. Shuttles and rental cars at the airport.
Is Port Elizabeth walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Port Elizabeth
- Getting aroundacross South Africa
- Safetyin Port Elizabeth
- Cost of livingin Port Elizabeth
- Weather & best timein Port Elizabeth
- Air qualityin Port Elizabeth
- Internet & coworkingin Port Elizabeth
- Tap waterin Port Elizabeth
- LGBTQ+ friendlyin Port Elizabeth
- Healthcare & insurancein Port Elizabeth
- Solo travelin Port Elizabeth
Going to Port Elizabeth solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Port Elizabeth meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.