Getting around South Africa can be an adventure in itself, offering a mix of comfort, culture, and local experiences. From minibus taxis zipping through cities to scenic train rides across provinces, the country’s transport options let you explore both the urban buzz and wild beauty at your own pace.
1. Minibus Taxis
Why use: Widely used by locals, these shared taxis are cheap and fast for short city trips.
Highlights: – Very affordable – Operate almost everywhere – Cultural insight into local commuting
Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM (varies by route)
Fare: R10–R25 within cities
2. Metered Taxis
Why use: Private, direct, and safer at night or for airport runs, though not very common.
Highlights: – No ride sharing – Available 24/7 – Often booked via hotel or phone
Timings: 24/7 availability in major cities
Fare: R15–R20 per km (higher at night)
3. Uber & Bolt
Why use: Convenient, app-based rides available in most big cities like Cape Town, Joburg, Durban.
Highlights: – Cashless payments – GPS tracking – Safer than street taxis
Timings: 24/7 in cities
Fare: R30–R200 depending on distance
4. MyCiTi Bus (Cape Town)
Why use: Clean, reliable public bus system ideal for tourists and commuters in Cape Town.
Highlights: – Dedicated lanes – Airport shuttle – Tap card system
Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Fare: R7–R90 depending on zones
5. Gautrain (Johannesburg & Pretoria)
Why use: High-speed, modern rail system perfect for airport access and intercity travel.
Highlights: – Safe and punctual – Airport to Sandton in 15 mins – Wi-Fi available
Timings: 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM
Fare: R32–R200 (varies by distance)
6. Local Buses (Golden Arrow, PUTCO)
Why use: Budget-friendly option for workers and long-distance city-to-town travel.
Highlights: – Large coverage – Weekly passes – Used by commuters daily
Timings: 4:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Fare: R10–R50 depending on distance
7. Long-distance Buses (Intercape, Greyhound)
Why use: Comfortable coaches for travel between provinces like Cape Town to Joburg.
Highlights: – Reclining seats – Air conditioning – Overnight options
Timings: Scheduled routes, day and night
Fare: R300–R800+ depending on route
8. Car Rentals
Why use: Best for game reserves, small towns, or flexible road trips on your schedule.
Highlights: – Drive the Garden Route – Explore Kruger at your pace – Widely available at airports
Timings: 24/7 pickup/drop-off at airports
Fare: R350–R800/day + fuel
9. Tuk-Tuks & Rickshaws (Durban only)
Why use: Short tourist rides along the beachfront with local flair and fun.
Highlights: – Decorated rickshaws – Cultural experience – Great for photos
Timings: Daylight hours
Fare: R20–R50 per ride
10. Walking & Cycling
Why use: Best in tourist-friendly zones like waterfronts, promenades, or nature parks.
Highlights: – Free – Ideal in safe areas – Great for beach towns
Timings: Daytime only (avoid walking after dark in unfamiliar places)
Fare: Free (or R100–R300/day for bike rentals)
