Car Hire in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)

Port Elizabeth, now officially known as Gqeberha, is a key hub on the Eastern Cape coast. With car hire, you can explore the city’s beaches or drive to Addo Elephant National Park.

Car Hire in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)


Fleet of rental 4x4 vehicles in South Africa or similar

4.9 star rating from 91 reviews

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Ample choices

Choose from a wide range of vehicles to suit every travel style, budget, and destination.

Value for money

Compare leading suppliers and secure competitive rates without compromising on quality or service.

Rental expertise

Our experienced team provides personalised support and expert guidance to ensure a smooth rental experience from start to finish.

What Our Port Elizabeth Travellers Have to Say

Still unsure? Read testimonials from satisfied Drive South Africa customers who have explored Port Elizabeth and its surroundings.

Bukelwa Nondabula

I was pretty happy with the website which was user friendly. What I was not impressed with was giving me an option to book and...

August, 2021

Tshepo Mokhothu

Getting the order right but wish they could put in special requests to the rental companies when we ask for it.

February, 2020

Wayne C Dutton

My agent that handled my query was very professional and quick. Her name is Elizma Sehas. So far I am very happy with Drive South...

August, 2018

Hilary Baker

Thanks for making our car hire experience easy, safe and secure to use.

August, 2018

Ms Mlenga

Very professionally, with new cars that you can trust for your family and friendly service to the consultant. keep up the good work.

August, 2018

Mbeko Maseko

Drive South Africa service is so wonderful.

November, 2019

Top Tips for Port Elizabeth Car Rental

Best Cars to Hire in Port Elizabeth

The Suzuki Swift, Toyota Starlet, and Volkswagen Polo are all practical choices for urban driving and coastal sightseeing. If you’re heading to Addo or doing a long-distance drive along the Garden Route, a compact SUV like the Renault Duster or Volkswagen T-Cross will offer more comfort and space.

Exploring Nearby Destinations

These areas are all accessible by standard car:

  • Addo Elephant National Park (tar roads to main gate).
  • Jeffreys Bay: A short coastal drive west of the city.
  • Tsitsikamma National Park and the start of the Garden Route.
  • Grahamstown (Makhanda) and the interior Karoo roads.

Collecting Your Vehicle at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport

Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre. Rental desks are available in the arrivals terminal.

What To Do If You're in an Accident in Port Elizabeth

  1. Check for injuries and call 112 or 10177 if needed.
  2. Move the car to a safe area if possible.
  3. Inform the police and your rental provider.
  4. Take photos of the scene and collect relevant details.
  5. Report the incident at the nearest police station within 24 hours.

How To Stay Safe in Port Elizabeth

  • Stay alert in high-traffic urban areas.
  • Don’t leave belongings visible inside the car at beach parking areas.
  • Avoid driving through isolated areas after dark.
  • Follow GPS with care — some routes may lead through less secure neighbourhoods.

FAQs About Hiring a Car in Port Elizabeth

Yes, all major providers operate from Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport.

Yes, the route is fully paved and accessible to hatchbacks and sedans.

Yes, one-way rental options are available. Additional fees may apply.

Yes, a wide selection of automatic vehicles is available upon request.

Yes, just notify your rental company when booking or collecting the car.

Port Elizabeth Partner Information

Explore our trusted partners in Port Elizabeth, their locations, and customer ratings.

2 Locations in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
  • Europcar Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ)
  • Europcar Port Elizabeth Downtown
2 Locations in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
  • Hertz Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ)
  • Hertz Port Elizabeth Downtown
2 Locations in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
  • Sani Car Rental Port Elizabeth Airport
  • Sani Car Rental Port Elizabeth City Centre
1 Location in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
  • First Car Rental Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ)
1 Location in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
  • Tempest Car Hire Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ)
1 Location in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
  • Bluu Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ)
2 Locations in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
  • Avis Port Elizabeth Airport
  • Avis Port Elizabeth Downtown
1 Location in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
  • Kenings Car Van and Truck Hire Port Elizabeth Airport
View All Partners