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.

David Malcolm

Trouble free car hire.

August, 2018

Mfundo Sipambo

I want to thank Drive South Africa for assisting me with the Vehicle I was looking for at the best rates in the Country. Their...

September, 2016

Colin Coetzee

Great service, great communication.

June, 2016

Desmond Kgano

Not once have I ever struggled with Drive South Africa for more than 10 years to date. Thank you endlessly for the great service.

October, 2022

Jacob Sekatane

Good day I need to thank Drive South Africa with the service the give us all the time, guys I give 10/10. thank you.

October, 2015

Matome Mawasha

The booking process was user friendly and stress free. Acquiring the vehicle at my requested location was easy and the staff treated me with kindness.

June, 2023

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