There are several options for traveling around South Africa, with hiring a car being the most popular as it allows you to travel where and when you want.
Long distance trains are still reasonably safe and first class is relatively comfortable. The 2nd and 3rd class carriages are however packed and very uncomfortable. Intercity short distance trains have become a dangerous option. Train conductors dont seem to have control over the vagrants and thieves that make these trains their playground.
Privately run trains such as the Outenikwa Choo-tjoe and the Magalies Express are known for being a safe and wonderful experience. The only thing is they are mainly focused on day trips, not long distance, so they do not run in certain areas and only at certain times.
South Africa also offers bus services which include Inter City and Greyhound. It is very important to stay with well known companies as there have been many fly by night companies offering cheap prices only to provide mediocore buses which caused several tragic accidents throughout the country. The prices are reasonable and most tourists give them thumbs up. Another bus line called the Baz is focused mainly on tourists and has stops at many of the hotels across the country.
When looking to travel short in town distances, Johannesburg and Cape Town have an excellent bus line that travels to most major areas. However, it is important to note that these buses tend to be very crowded early in the morning and in the late afternoon as they are packed with workers returning home.
A metered taxi is another option for travel. These cars are readily available and generally safe; however they can be quite expensive.
A less expensive mode of transportation would be a mini-bus or van. However, these tend to be very overcrowded and have drivers who are fearless. So, don't take this ride if you are among the faint at heart.
Using a private transfer line is another option for travel in South Africa. While this mode of transportation is a little expensive, they will pick you up at the airport and take you to your hotel, or pick you up and take you safely home after enjoying a fun night out on the town.
The other and easiest option is to hire a car. There are a variety of car rental agencies at all airports and most hotels. Internet bookings are also available for most. Again it is better to go with the reputable agencies like Avis, Hertz and Budget. If you plan to only hire a car to drive around in a specific city where the agency has an office, cheaper options can be considered. For longer distances Avis, Budget and Hertz are better as they have offices all over the country and if you experience any problems along the road they will assist you immediately by exchanging the car. They all have websites with information regarding international license requirements and documentation needed to book a car.
Long distance trains are still reasonably safe and first class is relatively comfortable. The 2nd and 3rd class carriages are however packed and very uncomfortable. Intercity short distance trains have become a dangerous option. Train conductors dont seem to have control over the vagrants and thieves that make these trains their playground.
Privately run trains such as the Outenikwa Choo-tjoe and the Magalies Express are known for being a safe and wonderful experience. The only thing is they are mainly focused on day trips, not long distance, so they do not run in certain areas and only at certain times.
South Africa also offers bus services which include Inter City and Greyhound. It is very important to stay with well known companies as there have been many fly by night companies offering cheap prices only to provide mediocore buses which caused several tragic accidents throughout the country. The prices are reasonable and most tourists give them thumbs up. Another bus line called the Baz is focused mainly on tourists and has stops at many of the hotels across the country.
When looking to travel short in town distances, Johannesburg and Cape Town have an excellent bus line that travels to most major areas. However, it is important to note that these buses tend to be very crowded early in the morning and in the late afternoon as they are packed with workers returning home.
A metered taxi is another option for travel. These cars are readily available and generally safe; however they can be quite expensive.
A less expensive mode of transportation would be a mini-bus or van. However, these tend to be very overcrowded and have drivers who are fearless. So, don't take this ride if you are among the faint at heart.
Using a private transfer line is another option for travel in South Africa. While this mode of transportation is a little expensive, they will pick you up at the airport and take you to your hotel, or pick you up and take you safely home after enjoying a fun night out on the town.
The other and easiest option is to hire a car. There are a variety of car rental agencies at all airports and most hotels. Internet bookings are also available for most. Again it is better to go with the reputable agencies like Avis, Hertz and Budget. If you plan to only hire a car to drive around in a specific city where the agency has an office, cheaper options can be considered. For longer distances Avis, Budget and Hertz are better as they have offices all over the country and if you experience any problems along the road they will assist you immediately by exchanging the car. They all have websites with information regarding international license requirements and documentation needed to book a car.
About the Author:
Annette Hendley is a passionate traveler and lives in Gauteng South Africa with her husband and 2 children. You can find her traveling experience about Traveling in Southern Africa and many other destinations such as What to Do in Hermanus on Clivir.com.
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