Getting Around South Africa

Plan how you will get from the airport to your hotel, especially after a long international flight. Pre-booked transfers, hotel shuttle services and ride-hailing apps all reduce stress and help you reach your accommodation quickly.

The major airports in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban are the main entry points for international visitors.

Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and Pretoria each call for different transport planning. Consider the distances between your hotel, the airport, the stadium area, restaurants and activities when deciding where to stay and how to travel.

Understanding local transport options before you arrive helps you move around more confidently.

Renting a car is useful if you want flexibility — day trips to the wine regions, safari routes or multi-city travel. Your own vehicle lets you explore at your own pace and reach places that are hard to access by public transport.

Comparing options early helps secure better rates and vehicle availability during the busy tournament period. For detail, see the car hire guide.

Allow extra time on match days, especially around stadium areas and busy routes. Traffic congestion and high demand for transport services are common during major sporting events.

Planning ahead — including parking options, drop-off points and return routes — helps you avoid unnecessary stress.

If you are visiting multiple cities, compare domestic flights, car rental and transfer options. South Africa has a well-connected domestic flight network linking the major host cities.

For more on planning a multi-city trip, see the Cricket World Cup 2027 travel guide.