Car Hire at Port Elizabeth Airport: Every Supplier, Every Counter Explained If you’re landing at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) — still widely known as Port Elizabeth Airport — and you need a rental car, you’re in the right place. This guide covers every car hire supplier operating from the airport, where their counters are, what vehicles they offer, and how to lock in the best rate before you even board your flight. Whether you’re a business traveller needing a quick sedan to get to a meeting in Greenacres, a family picking up an SUV for a Garden Route road trip, or a surfer after a bakkie to haul boards out to J-Bay, the airport’s rental setup is compact, efficient, and surprisingly competitive. Where Are the Car Hire Counters at PLZ Airport? All car hire companies have their counters inside the Arrivals Hall, directly opposite the baggage carousels. You literally walk through the sliding doors from baggage reclaim, and the row of rental desks is straight ahead. It’s one of the smallest and most convenient airport layouts in South Africa — no long walks, no shuttle buses. The following suppliers have permanent desks at Port Elizabeth Airport: Avis — One of the largest fleets at PLZ; wide range from economy hatchbacks to luxury sedans. Budget — Same counter area as Avis; often shares fleet; slightly lower price point. Europcar — The dominant operator in the Eastern Cape with a large selection of vehicles. Tempest — Locally focused; often the cheapest on small cars. Hertz — Global brand with a solid presence; good for premium options. Thrifty — Value-oriented; popular for long-term rentals. First Car Rental — South African-owned; competitive on SUVs and family vehicles. Sixt — Newer to PLZ but growing fast; German standards, decent fleet. Some smaller local brokers also serve PLZ, but the eight names above cover 95% of the airport’s rental traffic. Europcar at Port Elizabeth Airport (Detailed) Since many readers land on this page searching specifically for “Europcar Port Elizabeth Airport,” here’s the deep dive. Location: The Europcar counter is in the arrivals hall, clearly branded, and staffed for all incoming flights. If your flight is delayed, they’ll track the arrival time — no need to panic. Fleet highlights: At PLZ, Europcar’s fleet includes: Economy (Hyundai i10 / Toyota Aygo): Great for solo travellers or city hops. Compact (VW Polo / Ford Figo): Ideal for two people with light luggage. Intermediate (Toyota Corolla Quest / Kia Cerato): The sweet spot for business trips. SUV (Haval Jolion / Toyota Urban Cruiser / Nissan X-Trail): Perfect for the Garden Route and Addo. Double Cab Bakkies (Toyota Hilux / Ford Ranger): The ultimate SA road trip machine. Insurance & excess: Europcar includes standard liability cover. You can reduce the excess significantly by taking out Super Cover or using third-party excess insurance (much cheaper). Read the fine print on the fuel policy — most rentals at PLZ operate on a full-to-full basis. Pick-up process: Walk-up is possible, but pre-booking online is strongly recommended, especially during the summer holiday season (December/January) and around the Ironman event. Pre-booked keys are ready, paperwork is minimal, and you’ll be on the road within 10 minutes if you’ve done online check-in. How to Get the Best Car Hire Deal at PLZ The counter price is almost never the best price. Use a comparison aggregator like our airport car hire search widget on this page to see all suppliers side by side. Here are a few insider tips: Book early. PLZ is a seasonal market. December cars sell out, and prices triple. Booking 2-3 months ahead locks in sensible rates. One-way rentals. Many travellers pick up at PLZ and drop off in Cape Town, Durban, or Joburg. Not all suppliers allow this without a hefty fee. Europcar and Avis are usually the most flexible for one-ways. Check for weekend specials. Local suppliers like Tempest and First Car Rental often run aggressive weekend rates. Avoid airport surcharges by checking off-airport depots. There are a few depots within 5km of the airport that can be cheaper, though you’ll need a transfer. For most, the convenience of an airport desk is worth the small premium. Use a credit card that covers rental excess. This can save you hundreds of Rand per day. What You Need to Collect Your Car Driver’s licence: A valid South African licence, or an international driving permit if your overseas licence is not in English. Credit card: The card must be in the main driver’s name and have enough available funds to hold the excess deposit (typically R5,000–R15,000 depending on the vehicle). Printed or digital booking voucher: Speeds up the process. Proof of address (sometimes): Not always asked for, but if your licence has your old address, a utility bill can be helpful. Driving from PLZ Airport: First 5 Minutes Exiting the airport is straightforward. The car rental parking bays are directly outside the terminal, about 30 metres from the counter. Once you exit the airport gate onto Allister Miller Drive, you’ll reach a T-junction. Turn left to head towards the city centre (Summerstrand, Humewood, Greenacres) or right to get onto the N2 for the Garden Route, Addo, and beyond. Quick FAQ: Car Hire at PLZ Which car hire companies have a counter inside PLZ airport?Avis, Budget, Europcar, Tempest, Hertz, Thrifty, First Car Rental, and Sixt all have desks in the arrivals hall. Is Europcar reliable at Port Elizabeth Airport?Yes, Europcar has one of the largest fleets and most experienced teams at PLZ, with a strong track record for vehicle quality and customer service. Can I rent a car at PLZ and drop it off in Cape Town?Yes, several suppliers offer one-way rentals to Cape Town, though a cross-city fee usually applies. Europcar and Avis are the most common choices for this. Do I need a credit card to rent a car?Most companies require a credit card to hold the deposit. Some may accept debit cards, but you’ll need to confirm with the specific supplier in advance. Is it cheaper to pre-book or just walk up?Pre-booking is almost always cheaper, sometimes by 30–50%, especially during peak periods. What’s the minimum

Road Lodge Port Elizabeth Airport — Honest Review 2026 If you’re looking for the closest possible bed to the terminal at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ), Road Lodge Port Elizabeth Airport is the undisputed winner. It’s literally across the parking lot from the terminal building. But proximity alone doesn’t make a hotel. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know before booking — rooms, breakfast, noise, safety, and whether it’s actually good value. I stayed here for one night before an early FlySafair flight to Johannesburg, and again on a separate trip when my Airlink flight was rescheduled. This is based on those stays, plus feedback from regular PLZ travellers. Location: Can You Walk to the Terminal? Yes. The hotel is on the airport grounds, about 100 metres from the check-in doors. You walk out of the hotel entrance, across a small parking area, and you’re at the terminal. No shuttle, no taxi, no stress. If you’ve got an early morning departure (06:00 or earlier), this alone is worth the room rate. For those wondering: the hotel is not on the airside — it’s landside, directly adjacent to the main terminal building. So you still go through normal security in the morning, but you can leave your room 30 minutes before boarding and still make it comfortably. First Impressions: What to Expect Road Lodge is the budget wing of the City Lodge Hotel Group. It’s a no-frills, 1-star (officially ungraded, but realistically 2-star) hotel designed for short stays. Expect clean, functional, small rooms. The building is low-rise, modern enough, and well-maintained. Check-in is 14:00, check-out 11:00, but they’re flexible if the hotel isn’t full. Lobby: Tiny. There’s a reception desk, a couple of chairs, and a vending machine for snacks and drinks. The staff are friendly and efficient — they know most guests are transit travellers who want to get to their room quickly. Rooms: Small but Adequate The rooms are compact. You get a double bed (or twin singles), a small desk, a flat-screen TV with selected DStv channels, air conditioning, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower (no bath). The bed is firm but comfortable — I slept well both times. Pillows are on the flat side, so ask for an extra one if you’re fussy. Good points: Blackout curtains work well for daytime naps Air conditioner is quiet and effective Desk is large enough to set up a laptop Wi-Fi is free and fast enough for streaming (City Lodge upgraded all their hotels’ internet in 2024) Not-so-good points: No bar fridge in the room No tea/coffee station in the room (there’s complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby 24/7) Walls are a bit thin — you’ll hear hallway conversations and the occasional suitcase rumble Bathroom is tight; larger guests may find the shower cubicle cramped If you’re expecting luxury, book the City Lodge next door (the Courtyard Hotel is also nearby, but not on airport property). Road Lodge is for sleeping and showering, not for lingering. Breakfast: Worth It? The hotel offers a continental breakfast at an extra charge (around R120 per person as of 2026). It’s served in a small breakfast room off the lobby. The spread includes cereals, yoghurt, toast, pastries, boiled eggs, cheese, cold meats, juice, and decent coffee. There’s no hot English breakfast — just a self-service boiled egg option. For the price, it’s fair, and the convenience is unbeatable if you’re rushing to the airport. However, if you’ve got a bit more time, the airport terminal itself has a Mugg & Bean (landside) and a couple of grab-and-go cafés with similar or better breakfast options. I ate breakfast at the hotel once and used the terminal’s Mugg & Bean the second time. The terminal option was slightly more satisfying. Pro tip: Book the room-only rate, then decide in the morning. You can always pay for breakfast on the spot. Airport Noise: Does It Disturb Sleep? Surprisingly, no. PLZ is not a busy airport. The last flights land around 20:00–21:00, and the first departures are around 06:00. There are no cargo flights through the night. The hotel is also well-insulated. I heard absolutely zero aircraft noise during either stay. The only disturbance was a guest talking loudly in the hallway at 23:00, which is standard hotel fare, not airport-related. Safety and Security The hotel has 24-hour reception and CCTV. The area is well-lit and directly inside the airport precinct, which has its own security patrols. I felt completely safe walking from the terminal to the hotel at 22:00. Solo female travellers I’ve spoken to report the same. There’s no fence or security gate to pass through — you just walk across the parking lot — but the general airport security presence is visible. Who Should Stay Here? Early morning flight passengers — the top reason to book. A 05:30 check-in becomes a 05:15 wake-up. Transit passengers with long layovers who want a bed, not a bench. Business travellers needing a cheap, quick overnight with reliable Wi-Fi and a desk. Garden Route road trippers arriving late on a connecting flight and wanting to start fresh in the morning. Who Should NOT Stay Here? Couples or families wanting a “holiday hotel” — it’s too basic. Anyone looking for a restaurant on-site (there isn’t one; you’ll need to order delivery or walk to the terminal for takeaway). Light sleepers who are sensitive to corridor noise — ask for a room at the end of the hallway. Booking Your Stay The cheapest way to book Road Lodge Port Elizabeth Airport is through a hotel comparison platform. Booking.com consistently shows competitive rates, and their free cancellation option (when available) gives flexibility if flight schedules change. Alternative hotels near PLZ with a free shuttle (if Road Lodge is full): City Lodge Hotel Port Elizabeth (across the parking lot, slightly more upmarket, free shuttle) Courtyard Hotel Port Elizabeth (2 km away, nicer, free airport transfer) Island Way Villa (3 km, boutique guesthouse, no shuttle but cheap Uber) FAQ: Road Lodge Port Elizabeth Airport Can

Does PE Airport Have a Slow Lounge? The Real Answer If you’re a frequent FlySafair or Airlink passenger, you’ve probably wondered: can I use my Slow Lounge membership at Port Elizabeth Airport? The short answer is no — there is no Slow Lounge at PLZ Airport. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get lounge access. In this article, I’ll explain exactly what lounges are available at PLZ, who can access them, and how to get in even if you’re flying economy on a budget ticket. The Slow Lounge Situation Slow Lounges are the premium airport lounges operated by South African bank partners (Discovery Bank, Investec, RMB, etc.) and are mainly found at OR Tambo (JNB), Cape Town (CPT), King Shaka (DUR), and Lanseria (HLA). Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) is not currently on the list. The airport’s passenger volume doesn’t yet justify a dedicated Slow Lounge, and there are no plans publicly announced for one. So if you’re a Discovery Bank Platinum cardholder or you have a Slow Lounge membership, unfortunately, you cannot use it at PLZ. What Lounges Are at Port Elizabeth Airport? There are two lounges at PLZ, both airside, after security. They’re located next to each other in the departure lounge, near Gate 1. 1. Bidvest Premier Lounge This is the main contract lounge and the one most economy passengers can access via lounge membership programs or by paying at the door. Access: Priority Pass, LoungeKey, DragonPass, Diners Club, and walk-in payment. Also accessible to business class passengers from certain airlines. Cost for walk-ins: Approximately R330 per person (subject to change) for a 2-hour stay. Opening hours: Typically from 05:30 to the last departure (around 20:00). Facilities: Small but comfortable seating, a small buffet with hot snacks (think mini pies, samoosas, sandwiches), a self-service bar with wine, beer, and spirits, a coffee machine, and a few newspapers/magazines. There’s also a small business corner with a PC and printer. Atmosphere: Quieter than the main terminal, but not as luxurious as a Slow Lounge. It’s functional, clean, and a decent place to spend 40 minutes before boarding. The staff are friendly and keep the space tidy. Verdict: If you have a Priority Pass (which comes with many South African credit cards, including some Discovery and Standard Bank cards), you can get in for free. It’s a solid option to escape the cramped gate area and grab a free drink and snack. 2. SAA Domestic Lounge (Now Limited) Historically, South African Airways operated a lounge at PLZ for its premium passengers. Since SAA’s restructuring and route reductions, the SAA lounge is no longer a full-time operation. It may open occasionally for specific flights, but generally, eligible SAA passengers and Star Alliance Gold members are now directed to the Bidvest Premier Lounge instead. Bottom line: At PLZ, the Bidvest lounge is effectively the only option for most travellers. How to Access the Bidvest Lounge Without a Business Class Ticket You don’t need to fly business. Here are three ways to get in: 1. Priority Pass / LoungeKey / DragonPassIf your credit card includes airport lounge access, check your benefits. Many South African cards (like the Discovery Bank Platinum, Standard Bank World Citizen, or RMB Private Bank cards) come with Priority Pass. Simply present your digital or physical card at the Bidvest lounge reception. Your guest may be charged or covered depending on your membership tier. 2. Pay at the DoorAnyone can walk up to the Bidvest Premier Lounge and pay the entrance fee. It’s around R330 for two hours, which may be worth it if you have a long wait and would otherwise spend money on food and drinks in the terminal. Given that a coffee and a toasted sandwich at the airport can easily hit R150, the lounge can represent good value if you plan to have a meal and a couple of drinks. 3. Pre-Book a Lounge PassYou can sometimes pre-book lounge entry through third-party platforms, securing a small discount. This is especially useful during busy periods (December holidays, Ironman week) when the lounge can reach capacity. Pre-booking guarantees your spot. Is the Bidvest Lounge Worth It? Yes, if: You have a Priority Pass or free access via your credit card — it’s a no-brainer. You’ve got a 60+ minute wait and you want a quiet seat, a drink, and a snack. The terminal is crowded, and you just want peace and a charging point. No, if: You only have 20 minutes before boarding — the lounge is small and not an “experience.” You’re looking for a Slow Lounge-level hot meal buffet. The food is light snacks, not a full meal. You’re on a strict budget and can just sit at the gate with your own coffee. PLZ Terminal Comfort Without a Lounge Even if you don’t do the lounge, PLZ is a compact, well-maintained airport with a small Mugg & Bean airside (past security) where you can sit down with a decent coffee and a muffin. There are also charging stations near the gates, and the free airport Wi-Fi is reliable. The terminal rarely feels overwhelmingly busy, except around 06:00–07:30 when the Joburg and Cape Town flights cluster. The Future: Will PLZ Ever Get a Slow Lounge? Given that the airport is undergoing gradual upgrades under its new name and management structure, it’s possible that a Slow Lounge could be added in the future if passenger numbers grow. For now, the Bidvest Premier Lounge is perfectly adequate for the current flight schedule, which is dominated by narrow-body domestic hops. FAQ: PLZ Airport Lounges Is there a Slow Lounge at Port Elizabeth Airport?No. The nearest Slow Lounges are at Cape Town, Johannesburg (OR Tambo), Durban, and Lanseria. What lounges are available at PLZ?The Bidvest Premier Lounge is the main airside lounge, accessible by Priority Pass, LoungeKey, and walk-in payment. Can I use my Discovery Bank card to access a lounge at PLZ?If your Discovery card includes Priority Pass, yes — you can access the Bidvest Premier Lounge with that. How much does the PLZ lounge cost for walk-ins?Approximately

Port Elizabeth Airport Name Change Explained: PE → Gqeberha → Chief Dawid Stuurman If you’re booking flights to “Port Elizabeth Airport” and then seeing “Gqeberha” or “Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport” on your ticket, you’re not alone. The airport has undergone two significant name changes in recent years, and even locals still call it “PE Airport” out of habit. Here’s the full story — who Chief Dawid Stuurman was, why the change happened, and what it means for travellers today. The Airport’s Original Name: Port Elizabeth Airport The airport was established in the 1920s and officially opened as Port Elizabeth Airport. It was named after the city of Port Elizabeth, which itself was named in 1820 by Sir Rufane Donkin in memory of his late wife, Elizabeth. For nearly a century, the airport was known simply by the IATA code PLZ, derived from “Port Elizabeth.” February 2021: The City Becomes Gqeberha On 23 February 2021, the South African government officially renamed the city of Port Elizabeth to Gqeberha (pronounced “click-GHEH-ber-gha” — the “Gqe” is a Xhosa click sound). The name is a isiXhosa word referring to the Baakens River that flows through the city. It was part of a broader renaming initiative across the Eastern Cape to restore indigenous place names and honour pre-colonial heritage. At this point, the airport was renamed to Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, aligning with the city’s transformation but adding a specific historical figure to the airport’s identity. The IATA code PLZ stayed the same, avoiding chaos in global reservation systems. Who Was Chief Dawid Stuurman? Dawid Stuurman (1773–1830) was a Khoi leader and anti-colonial resistance figure who played a pivotal role in the struggle for freedom in the Eastern Cape. He led his people against land dispossession by the British and Dutch settlers in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. For his resistance, he was captured and sent to Robben Island, from which he escaped — the first recorded successful escapee from the island prison. He was recaptured and eventually exiled to Australia, where he died in 1830. His legacy was largely ignored during colonial and apartheid rule, but in democratic South Africa, his story has been re-elevated. The naming of the airport after him is part of a deliberate effort to honour African heroes and replace colonial-era names with those that reflect the region’s full history. Why the Double Name (Gqeberha and Chief Dawid Stuurman)? This double naming causes confusion. Here’s the breakdown: The city is officially Gqeberha. The municipality is Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (which includes Gqeberha, Kariega/Uitenhage, and Despatch). The airport is Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (often shortened to Gqeberha Airport or still PE Airport). In practice, airlines like FlySafair and Airlink tend to list the destination as “Gqeberha (PLZ)” or “Port Elizabeth (PLZ)” on booking sites to avoid confusion. Google Flights shows “Gqeberha (PLZ).” The airport’s website is still often referred to as “PLZ Airport.” Why “International” Airport? PLZ has been designated an international airport for decades, but scheduled international flights remain minimal. There are occasional seasonal flights to Mauritius or charters, but the “International” tag mainly reflects the airport’s customs and immigration capabilities, not its current route map. How Travellers Still Refer to the Airport Even four years after the renaming, you’ll hear a mix of terms: “Port Elizabeth airport” — the most common, especially among older South Africans and international visitors. “PE airport” — shorthand. “Gqeberha airport” — increasingly used in official contexts and by younger generations. “PLZ” — the airport code, used universally on tickets and baggage tags. “Chief Dawid Stuurman” — almost never used in casual conversation, but appearing more on official signage and in media. If you’re speaking to a taxi driver or an Uber driver, just say “PE Airport” or “the airport.” Everyone understands. What the Name Change Means for Bookings Nothing changes operationally. The airport code (PLZ) is the same. Flight tickets and boarding passes will typically say “Port Elizabeth (PLZ)” or “Gqeberha (PLZ).” Your baggage tag will print “PLZ.” Car rental bookings and hotel reservations in the “Port Elizabeth” area are all still valid — the place is physically the same airport, same buildings, same runways. The Significance for South African Identity The naming of Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport is more than a cosmetic change. It represents a deliberate reclamation of history and recognition of an anti-colonial hero who was, for too long, erased from official narratives. For travellers, understanding this history enriches the experience of visiting the Eastern Cape, where names carry deep meaning and the land’s stories are still being uncovered. FAQ: The Name Change Why was Port Elizabeth Airport renamed?To align with the city’s renaming to Gqeberha and to honour Khoi resistance leader Chief Dawid Stuurman. When did the name change officially happen?The airport was renamed in February 2021, simultaneous with the city’s renaming. Is Gqeberha airport the same as Port Elizabeth airport?Yes, it’s the exact same airport (IATA code PLZ). Only the name has changed. Who was Chief Dawid Stuurman?A Khoi chief and anti-colonial fighter who escaped from Robben Island and died in exile in Australia in 1830. What does Gqeberha mean?It’s an isiXhosa word for the Baakens River that flows through the city. Why is it called an international airport when there are no international flights?The airport has customs and immigration capability, though scheduled international flights are rare. What do locals call the airport?Most still say “PE Airport” or simply “the airport.” Will my old ticket saying “Port Elizabeth” still be valid?Yes. The code PLZ and the physical location are unchanged. All airline systems still recognise both names. How do I pronounce Gqeberha?It’s a Xhosa click sound: “Click-GHEH-ber-gha.” The “Gqe” starts with a soft click. Are other South African airports renamed too?Yes. Several airports have new names, like King Shaka International (Durban), Bram Fischer International (Bloemfontein), and Kruger Mpumalanga International (Nelspruit). It’s part of a broader post-apartheid renaming movement.

Garden Route from PLZ: How to Start Your Road Trip from Port Elizabeth Airport The Garden Route is one of the most spectacular road trips in the world, and Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) is the traditional starting point. Flying into PLZ, picking up a rental car, and driving west towards Cape Town is the classic South African holiday — winding coastal roads, ancient forests, lagoons, and mountain passes. This guide tells you exactly how to get from the airport onto the open road, with stops for your first day, car hire tips, and where to stay. Why Start the Garden Route from PLZ? Proximity to the route: The airport is 3 km from the N2, the main Garden Route artery. You can be on the highway literally 5 minutes after leaving the car hire parking lot. Logical direction: Driving west from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town means you’re driving with the ocean on your left, making scenic stops easier and safer. Plenty of car hire options: All major rental companies are at PLZ, with one-way drop-off options to Cape Town Airport (CPT) or George Airport (GRJ), so you don’t have to backtrack. Beats Cape Town start: Starting from PLZ means you’ll hit the quieter eastern stretches first, building up to the busier Garden Route hotspots like Knysna and Hermanus. Step 1: Pick Up Your Car at PLZ Airport The first decision: what kind of car? For the Garden Route, you want comfort, space, and reasonable fuel economy. Here’s what we recommend: Solo / couple: A compact SUV (Haval Jolion, Toyota Urban Cruiser) — good visibility, high enough for gravel side roads, easy on petrol. Family of four: A midsize SUV (Kia Sportage, Nissan X-Trail) or a full-size sedan (Toyota Corolla) with a big boot. Group or surf trip: A double-cab bakkie (Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger) gives you space for boards, luggage, and that open-road feeling. Booking tip: Pre-book your car online and specify a Cape Town drop-off if needed. Companies like Europcar, Avis, and Budget all handle one-way Garden Route rentals. Expect a one-way surcharge (R500–R1,500), but it’s worth it. Pick up your car from the airport’s onsite parking bays, set your GPS to “Tsitsikamma National Park” or “Storms River Mouth,” and head out. Step 2: The First Hour — From PLZ to Jeffreys Bay (70 km) Get on the N2 west. In about 45 minutes, you’ll reach Jeffreys Bay — the surfing capital of South Africa. Even if you’re not a surfer, J-Bay is worth a pit stop. Park at the Supertubes viewpoint and watch the world’s best right-hand point break. Grab a coffee at a beachside café in town (InFood Bakery is a personal favourite). If you’re lucky, you’ll see dolphins. Stop for breakfast/lunch: J-Bay has plenty of options. Nina’s Real Food is a health-focused deli; The Mexican offers surprisingly good tacos. Step 3: J-Bay to Tsitsikamma / Storms River (90 km) Back on the N2. The landscape changes dramatically — fynbos, dairy farms, and then the dense forest of the Tsitsikamma. About 1 hour from J-Bay, you’ll reach the turn-off for Storms River Mouth (part of Garden Route National Park). This is your first “big” stop. Must-do: Walk the suspension bridge at Storms River Mouth. The short hike (1 km) takes you through coastal forest to a dramatic gorge where the ocean surges in. Keep an eye out for dassies (rock hyrax) and the occasional otter. It’s an iconic Garden Route experience and takes about 1.5 hours. Entry to the park is around R80 per adult (SA residents) or R200 (international visitors) — worth every cent. Step 4: Overnight Options for Day 1 You can either push on or stay overnight near Storms River/Bloukrans. Recommended lodges: Tsitsikamma Village Inn — charming old-school hotel with a Swiss alpine vibe. Good for families. Misty Mountain Reserve — cliff-top luxury chalets with ocean views. Pure romance. Tube ‘n Axe Backpackers — budget-friendly, social, and great for solo travellers. Book accommodation in advance, especially in December and Easter. The Next Days: Storms River to Knysna, Plett, and Beyond Day 2: Bloukrans Bridge (bungy jump or just admire the view), then Plettenberg Bay for lunch and a swim at Central Beach. Stay overnight in Plett or Nature’s Valley. Day 3: Drive to Knysna — visit the Heads, eat oysters at the Waterfront, take a sunset boat cruise on the lagoon. Day 4+: Continue to Wilderness, George, Mossel Bay, and beyond. The route is fully sealed and easy to navigate. Car Hire Considerations for the Garden Route One-way drop-off: Book this option when you reserve the car. Don’t just show up and hope. Kilometre limits: Most car hire companies offer unlimited kilometres for rentals over 3 days. Double-check if you’re renting short-term. Gravel roads: Many scenic detours (Nature’s Valley, Robberg Peninsula) are on well-maintained gravel. Your rental agreement will often allow driving on “proper gravel roads,” but not off-road 4×4 tracks. Read the fine print. Fuel stations: There are plenty along the N2. No need to carry extra fuel. FAQ: Garden Route from PLZ Is Port Elizabeth Airport a good starting point for the Garden Route?Absolutely. It’s the closest international airport to the eastern start of the route. How far is the first Garden Route town from PLZ?Jeffreys Bay is about 70 km / 45 minutes’ drive. Can I rent a car at PLZ and drop it off in Cape Town?Yes, all major car hire companies at PLZ offer one-way rentals to CPT, with a surcharge. Do I need a 4×4 for the Garden Route?No. A standard sedan or small SUV handles all the main roads and most gravel detours perfectly. How long does it take to drive from PLZ to Knysna?About 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours, depending on stops. Where should I stop on the first day?Storms River Mouth and Jeffreys Bay are the essential first-day stops. Is the Garden Route safe for solo travellers?Yes, it’s one of the safest tourist routes in South Africa, with good infrastructure and many other travellers along the way. What’s the best time of year to drive the Garden Route?Late summer (February–March) is

Addo Elephant National Park from PLZ Airport: Your Complete Transfer Guide If you’re landing at Port Elizabeth Airport and Addo Elephant National Park is your first stop — great choice. Addo is the third-largest national park in South Africa and home to over 600 elephants, lions, black rhinos, and a huge diversity of other wildlife. The park is close enough to PLZ that you can land at 09:00 and be on a game drive by 11:00. This guide covers every transfer option: self-drive car hire, private shuttles, and guided tours. How Far is Addo from PLZ Airport? Distance from PLZ to Addo Main Camp: Approximately 70 km. Drive time: 50–60 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route is mostly on the N2 and then the R335, with clear signage to the park. The drive is straightforward and easy to navigate, even if it’s your first time in South Africa. Option 1: Self-Drive from PLZ Airport (Car Hire) This is the most flexible and popular option. If you’re planning to self-drive in Addo (which is allowed and highly recommended), you’ll need a vehicle with decent ground clearance. A small hatchback can work, but a compact SUV is better for the gravel roads and for a higher vantage point to spot game. Directions from PLZ Airport to Addo Main Camp: Exit the airport and turn right onto Allister Miller Drive. In 2 km, take the N2 on-ramp heading east (towards Grahamstown/Makhanda). Stay on the N2 for about 45 km. Take the exit for the R335 towards Addo / Motherwell. Follow the R335 for about 15 km until you see the Addo National Park entrance gate. Sign in at reception (show your reservation or pay conservation fees) and drive 5 km into the park to the main camp. Self-drive game viewing tips: Keep your windows up and stay in your car at all times (elephants can be surprisingly close). The park map, given at the gate, shows waterholes where animals congregate, especially in dry season. Early morning and late afternoon are prime game viewing times. Don’t stress about getting lost — the road network in the main section is well-signposted. Recommended car for Addo: A Toyota Urban Cruiser, Haval Jolion, or similar compact SUV. Book in advance via our car hire search tool to compare rates. Option 2: Private Transfer from PLZ to Addo If you don’t want to drive, you can book a private airport transfer that goes directly to Addo’s main camp or to a lodge just outside the park. Many private game lodges around Addo include transfers in their packages. If not, independent transfer companies offer PLZ-to-Addo shuttles. Estimated private transfer cost (2026): Sedan (1–3 passengers): R900–R1,200 one-way Minibus (up to 6 passengers): R1,500–R2,000 one-way To guarantee availability and the best price, book your transfer in advance. Option 3: Guided Day Tour from PLZ Airport Several tour operators offer “fly-in day tours” where you land at PLZ, get picked up by a guide in an open safari vehicle, spend the day in Addo, and get dropped back at the airport or a hotel. This is the ultimate no-hassle option and often includes lunch, park fees, and a knowledgeable guide who knows where the animals are hiding. Typical Addo day tour itinerary: 08:30: Airport pick-up 09:30: Enter Addo Main Gate, morning game drive 12:30: Lunch at the park’s restaurant (or a picnic viewpoint) 14:00: Afternoon game drive (different area of the park) 17:00: Exit the park and return to PLZ Airport or a Gqeberha hotel Prices range from R1,800 to R3,000 per person, depending on group size and inclusions. This is a great option for international visitors or anyone who wants a guaranteed game viewing experience without driving. What to Pack for a Day Trip to Addo Binoculars — essential for spotting distant elephants, birds, and cats. Sun protection — hat, sunglasses, SPF50 sunscreen. Even in winter, the African sun is intense. Camera with a zoom lens — animals can be close, but a zoom helps for birds and distant sightings. Water and snacks — the main camp has a restaurant and shop, but you’ll want supplies in the car. Layers — early mornings can be cool, but by 11:00 it can be hot, even in summer. Your passport/ID — required for park entry (for foreign visitors, the conservation fee is higher). Park Entry Information (2026) SA Residents: ~R80 per adult, ~R40 per child International Visitors: ~R200 per adult, ~R100 per child Gate times: Main gate open from 06:00 to 18:30 (last entry 17:00) Road conditions: Main roads are gravel but well-graded. Sedans are fine, but SUVs are more comfortable and give a better view. Pro tip: Book your park entry online in advance through SANParks, especially during school holidays and long weekends, as the park can reach capacity. FAQ: Addo from PLZ Airport How far is Addo from Port Elizabeth Airport?About 70 km, or a 50–60 minute drive. Can I do a day trip to Addo from PLZ Airport?Yes, easily. You can land, rent a car, be in the park by late morning, game drive for 5–6 hours, and return to the airport by evening. Do I need an SUV to drive in Addo?A sedan is allowed and can manage most roads, but a small SUV is more comfortable and gives a better view. Are there guided game drives I can join from the park itself?Yes, Addo Main Camp offers guided drives (sunset, sunrise, and day drives) that you can book at reception or in advance via SANParks. Is it safe to self-drive in Addo with elephants?Yes, but follow the rules: keep a safe distance (at least 50 m from elephants), stay in your car, and never block their path. Give them the right of way. Can I leave my luggage in the car during a game drive?Yes, if it’s out of sight. The park is safe, but common sense applies — don’t leave valuables on the back seat while out of the car at viewpoints. Do I need malaria prophylaxis for Addo?No. Addo is in a malaria-free area, which

FlySafair vs Airlink from Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ): Routes, Fares & Tips If you’re flying out of Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ), you’re almost certainly choosing between FlySafair and Airlink. These two carriers dominate the PLZ flight board, connecting the Eastern Cape to the rest of South Africa. This comparison breaks down routes, pricing, baggage, onboard experience, and little-known tips to help you pick the right airline — and get the best fare. The Airlines at a Glance   Feature FlySafair Airlink Business model Low-cost Full-service regional Seat selection Paid (or free at check-in) Free Checked bag Paid (unless bundle) 20kg included In-flight snack Buy-on-board Free snack & drinks Lounge access No Yes for business class or via status On-time performance Excellent (often #1 in SA) Very good Rewards program None Voyager (SAA-linked) Routes from PLZ FlySafair operates direct flights from Port Elizabeth to: Johannesburg OR Tambo (JNB) — up to 6 daily flights Cape Town (CPT) — up to 3 daily flights Durban (DUR) — 1–2 daily flights (seasonal adjustments) East London (ELS) — limited, mostly connections (check schedule) Airlink operates direct flights from PLZ to: Johannesburg OR Tambo (JNB) — up to 5 daily flights Cape Town (CPT) — up to 2 daily flights Durban (DUR) — select flights (sometimes via ELS) Bloemfontein (BFN) — less frequent, but available Regional connections (via JNB) to Nelspruit (MQP), Windhoek (WDH), Gaborone (GBE), and beyond. Winner for route diversity: Airlink has the edge for regional connections and less-served domestic routes. FlySafair is a beast on the busy JNB and CPT routes with higher frequency. Fare Comparison: Who Is Cheaper? FlySafair typically wins the price battle, but you must pay attention to what’s included. Example fare: PLZ to Johannesburg, one-way, booked 2 weeks ahead. FlySafair: R699 base (no checked bag, no seat selection). With a 20kg bag and a selected seat: R950. Airlink: R1,050 base (20kg bag and seat selection included). So if you have checked luggage, the price gap shrinks dramatically. If you’re travelling with just a cabin bag and don’t care where you sit, FlySafair is almost always cheaper. If you have a suitcase and want a specific seat, compare the total price — sometimes Airlink is only marginally more expensive and you get a better experience. Booking tip: Use our flight search widget to compare both airlines side-by-side and see the true all-in price.   Checked Baggage & Cabin Bag Rules FlySafair: Cabin bag: 7kg max, plus a small personal item (laptop bag or handbag) Checked bags: Available as add-ons (15kg, 20kg, or a bundle with seat selection and priority boarding). Buy during booking — it’s much more expensive at the airport (up to R400 for 15kg). Oversized/sports equipment: Allowed with prior arrangement; golf bags and surfboards cost extra. Airlink: Cabin bag: 7kg (plus a slimline laptop bag or handbag) Checked baggage: 20kg free on all flights (business class: 30kg). This is a massive advantage for holidaymakers. Sports equipment: Golf bags and fishing rods often travel free as part of the 20kg allowance, but check when booking. Pro tip: Even if you’re a light packer, if you need a checked bag, don’t book FlySafair’s cheapest “Basic” fare. Add the 20kg bundle — the cost is often less than adding the bag separately later. Onboard Experience: FlySafair vs Airlink FlySafair: Known for its cheerful, efficient crew. The aircraft are Boeing 737-800s with a 3-3 seating layout. No in-flight entertainment, no free snacks — you can buy a “Snack on the Fly” menu that includes sandwiches, pies, hot drinks, and cold beverages. Legroom is reasonable, and the aircraft are clean. FlySafair excels at on-time departures; they’re consistently ranked the most punctual airline in South Africa and globally. Airlink: Operates a mix of Embraer regional jets (E170/E190) and newer Embraer E195-E2 aircraft on the JNB route, all with a 2-2 layout — no middle seats! This is a huge comfort win. The smaller Embraers feel spacious, with big windows and smooth flying. You get a complimentary snack box (cheese, crackers, biltong, sweet treat) and free water, tea, coffee, fruit juice, and soft drinks. Wine and beer are also free on certain flights (typically after 11:00 on the JNB route). Staff are professional and warm. For business travellers, the no-middle-seat layout and free snack/coffee make a difference. Frequent Flyer Perks & Loyalty FlySafair: No loyalty program. You pay, you fly. Simple. Airlink: Their “Airlink Skybucks” program is long-defunct. However, Airlink is a SAA Voyager partner, so you earn Voyager miles on Airlink flights, and you can redeem SAA miles for Airlink tickets. This matters if you’re building status. Lounge Access at PLZ FlySafair: No lounge access included. You can pay to access the Bidvest Premier Lounge at PLZ (R330 walk-in, or use Priority Pass/LoungeKey). Airlink: Business class passengers get free access to the Bidvest lounge. SAA Gold/Platinum and Star Alliance Gold members also get access when flying Airlink. Booking Tips to Save Money Book early. Both airlines use dynamic pricing. Fares for December holidays are cheap if booked by August. Fly mid-week. Tuesday and Wednesday flights are consistently cheaper than Friday/Sunday. Check alternative dates with the “whole month” view on Skyscanner to spot the cheapest day to fly. Sign up for airline newsletters. Both FlySafair and Airlink send promotional fares; FlySafair’s famous R5 (plus taxes) sales are legendary but sell out in minutes. Compare total cost, not base fare. A R699 FlySafair ticket can become R1,100 after bags and seat, while Airlink is R1,050 all-in. Do the math. Which Airline Should You Choose? Choose FlySafair if: Price is your #1 priority and you’re travelling light. You value extreme punctuality. You don’t care about loyalty points or lounge access. You just want to get from A to B quickly and cheaply. Choose Airlink if: You have checked baggage and want it included. You hate middle seats (2-2 layout is a dream). You appreciate a free meal and a glass of wine. You’re connecting to a regional flight beyond JNB or CPT. You have Voyager miles to use or earn. FAQ: FlySafair vs Airlink PLZ Is FlySafair safe? Yes, absolutely. They have a spotless safety record and are