Car Rental in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
Experience convenient and affordable car hire in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) with Kenings. Whether you’re landing at Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport or staying near Walmer, our fleet of vehicles is ideal for exploring the Garden Route, Addo Elephant National Park, and the Eastern Cape’s scenic coastline. Enjoy seamless booking, reliable service, and competitive pricing from South Africa’s trusted car hire company.
Flying in? See car hire Port Elizabeth airport at Chief Dawid Stuurman International.
Travelling further? See car hire in South Africa — all Kenings branches and airports.
Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport
Welcome to Port Elizabeth (now officially known as Gqeberha), the friendly city and the perfect starting point for South Africa’s most celebrated adventures. Whether you’re planning to witness the majestic elephants of Addo or embark on the world-famous Garden Route journey, the freedom to explore at your own pace is essential.
Without your own vehicle, the vast beauty of the Eastern Cape remains just out of reach. You’re bound by tour schedules, unable to linger at a stunning viewpoint, discover a hidden beach, or spend that extra hour on a safari drive. The logistics of travel can overshadow the magic of the experience.
For business travellers, having your own vehicle in Gqeberha is just as important. With Kenings, you have access to dependable rental options tailored for corporate use — from fuel-efficient sedans to practical bakkies and vans — ensuring you can move smoothly between appointments and maintain full control of your day.
Kenings places the keys to this incredible region firmly in your hands. With a reliable fleet suited for both long-distance touring and safari adventures, we provide the independence you need. This guide is your complete resource for choosing the perfect car and launching your unforgettable journey from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha).
Best deals on vehicle rentals
Kenings offers the best deals on vehicle rentals throughout the country that make it easy for you to travel and take in the sites, your way.
Our extensive range of affordable, reliable cars can be rented from our branches nationwide, including in our outlets in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth, East London, and Mthatha.
With Kenings you can travel South Africa at your pace, in your way, and in comfort.
Here are some places that a vehicle from Kenings can take you to in Port Elizabeth.
Your Kenings Hub in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
Begin your Eastern Cape adventure with absolute ease. Our primary branch is located at the city’s main airport, with our service extending throughout the area.
Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ): Our main branch in the city is located at the airport. Step off your flight and be met by a Kenings representative with our complimentary ‘Meet and Greet’ service. We help you skip the queues so you can start your holiday faster.
Service to the City & Beachfront: Whether you’re staying at a hotel in Summerstrand, the Boardwalk, or the city centre, we can arrange for your rental vehicle to be delivered directly to you.
The Ideal Vehicle for Your Eastern Cape Itinerary
From safari drives to coastal cruises, we have the right vehicle for your itinerary.
For the Garden Route Explorer
The journey along the Garden Route is one of the world’s great road trips. Our comfortable sedans and spacious SUVs provide the reliability, safety, and luggage space needed for long-distance driving, ensuring you travel from Tsitsikamma to Knysna in complete comfort.
For the Safari Adventurer
A self-drive safari in Addo Elephant National Park is a must-do. Our SUVs offer a higher vantage point for spotting wildlife and the robust performance needed for navigating the park’s well-maintained gravel roads, making your safari experience even more memorable.
For the City & Beach Visitor
Exploring the beautiful beaches and local attractions of Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) is a breeze in one of our economical compact cars. They are easy to drive, fuel-efficient, and perfect for navigating the city and finding parking along the beachfront.
Flexible Car Hire Options in Port Elizabeth
We offer a range of solutions designed to fit your travel plans perfectly.
Daily, Weekly & Monthly Rentals
Whether you need a car for a quick safari, a week-long Garden Route trip, or an extended stay in the Eastern Cape, our flexible rental periods provide excellent value. Our monthly car rental options are ideal for long-term visitors.
One-Way Rentals to or from Cape Town
Dreaming of driving the full Garden Route? We specialise in one-way rentals. Pick up your car in Port Elizabeth and drop it off in Cape Town (or vice versa) to complete this iconic journey without having to backtrack.
Corporate Solutions in Gqeberha
For businesses operating in the Eastern Cape’s industrial hub, Kenings offers tailored corporate accounts with preferential rates and dedicated support to meet all your company’s transportation needs.
Need a vehicle for a month or more? See long-term car rental with Kenings.
A Driver's Guide to Port Elizabeth & Surrounds
Make the most of your car hire with these essential travel guides.
Starting Your Garden Route Adventure
From Port Elizabeth, the official start of the Garden Route is just an hour’s drive west on the N2 highway. Your first major stop is the breathtaking Tsitsikamma National Park, home to the Storms River Mouth. From there, continue on to explore Plettenberg Bay, Knysna, and beyond.
A Self-Drive Safari to Addo Elephant National Park
Located just 45 minutes from Port Elizabeth, Addo is incredibly accessible. The park’s main roads are tarred, with well-graded gravel loops suitable for all our vehicles, including standard sedans. A self-drive safari allows you to spend as much time as you like with the park’s famous elephant herds.
Exploring the Sunshine Coast
For a different coastal experience, head east from Port Elizabeth towards the charming seaside towns of Port Alfred and Kenton-on-Sea. This route offers tranquil beaches, beautiful tidal rivers, and a more relaxed pace of life.
Frequently asked questions about car hire in Gqeberha
We believe in a transparent and hassle-free rental experience. Here are answers to some common questions to help you book with confidence.
Should I search for Port Elizabeth or Gqeberha for car rentals?
You can use either! While the city’s official name is now Gqeberha, “Port Elizabeth” is still widely used. We answer to both to ensure all our customers can find us easily.
What kind of car is best for the Garden Route?
A comfortable sedan (like a Toyota Corolla) is perfect for two people. For families or those with more luggage, an SUV offers extra space and comfort for the long drive. All major roads on the Garden Route are tarred and in excellent condition.
Can I take a normal rental car to Addo Elephant National Park?
Yes, absolutely. The main roads inside Addo are tarred, and the secondary gravel roads are well-maintained and accessible for regular sedans. You do not need a 4×4 to enjoy a fantastic self-drive safari experience in the main camp area.
Do you offer one-way rentals from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town?
Yes, this is one of our most popular services. You can easily book a one-way rental to drive the scenic Garden Route at your own pace, dropping the car off at our Cape Town branch. Please arrange this when you make your booking.
What are the requirements for renting a car?
Our requirements are standard across South Africa. You will need a valid driver’s license (held for a minimum of two years), your ID or passport, and a valid credit card in the name of the main driver. The minimum age to rent is 23.
Things to do in Port Elizabeth
Island Nature Reserve
Another stunning natural site is the Island Nature Reserve, which is around 25 kilometres outside of Port Elizabeth. Its Bush back hiking trail is its most well-known feature. It begins directly outside the main building of the Nature Reserve and travels 16 kilometres. The reserve contains a variety of ecosystems, including dunes and a 480-hectare coastal forest native to Alexandria.
Kragga Kamma Game Park
In any weather, take a leisurely drive around the Kragga Kamma Game Park in the luxury of your Kenings vehicle at your own pace. Since the animals are used to cars, you can pause and observe the action to guarantee that you get the ideal photo.
Elephant Park
Due to its status as the world’s largest land animal, the African elephant has long been a popular safari destination. Many of these incredible giants can be seen in great numbers while visiting the Addo Elephant Park in South Africa, which is home to many.
Donkin Heritage Trail
This 5km trail takes you through the journey of the 1820 Settlers, making for an unforgettable historical tour. Take in the fascinating streets with a self-guided tour where the old lighthouse and collection of Victorian churches tell an intriguing story for tourists and locals.
Bird Island
Just off the coast of PE, Bird Island Marine Protected Area is a stunning and natural group of islands that includes Bird Island, Stag Island, Seal Island, and Black Rocks. It is home to an assortment of endangered and protected species of birds and an undisturbed coral reef that is a habitat for line fish.
Bayworld Museum Complex
The Bayworld Museum Complex is home to several interesting attractions, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals. It is complete with a museum, oceanarium, and snake parks, all situated idyllically on the beachfront.
