Car Hire Port Elizabeth: getting around and exploring the town

The festive season is fast approaching. Don’t have any plans? The solution to your problems may be car hire. Port Elizabeth is a renowned South African holiday destination and with an economy car rental you can get there in a jiffy without spending a lot of money on a plane ticket. Simply pop into a dealership, pick a model and off you go on a well-earned break.

PE has recently been renamed Nelson Mandela Bay, Port Elizabeth is regarded as the "official" gateway to the scenic Eastern Cape Province and the world renowned Garden Route and is sometimes referred to (by the people who know her best) as the "Friendly City" or the "water sport capital of Africa". A small city with a big heart, PE is bound to steal yours. What are you waiting for? Get going and sort out your car hire. South Africa’s coast is waiting to be explored!

Port Elizabeth boasts an impressive variety of accommodation options. Those who prefer self-catering units can book in at La Cigale. Situated on a nature reserve a mere 15 minutes’ drive from Port Elizabeth’s airport, this establishment consists of four spacious cottages nestled in a tranquil indigenous garden. Scenic pathways link the cottages to the entertainment area which includes a swimming pool and barbecue facility. There are picnicking spots throughout the garden that can be enjoyed even after the sun goes down, with subtle lighting creating a fairytale setting.
If this seems a bit too starry-eyed for your taste, you might prefer to stay over at Protea Hotel Marine. Overlooking the sun-drenched sands of Pollock Beach, with sweeping views of Algoa Bay, this hotel is renowned for its quality facilities, personal service and affordable prices. Perfect for holidaymakers, the establishment is conveniently situated within walking distance of safe, sandy beaches, paddle pools, waterslides, PE’s famous Dolphinarium, Museum and Snake Park as well as a whole host of shopping and sporting facilities. Looking to save a few bob? Saunter on over to Number One Cora Terrace. Situated in the historical centre of the city, this small backpackers offer visitors a delightfully intimate atmosphere at affordable rates.

After you park your economy car rental at the accommodation of choice it is time to head out for a bite to eat. Port Elizabeth’s culinary sector is eclectic and diverse, catering for everyone from the keenest carnivore to the most hardcore vegetarian. The Royal Delhi consistently serves the best curry in all of PE and also has an inviting selection of seafood and meat dishes for those who find spicy food too overwhelming for the taste buds. Mamma Leone’s covers the Italian end of the culinary spectrum and meat lovers can head straight over to the Butchers Block, a steakhouse extraordinaire.

As far as entertainment goes, the sky is the limit in PE. Keen for a round of golf? The Walmer Country Club provides a challenge for both professional and amateur golfers with thick coastal foliage, tree-line fairways and the notorious Port Elizabeth wind competing to be the most hardened obstacle. Alternatively, join Calabash Tours on a foray into the township and immerse yourself in true Xhosa hospitality as you tuck into a traditional dinner at the local shebeen.

One cannot have a holiday in PE without going to the Oceanarium for a dolphin and seal show. Shows start daily at 11h00 and 15h00 and make sure to book your tickets beforehand! If you want to get even closer to our finned friends you can book a diving excursion with Pro Dive. The only five star diving centre in the whole of the Eastern Cape, the Pro Dive team guarantees every client a safe and reliable diving experience.

This, of course, is only the tip of the iceberg where Port Elizabeth’s activity-, accommodation- and dining options are concerned. Do a bit more research and chances are you’ll be biting at the bit to get going. Why hesitate? Book your car hire. Port Elizabeth is waiting.

I have been considering car hire in South Africa and came across some interesting economy car rental options online.