Durban’s taxi network includes traditional metered taxis (private cars), ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt, and the ubiquitous minibus taxis used by locals. For visitors, private metered taxis or ride-hailing apps tend to be the most comfortable and straightforward options.

🧭 Types of Taxi Services

• Metered Taxis: Official, licensed vehicles that use a meter or offer a quoted fixed fare. You’ll find them at stands, by pre-booking, or called through your hotel or a taxi company.

• Ride-Sharing (Uber/Bolt): Often easier to book on your phone with transparent pricing and driver reviews.

• Minibus Taxis: The cheapest form of local transport, often white with coloured stripes — but not recommended for most tourists because they’re crowded, follow fixed routes, and aren’t as well regulated.

💰 Typical Taxi Costs in Durban

Taxi fares in Durban are generally affordable, but they vary according to distance, time of day, and whether you book in advance or take the taxi on the spot.

📊 Metered Taxi Rates (Estimated)

Most metered taxis charge roughly:

• Base fare: Around ZAR 20–25 to start a trip.

• Distance: Around ZAR 10–12 per km.

• Waiting time: Around ZAR 70–85 per hour if the taxi waits for you in traffic.

💡 For a short 5 km trip in daytime traffic, you might expect around ZAR 50–70 (~€2.50–€3.50).

🛬 Airport & Longer Trips

Taxis from King Shaka International Airport into Durban or nearby areas are typically more expensive because of the distance involved. Fares from the airport to the city centre, Umhlanga, or beach hotels often range from roughly ZAR 350–500 (~€18–€26) depending on where you’re going and whether the fare is fixed or metered.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt may offer competitive pricing, but fares can fluctuate with demand and time of day.

🛡️ Tips for Safe & Stress-Free Rides

🔎 Choose Licensed, Reputable Taxis

Always use licensed companies or reputable ride-hailing apps rather than flagging down an informal taxi on the street. Licensed taxis should display company details and registration.

📞 Pre-Book When Possible

Booking your taxi in advance — through your hotel’s concierge or an app — helps you secure a ride and usually a fixed or transparent fare.

💳 Payment Methods

Not all taxis in Durban accept card payments. If you want to pay by card, booking through a service that supports it (like ride-hailing apps) or booking in advance with a company that accepts cards is safer.

🌙 Night & Weekend Travel

Fares may be higher in the evenings or around holidays, and waiting times in traffic can add to the price. Always ask for a fare estimate before you start your trip.

📍 Safety & Precautions

• Keep your phone and belongings close.

• Share your trip details (like route or driver plate) with someone if using an app.

• Avoid hailing unknown taxis on the street, especially at night.

🚗 Alternative Options to Taxis

If taxis are unavailable or pricey, other transport choices include:

• Ride-hailing (Uber, Bolt): Often more predictable pricing and easier to book.

• Shuttle services: Especially from the airport to central Durban or hotspots like Umhlanga.

• Public transport: Buses and the Durban People Mover are very cheap but may be slower and less convenient.

📌 Final Tip

To make booking your taxi rides easier while planning your trip, you can use online platforms where you can compare services, see prices, and secure your ride in advance — this helps avoid surprises and gives you peace of mind in a new city.