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Getting Around Bloemfontein

Getting Around Bloemfontein

Bloemfontein Free State, South Africa Travel Guide

Public Transit Overview

Bloemfontein does not feature a metro or tram system. The formal public bus system is limited. Informal minibus taxis are widely used by locals.

These operate on specific routes but can present challenges for tourists, including complex routes, potential language barriers, and general safety concerns.

Tips for Navigation

  • Rely on ride-sharing apps (Uber, Bolt) or reputable private taxis.
  • These options offer a protected, more predictable experience.
  • Benefit from direct routes and transparent pricing.
  • Minimize language barrier issues with app-based services.

Route Maps

Formal bus route maps are not widely accessible for tourists. Informal minibus taxi routes are unmapped.

Ticketing

Minibus taxi fares are cash-paid directly to the driver or conductor. Fares are fixed for specific routes.

Hours of Operation

Minibus taxis operate throughout the day, with higher frequency during peak hours (morning and late afternoon commutes).

Accessibility & Frequency

Accessibility Notes
  • Public transport, especially minibus taxis, is not usually accessible for travelers with mobility challenges.
  • Vehicles often lack ramps or space for wheelchairs.
  • Consider private transfers for specialized mobility needs.
Service Frequency
  • Minibus taxi service typically reduces significantly in late evenings.
  • Weekend service is also generally less frequent.
  • Plan your journeys accordingly, especially for late-night travel.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Identifiable by signage. Call a company directly for safety.

Typical Fares

Vary by distance. Confirm fare or ensure meter use.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Bolt operate. Offer transparent pricing.

Safety Tips

Verify driver and vehicle details against app info.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Services

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient ways to move around Bloemfontein, especially for visitors.

Traditional Taxis

  • Licensed taxi identification: traditional metered taxis are available.
  • Hailing procedures: safer to call a reputable taxi company directly.
  • Typical fares: vary by distance. Confirm fare or ensure meter is running.
  • Forms of payment: cash is common, some take credit cards.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Recommended apps: Uber and Bolt (formerly Taxify) operate in Bloemfontein.
  • Service features: in-app fare calculation, driver tracking, cashless payment.
  • Safety: verify driver and vehicle details against app information.
  • Airport/Station arrangements: services are readily available at BFN and bus terminals.

Safety Considerations

  • Ride-sharing apps enhance safety through tracking and ratings.
  • Always confirm driver and vehicle specifics before entering.
  • Check with your accommodation or guesthouse for reputable taxi company recommendations.
  • Pre-booking taxis from reputable companies is safer than street hailing.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing are available at Bram Fischer International Airport.
  • They additionally service the main long-distance bus terminal in the city.

Car Rental Agencies

Major Brands

Avis, Hertz, Budget, Europcar.

Local Options

Thrifty, Sixt, also available.

Location

At BFN airport and within Bloemfontein.

Rental Options in Bloemfontein

Major foreign and local car rental companies operate at Bram Fischer International Airport and within Bloemfontein.

Car Rental Requirements

  • Minimum Age: Typically 21 years, sometimes 23-25 depending on company/vehicle.
  • Driver's License: A valid driver's license is required.
  • International Driving Permit: Recommended if domestic license is not in English or lacks a photo.
  • Credit Card: Required in the driver's name for a security deposit.

Driving Laws & Roads

  • Driving Side: Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
  • Everyone must wear a seatbelt.
  • Speed Limits: Urban SIXTY kilometers/h, Open roads 100 km/h, Freeways 120 km/h.
  • Parking: Ample parking at plazas and attractions; street parking may have car guards.

Walking & Cycling in Bloemfontein

Pedestrian Areas

City Center (Hoffman Square, President Brand Street) and Naval Hill offer pleasant walking routes.

Explore heritage buildings plus picturesque scenery.

Walking Tours

Formal guided walking tours are limited. Self-guided tours are possible using maps to navigate historical routes.

Create your own itinerary based on points of interest.

Bicycle Rentals

Bloemfontein does not have formal city-wide bicycle sharing programs. Some guesthouses may offer rentals.

Recreational use within parks or specific areas.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Infrastructure
  • Limited dedicated cycling infrastructure exists in Bloemfontein.
  • Recreational cycling paths exist within parks, like Naval Hill.
  • Share roads cautiously with vehicles where dedicated paths are absent.
Safety Protocols
  • Always wear a Helmet when cycling.
  • Use reflective gear, especially while riding a bike at dawn, dusk, or night.
  • Stay alert to your surroundings and traffic conditions.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

  • Avoid walking or cycling alone at night.
  • Exercise caution in isolated or poorly lit areas.
  • Check with locals or accommodation staff for guidance on specific areas to avoid.
  • Exercise caution in the city center after dark due to crime concerns.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists in Bloemfontein.
  • Availability might be limited; inquire with specialized rental agencies.
  • Consider safety concerns when choosing this mode of transport.
  • Some rural roads may be unsuited for scooters.

Specialized Transportation Note

Bloemfontein does not offer many specialized transportation options typically found in larger tourist cities.

Tour buses for specific excursions are available through operators. The city does not have boat taxis, cable cars, or funiculars.