Uber vs Bolt vs InDrive: Which One Is Actually Cheapest in Joburg? 2025

Johannesburg locals juggling between Bolt, Uber, and InDrive often ask which one won’t break the bank. Here’s the real story on what people in the city are actually paying in 2025 and why it matters.

Also read: Can You Really Get Arrested for Driving Without a Number Plate in Gauteng? 2025

Bolt: The steady workhorse

Bolt remains the leader in affordability. Base fares and per-kilometre rates in Johannesburg consistently come in lower than Uber’s across most routes. A recent 12-trip study covering Joburg and Pretoria found Bolt about R25 cheaper overall than UberX: R3,061 versus R3,086. While the difference may seem small, it adds up significantly for daily commuters over time.

Locally, many trust Bolt for standard rides because pricing is fixed and transparent: no surprises, no haggling, no stress. It’s become the go-to for those who value predictability and budget-friendliness.

Uber: A bit more, but with perks

Uber often comes at a slightly higher price point, but that comes with a few extras. Users can choose between multiple ride options like UberX, Comfort, XL, and Black, making it ideal for a broader range of needs.

However, during peak times, Uber’s surge pricing can be painful. Some Joburgers have reported short trips costing up to R269 on Reddit. That said, Uber balances this with better reliability, driver screening, and a strong safety record, which makes the premium worth it for some.

InDrive: Bargain hunting with a catch

InDrive is built for those who don’t mind negotiating. You propose a fare, and the driver accepts or counters. You might score a great deal, or end up waiting longer, or have your trip cancelled altogether.

It’s popular with cost-conscious users, but there are trade-offs. Some locals say drivers using InDrive are less reliable or take longer to arrive. One Facebook user put it bluntly:

“Drivers are killing Bolt by being available for these low prices of InDrive in my hood… which means no drivers for that app.”

Plus, not every rider enjoys bargaining with drivers just to get a fair price. Still, the app’s data-free access is a big win for those with limited mobile data; it’s zero-rated across major South African networks.

What the numbers say

Here’s how the three stack up:

• Bolt: Consistent, reliable, and typically the cheapest on most routes.

• Uber: Slightly more expensive but offers better variety, availability, and trust.

• InDrive: Sometimes cheaper, but it’s a gamble and may come with delays or driver drop-offs.

Image 1: Pexels

A local twist

In areas like Rosebank or Parkhurst, surge pricing is real. Some locals walk a few blocks just to avoid it. It’s a regular tip shared on forums like Reddit and TikTok, proving that savvy riders have developed their own hacks to beat the system.

Despite occasional frustration, ride-hailing still beats the rising costs of car ownership. For many in Joburg, it’s a lifestyle choice that balances convenience and cost.

What’s new in 2025?

• Bolt is testing fixed-price rides, similar to InDrive’s model, a shift that could make pricing more competitive.

• InDrive continues to offer zero-rated data, making it more accessible for budget-conscious users.

• Uber, while stable, hasn’t made major changes to pricing or features in 2025 but still leads in terms of availability and overall app experience.

Want predictable cheap rides? Bolt is still your best bet.

Want ride options and reliability? Uber may be worth the extra rand.

Up for a gamble to save money? InDrive could work if you’re patient.

Whichever you go with, it pays to check prices across all three before booking, especially during peak hours. And always double-check driver and vehicle details; your safety is non-negotiable.

Also read: Gauteng’s New Number Plate Rules: Myths vs Facts in 2025

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Featured Image: Peoples Gazette