LONG-distance taxi commuters are bracing for a painful festive season.
Fares are jumping across major routes, leaving many families scrambling to adjust their December plans.
This week, travellers expressed frustration after the latest fare list for December dropped, and the numbers are far higher than expected.
Many commuters in Cape Town said they now feel "like they are using a flight" but without the comfort.
For Khayelitsha resident Phumza Ncora, the shock was immediate.
She travelled to the Eastern Cape in September and paid R900.
Now, the festive fare sits at R1 250.
"That's a lot of money. It means we will be paying R1 750 extra for one way, considering I have a big family," she said.
Her family of five will now spend over R6 000 on transport for a single trip, and that excludes baggage costs, which taxi ranks often charge separately.
ALSO READ | Judge accused of taking tjotjo out on R50k bail!Opens in new window
Because of this, she's considering spending Christmas at home in Cape Town.
"If I don't go in December and maybe visit after the festive season, I may save myself over R4 000.
"I'm really thinking about not going," she said.
Codeta Taxi Association released its official notice last week, insisting it has only increased fares by R100.
But commuters said the increase feels much bigger, especially when combined with luggage fees and peak-season demand.
The new fares take effect on 1 December 2025.
Taxi operators, meanwhile, said they're preparing for their busiest time of the year.
Driver Lunga Mbangazeli told Daily Sun that December is when they "work hard for our families".
"As soon as schools close, our taxis are always full. All you need to do is ensure that the taxi is in good condition."
Lunga plans to maximise the season, targeting three round-trip trips every week between Cape Town and Gcuwa until Christmas.
"It's not going to be easy.
"But that's the target. There's no time to play. We just make sure the vehicles are in good shape," he said.
When asked about driver fatigue, he said he rests when he reaches his destination before heading back on the road.
Despite public outcry, taxi associations said rising fuel prices, maintenance costs and long-distance demand make the increase unavoidable.
But for many families already battling food, electricity and school fee pressures, the festive journey home is now another painful bill to stress about.
With only days left before the holiday rush begins, thousands of commuters may have to make a tough choice - dig deeper or stay home for Christmas.
