The City of Cape Town has announced that MyCiTi bus fares will increase from 1 July 2026, subject to approval of the City’s draft budget later this month.

The fare adjustments are aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of the service as operating costs continue to rise. The City says higher fuel prices, maintenance expenses and looming cuts in national government funding have placed significant pressure on its public transport budget.

Under the proposed changes, fares for trips of up to 20 kilometres will increase by between 38% and 45%, while fares for longer journeys will rise by between 32% and 37%. The Monthly Pass will increase from R1,000 to R1,500.

Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Councillor Rob Quintas, said the City had absorbed the impact of soaring diesel prices for several months to shield commuters from immediate fare hikes.

“We have protected MyCiTi commuters from the devastating impact for four months already at a cost of about R9.1 million per month.”

He noted that rising fuel costs linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East have affected transport operators across the board.

“Our operational costs in providing a world-class public transport offering, matched with fuel price increases, have informed our current fare adjustments.”

Quintas stressed that MyCiTi remains a subsidised public transport service and that the City does not generate a profit from fares.

“MyCiTi remains one of the most affordable public transport services, especially when you travel outside of peak periods.”