Since there is no public transportation on the East Cape, the best way to get around is with a rental car. The East Cape road that leaves from San Jose is paved with concrete until the last 5km, which is then dirt road. There are no gas stations once you leave San Jose so make sure you have plenty in your tank.

From San Jose centro, the journey takes 20 minutes on concrete and another 10 minutes on the dirt road. Add another 25 minutes to get to or from the airport. The dirt road is regularly graded so you do not need a 4x4, although it is best not to mention to the car rental company that you intend to drive to the East Cape.

Driving at night must be done with extreme caution as the road is unlit and there are often cows or donkeys hanging around on the dirt road which you won't see until the last minute, especially when navigating corners. Drive slow and enjoy the views.