How to travel in South Africa

Getting around in South Africa

South Africa offers a variety of transportation options for traveling between cities and destinations.
These are some of the best ways to travel from Johannesburg and Cape Town to the mentioned destinations in South Africa. Depending on your preferences, budget, and time constraints, you can choose the option that suits you best. Keep in mind that availability and specific routes may vary depending on schedules and other factors, so it’s always a good idea to check with transportation providers for the most up-to-date information and to plan your journey accordingly. Below, I’ll outline the best ways to travel between Cape Town and Johannesburg and some popular destinations in South Africa using different modes of transportation. Read below how to travel in South Africa:

How to travel in South Africa from Cape Town

From Cape Town to Johannesburg

You can take the bus or fly from Cape Town to Johannesburg, which is the largest city in South Africa. There are multiple buses and flights available daily between Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB).

By Plane
Time: Approximately 2 hours
Pros: Fastest option, convenient for long distances
Cons: Can be expensive compared to other modes of transportation
Airlines: Multiple airlines operate daily flights between Cape Town and Johannesburg, including South African Airways, Mango Airlines, and Kulula.

By Train
Time: Around 24 hours
Pros: Scenic views, comfortable sleeping arrangements in sleeper cars
Cons: Can be slower and less convenient than flying, limited departure times
Train Service: Shosholoza Meyl operates long-distance trains between Cape Town and Johannesburg. The Premier Classe train offers a luxury option.

By Bus
Time: Approximately 18-20 hours
Pros: More affordable than flying, multiple departures daily
Cons: Longer travel time compared to flying
Bus Companies: Intercape, Greyhound, and Translux are popular bus companies operating between Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Cape Town to Durban

The most convenient way to travel between Cape Town and Durban is By Air. Several airlines operate daily flights between Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and King Shaka International Airport (DUR). Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus or train, but these options will take significantly longer.

By Plane
Time: Approximately 2 hours
Pros: Fastest option, convenient for long distances
Cons: Can be expensive compared to other modes of transportation
Airlines: Multiple airlines operate daily flights between Cape Town and Durban.

By Bus
Time: Around 22 hours
Pros: Affordable option, multiple departures daily
Cons: Longer travel time compared to flying, can be less comfortable than other options
Bus Companies: Intercape, Greyhound, and Translux offer bus services between Cape Town and Durban.

Cape Town to Garden Route (e.g., Knysna, George)

The Garden Route is well-connected by road, making it ideal for a road trip. You can rent a car and drive from Cape Town along the N2 highway, stopping at various towns and attractions along the way. Alternatively, there are bus and shuttle services available for those who prefer not to drive.

By Car
Time: Variable, depends on specific destination
Pros: Flexibility to explore along the way, scenic drives
Cons: Requires a valid driver’s license, potential for traffic congestion
Route: Take the N2 highway from Cape Town towards the Garden Route.

By Bus
Buses are a popular way to travel along the Garden Route. Companies like Intercape and Greyhound operate routes between Cape Town and various towns along the Garden Route, such as Mossel Bay, Knysna, and George. The journey time varies depending on the destination but generally ranges from 5 to 8 hours.

Time: Varies depending on the destination
Pros: Affordable option, no need to drive
Cons: Limited schedules, may require transfers
Bus Companies: Intercape and Greyhound offer bus services to destinations along the Garden Route.

By Train
Time: No direct train route to the Garden Route; alternative routes may require multiple transfers and take significantly longer.
Pros: Scenic views, comfortable travel
Cons: Lack of direct routes, longer travel times
Train Service: Shosholoza Meyl operates train services, but none directly to the Garden Route.

By Tour/Package

Time: Varies based on package
Pros: Guided experience, convenience
Cons: Cost may be higher compared to other options, less flexibility
Tour Operators: Various tour operators offer packages to explore the Garden Route from Cape Town.

From Cape Town to Stellenbosch (Wine Region)

By Car
Time: Around 45 minutes
Pros: Flexibility to explore, scenic drive
Cons: Potential for traffic, parking may be limited in peak seasons
Route: Take the N1 or N2 highway towards Stellenbosch.

By Bus
Time: Around 1 hour
Pros: Affordable option, no need to drive
Cons: Limited schedules
Bus Companies: Public buses may not have direct routes; private shuttles or tours may be available.

By Taxi
Time: Around 45 minutes
Pros: Convenience, no need to drive
Cons: Can be more expensive than other options, availability may vary
Service: Taxis are readily available in Cape Town for trips to Stellenbosch.
These are some of the best ways to travel between Cape Town and popular destinations in South Africa. Depending on your preferences, budget, and time constraints, you can choose the option that suits you best.

From Cape Town to Northern Cape

By Plane
Time: Approximately 2 hours or more depending on the specific destination in the Northern Cape.
Pros: Fastest option for long distances.
Cons: Can be expensive.
Airlines: Various airlines operate flights from Cape Town to Kimberley, Upington, and other destinations in the Northern Cape.

By Car
Time: Depends on the specific destination within the Northern Cape.
Pros: Flexibility to explore along the way.
Cons: Long distances, potential for fatigue.
Route: Take the N1 or N7 highway north from Cape Town towards the Northern Cape.

By Bus
Time: Varies depending on the specific destination and route.
Pros: Affordable option.
Cons: Limited schedules, longer travel time.
Bus Companies: Intercape and Greyhound offer bus services to some parts of the Northern Cape.

From Cape Town to Drakensberg

While the Drakensberg Mountains are quite far from Cape Town, you can fly to nearby cities like Durban or Johannesburg and then rent a car or join a guided tour to reach the Drakensberg region.

By Plane
Time: There are no direct flights. Indirect flights may take several hours.
Pros: Fastest option to nearby cities like Durban, followed by a drive to the Drakensberg.
Cons: Indirect route, can be expensive.
Airlines: Multiple airlines operate flights from Cape Town to Durban, from where you can drive to the Drakensberg.

By Car
Time: Approximately 18-20 hours.
Pros: Flexibility to explore, scenic drive.
Cons: Long distance, potential for fatigue.
Route: Take the N1 highway towards Durban, then head west towards the Drakensberg.

By Bus
Time: Varies depending on the specific route and transfers.
Pros: Affordable option.
Cons: Longer travel time, potential transfers.
Bus Companies: Intercape, Greyhound, and other bus companies offer services to Durban, from where you can arrange further transportation to the Drakensberg.

From Cape Town to Robben Island

Robben Island is accessible by ferry from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. There are regular ferry services departing from the Nelson Mandela Gateway.

By Ferry
Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Pros: Direct access from Cape Town waterfront.
Cons: Limited schedule, weather-dependent.
Ferry Service: Robben Island Museum operates ferries from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

From Cape Town to The Wild Coast

The Wild Coast is best explored By Car. You can rent a car in Cape Town and drive along the N2 highway, which runs along the coast.

By Plane
Time: Approximately 2 hours or more depending on the specific destination along the Wild Coast.
Pros: Fastest option for long distances.
Cons: Can be expensive.
Airlines: Various airlines operate flights from Cape Town to East London or Port Elizabeth, from where you can drive to the Wild Coast.

By Car
Time: Approximately 10-12 hours.
Pros: Flexibility to explore, scenic drive.
Cons: Long distance, potential for fatigue.
Route: Take the N2 highway towards East London or Port Elizabeth, then head towards the Wild Coast.

By Bus
Time: Varies depending on the specific route and transfers.
Pros: Affordable option.
Cons: Longer travel time, potential transfers.
Bus Companies: Intercape, Greyhound, and others offer services to East London or Port Elizabeth, from where you can arrange further transportation to the Wild Coast.

From Cape Town to Hogsback

Hogsback is a small village located in the Eastern Cape. The best way to reach Hogsback from Cape Town is by flying to East London Airport (ELS) and then renting a car or taking a taxi to Hogsback.

By Plane
Time: No direct flights; indirect flights may take several hours.
Pros: Fastest option to nearby cities like East London or Port Elizabeth, followed by a drive to Hogsback.
Cons: Indirect route, can be expensive.
Airlines: Various airlines operate flights from Cape Town to East London or Port Elizabeth, from where you can drive to Hogsback.

By Car
Time: Approximately 10-12 hours.
Pros: Flexibility to explore, scenic drive.
Cons: Long distance, potential for fatigue.
Route: Take the N2 highway towards East London or Port Elizabeth, then head inland towards Hogsback.

By Bus
Time: Varies depending on the specific route and transfers.
Pros: Affordable option.
Cons: Longer travel time, potential transfers.
Bus Companies: Intercape, Greyhound, and others offer services to East London or Port Elizabeth, from where you can arrange further transportation to Hogsback.

From Cape Town to Hermanus

By Car
Time: Approximately 1.5-2 hours.
Pros: Short drive, flexibility to explore.
Cons: Potential traffic congestion, parking may be limited in peak seasons.
Route: Take the N2 highway southeast from Cape Town towards Hermanus.

By Bus/Taxi
Time: Approximately 2-3 hours.
Pros: No need to drive, relatively short travel time.
Cons: Limited schedule, availability may vary.
Services: Public buses or private shuttles/taxis may be available.

From Cape Town to Boulders Beach

By Car
Time: Approximately 45 minutes.
Pros: Short drive, flexibility to explore.
Cons: Potential traffic congestion, limited parking.
Route: Take the M4 or M6 highway towards Simon’s Town, then follow signage to Boulders Beach.

By Train
Time: Approximately 1.5-2 hours.
Pros: Scenic route, no need to drive.
Cons: Limited schedule, may be slower than driving.
Train Service: Take the Southern Line train from Cape Town to Simon’s Town, then walk or take a short taxi ride to Boulders Beach.

How to travel in South Africa from Cape Town to Popular National Parks

From Cape Town to Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

By Air

Flight: Fly from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) near Nelspruit, which is the closest major airport to the Blyde River Canyon. From there, you can rent a car or arrange transportation to the reserve. The flight duration is approximately 2 hours.

By Bus

Inter-city Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Cape Town to Nelspruit or nearby towns like White River. Several bus companies, such as Greyhound and Intercape, operate services between Cape Town and Nelspruit. The journey takes around 24 to 30 hours.

By Car

Self-Drive: Renting a car in Cape Town and driving to Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is another option. The drive is long, approximately 1,700 to 1,900 kilometers, depending on the route taken. It typically takes around 17 to 19 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.
By combining these methods, you can choose the option that best suits your preferences for budget, comfort, and convenience.

From Cape Town to Kruger National Park

By Air

Fly from Cape Town International Airport to Nelspruit’s Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), which is the nearest airport to Kruger National Park.
There are multiple daily flights operated by various airlines between Cape Town and Nelspruit.
Once you arrive at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, you can rent a car from the airport or arrange for shuttle services to Kruger National Park. The park is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the airport.

By Bus

Take a long-distance bus from Cape Town to Nelspruit or nearby towns like White River or Hazyview, which serve as gateways to Kruger National Park.
Several bus companies offer services between Cape Town and Nelspruit, with journey times typically ranging from 24 to 30 hours.
Once you arrive in Nelspruit or your chosen town, you can arrange transportation to Kruger National Park via shuttle services or private transfers. These services are available from the bus stations or can be arranged in advance through various tour operators.

By Train

Currently, there are no direct train routes from Cape Town to Nelspruit or Kruger National Park.
However, you can take a train from Cape Town to Johannesburg, which is the nearest major city to Nelspruit with train connections.
From Johannesburg, you can then either fly to Nelspruit or take a long-distance bus to reach the park, as mentioned in the previous sections.

By Car

Renting a car in Cape Town and driving to Kruger National Park is another option, albeit a long journey.
The drive from Cape Town to the park takes approximately 16 to 18 hours, covering a distance of around 1,600 to 1,800 kilometers, depending on the route taken.
This option provides flexibility and the opportunity to explore various towns and attractions along the way, such as the Garden Route, Bloemfontein, and the Drakensberg region.
These are the main transportation options available for traveling from Cape Town to Kruger National Park, each offering its own advantages in terms of cost, convenience, and travel experience.

Cape Town to Addo Elephant National Park

By Air

Fly from Cape Town International Airport to Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ), which is the nearest airport to Addo Elephant National Park.
Several airlines operate daily flights between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.
Once you arrive at Port Elizabeth Airport, you can rent a car from the airport or arrange for shuttle services to Addo Elephant National Park. The park is approximately a 1-hour drive from the airport.

By Bus

Take a long-distance bus from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, the nearest major city to Addo Elephant National Park.
Several bus companies offer services between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, with journey times typically ranging from 10 to 12 hours.
Once you arrive in Port Elizabeth, you can take a local bus or arrange transportation to Addo Elephant National Park via shuttle services or private transfers. These services are available from the bus station or can be arranged in advance through various tour operators.

By Car

Renting a car in Cape Town and driving to Addo Elephant National Park is another option, providing flexibility and the opportunity to explore along the way.
The drive from Cape Town to Addo Elephant National Park takes approximately 8 to 9 hours, covering a distance of around 800 to 900 kilometers.
This option allows you to enjoy the scenic Garden Route and stop at various attractions and towns en route to the park.

By Train

Currently, there are no direct train routes from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth or Addo Elephant National Park.
However, you can take a train from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, which typically takes around 24 to 26 hours.
Once you arrive in Port Elizabeth, you can then arrange for transportation to Addo Elephant National Park via shuttle services or private transfers.
These are the main transportation options available for traveling from Cape Town to Addo Elephant National Park, each offering its own advantages in terms of cost, convenience, and travel experience.

From Cape Town to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve

The closest major airport to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve is King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban. From there, you can rent a car or join a guided tour to reach the reserve.

By Plane
Time: Approximately 2 hours or more depending on the specific destination in the reserve.
Pros: Fastest option for long distances.
Cons: Can be expensive.
Airlines: Various airlines operate flights from Cape Town to Durban or Richards Bay, from where you can drive to the reserve.

By Car
Time: Approximately 18-20 hours.
Pros: Flexibility to explore, scenic drive.
Cons: Long distance, potential for fatigue.
Route: Take the N2 highway towards Durban, then head north towards the game reserve.

By Bus
Time: Varies depending on the specific route and transfers.
Pros: Affordable option.
Cons: Longer travel time, potential transfers.
Bus Companies: Intercape, Greyhound, and others offer services to Durban, from where you can arrange further transportation to the game reserve.
These are some of the best ways to travel from Cape Town to the mentioned destinations in South Africa. Depending on your preferences, budget, and time constraints, you can choose the option that suits you best.

How to travel in South Africa from Johannesburg

The best ways to travel around in South Africa – from Johannesburg to Cape Town

By Air

Flight: The fastest way to travel from Johannesburg to Cape Town is By Air. Several airlines operate multiple flights daily between Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) and Cape Town International Airport (CPT). The flight duration is approximately 2 hours.

By Bus

Inter-city Bus: Several long-distance bus companies offer services between Johannesburg and Cape Town. These include Greyhound, Intercape, and Citiliner. The journey takes around 18 to 20 hours, depending on the route and stops.

By Train

Rail: The Shosholoza Meyl operates a train service called the “Premier Classe” between Johannesburg and Cape Town. The journey takes approximately 27 hours, offering a more leisurely travel experience compared to buses. However, it’s not as fast as flying.

By Car

Self-Drive: You can rent a car in Johannesburg and drive to Cape Town. The distance is around 1,400 to 1,500 kilometers, depending on the route taken. The drive takes approximately 14 to 16 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way. The N1 highway is the main route connecting the two cities.

Consider factors such as budget, travel time, comfort, and convenience when choosing the best option for your journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

The best ways to travel around in South Africa – from Johannesburg to Durban

By Plane
Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Pros: Fastest option, convenient for long distances.
Cons: Can be expensive compared to other modes of transportation.
Airlines: Multiple airlines operate daily flights between Johannesburg (OR Tambo International Airport) and Durban (King Shaka International Airport), including South African Airways, Mango Airlines, and Kulula.

By Car
Time: Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Pros: Flexibility to explore, scenic drive.
Cons: Long distance, potential for fatigue.
Route: Take the N3 highway from Johannesburg towards Durban.

By Bus
Time: Approximately 7 to 9 hours.
Pros: More affordable than flying, multiple departures daily.
Cons: Longer travel time compared to flying.
Bus Companies: Various bus companies operate services between Johannesburg and Durban, including Intercape, Greyhound, and Translux.

By Train
Time: Approximately 12 to 15 hours.
Pros: Scenic views, comfortable sleeping arrangements in sleeper cars.
Cons: Can be slower and less convenient than flying or driving, limited departure times.
Train Service: Shosholoza Meyl operates long-distance trains between Johannesburg (Park Station) and Durban (Durban Station). The Premier Classe train offers a luxury option.

These are the main transportation options available for traveling from Johannesburg to Durban. Depending on your preferences, budget, and time constraints, you can choose the option that best suits your needs.

Getting around in South Africa – from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park

The closest major airport to Kruger National Park is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) near Nelspruit. From there, you can rent a car or join a guided tour to reach the park.

By Car
Time: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours (depending on your destination within the park).
Pros: Flexibility to explore, scenic drive.
Cons: Long drive, potential for fatigue.
Route: Take the N12 or N4 highway east from Johannesburg towards Nelspruit/Mbombela. From there, follow signs to Kruger National Park.

By Plane
Time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes (plus additional travel time from the airport to the park).
Pros: Fastest option, especially for those with limited time.
Cons: Can be expensive compared to other modes of transportation.
Airports: You can fly from Johannesburg (OR Tambo International Airport) to airports near Kruger National Park, such as Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Nelspruit/Mbombela or Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport.

By Bus
Time: Varies depending on the bus company and route, but typically 8 to 10 hours.
Pros: More affordable than flying, no need to drive.
Cons: Longer travel time compared to flying or driving.
Bus Companies: Various bus companies offer services from Johannesburg to towns near Kruger National Park, such as Nelspruit/Mbombela or Hazyview. From there, you would need to arrange further transportation into the park.

By Tour
Time: Varies depending on the tour package.
Pros: Guided experience, convenient transportation.
Cons: Cost may be higher compared to other options, less flexibility.
Tour Operators: Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park, often including guided safaris and accommodations.
Kruger National Park is vast, so once you arrive, you may need additional transportation within the park to reach your accommodation or to explore different areas. Options within the park include self-driving, guided game drives with park rangers, and organized tours offered by lodges and camps.

Getting around in South Africa – from Johannesburg to Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

By Air

Flight: Fly from Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) near Nelspruit, which is the closest major airport to the Blyde River Canyon. From there, you can rent a car or arrange transportation to the reserve. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours.

By Bus

Inter-city Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Johannesburg to Nelspruit or nearby towns like White River. Several bus companies, such as Greyhound and Intercape, operate services between Johannesburg and Nelspruit. The journey takes around 5 to 7 hours.

By Car

Self-Drive: Renting a car in Johannesburg and driving to Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is another option. The drive is approximately 400 to 450 kilometers, depending on the route taken. It typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.
By combining these methods, you can choose the option that best suits your preferences for budget, comfort, and convenience.

The best ways to travel around in South Africa – from Johannesburg to the Drakensberg

By Air

Flight: Fly from Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) to King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban. Durban serves as a gateway to the Drakensberg region. From Durban, you can rent a car or arrange transportation to the Drakensberg. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

By Bus

Inter-city Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Johannesburg to towns near the Drakensberg, such as Harrismith or Estcourt. Several bus companies, such as Greyhound and Intercape, operate services between Johannesburg and these towns. The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours.

By Car

Self-Drive: Renting a car in Johannesburg and driving to the Drakensberg region is another option. The drive is approximately 300 to 400 kilometers, depending on the specific area of the Drakensberg you wish to visit. It typically takes around 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.

By Train

Rail: Currently, there are no direct train routes from Johannesburg to the Drakensberg region. However, you can take a train from Johannesburg to Durban and then arrange transportation to the Drakensberg from there.

How to travel in South Africa – conclusion

By combining these methods, you can choose the option that best suits your preferences for budget, comfort, and convenience.