johannesburg durban road trip

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Bustling city life

Gateway to durban: the ultimate road trip planner.

I I f you haven't thought about it yet, how about planning a last-minute escape to Durban? Not only is Durbs one of the best coastal spots in SA to soak up summer, but the road there can be part of your holiday if you take a few pointers from our handy Durban road-trip planner.

There are two main ways travellers head to Durban and we know how to make the road trip worthwhile from every angle. 

From Johannesburg  You might think of the N3 as a one-way street to the sea, but don't miss out on all the great stops along the way. Take two days to get to the coast, and two days on your way back to Johannesburg. And be sure to go a little off-course every now and then. 

Some favourite diversions along the way 

Clarens  This quaint place is a great stop-off if you happen to be travelling from Gauteng to KZN and vice versa. Clarens is a key point along the scenic Highlands route, which includes the Golden Gate Highlands National Park – linking the towns of Harrismith, Bethlehem and Fouriesburg, all along the Lesotho Highlands, the Malutis and the Drakensberg. 

Situated roughly three hours' drive from Johannesburg, in the embrace of the beautiful Maluti Mountain range, the charming town is known as the Jewel of the Free State – and there is so much more to it than its outstanding art. Some have called it a brewery with a town built around it, so expect some great craft beers to quench your thirst after a long drive.

T T he Drakensberg   If you're looking for a road trip to remember, the road around the iconic Drakensberg Mountain range is something every traveller should enjoy at least once in their lives. 

This mountain range, which is also the highest in South Africa, is like a playground for adventure seekers. Whether you’re a tame hiker, extreme mountain biker or vertigo-seeking climber, this mountain rangewill have you coming back for more and more. It's also the perfect spot to train your little ones, from a young age, to let the adventure spirit find them.

• When to visit
• How to get here

T T he Midlands  Four potters, a weaver and a couple of artists. This almost sounds like the start of a joke, but as a matter of fact, they were the ones who came up with the idea of the now famous Midlands Meander in KwaZulu-Natal. When this group of artists got together on a summer’s evening in 1985, the concept of a Rolling Exhibition, where visitors could come and see their work a few times a year, was born. Over the years the Midlands Meander family has grown and now has more than 150 members, with many of the original members still remaining.

This collection of routes in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal leads to artistic, exciting and beautiful places. Small towns and places like Howick, Underberg and Nottingham Road are all scattered around here, and make for magical exploring.

Farm stalls you need to stop at 

Rotunda Farm Stall  The shop provides fresh locally-sourced produce from farms in the Midlands area, as well as a selection of imported items.

What to buy: Locally-made cheese

Piggly Wiggly  Piggly Wiggly has grown into a formidable force in the Midlands, offering a one-stop-shop for all good country experiences. The Coffee Shop serves up generous breakfasts and is the perfect lunchtime spot. There's everything from fresh organic food, to incredible home decor, ceramic painting, candle dipping, and plenty of kid’s activities.

What to buy: Locally-produced cheeses 

Zandspruit Farm Stall Some of the very best biltong in South Africa comes from this small roadside farm stall at the bottom of Van Reenen’s Pass, just off the N3. A South African road trip staple. 

What to buy: Biltong

Through the Eastern Cape  If you're not coming from the northern side of the Drakensberg and Lesotho, you'll most likely be heading through the Eastern Cape to Durbs in KZN. If you are, consider yourself lucky. The Eastern Cape is one of the most beautiful destinations and perhaps one of the most forgotten as a holiday-destination. 

Take time to explore this wild child of South Africa on your way to the coast. But be warned, you might get hooked on the Eastern Cape and choose to stay on for the whole holiday. Whether you're in the mood for an informal seaside escape, a safari, or a choice of scintillating city diversions, you're sure to find what you're looking for in the Eastern Cape. Scenic beauty is one of the most striking characteristics of the region, ranging from the lush, evergreen Tsitsikamma Forest to the rugged Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area, the southern slopes of the Drakensberg and the arid Great Karoo.

Sunshine Coast  There is a stretch of coast in SA that's as beautiful as the Garden Route and the East Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, though not as main stream. And what you'll find along the Sunshine Coast is a unique slice of coastal paradise that makes for a pretty special beach holiday break. 

The route meanders past the sights of the coastline between Port Elizabeth and East London, taking you through a number of villages such as Colchester, Bathurst, Alexandria, Kenton-on-Sea, Port Alfred and Kidds Beach.

This unique route’s most striking attraction is the spectacular sandy coastline, consisting of a variety of river channel connections, resorts and great activities for everyone to enjoy along the way. It's also home to perhaps the most secretive of secret beaches in SA - which is why we love it. 

Apart from the beaches, though, there is so much more to explore. 

The small village of Qunu seems like any other in the Butterworth surroundings. 

Even the large pink home built for the Mandela family does not overshadow the colourful, round huts standing alongside. It pales in comparison to the stately residence erected for South Africa’s latest president. Life in Qunu is quiet and peaceful. Goats frequent the streets of the village hub, where a single fuel station and one or two supply stores can be found.

But people don’t come to Qunu for supplies or spectacles. They come to remember and see what it was that made Mandela the ‘Father of a Nation’.  

King William's Town   The Eastern Cape is the birthplace of many of our great South African democratic leaders. Not only is it where the first democratic leaders of our country were born, but also where they first implemented their democratic practices. 

Among their members are Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki and Steve Bantu Biko – who has a museum and memorial centre in his honour in King William's Town, Eastern Cape. 

Some people argue that Biko would have been a leader as great as – if not even greater than – Nelson Mandela had he not been murdered by the small, fearful minority who ruled during Apartheid. 

King William's Town is a place of reflection in South Africa – a place all South Africans should visit in their lives. 

Mac Bananas & Banana Cafe & Pancake House

This spot is a local-loved shopping, entertainment and destination hub which offers a Lifestyle Centre anchored by a Food Emporium, many restaurants and over 20 activities for the whole family to enjoy. It's a road trip haven if ever there was one. 

What to buy: Pancakes 

Red Apple Farm Stall

The Red Apple is a treasure trove of exquisite and interesting things. Apart from the typical 'padstal' finds and moreish food, the Red Apple prides itself on creating and drinking master coffees.

What to buy: Good coffee 

Oakly Farm Stall

A sweet spot with delectable fresh bread and homemade pies which are baked daily. The homemade gingerbeer is also a win. 

What to buy: Fresh farm bread

• Who to contact?
• When to visit?
• What to pack?

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Johannesburg to Durban road trip – alternate routes

I’ve driven from Johannesburg to Durban four times in the past year, and on some occasions I’ve decided to take some scenic detours. The standard route keeps you on the tolled N3 road the entire journey. This route is 568km, takes approximately 6 hours to drive, passes through Gauteng,  Free State and KwaZulu Natal provinces; and costs a class 1 vehicle R231 (in 2018) toll fees.

The route is well policed, with many sections now using average speed cameras. The speed limit in some places drops to 100kph (e.g. between Villiers and Harrismith) and some sections are as low as 80kph (e.g. Van Reenen’s Pass). If you are travelling this route, it is beneficial to follow the N3 Toll Consortium account on Twitter. They offer the latest info on traffic disruptions, weather hazards, road works and the status of petrol stations en-route (many are currently closed for refurbishments).

There are alternate routes that attract lower toll fees and are more scenic. If driving during the day, I prefer skipping Tugela and Mooi Toll Plaza. For half the toll fees (saving R119 in a class 1 vehicle), +-30km more distance and about 30 minutes more journey time I get a far more scenic route, via the Drakensberg and Natal Midlands (with Detour Options 1 and 2A below).

Detour 1: Go through Harrismith town (Engen Bergview 1-Stop off-ramp), get onto the N5 and then the R74. This detour avoids Van Reenens Pass (a high accident zone) and Tugela Plaza. This detour is approximately 15km and 16 minutes longer than the N3.

You will pass Sterkfontein Dam (the 3rd largest dam in South Africa) and the neighboring Driekloof Dam. This is the weir separating both dams.

If you have time to swim/fish/canoe/sleepover, you can visit the Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve .

View this post on Instagram #SterkfonteinDam in the #FreeState #SouthAfrica. #ttot #meetSouthAfrica #dam #naturereserve #travel #ttot A post shared by Zaid Mahomedy (@travpacker) on Dec 21, 2016 at 6:57am PST

P.S. Don’t drive too close to the water. My car got stuck here, but luckily someone camping nearby towed me out of the mud .

Just after Driekloof Dam, before you descend from the Free State Province into KwaZulu/Natal, it’s nice to stopover at the Border Post lookout point. I like to have a snack here, where you can see Woodstock Dam below. Water from Woodstock Dam is pumped up into Sterkfontein Dam (a national strategic water reserve serving both KZN and Gauteng).

You will also have a good view of the Drakensberg Amphitheater on this route.

Drive through Bergville and Winterton on the R74; then rejoin the N3.

Detour 2a:  Skip Mooi River Toll Plaza which has had incidents of protesters blocking the N3 and setting fires to trucks during recent long-weekend holidays.

Take Exit 168 toward Estcourt on the N6. Turn right onto the R103 and drive through Mooi River; crossing over the N3. This detour is a 17km addition to the journey.

You can rejoin the N3 via Nottingham Road.

Or, Detour 2B:  Continue on the R103 through the Midlands Meander . This route is approximately 6 minutes slower than the N3 (according to Google Maps) but it’s 2km shorter and very scenic.

You can rejoin the N3 just after Midmar Dam.

When I drive at night I stay on N3. But if travelling while the sun is still shining, why not take a more scenic route to Durban? If you’re travelling to Durban for a holiday, why make the trip feel like a regular inter-city commute?

Make it an adventure, stop to breathe in fresh Berg air, don’t speed and get to Durban safely.

In Durban, find cheap self-catering accommodation, guest houses, hotels, etc  with SafariNow .

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6 thoughts on “ Johannesburg to Durban road trip – alternate routes ”

Will be trying this route today! Thanks for the heads up…

I am very pleased with alternative route to Durban thanks very much

Txs. I only use the back route via Harrismit. Need to try the Escort back route

How do I bypass the Marian Hill toll road?

Take the M13 (runs through Hillcrest, Kloof, Pinetown, Westville, Sherwood). It’s a few km before the Marianhill Toll Plaza

This looks looks like an excellent set of diversions. We will certainly take Zaid’s route next month if only to see sterkfontein and to get a taste of the Drakensberg mts. I don’t think it’ll knock Welsh mountain scenery out of the park but I’m willing to be proved wrong!

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Becoming You

Places to stop on the way to Durban from Johannesburg

Located on South Africa’s east coast, Durban is hailed for its gorgeous seafront Golden Mile promenade, surfing beaches, and uShaka Marine World. Not to mention the deliciously spicy cuisine that stems from its large Indian population.

People often turn to Cape Town for a popular seaside getaway, but Durban’s charms lie in its pleasant weather and the warm Indian ocean. Not to mention the fact that even the coldest weather doesn’t drop below 17 degrees Celcius. It’s easy to see what makes this city such a great attraction, especially for city-dwellers looking for a quick local getaway.

However, it’s often expressed that the best part of arriving at a destination is the journey it takes to get there. And the route to Durban is one captivated by scenic views, friendly locals, breathtaking natural landmarks, and great-tasting South African cuisine.

This trip is perfect year-round, thanks to the warm, humid climate of South Africa’s east coast. So leave your  winter gloves  behind, pack in your swimsuit and get ready for the exciting local road trip that dreams are made of.

Distance From Johannesburg To Durban

Durban is a great destination when working with time constraints. A flight across is especially quick and convenient. But there’s something special about taking your time to fully appreciate the scenic route ahead.

The distance between Johannesburg and Durban is approximately 568 kilometers. Without making any lengthy pit stops or detours, it can take around six hours by car.

When embarking on the N3 to Durban, travelers will pass popular landmarks and destinations. These include the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve, the tiny town of Ladysmith and the iconic Drakensberg Mountains .

Road Tripping From Joburg To Durban – 5 Spots Where You Can Stop

The thrill of road-tripping from one city to another is unmatched. Nothing beats being able to experience the landscape around you changing as you move along from one town to the next.

As citizens,  local traveling is something that should be on every bucket list. Not only does it contribute to our own economy, but you’ll find that a vacation in your hometown can easily compete with the appeal of a foreign country.

Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve

Home to over 200 different bird species and a number of wild animals, the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve should be your first stop after leaving the city. This protected area is one of Gauteng’s most-visited ecotourism destinations and is located almost 50 kilometers outside of Johannesburg.

Located 265 kilometers outside of Johannesburg, Intabazwe is a little Zulu town in Harrismith. With a decent selection of eateries and accommodations, it’s a great place to put your feet up and soak up the rural lifestyle.

The Drakensberg

Around 270 kilometers outside of Johannesburg lies the iconic Drakensberg, where you can find the highest mountains in all of South Africa. Near the striking mountain range, you can also find a broad range of nature-based activities, eateries, and accommodations.

The list is endless. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a partner and kids, there are plenty of things to do in the Drakensberg area. This makes it a one-stop shop for anyone on the road.

The Midlands

The famous  Midlands Meander  in  Kwa-Zulu Natal  is a collection of tourist routes that offer great-tasting cuisine and welcoming accommodation. As well as arts and crafts activities for the whole family.

Depending on when you decide to pay a visit, there are also a number of events taking place in the area. From wine tastings to public holiday celebrations, it may be a good idea to include a stop at one of the events when planning your road trip itinerary.

Affectionately nicknamed ‘the Jewel of the Eastern Free State’, this pleasant town is a key stopover point along the scenic Highlands route.

Just over 300 kilometers outside of Johannesburg, a detour to this picturesque place will take you to the foothills of the Maluti Mountains. The dreamy appeal of a small town is just what you need when taking a breather from the city.

While city-to-city road trips are spectacular, it’s also amazing to explore  small towns in South Africa.

Petrol Station Pitstops On The N3 Route Map

With all this ground to cover, you’re going to need a little break every now and then to stretch your legs and fill up your petrol tank. The N3 route’s petrol stations are relatively frequent and well-spaced, and we’ll show you where some of the best stops are.

• Vaal Engen 1 Stop   – Located off the N3 highway, 113 kilometers outside of Johannesburg, this is the first and biggest pitstop of your trip. The Engen Vaal Stop 1 East-West is a great place to stretch your legs, run to the loo, and stock up on padkos  for the rest of the drive!
• Puma Service Station – Located 218 kilometers outside of Johannesburg and just over 100 kilometers from the previous stop is the Puma Warden Service Station. With the Warden Jamaat Khana just around the corner, it’s a great place for any Muslim travelers looking for a place to stop by and pray.
• Tugela Engen 1 Stop – Another 112 kilometers from the Puma Service Station, and almost 400 kilometers outside of Johannesburg, is the Engen Tugela One-Stop South. This pitstop is just after the Tugela Toll Plaza, so once you reach this point, you’re pretty much halfway there.
• Midway Motors (3149) – Located on Lowlands Road near Estcourt, this station is 403 kilometers from Johannesburg and less than 200 kilometers from Durban!
• Engen Haffejees Service Station  – Located only 80 kilometers away from your final destination, this station is likely your last stop before your arrival in Surf City.

Wrapping Up Your Road Trip To Durban

Once you’ve arrived safely at your gorgeous seaside destination, it means that your road trip has sadly come to an end. But your journey into wonderful Durban has only just begun.

Experiencing rich cultures, eating delicious food, and admiring the natural beauty of this gorgeous route serves as a tasteful introduction of what’s to come. There is so much more to do and see in Surf City, but it doesn’t hurt to enjoy everything else along the way too.

You can plan this road trip over the course of a few hours or even several days. Either way, you’re sure to find a number of picturesque and fun-filled pitstops where you can stretch your legs and make some memories.

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30 Best Stops Between Durban and Johannesburg

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How long is the drive from Durban to Johannesburg?

The direct drive from Durban to Johannesburg is 356 mi (572 km) , and should have a drive time of 6 hrs 2 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Durban to Johannesburg, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with top places to visit like Crocworld and ScubaCo Diving & Travel, or the ever-popular Blue Wilderness Shark Research Unit.

Best stops along Durban to Johannesburg drive

Blue wilderness shark research unit.

ScubaCo Diving & Travel

Hare krishna temple, makaranga garden lodge.

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Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

1000 Hills Tourism Information Office

Phezulu safari park, african raptor centre, tala collection game reserve, butterflies for africa, stormy hill horse trails & accommodation, nelson mandela capture site, piggly wiggly coffee shop - midlands, karkloof canopy tour, nottingham road brewing company.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Chocolate Heaven

Kamberg nature reserve, drakensberg boys choir school, drakensberg canopy tour, nambiti big 5 private game reserve, ladysmith town hall, spioenkop nature reserve, spioenkop battlefield, cathedral peak, all out adventures.

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Glen Garriff Conservation

Basotho cultural village, suikerbosrand nature reserve, carnival city casino, bokkie park, top searches in johannesburg, other popular road trips from durban, explore nearby places.

• Johannesburg
• Braamfontein
• Dunkeld West
• Bedfordview
• Modderfontein
• North Riding
• Kempton Park
• Walkerville
• Muldersdrift
• Krugersdorp

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Johannesburg throughout the year

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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Johannesburg?

Get inspired for your trip to Johannesburg with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Johannesburg Itinerary
• 2-Day Johannesburg Itinerary
• 3-Day Johannesburg Itinerary
• 4-Day Johannesburg Itinerary
• 5-Day Johannesburg Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from durban to johannesburg.

Yes! You can drive from Durban to Johannesburg.

How far is Johannesburg from Durban by car?

The drive from Durban to Johannesburg is 356 miles (572 km).

How long does it take to drive from Durban to Johannesburg?

Driving from Durban to Johannesburg should take you 6 hrs 2 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Durban to Johannesburg?

Gas from Durban to Johannesburg would cost around $31 to $73 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Durban to Johannesburg?

You could check out Crocworld and ScubaCo Diving & Travel, or the always popular Blue Wilderness Shark Research Unit!

What's the weather like in Durban?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Durban in January
• Weather in Durban in February
• Weather in Durban in March
• Weather in Durban in April
• Weather in Durban in May
• Weather in Durban in June
• Weather in Durban in July
• Weather in Durban in August
• Weather in Durban in September
• Weather in Durban in October
• Weather in Durban in November
• Weather in Durban in December

What are some other road trips from Durban?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Durban.

• Durban to Cape Town Central drive
• Durban to Johannesburg drive
• Durban to Pretoria drive
• Durban to Plettenberg Bay drive
• Durban to St Lucia drive
• Durban to Tsitsikamma National Park drive
• Durban to Oudtshoorn drive
• Durban to Stellenbosch drive
• Durban to Howick drive
• Durban to Sun City drive
• Durban to Victoria Falls drive
• Durban to Nelspruit drive
• Durban to Maputo drive
• Durban to Port Elizabeth drive
• Durban to Madibeng drive
• Durban to Graskop drive
• Durban to Underberg drive
• Durban to Hoedspruit drive
• Durban to Sandton drive
• Durban to Overstrand drive
• Durban to Storms River drive
• Durban to Knysna drive
• Durban to Ladysmith drive
• Durban to Bloemfontein drive
• Durban to Clarens drive
• Durban to Kimberley drive
• Durban to Wilderness drive
• Durban to Franschhoek drive
• Durban to Windhoek drive
• Durban to Addo Elephant National Park drive

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Johannesburg to Durban Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Johannesburg and then finish in Durban. Trips from Johannesburg to Durban are most popular in July, with the most tours doing this route then.

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5 johannesburg to durban tour packages with 30 reviews.

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Kruger & Coast

The tour was outstanding, Way beyond my expectations in every way! The group was small, only 11 participants from all ages and stages of life. innocent, our tour guide was absolutely brilliant!!!! He was kind, funny, organized, fluent in english. As a bonus.. innocent cooked for us awesome food every day:) Danny, his co-mate and our driver was also a a great and funny guy. Together they were super super natural leaders!! I felt in very good hands. Accommodation in every camp/ homestay was well organized. I would highly recommend this tour to everyone. Thank you Intrepid, an absolute winner all round!

Wild Kingdoms Safari (from Johannesburg to Durban)

Zacharia did an excellent job of providing information about South Africa’s history and the towns and cities we visited. He was a very safe driver. He acted in a professional manner and was punctual. The accommodation was excellent especially in Johannesburg and in Hazyview. The planned activities as well as the optional drives we paid for were excellent. We appreciated that Zacharia took us to visit a school when we requested it. The pacing of the tour was very good for our age group (seniors).

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Road Trip South Africa – A Suggested Itinerary

It’s tough to sum up a road trip through South Africa in a few words – It offers pretty much everything under the sun – mountains and grasslands, adventure sports and beach-bumming opportunities, wildlife safaris and tame Ostrich farms, wild bushland and turquoise lagoons, and luscious food and wine. No wonder, it makes for the road trip of a life time.

Here’s what we ended up doing on our road trip through South Africa:

1) Johannesburg (2 days)

Fly into Johannesburg or Jo’burg as the locals call it. Spend your time exploring the townships of Soweto and sensing the vibe of the city. Make sure to hit the Sunday crafts market in Sandton and follow that up with an afternoon of playing with Lion cubs at the Johannesburg Lion Park .

2) Safari at Hluhluwe Imfolozi National Park (2-3 days)

Drive from Johannesburg to HluHluwe Imfolozi National Park for an offbeat Safari. This 550 km (approx 8 hours) stretch will take you through traditional South African villages and towns. Spend the next day on a guided safari in the HluHluwe Imfolozi National Park looking for animals. We had a field day spotting Zebras and Antelopes!

3) Durban (3 days)

3 days is about right for Durban – you can spend your days trekking in some of the well-kept natural reserves like Umhlanga and Amanzimtoti or laze on Durban’s spectacular beaches. In the evenings, enjoy the lively night life that Durban has to offer and do not forget to try the ‘bunny chow’ – a hollowed bread loaf filled with curry – yummy! One place that you CANNOT miss is the Valley of 1000 hills

4) Addo Elephant National Park (2 days)

Aah! The best part of the road trip through South Africa (at least for Vid ;)). 900 kms from Durban lies a breathtaking natural reserve next to a sleepy village called Addo. You can easily spend a day or two doing a self-drive safari at the Addo Elephant National Park . Vid loved the experience so much that he is already planning his next self-drive safari.

5) The Garden Route (5-7 days)

If we had our way, we would drive the Garden Route three or four times over. Stretching from Port Elizabeth all the way to Cape Town, this 750 km drive is what dreams are made of. One can easily spend 5 days covering the Garden Route – we split our journey at a mystical sea-side town called Knysna. For adventure seekers, the Bloukrans bridge between Port Elizabeth and Knysna offers the world’s highest commercial bungee jump. How could we have stayed behind? 🙂

Hop over to read about our adventures driving the garden route !

6) Cape Town and The Wine Route (5 days)

New York Times recently listed Cape Town as #1 in a list of 52 places to visit in 2014. We can certainly vouch for that. From hiking the Table Mountain to devouring fresh seafood at the Mariner’s wharf at Hout Bay, Cape Town has something for everyone. We even had breakfast with Penguins at the Boulders beach in Simonstown.  Leave aside a couple of days for visits to Frankshoek and Stellenbosch, both of which boasts of some of the world’s best wineries. You MUST NOT leave the region before indulging in some wine tasting.  Cape Town and the surrounding wine region is undoubtedly the best way to end a long, rewarding, and a little tiring road trip through South Africa.

7) Fly from Cape Town to Johannesburg and back to London

21 days, 4,400 Kms (including detours and city driving), and a myriad of landscapes later, the epic road trip through South Africa came to an end. We can safely say that this trip has been the best travel experience of our lives till now 🙂

Planning And Budgeting

A road trip spanning 3 weeks requires a fair bit of planning and organisation, especially when it’s in a diverse country like South Africa. Months before our trip, we spent hours on the internet looking for cheap rates for hotels . Given the importance of tourism in South Africa, it’s easy to find something to suit all budgets. Our approximate cost breakdown for the trip was:

• Car Rental with Hertz: £20 per day for a Chevy Spark with all insurances and one-way drop off fees included
• Fuel Costs: Approximately 200 litres of petrol at ~75p per litre = £150 for the entire trip
• Accommodation: £20 per night per person including breakfast (we stay in local B&B’s – somewhere between luxurious hotels and backpacker’s hostels)
• Food costs: £20-£25 per person per day
• Safari: A guided safari will set you back by £75-£100 per person. A self-drive option is much cheaper at around £15 per person. We suggest you do one of each 🙂
• Miscellaneous costs: £15 per person

There you have it – a South African Road Trip itinerary that will take you through changing landscapes, beautiful scenery, scrumptious food, exhilarating wild life, and divine wine. To read a detailed account of each stop, including suggestions for accommodation, offbeat detours, and random fun stuff, read all our posts about our South African Road Trip .

If you have any specific questions, ask them in the comments below.

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70 thoughts on “ road trip south africa – a suggested itinerary ”.

Looks gorgeous! I’m curious…do you know what are the ostriches farmed for? Their meat? Their eggs? Both? Definitely looks like a great road trip either way. Cape Town is quite high on my list of places to visit in Africa…but probably won’t happen this year!

They are usually for the eggs and also for show i.e. for people to come and see Ostriches 🙂 You should definitely do a road trip – you guys will love it !

Brilliant! Thanks so much for the clear and detailed info. A dream of mine… Not for this year but will make it happen soon. Thanks again for putting up this very informative post 🙂

Thanks Catherine- glad you found it useful 🙂

This is soooo damn inspiring. Doing this for real! 😀

Abhilash go for it- you will love it 🙂

Looks fabulous. Have been wanting to do a trip to South Africa myself, especially for the big five. The road trip just makes it better. Quick one – can you share some of the hotels you stayed at? Also, what about safety measures etc.

Hey Sonika – we stayed in apartments we booked off Air B&B. Safety wise- just take the usual precautions. Don’t flash valuables, keep your rental car locked, and just be aware of your surroundings at all times 🙂

Hey, I live in SA! There are a bunch websites for hotels, etc, for example, http://www.lekkeslaap.co.za ; but you can also just google south african accomadation! And about the safety … They make it sound worse than what it is, just don’t leave valuables in plain sight, lock doors, etc! And have fun!!!

We totally agree – we didn’t feel unsafe in South Africa even once!

u refreshed my memory of South Africa..what a beautiful place!!Garden route is something which should be on the bucket list..did u guys manage to go to Hermanus???I was lucky to sight so many whales there:):) And yes as u rightly mentioned the best way to end an eventful day in cape is by sipping one of their finest wines:) Also i loved the drive through from chapman’s peak , unending ocean at cape point!!!aah what views…wana go back:(

Aah Chapman’s peak – that stunner. Yep, we did all those things and reading your comment made us miss them

Wow this is fantastic! I don’t have immediate plans for South Africa yet but it’s on my wish list. I’ll be coming back to this post for reference when I make a plan!

Thanks Michelle 🙂

Love the pics.. We’ve traveled through South Africa a couple of times and always hate to leave. Our last overlanding was 3months from Nairobi to Cape Town, taking in 8 countries en-route.. absolutely epic and we can’t wait to do it again. What a magical place.

Whoa – that sounds amazing Rhonda. How was Nairobi?

Thank for sharing pcis. I love your píc so much and will comeback to visit your site. Hope you have more useful articles for audience. I will save money to travel to South Africa one day.

Thanks. I hope our tips on exploring South Africa come handy when you visit the country 🙂

Fantastic post.

Planning a 2 weeks road trip including flying to and from Mumbai. I have a very outdoorsy, nature and adventure loving 8 year old girl. I am allergic to wine. So with the above points in mind, would you be kind enough to advise an itinerary.

Best regards, Ritesh

Thanks for the kind words 🙂 To be honest all our suggestions (and itinerary) are in this article (as well as the other South Africa posts here: https://www.bruisedpassports.com/category/south-africa ). You can tailor the itinerary depending on your preferences 🙂

Hope you have an amazing trip

Great trip! Why not travel to Brazil one day? You would thoroughly enjoy this fantastic country! http://www.almojewellery.com

Alex Brazil tops our wish list. We hope to visit super soon 🙂

Great info. I was planning to head to South Africa either later this year or early next so this is perfect to see what there is to see. Thanks

Glad you found it useful 🙂 Let us know if you have any questions.

Hi.. Your blog has been really helpful and inspirational for me while planning my Honeymoon trip to South Africa for December 2015 but lately a lot of people have been warning me about safety concerns in SA regarding robbery and car jacking. It would be really helpful if you could provide with any advise.

Thanks Sahil Sehgal

Hey Sahil – we hope you have an amazing time on your honeymoon in South Africa. To be honest, we found South Africa, especially the Garden Route & Cape Town, fairly safe. If you’re really worried, perhaps you could steer clear of Johannesburg 🙂

This is so useful! I’m thinking about flying from Durban to Port Elizabeth to give us more time in other places. What would I be missing if we flew?

Hey Sierra,

That’s a good idea – don’t think you’ll miss much between Durban and Port Elizabeth. You could spend the extra day in Addo National Park 🙂

I’m really impressed with your travel blog.Being a travel junkie myself I can relate with your experiences.

Honestly I was contemplating between SA and Greece but your post just cliched the deal in favour of SA.

I Had a some questions though why did you not include Kruger in your travel itinerary?

What I was planning was that we fly to cape town enjoy the city for 3-4 days do the garden route in another 5,fly out from port elizabeth and do a night each in kruger and josburg.

I would appreciate your suggestion on the same.

Hi Randhir,

Thanks for your comment. Kruger was not fitting well in our itinerary as we had to be in Durban for a gathering. That’s why we chose Hluhluwe.

Your plan sounds great and you should definitely spend a couple of days in Kruger. Also, when you are driving the Garden route, spend a few days in Knysna.

Have fun in South Africa – it’s amazing 🙂

Hey thanks so much for your prompt reply… really appreciate it.

So if we are doing Kruger should we do Addo and josburg lion park or we can give them a miss?

Sorry for the late reply – you can give Addo and the lion park a miss if you are visiting Kruger National Park 🙂

Thank you so much for this detailed blog post. My husband and I are planning to South Africa this Jan 2016 we are still in the planning step as I am doing so much reading on the garden route, our initial plan is as follows:

Cape town ( 8 days) Garden routes (8-10 days) still not sure about the duration

I thought we might stay first in Knsyna for 3 nights and travel back and forth, then move to wilderness for another 3 nights and travel back and forth, and then maybe to Elizabeth port? your suggestion is highly appreciated 😀 we don’t like to change accommodations a lot, we don’t have kids yet, but we hate the hassle of checking in and out off hotels.

then we will spend 2-3 days at a Safari lodge

What do you think? will love to hear back form you

Sorry for the late reply 🙁

Your plan sounds great. Even we don’t like moving from one hotel to the other every day, so we did something similar. We made Knysna our base for 3-4 days and explored the surroundings. We did the same when we were in Cape Town too.

Which Safar Lodge are you planning to visit? 🙂

Hey guys – I LOVE this post so much and it’s made me really excited for a trip i’m taking there in a couple of weeks. Do you have any awesome B&B suggestions in Cape Town or along the Garden route? Thanks so much, aly

You’ll love South Africa 🙂 Well, in Knysna we stayed at Double Dutch . We didn’t stay in Capetown but 30 minutes away in Simonstown at Marianella guest house .

Have a great trip and tell us how it goes 🙂

Hey, I regularly visit your site and really impressed with it. I want to have 7-8days tour of SA.Please suggest the must see cities/falls/safari/gardens/monuments/shopping to visit(not to say I visited SA bt missed it ie must see places).Also kindly suggest me the itinerary. We are a group of 10 from a family. Thank you

Hey Chetan – if you have just 7-8 days we’d suggest spending it in the Cape Town-Garden Route area. We have a detailed article on driving the Garden Route. It offers a bit of everything, so it’s perfect for you 🙂

South Africa is a lovely place to visit.. I enjoyed the classical exhibition from soweto guyz.. Along Vikaz Street

It is one of our favourite countries till date 🙂

So excited about our 3 week family road trip next year. Is there a reason why you didn’t go to Kruger? Having a hard time deciding what to miss out on. Who did you do the Soweto tour with?

Hey Adrianne,

No particular reason why we didn’t go to Kruger. Trust us, whatever you do in South Africa, you’ll love it. So don’t worry about what you’ll miss 😉

We did the tour with Soweto Bicycle Tours. You can read more here: https://www.bruisedpassports.com/africa/5-reasons-you-must-go-for-a-township-tour-in-south-africa

Have a great time in SA – it’s a beautiful country 🙂

Hi Savi & Vid,

This is quite useful for us as we plan a 3 week trip to South Africa. Just had a couple of queries on the itinerary

– Durban To Port Elizabeth is a really long distance. Did you guys just power through that drive or did stopovers?

– If not Hluhluhwe, any other safaris you would suggest? Ones that can be done on a budget.

Thanks in advance and enjoy your time in USA!

Just power through Durban to PE, not much to see there. Not sure if there are any other safaris around Hluhluhwe that will be cheaper. Kruger is definitely more expensive.

Have a great trip and apologies for the late reply 🙁

I am planning to visit south africa for 10 days in last week of august.Is it a good time to self drive garden route .Will it be possible for us to visit capetown ,do garden route and visit Kruger for 2-3 days in a span of 10-11 days. and if not kruger which other national park can I visit for a good game view? Is it really safe to self drive from capetown to port elizabeth as I have heard a lot of safety concerns

Hey Ayushi,

We did not face any safety concerns while driving through South Africa. As long as you are sensible and take the usual precautions, you should be fine 🙂

It might be a bit crammed to do all that in 10 days. That said if you spend 3 days in Cape Town, drive the garden route over 3 days, then you can fly from Port Elizabeth to Kruger/nearby airport and do a few safaris there.

Hi! Thank you for the detailed road trip itinerary. I am looking for a road trip of about 12 days in SA. Also, I wish do enjoy all the adventures that the country has to pffer! Can you please guide me regardig that?

Pease read all our articles on South Africa to get an idea of what all we did during our road trip 🙂 These articles should give you a good insight!

hey- could you help me with where you stayed on the garden route and what you did?

Hey Mitali – we did this trip pre blogging days, so didn’t both to jot down a lot of names of hotels etc. However we always use a price comparison website to find the best hotel deals and book them. Here it is https://www.hotelscombined.com/?a_aid=148771

Hi Savi and Vid, I would like to know whats the best time to go to south africa? We want to do the garden route which includes (shark cage diving) as well as kruger national park. So whats the best time to ensure that the weather permits all of this? Also is it safe to self drive in SA? any words of caution.

Hey Manali – we found it safe to drive in South Africa as long as one exercises caution (don’t flash valuables, camera gear etc). The best time to visit is b/w July and November for animal sightings 🙂

Any reason you didnt do Bungee Jumping? Also We are planning to visit in Jan end February for 15 days. Was thinking of only driving through The Garden Route and rest of the tour by other flight or car. Do u think think that will be fine? Any suggestion for 15 day itenary. Thanks

Hey sounds good. Yes a combination of flight and car sounds good 🙂 Savi’s brother, who accompanied us on this trip, did Bungee Jump and it was amazing

Can you please suggest an itneary for 8 days in South Africa.

Please customise the itinerary for South Africa in this article depending on your preferences and choices 🙂

Hello!!!! I just love your blog and both of you. Reading every blog of yours makes me want to take that leap of faith out of the couch and travelling. South Africa … Mersmerised # worried about lack of money!! Can you give a rough idea of finance for this trip and do we book the hotels and other stuff through some travel agent or how do we go about it on owr own… Looking fwd for ur reply

It’s difficult to give an idea for budget as it depends a lot on your preferences. You can stay in hostels and save a lot or you can stay in luxury hotels and spend more. We would definitely recommend booking accommodation in advance – you can easily book on your own if you like 🙂

Is Kynsya to oudtshoorn and back to kynsa possible..planning to drive from cape town to Kynsya and stay for 3 nights..please suggest

Yes it is 🙂

Hi Vid & Savi,

I am planning to visit South Africa in the month of August. I have made list of places worth exploring. But unfortunately, I cant find a way out in Cape Town especially for Accomodation and guided tours in and around the city. I am planning to stay for 4 days in Cape Town. At present my search results for accommodation has been 0 with no one to help with regard to tours, especially local representatives. Could you please help or else offer any advise?

Not quite sure why you can’t find any accommodation. Perhaps you could broaden your search and look in neighbouring towns. We stayed in Simonstown for Cape Town 🙂

Hi, what month did you guys travel to SA in? I’m slightly confused between July-August and December periods. Help is much appreciated 🙂

We went in March 🙂

December is a good time too!

Thanks so much for this itinerary. Me and my husband will be using this for our anniversary trip next month. We only will have 10 days to do it though so what would you suggest taking out or spending less days doing?

Thanks for your time! 🙂

Hey you could skip the Jo’burg/Addo bits 🙂

I am searching for South Africa topic on the internet, and I found your blog. This is really helpfull. Thanks for helping me to write this article. It’s about “When Is The Best Time To Visit South Africa “ . Kindly check and share your thoughts.

Thanks Ruma

Hey I am planning to visit south africa but really scared after reading negative reviews about thw safety issues. Jberg is completely out from my itwnary but evwn capetown and garden route seems unsafe post covid. Any suggestions please

Hey Nupur – we didn’t find it unsafe. Ofc you need to exercise common caution like not flashing expensive gadgets or money, keeping car doors locked etc but otherwise we only met the nicest people

Nice Article with beautiful images. Thanks for sharing this.

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Route Johannesburg to Durban

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Trips to Durban

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We take a trip down the N3 Highway from Joburg to Durban to bring you the best stops en route to your next holiday. 

Engen Vaal Stop 1

One of the biggest first stops on the N3 to Durban from Joburg is the Vaal 1 Stop East-West. Here you can stretch your legs, grab something to eat and fill the old jalopy up before you take on the big road.

Puma Service Station

Thandu Tau is a great place for a stop-over to turn your trip to the coast into a journey of discovery (read all about it below).

Tugela One Stop

Just before you get to Ladysmith you will see the Tugela One Stop. We suggest you take a break here, grab an energy drink, a loo break and chill a bit to keep you alert for the rest of the drive.

Restaurants

Morija Guest House

The large dining room and lounge of the main house can welcome up to 24 people and acts as a great detour off the N3. Visitors can choose from an extensive menu, a welcoming atmosphere, and their commitment to eco-tourism and integration in the community.

Chocolate Heaven

One would think that the best chocolate in South Africa would be at some shop in Sandton. But it is actually in an old antique shop in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. So head on over here to get your cocoa fix of artisanal chocolates.  Chocolate Heaven uses traditional methods and the best ingredients in their pure couverture Belgian chocolate, free of all the artificial nasties.

Intaba View

Located in the serene Valley of 1000 Hills, Intaba View overlooks the Phezulu Nature Reserve. Their views are reason alone to detour there, but they also serve delicious food. They are open all week for breakfast and lunch. They also offer al fresco dining on their patio but we’d rather stay indoors by the warm fireplace in winter.

Places To Sleep

Right next to the N3 highway you will find one of the most prominent stops for travelers en route to Durban from Johannesburg. At Thandu Tau, snuggled up in the Free State, you’ll discover a unique combination of South African art and culture while relishing in a variety of dining experiences and the opportunity to interact with their majestic wildlife … just stay away from those with the big teeth and big claws (you’ve been warned!). With a unique blend of luxury and the natural environment, Thanda Tau aims to deliver a truly holistic South African experience to a wide variety of travelers.

Points Of Interest

Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve

One of the most popular nature reserves in the country, the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve is home to over 200 bird species and boasts creatures all the way from the aardvark to the zebra. The reserves also have a holiday resort which has a massive pool, two water slides and an indoor heated pool. There are a couple of dedicated hiking, mountain biking and running trails as well.

Two turns off the N3 you will find a little Zulu town called Intabazwe in Harrismith. Here you can rest your bones and catch up on all the Zulu history you’ve missed. There are a handful of B&Bs to stay at, friendly people to meet and tonnes of places to chill at… Just leave thoughts of city life behind though – this is a one-horse-town type of vibe. Besides, you have the rest of the year to get your metropolitan kicks in.

By Shawn Greyling

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JHB to Durban Roadtrip (Weekend Getaway)

• Entry/Admission - Moses Mabhida Stadium
• Entry/Admission - Nelson Mandela Capture Site
• Entry/Admission - uShaka Wet 'n Wild
• Option 1 Sandton, South Africa Sandton City - Gautrain Station
• Option 2 Mall of Africa, Waterfall City, Midrand, 2090, South Africa
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• Not recommended for travellers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travellers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travellers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

• ColmV 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Living life and experience adrenaline The best experience I have had this year The staff were amazing thanks to everyone The experience was amazing The venue clean and professional. Read more Written 6 February 2022

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JHB to Durban Roadtrip (Weekend Getaway) provided by Heels & Highways Travel

16 Best Road Trips from Johannesburg

Johannesburg is known as “The City of Gold”, and as a major economic hub it offers up unique luxury experiences, a rich student culture and world-class museums. Politics and history run through every street, where visitors can dive into the past at the Mandela Museum and the Apartheid Museum.

Here are the 16 best road trips within reach of Johannesburg, from small city escapes to mountainous retreats and cosmopolitan getaways. You can enjoy the delights of Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, or soak up the scenic drives along Waterberg Meander or the Panorama Route.

If you're ready to hit the road, check out this list of routes and choose one that's right for you.

Best road trips from Johannesburg: a quick overview

Day trips (under 3 hours each way)

1. Sterkfontein Caves and Cradle of Humankind

1 hour from Johannesburg (50 kilometres)

Why you should visit: Located just an hour from Johannesburg, the Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is also the closest road trip on our list, easily completed in a day or even half-day!

Discover Sterkfontein Caves, an archaeological site within the Cradle of Humankind that's celebrated for its significant contribution to the fields of palaeontology and anthropology, due to the many ancient fossils (some dating back more than 4 million years) which were found there.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the N1 Western Bypass, then take Hendrik Potgieter Road and follow N14 towards Sterkfontein Grotte Weg. You'll reach the caves within minutes.

Our highlights: The number one thing to do at the Cradle of Humankind is visiting the Sterkfontein Caves, where you can take a tour and explore the archaeological site. Tours typically last about 45-minutes and must be booked in advance, as tickets are not available at the entrance.

You can take a hot air balloon over the entire site to get a unique perspective over the whole Cradle of Humankind, which is surprisingly vast and covers a significant amount of territory.

Bonus: There are endless cool facts about the Cradle of Humankind, one of the most interesting being that an estimated 40% of all the human ancestor fossils in the world were found in this region.

Our travel tips: Make sure to book tour tickets in advance, as they aren't available at the entrance. The tour website notes that tours can be physically strenuous and should only be undertaken by visitors with the ability to climb, crawl and hike.

2. Pretoria

1 hour 10 minutes from Johannesburg (70 kilometres)

Why you should visit: This wonderful city is celebrated for its abundance of jacaranda trees, which display beautiful blooms – Pretoria is home to more than 70,000 of these natural beauties!

Pretoria offers a dose of metropolitan cultural attractions while still maintaining an intimate feel. There are stunning architectural monuments to discover, as well as a rich gastronomic scene.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the M1 and follow this road almost exclusively to exit 145, which you'll take to get into Pretoria.

Our highlights: Recently declared a National Heritage Site, the Voortrekker Monument is an imposing granite structure built to commemorate the Voortrekkers, who left the Cape Colony during the mid-19th-century.

Take in the beauty of the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, home to some of South Africa's most stunning flowers and plant species. These expansive gardens are perfect for a walk, and you can also grab a bite at their on-site restaurant.

It doesn't get more “wow” than the Union Buildings, which form the official seat of the South African Government and house the offices of the South African President - set aside a few hours to explore the impressive historic architecture.

Feeling hungry? Stop by the Hazel Food Market, open Saturday mornings and offering tons of fresh and local produce, as well as delicious treats and artisan-made goods.

Bonus: Pretoria's main street, Stanza Bopape, is the longest urban street in South Africa and one of the longest straight streets in the world!

Our travel tips: Make sure to check the updates on closures of the Union Buildings, which are sometimes open for tours while still operating as office spaces for public servants.

3. Magaliesburg

1 hour 40 minutes from Johannesburg (80 kilometres)

Why you should visit: Soweto played a huge role in abolishing apartheid in South Africa during the 1950s, becoming a centre for the main political campaigns that led this movement! It's a unique location and pretty unique among this list.

This road trip takes you to the beautiful town of Magaliesburg, nestled in the Witwatersrand Mountain range and offering tons of opportunities for outdoor activities.

How to get there: Drive through central Johannesburg to head north on the M1 N and M2 until you've reached Soweto. From there, you can easily navigate to Magaliesburg via the R24 and R41.

Our highlights: Magaliesburg is chock-full of reserves and sanctuaries for a variety of exotic animals; check out the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve or spot wild cats in at the Lion and Safari Park.

Take a walk-through the beautiful Nelson Mandela Square, located in the town's centre.

Hop in the car and explore the nearby Cradle of Humankind, a celebrated archaeological and paleontological site that boasts some of the most significant fossil discoveries in the world.

Visit the celebrated Mount Grace Hotel and Spa, which boasts stunning architecture and relaxing spa treatments that are perfect for reaching your zen.

Bonus: South Africa's Constitution was based on the Freedom Charter, a document created in Soweto in 1955.

Our travel tips: Make sure to pack sunscreen and hats if you plan enjoy any of the outdoor activities in this area.

1 hour 20 minutes from Johannesburg (100 kilometres)

Why you should visit: Parys is a unique location on this list as it is situated within the Vredefort Dome Area, the oldest and largest meteorite impact site in the world.

Visit Parys to discover a small town that's known for its rich farming bounty, its proximity to the Vaal River, and its must-see French Quarter.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the Francois Oberholzer Freeway, then merge onto the N1. Take exit 498, then continue along the R59 until you reached Parys.

Our highlights: Take a walk along the shoreline of the Vaal River, which is popular amongst locals and tourists for water sports. Rent a canoe or paddle boat to get the most out of this attraction!

The Vredefort Crater is the largest verified impact structure on Earth and the best view is found from one of the crater peaks. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site via a guided tour on land or water, or in a hot air balloon.

Pay a visit to the Bon-Af Berry Farm, where you can stroll around the orchard and pick berries to enjoy, set amongst the beautiful South African nature.

Bonus: Parys is also known for being host to several luxurious spas - we highly recommend stopping by one of these facilities and enjoying a relaxing treatment!

Our travel tips: Make sure to call in advance before visiting a spa in this wonderful town, as many of the facilities enjoy lots of traffic from locals and visitors alike!

5. Hartbeespoort Dam and Skeerpoort

Why you should visit: Located just under ninety minutes from Johannesburg, Hartbeespoort is a unique collection of small resort towns that are situated near the Hartbeespoort Dam.

Visit Hartbeespoort and nearby Skeerpoort for incredibly photogenic sights and panoramic vistas of the gorgeous South African landscape.

How to get there: Take the M1 out of Johannesburg. Stay on this highway for an hour, then take the N1 Western Bypass towards Hartbeespoort. Once you've reached the dam, Skeerport is about 20 minutes west via Agnes Avenue.

Our highlights: A must-see on this road trip is the Hartbeespoort Dam, surrounded by the stunning Magaliesberg mountain range. It's a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike for its many outdoor activities.

Take an Aerial Cableway ride over the entire Hartbeespoort region. This is the longest mono cableway in all of South Africa and offers the best view of the Dam and surrounding areas.

Take in the beauty of Skeerpoort, which boasts plenty of open space and gorgeous towering mountains. This area is known for its quaint farmland and hot air balloon safaris.

Bonus: There is a (miniature) replica of the Eiffel Tower at the French Toast Coffee Café, built for a film shoot in 2015 but now operating as a restaurant that serves delicious Parisian pastries.

Our travel tips: If interested in visiting the French Toast Coffee Café, make sure to get there early on weekends as it can get quite busy!

Make sure to pack a lunch if visiting the more remote parts of Skeerpoort, as dining options are somewhat slim.

6. Rustenburg and Kgaswane Mountain Reserve

2 hours 20 minutes from Johannesburg (140 kilometres)

Why you should visit: The Kgaswane Mountain Reserve is a unique park consisting of over 5,300 hectares of mountains and valleys, offering some of the coolest hiking trails on this list and celebrated for its breeding of sable antelopes.

Take this road trip to discover Rustenburg, also known as “Platinum City” due to its thriving metals industry and the many mines in the area!

How to get there: Hop on the M2 from Johannesburg, then merge onto the N1 Western Bypass. From there take the R563, then follow the R24 until you've reached Rustenburg. From Rustenburg, you can reach the Kgaswane Mountain Reserve by car in around 15 minutes.

Our highlights: The ultimate way to discover the city is via the Rustenburg Ramble, which will guide you through its many craft markets, galleries and farm stalls.

Visit the Royal Bafokeng Stadium, named after the Bafokeng people indigenous to this area and one of the host venues for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

You can swim or sail in the waters of the Buffelspoort Dam, which is somewhat less famous than its larger brother the Hartbeespoort Dam. However, it still boasts crystal clear waters perfect for outdoor water sports.

Take a hike through the beautiful Kgaswane Mountain Reserve, which boasts 10 stunning trails that are the perfect way to discover this immense park.

Bonus: Did you know that the platinum mines in Rustenburg make up about 70% of the world's platinum?

Our travel tips: Make sure to pack tons of water and plenty of snacks if you're planning to visit the Kgaswane Mountain Reserve.

The Rustenburg Ramble will take you through many of this area's main attractions, including the reserve and the World Cup Stadium.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Weekend trips (3-5 hours each way)

7. Pilanesberg National Park

3 hours 20 minutes from Johannesburg (210 kilometres)

Why you should visit: This road trip offers the ultimate safari experience, with the chance to discover one of the most beautiful parks in South Africa while staying in high-end accommodation.

Visit Pilanesberg National Park to experience a once-in-a-lifetime safari, taking in tons of exotic animals in their native habitats.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the M1, then take the N1 Western Bypass. Continue along the N1 Western Bypass, then merge onto the R512 and R565. Take the Ntshwe Drive all the way to Pilanesberg National Park.

Our highlights: There are tons of activities to get up to in this National Park. Discover traditional music via an African Music Experience including interactive African drumming, a percussion band, a marimba band and African tribal dancing.

Take a tour of Moruleng Village, where you can learn about the local Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela tribe, the original habitants of this land. You'll get to discover local cuisine and explore the museum and heritage sights.

Take a game drive through this park with guidance from professional rangers; this is the ultimate way to discover the beautiful wildlife that call Pilanesberg home.

Stop by the Sun City Resort, a celebrated and highly rated hotel complex featuring a gorgeous spa and beautiful pool. This resort is right by the park, and is a great spot to stay for making the most out of this stay.

Bonus: Pilanesberg National Park actually lies on the site of an extinct volcano.

Our travel tips: Check out the Pilanesberg National Parks website for further details of all the wonderful things you can get up to during your visit.

8. Clarens and Golden Gate Highlands National Park

3 hours 50 minutes from Johannesburg (330 kilometres)

Why you should visit: Clarens is the ultimate small-town experience on this list, boasting tons of wonderful accommodation options and relaxing activities.

Visit Clarens and the nearby Golden Gate Highlands National Park to combine tranquil relaxation with a chance to explore the stunning South African outdoors.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the N17 and continue onto the N3. Stay on this route, then take the R26 until you've reached Clarens. From Clarens, you can get to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park via the R712.

Our highlights: Golden Gate Highlands National Park is a must-visit. You can explore this park's signature grassland biome as well as its signature golden and orange-hued sandstone cliffs.

Take in some culture by visiting the Blou Donki Art Gallery, boasting contemporary photography and paintings from local artists.

Stop by the Falcon Ridge Bird of Prey Centre, offering the opportunity to see majestic rehabilitated birds and raptors. This centre offers daily shows and informative talks to learn all about these stunning creatures.

Bonus: You can even go white water rafting on the Ash River, located just outside of Clarens!

Our travel tips: Make sure to check the Golden Gate Highlands National Park website for closures or any other pertinent information you may need to know before your visit.

9. Waterberg Meander

5 hours from Johannesburg (350 kilometres)

Why you should visit: This road trip presents a variety of fascinating places and attractions, including villages, craft shops and ancient archaeological sites.

Take yourself on this route to get well acquainted with the Waterberg Region, including its towering mountain peaks, dense forests and clear river valleys.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the N1, then follow this route until you've reached the Waterberg area. Your first stop will be Bela-Bela, and from there continue on to explore nearby towns including Thabazimbi, Lephalale, Marken, Molopane, Mookgophong, and Modimolle.

Our highlights: Discover the 37,000-hectare Welgevonden Game Reserve, a conservation area boasting some of the most stunning wildlife in the Waterberg District and offering a range of luxurious accommodation.

The Mabula Game Lodge is a private game reserve that offers 12,000 hectares full of stunning animal, bird and plant life - it's known as one of the finest in South Africa.

Located in the heart of the Waterberg mountains, Marakele National Park is a must-see on this route, situated on the banks of the Sabie River and offering a combination of dry and wetlands.

Bonus: Located in the Limpopo province, Bela-Bela is a small town well-known for the hot springs from which it derives its name. Pack your swimmers and take a dip!

Our travel tips: This route isn't a strict “X to Y” road trip but rather a collection of attractions that you can explore based on what interests you!

10. Bloemfontein

4 hours 10 minutes from Johannesburg (400 kilometres)

Why you should visit: Bloemfontein is known as the “City of Roses” due to its abundance of roses and the annual rose festival held here.

Visit Bloemfontein if you're looking for a great urban experience, as this city boasts tons of unique cultural attractions and a rich food scene.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg on the M2, then hop onto the N1 which goes all the way to Bloemfontein.

Our highlights: Discover the natural history, cultural history and art history of South Africa at the wonderful National Museum, established in 1877.

Explore the beautiful plants native to South Africa at the Free State National Botanical Garden, including this city's signature beautiful roses.

Discover the Anglo-Boer War Museum, the only museum in the world dedicated solely to the Anglo-Boer Wars and offering a unique art collection and exhibits. You'll also find the National Women's Monument nearby!

Visit the Cheetah Experience Conservation Centre, a wonderful education centre that offers the amazing opportunity to interact with these majestic animals.

Bonus: Bloemfontein is a Dutch word that means “fountains of flowers”, owed to this city's many gorgeous blooms!

Our travel tips: The annual Bloemfontein Rose Festival (also known as the Mangaung Rose Festival) is in late fall every year; make sure to check the dates if you're looking to catch it in bloom.

11. Drakensberg Mountain Retreat

3 hours 30 minutes from Johannesburg (405 kilometres)

Why you should visit: The Drakensberg Mountain Retreat is a unique location on this list, offering unsurpassed views from the magnificent Drakensberg and Maluti Mountains! You might also spot herds of wild horses running through the valleys in this park.

Visit this retreat if you're looking for a perfect blend of relaxation and the outdoors, combining beautiful wildlife experiences with luxurious accommodation.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the N17, then get on the N5 in Harrismith from the N3. Follow this road until you reach the R74, then continue all the way to the Drakensberg Mountain Retreat.

Our highlights: Located near the Drakensberg Mountain Resort, Tugela Falls is the world's highest waterfall. Discover these stunning falls via a hike up to the summit, where you'll discover gorgeous panoramic vistas of the surrounding area.

Visit Royal Natal National Park for the opportunity to take in some of the best mountain scenery in Africa, including this park's celebrated rock cliff amphitheatre.

A unique way to discover the Dragon Peaks Trail Rides is via guided horseback tour. Book a tour by phone, and you'll be able to choose from a variety of levels that best suit your riding experience.

Take a hot air balloon ride over the Drakensberg Mountains and the Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve, a bucket-list way to discover this beautiful natural area.

Bonus: Tugela Falls was once considered to be the second tallest waterfall in the world after the Angel Falls in Venezuela, however just last year these falls were remeasured, and Tugela Falls claimed first place!

Our travel tips: There are tons of additional activities that you can enjoy at the Drakensberg Mountain Retreat. Make sure to check their website for specifics on what else you can get up to and how to book.

Long weekend trips (5-8 hours each way)

12. Panorama Route

6 hours from Johannesburg (470 kilometres)

Why you should visit: Rather than taking you from Johannesburg to a specific destination, this road trip takes you along the Panorama Route, a celebrated scenic road that passes through several South African provinces.

Take the Panorama Route if you're interested in seeing a variety of cultural and natural attractions as opposed to heading somewhere directly.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the N12 and take the N4 until you've reached the R539. Stop at Lone Creek Falls, then continue along the R532 until you've reached God's Window. From there, continue to nearby Bourke's Luck Potholes, then use the R532 to get to Three Rondavels.

Our highlights: Take in the beauty of the Mac Mac Falls, located just outside of Sabie and along the Panorama Route. It takes about 20 minutes to complete the hike up to these falls and is well worth it for the view.

Bourke's Luck Potholes are a must-see on the Panorama Route, a natural wonder formed by erosion over time and a favourite amongst tourists and locals.

A small town along this route, Sabie is known for its wonderful waterfalls and is the perfect spot to stop for a bite and exploratory trek on the Panorama Route.

Bonus: There are the three peaks that make up the Three Rondavels, which are each domed-shaped.

Our travel tips: The Panorama Route features tons of attractions along its route - check your map to decide where to stop.

13. Kruger National Park

7 hours from Johannesburg (520 kilometres)

Why you should visit: This is the ultimate National Park to visit on this list, home to the Big Five!

Take this road trip if you're looking to get up close to dozens of exotic and rare animal species, including the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalos.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the N12, then take the N4 until you reach the R539. Hop back onto the N4, then turn left onto the R570 and continue until you've reached the park.

Our highlights: Enjoy luxurious accommodation at one of the many lodges within this park, offering everything from romantic rooms overlooking the forests to family-friendly suites.

The main draw for visiting Kruger National Park is to go on safari! Hop into a jeep and take a guided tour through the forest, discovering unique and majestic species in their native habitat.

Take a hike through one of the many trails snaking through this National Park. You can either enjoy a guided walk or simply follow the mapped-out hiking trails, which will take you to some incredible viewpoints.

Bonus: Did you know that Kruger National Park was the very first National Park in South Africa?

Our travel tips: Book your accommodations for this park in advance, as it's one of the more popular spots in South Africa to go on safari.

Longer trips (Over 8 hours each way)

14. Durban (via Midlands Meander)

8 hours from Johannesburg (600 kilometres)

Why you should visit: This road trip is the first one to take you out of inland South Africa and to the glorious shores of the Indian Ocean in Durban.

Part of this route winds along the Midlands Meander, which boasts natural wonders, historic landmarks and great places to eat.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the N3, then follow this road past Pietermaritzburg and all the way to Durban.

Our highlights: One of the main features of this trip is a chance to visit the place where Nelson Mandela was arrested, and learn about the life of South Africa's first president.

Visit uShaka Marine World, a 16-hectare theme park that boasts 10,000 animal species including some impressive marine animals.

Stop by the Durban Botanic Gardens, a gorgeous open space that puts a focus on the beautiful indigenous flowers and plants native to this area.

Visit the celebrated Moses Mabhida Stadium, a prominent feature of the Durban skyline!

Bonus: Did you know that the uShaka Marine World is actually the world's 5th largest aquarium?

Our travel tips: Durban is very well known for its culinary offerings, especially when it comes to curries. Don't hesitate to visit one of the many lovely restaurants in this city.

15. Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)

11 hours 20 minutes from Johannesburg (1,050 kilometres)

Why you should visit: This city boasts incredible nightlife and stunning beaches, earning it the nickname the “water sports capital” of South Africa.

Visit Port Elizabeth if you're looking for a cosmopolitan escape to enjoy exciting nightlife and a blossoming culinary and arts scene.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the N1 and then take the R58. Continue along this route until you've reached the N10, then hop onto the N2 and soon you'll be in Port Elizabeth.

Our highlights: Stop by Kragga Kamma Game Park to get up close with a whole host of South African animals, including giraffes and cheetahs.

Addo Elephant National Park is home to more than just elephants - it's the only national park in the world that can claim to house all of Africa's Big Seven - leopards, lions, buffalo, rhinos, whales, great white sharks and of course, elephants.

Try your luck at the Boardwalk Hotel, Casino, and Convention Centre, a great spot for accommodation and equally good for a flutter on the poker tables!

Enjoy the gorgeous waters of the Indian Ocean at Sardinia Bay Beach, offering some of the most stunning beachfront scenes in all of South Africa.

Bonus: While Port Elizabeth is this city's original name, nowadays it is also frequently referred to as Gqeberha.

Our travel tips: Make sure to pack a sweater; despite its warm weather, this port city is known to get quite windy.

16. Cape Town

15 hours 20 minutes from Johannesburg (1,400 kilometres)

Why you should visit: Cape Town is the ultimate city to visit in South Africa, boasting a rich history, an incredible arts and culture scene and gorgeous surrounding nature.

Visit Cape Town if you're looking for a modern and cosmopolitan city that also offers impressive beaches.

How to get there: Exit Johannesburg via the M2. Take the N1, and follow this highway almost exclusively to reach Cape Town. Alternatively, take the iconic "Garden Route" for a scenic South African trip to remember!

Our highlights: Visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens nestled in the eastern of Table Mountain, the imposing and majestic mountain in the centre of this city.

Discover magnificent Boulders Beach, a sheltered beach located on the Cape Peninsula and known best for being home to a colony of adorable African Penguins.

Visit the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum, located in the bright and multicultural Malay Quarter and featuring stunning displays of local Islamic culture and art.

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a stunning complex that boasts residential properties, commercial real estate (including a shopping centre) and gorgeous harbour views. A must-see during your visit!

Looking for a place to stay on your way to Cape Town? Stop by Stellenbosch, which is known for its extensive vineyards.

Bonus: Did you know that Cape Town was once home to the South African icon, Nelson Mandela?

Our travel tips: You can either take the direct route from Johannesburg to Cape Town, or detour via Bloemfontein, East London, and Port Elizabeth. This route is about double the time as the direct route.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town

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Related posts

ALL the ways to get from Johannesburg to Durban

T he festive season rush is upon us, and here are all the ways to get from Johannesburg to Durban this December, no matter your budget. The reintroduction of  PRASA’s Shosholoza Meyl  long-haul train makes an interesting comparison for those travelling from Johannesburg to Durban this December.

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Having said that, we’d be remiss to ignore the fact that  six major Durban beaches have been closed due to E. coli . And there’s plenty of evidence to suggest that another disruption to the train,  like the one that was halted en-route to Cape Town , may happen again. Nevertheless, here goes our comparison of all the ways to get from Johannesburg to Durban this December.

JOHANNESBURG TO DURBAN THIS DECEMBER

For the sake of fairness in this exercise we’re focusing on the cheapest options over the long weekend of our Rugby World Cup public holiday. This is most likely when any last-minuter travel plans will be made. From planes, trains to automobiles. Here it goes …

Almost certainly everyone’s go-to if they’re thinking of travelling from Johannesburg to Durban this December due to the short one-hour hop. According to  Cheapest Flights , one-way flights on the Rugby World Cup long weekend of  Friday 15 December 2023  are as follows:

*prices at time of publishing.

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JOHANNESBURG TO DURBAN BY TRAIN

PRASA’s long-distance train, the Shosholoza Meyl is back in operation. And while its very first journey to Cape Town this December was disrupted, it’s still a very affordable option. Joburg’s Park Station to Durban Station will cost you  R170  for an Economy Class (sitting only) and  R360  for Tourist Class (sleeper). Travel time is claimed to be  18 hours .

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You’re going to need food and drink to sustain you for the trip, so, factor that into your budgeting. And bank on it taking even longer due to cable theft and other potential delays as PRASA gets back up to speed on its longer routes.

JOHANNESBURG TO DURBAN BY ROAD

With the fuel price taking a welcome dip in December, a very tempting option to get from Johannesburg to Durban this December is by road. A bus trip is always a cost-effective option for those on a budget, and here are your options according to  Bus Bud .

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Finally, if you’ve got access to a car, there’s always the option to drive from Johannesburg to Durban this December. The benefit of going by car is you don’t need to rent a car or use public transport when you arrive there.

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Assuming yours is a reasonably efficient car, let’s bank on it using an average of  6.0 l/100 km  over the  600 km  drive. That’s  36 litres  at  R23,25 per litre  inland. That comes to  R837  in fuel one way. That’s not too bad, but  don’t forget toll fees along the N3  from Johannesburg to Durban this December. These add on an additional  R307,50 , the most expensive of any major route in South Africa, which makes a total of  R1 145,50 , excluding  padkos  of course.

In conclusion, anyone looking for a last-minute trip from Johannesburg to Durban this December has the following options ranked cheapest to quickest. Note that travel time is inversely proportional to money spent it seems.

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A one-hour flight is slightly more expensive than driving. But what are you going to do for wheels when you’re in Durban? A bus is only an hour and a half slower than a car. And if life is all about the journey and not the destination, you’ve got an option like the train which is cheaper still.

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If it were you, how would you get from Johannesburg to Durban this December?   Be sure to share your thoughts with our audience in the comments section below. And don’t forget to follow us  @TheSANews  on X and  The South African  on Facebook for the latest updates.

The post ALL the ways to get from Johannesburg to Durban appeared first on SAPeople - Worldwide South African News .

South Africa Travel Blog

Your Options to Travel by Bus from Johannesburg to Durban

Bus travel is one of the most cost-effective ways to travel between two destinations. This is also true when travelling between Johannesburg and Durban in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province . Furthermore, travelling by bus between these two cities allows you to see beautiful South African landscapes while sitting back and relaxing. If you want to travel from Johannesburg to Durban, or vice versa, in an affordable way, here are your options for taking the bus from Johannesburg to Durban.

Take a direct flight instead for the fastest way to get from Johannesburg to Durban. Click here to see the best deals on plane tickets ! You may prefer to hire a car to drive from Johannesburg to Durban; we only use RentalCars.com ! You can also take a nice road trip by driving from Johannesburg to Durban .

General Information on Travelling by Bus from Johannesburg to Durban

There are several bus operators offering routes from  Johannesburg  to Durban. These companies include InterCape, Greyhound South Africa, Eagle Liner, Eldo Coaches, Intercity Xpress, Vilamora, African Passenger Motors, Luciano Luxury Coaches and Nozulu. This post considers the options to travel by bus from Johannesburg to Durban.

There are about 53 buses daily from Johannesburg to Durban, with the earliest bus leaving at 7:30 and the latest at 23:00 (11 PM). The average bus ticket costs R392, with the cheapest bus tickets costing R253.

The most popular bus stations in Johannesburg are the Park City Transfer City, South Gate Shopping Centre, OR Tambo International Airport and Bethrams. The different operators pick passengers up and drop them off at specific stations, so check the pick-up and drop-off points before you book your bus ticket. In Durban, the most popular stations are Beach Station, Jacobs Station and Durban Bus Station.

If you like bus travel, why not take the bus from Johannesburg to Cape Town ? You can also explore the train options from Johannesburg to Cape Town or take the ultimate road trip by driving from Johannesburg to Cape Town , or the other way around.

The Johannesburg to Durban Bus Route

Johannesburg and Durban are two of the largest cities in South Africa . The direct road distance between them is 570 kilometres. The bus operators have different routes for getting you from Johannesburg to Durban. The direct route is the quickest way from Johannesburg to Durban and travels via Harrismith . Some bus operators offer other bus routes from Johannesburg to Durban via Kimberley , Virginia , Newcastle , Vryheid , Richards Bay or Ladysmith .

Learn about Durban’s weather and what to wear when you visit this city.

How Many Hours Does It Take to Travel by Bus from Johannesburg to Durban?

The duration of a trip from Johannesburg to Durban depends on the route chosen. The traffic in larger cities may affect departure and arrival times. The shortest travel time by bus from Johannesburg to Durban is 6 hours and 45 minutes, while the average duration of this trip is 10 hours and 15 minutes. Several bus operators offer the shortest route from Johannesburg to Durban, taking 6 hours and 45 minutes. The longest bus route from Johannesburg to Durban is 10 hours and 15 minutes, offered by African Passenger Motors.

If you are in Johannesburg, find out why you should visit the Johannesburg Zoo , the Elephant Sanctuary , the Montecasino Bird Gardens and Croc City . The Harties Cable Car experience is fun, and Sun City is another wonderful destination for families!

Bus from Johannesburg to Durban: Bus Tickets and Prices

The bus companies offer different prices for the bus routes from Johannesburg to Durban. The table below estimates the bus price – always remember that peak times will have higher ticket prices. For information on peak times, read about the South African holidays .

The best time to book your Durban bus tickets is 30 days before your departure date. The prices below are for a random date selected (9 May 2023) for a one-way ticket. Similar to flights, return trips are usually cheaper than two one-way tickets. To find the best price for a bus ticket from Johannesburg to Durban for your preferred travel date, check the Busbud website .

Here is a comparison of the bus ticket prices on Busbud for a random date (9 May 2023):

Where to Buy the Bus Tickets for Travel Between Johannesburg and Durban?

All these bus operators have websites allowing online bookings. You can also buy tickets from them using an aggregator site like   Busbud . Using an aggregator site helps you compare the trip durations and prices of the bus operators.

You can also purchase bus tickets online from  Computicket  for some bus operators. Generally, you must fetch the physical ticket from a Computicket office. Furthermore, you can buy some regular bus tickets at specific supermarkets such as Checkers/Shoprite and Spar. Be careful when buying tickets by choosing the bus operator with the route and pick-up and drop-off points you prefer.

Your Options to Travel by Bus from Johannesburg to Durban: Bus Tickets

The bus companies differ in terms of the number of trips each offers daily, as can be seen from the table below based on 9 May 2023 on Busbud :

Durban to Johannesburg Bus Tickets and Prices

The same bus operators offer bus trips from Durban to Johannesburg at different prices. The table below gives estimates of the bus prices. Remember that ticket prices may be higher during peak times of the year. Here is a comparison of the bus ticket prices on Busbud for a random date (9 May 2023):

Options for Bus Tickets from Durban to Johannesburg

The different bus operators offer trips at different times of the day. The table below summarises the number of trips each bus operator provides from Durban to Johannesburg for 9 May 2023 on Busbud :

What You Should Consider When Booking Your Bus Ticket from Johannesburg to Durban

These are some considerations for bus travel from Johannesburg to Durban:

The Bus Schedules of The Bus Operators

Consider the operator’s bus schedules to determine the best time for your trip. Compare their departure times, trip duration and prices to choose the operator to travel with. Looking at the impact on price if you book a return trip is always a good idea.

Consider Each Bus Operator’s Ticket Options

Each bus company offers differentiated ticket options. Not all bus operators have websites with information on their ticket options and routes. Those that do are:

InterCity and Eagle Liners

These two bus operators have the same ticket options. All tickets include air conditioning, charging ports and on-board entertainment. The main differences between the ticket options are:

• Charter:  The seats in this class cannot recline, but you have on-board toilet facilities.
• Economy:  This economy class offers semi-reclining seats but no on-board toilet facilities.
• Luxury:  The luxury tickets have reclining seats and on-board toilets.

There are fewer charter and luxury seats available than economy tickets. If you book in advance, you will have more flexibility about the ticket options available.

Eldo Coaches

This bus operator does not offer different classes of tickets. Eldo Coaches travel from Johannesburg to Durban via Harrismith and Pietermaritzburg.

Intercape does not offer different classes of tickets, but they have tickets offering different levels of flexibility. You can choose from booking one of the following tickets:

• Saver:  You can cancel your ticket up to 48 hours before departure with a refund minus the 25% cancellation fee. There are no discounts or seat reservations possible with the saver ticket. The same terms apply to rebookings.
• Flexi:  You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure and receive a refund minus a 15% cancellation fee. The same terms apply to rebookings. You can obtain discounts and reserve seats on select routes with a flexi ticket.
• Full-flexi:  You can cancel up to 12 hours before departure and receive a refund minus a 10% cancellation fee. You can obtain discounts and reserve seats on select routes with a full-flexi ticket. The same terms apply to rebookings.

They have the most extensive range of routes when busing from Johannesburg to Durban. They travel from Johannesburg to Durban via Ladysmith, Kimberley and Virginia.

Greyhound South Africa

Greyhound South Africa does not offer different ticket classes. They have various routes from Johannesburg to Durban via Newcastle, Vryheid or Richards Bay.

Vilamora Tours

Vilamore does not have different ticket classes.

How Safe Is Bus Travel in South Africa?

Watching your luggage when luggage is loaded or offloaded would be best. Leaving your luggage unattended is an invitation to thieves. Some buses from Johannesburg to Durban travel overnight. Be more careful at night and ensure your valuables are protected. The best seat for safety is near the front of the bus.

If you prefer flying, take a look at how to choose the best airport for your South Africa travels . We also have guides on the King Shaka International Airport , Lanseria Airport and Johannesburg International Airport .

The Bus Routes Are Fixed

The bus operators follow fixed routes. Although the bus operators have different routes between Johannesburg and Durban, the stops are pre-determined, and you cannot ask the bus driver to detour from the set route.

Your Transport Options to And from The Bus Departure and Arrival Points

While planning your trip, make sure where the bus route departs from and stops and what your transport options to your final destination are from here. Most of the bus operators stop at different stations in Johannesburg and Durban. You can use Uber, taxis or other hailing services in Johannesburg and Durban.

Don’t miss visiting the uShaka Marine World in Durban!

Take Your Favourite Snacks and Drinks With

Although the buses stop for breaks, these are short and may give you little time to purchase drinks or snacks if you need a bathroom break.

Once you’re in Durban, explore all the attractions of this beautiful province .

Editor of the South Africa Travel Blog that focuses on travel to South Africa, including destinations, attractions, accommodation, food & drink.

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Durban to Johannesburg drive

Durban to johannesburg road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Durban to Johannesburg. If you're planning a road trip to Johannesburg, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start in Durban drive for about 55 minutes

11:55 am   Pietermaritzburg stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:55 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:14 pm   The Drakensberg stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:14 pm drive for about 1 hour

day 1 driving ≈ 3.5 hours find more stops

11:00 am  leave from Harrismith drive for about 2 hours

1:13 pm   Nigel stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:13 pm drive for about 46 minutes

2:58 pm  arrive in Johannesburg

day 2 driving ≈ 3 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Pietermaritzburg The Drakensberg Harrismith Nigel

What are some things to do in Johannesburg?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Johannesburg. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Johannesburg.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Johannesburg to Durban drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Durban to Johannesburg . Or get a full Durban to Johannesburg flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Durban well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Durban!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Durban to Johannesburg

places to eat

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Google driving directions

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Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

The Perfect Itinerary for an Epic South Africa Road Trip

July 12, 2019 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on October 5, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

When I was a kid, I HATED road trips.

I was that annoying child asking every five minutes: “ Are we there yet ?”

The boredom of hours on the road drove me nuts. I couldn’t read because I got motion sickness, and there was only so much Tetris I could play on my Game Boy knockoff.

Fast forward 20 years later, and I’m 50% less brat, and 100% more partial to sitting in a car for 6-8 hours.

I’ve conquered famous road trips in South Africa like the Garden Route , and Sani Pass, but there’s been one adventure that’s been on my South Africa bucket list FOREVER: Kruger National Park.

So I found three other friends with the same kind of dream who were down for an adventure from Cape Town to Kruger National Park .

(You can reverse this itinerary if you’re starting in Johannesburg)

Here’s my full South Africa road trip itinerary with a sprinkle of a few optional adventures!

Table of Contents

Fill Up As Much As Possible

Choose the right car, travel & car insurance, don’t always rely on google maps, avoid driving at night, where to stay in plettenberg bay, things to do in plettenberg bay, what to eat in plett, where to stay in storms river, things to do in storms river, what to eat in storms river, where to stay in morgan bay, things to do in morgan bay, what to eat in morgan bay, where to stay in coffee bay, things to do in coffee bay, optional detour: magwa falls, where to stay in uzumbe, things to do in uzumbe, where to stay in durban, things to do in durban, what to eat in durban, where to stay in kruger national park, things to do in kruger national park, where to stay in graskop, things to do in graskop, where to stay in johannesburg, things to do in johannesburg, what to pack for a south africa road trip.

Before you start your South Africa road trip, there are a few essentials that you’ll want to make sure are in your car:

• Credit card to pay for tolls (or cash) • Soy milk if you’re lactose intolerant or vegan • Cellphone charger for the car • A downloaded road trip playlist from Spotify

• Money to pay for entrance fees at national parks • A spare wheel, spanner and jack • Tyre repair spray for punctures

Read More:  The Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List (+ Free Checklist!)

South Africa Road Trip Safety Tips

I’ve heard so many stories from South Africans and tourists alike who waited until their tank was almost empty before looking for a petrol station. A lot of these stories end with people making it just in time, but there are the few that got stuck on the side of the road.

A good rule of thumb is never to let your petrol dip below half a tank.

While some roads will frequently have petrol stations, you’re also going to be on roads where you won’t see one for hours.

If you can afford it, a high-clearance vehicle is your best option for the Kruger National Park. The higher you are, the more likely you’ll be able to spot animals sleeping in the grass.

A 4WD will make it easier driving the roads in the Eastern Cape, but it’s not a necessity. The conditions have improved a lot over the last couple of years.

For this trip, we used my Toyota Etios Cross.

World Nomads Travel Insurance is one of the best insurance options for travellers. It covers more than 150 adventure activities, lets you donate to local communities, protects all your gear and will pay out for any unexpected trips to the hospital.

For car insurance, I recommend taking the tire & windshield option when you fetch your vehicle. You won’t always be driving on good roads, and Coffee Bay is notorious for its potholes .

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

For the most part, Google Maps will get you where you need to go. However, South Africa doesn’t have cellphone signal across the whole country.

I didn’t have any service inside the Kruger National Park. We had to rely on an old school physical map to get around.

Some hotels will also send you directions to follow. Save these to your phone so that you can access them offline.

While Google is accurate for the most part, occasionally it tries to take you down roads that are in horrible condition.

It can be tempting to drive through the night, but it’s not the wisest decision. There are a lot of trucks and long-distance buses on the main national roads that often drive at crazy speeds.

When you arrive in the Eastern Cape, you’re going to find a lot of cows, sheep, goats and horses sleeping on the roads at night.

You also won’t be able to see potholes as easily, and getting a puncture at 1 AM is not fun for anyone.

South Africa Road Trip Itinerary

Cape town to plettenberg bay (3 days).

Distance: 520 km Time: 6 hours

Get ready for multiple alarms, and plenty of coffee to get you ready for the start of your South Africa road trip. You’re going to need to leave Cape Town between 6:00 – 6:30 to avoid the traffic, especially if you’re travelling during the week.

If you want a more scenic drive, take the R44 from Strand instead of staying on the N2. You’ll drive past dramatic cliffs and sparkling blue water as you wind around Gordon’s Bay, Pringle Bay, and Betty’s Bay.

Stop at Stony Point Nature Reserve in Betty’s Bay and hang with the massive penguin colony that lives there!

Urban Plett is a beautiful group of apartments right in the centre of town. You’ll be within walking distance of multiple restaurants and cafes, and only a quick 5-minute drive from the beach.

Each apartment comes with all the kitchen appliances you’ll need, complimentary tea and coffee, free WiFi, an adorable fireplace and a stunning en-suite bathroom.

If you don’t want to stay in the centre of town, book a stay at Wild Spirit Backpackers . Surrounded by indigenous forest, the property caters for conscious travellers who are interested in Green Living and Alternative Travel.

The backpackers is not on your usual accommodation sites, so you’ll need to book direct.

Sundowners at Emily Moon: Visitng Emily Moon is one of the best things to do in Plettenberg Bay for sunset. The property is set on the banks of the Bitou River and has magnificent views of the river, wetlands and mountains. Plus, the on-site Simon’s Bar usually has specials on pizzas and cocktails!

Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary: Monkeyland is the world’s first free-roaming multi-species primate sanctuary. It’s home to lemurs, capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, gibbons and more! It’s also a proud supporter of the #HandsOffOurWildlife initiative.

Birds of Eden: Birds of Eden is a free flight sanctuary in The Crags, a short drive from Plett. It’s one of the best things to do in The Garden Route and is home to over 3,500 birds from over 220 species.

Hiking in Robberg Nature Reserve: One of my favourite things to do in Plett is hike Robberg Nature Reserve . Depending on how much time you have, you can do the 4 km loop (2-3 hours) or the full 9 km hike. Plan your visit to finish your hike during sunset! Entrance is R 50 or free if you have a Wild Card .

Emily Moon: Besides the pizzeria at Simon’s Bar, Emily Moon has a gorgeous downstairs restaurant that overlooks the river. The menu is hearty, delicious, and there are vegan-friendly dishes that will leave you feeling satiated!

Down to Earth: Down to Earth is the on-site natural/organic restaurant for Plett River Lodge. It’s situated on the waterfront and has a delicious menu that’s made from locally sourced ingredients.

Roost Café: Roost Café is an adorable café a few minutes outside of Plettenberg Bay on the N2. It’s located inside Old Nick Village which houses a handful of shops that sell all kinds of treasures. The coffee here is delicious, and café does offer almond milk as a dairy alternative. There isn’t anything strictly vegan on the menu, but it’s easy to enough to ask the kitchen to hold the cheese.

Read More:  10+ Incredible Things to Do in Plettenberg Bay [WARNING: High FOMO Levels]

Plettenberg to Storms River (2 Days)

Distance: Time: 47 minutes

If you want to cut down on the number of days on your South Africa road trip itinerary, you can visit Tsitsikamma National Park as a pit stop en route to Morgans Bay.

For those that have the time, don’t miss out on exploring this part of the Garden Route!

It’s one of my favourite places in South Africa , and there’s a seemingly endless list of adventurous things to do. Keep in mind there is a toll fee of R 50 for this part of the N2. You’ll need to pay with cash or credit card, and there aren’t any ATMs near the toll.

One of my favourite places in Tsitsikamma is Tube ‘n Axe Boutique Backpackers . You can choose from shared deluxe dorms to eco-luxury tents and private rooms.

It’s glamping in the Garden Route at it’s best and you’ll only be 10-minutes from Tsitsikamma National Park.

Tsitsikamma National Park: Tsitsikamma National Park is a treasure trove of adventurous activities. If you’re short on time, the best thing to do is hike towards the famous suspension bridges! Get here as soon as the park opens if you want to soak it all up before the crowds arrive. Entrance is R 60 for South Africans, R 235 for non-SADC nationals or free for Wild Card holders.

Hiking: Tsitsikamma National Park is also home to the start of one of the best hikes in South Africa – The Otter Trail. Day visitors are allowed to walk the first 6 KM to a beautiful waterfall.

Kayaking and Scuba Diving: For those looking for something a bit more adventurous, you can sign up for kayaking tours along Storm’s River Mouth. You can also go scuba diving or snorkelling in the marine protected area of the national park.

Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour: The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour is a super chilled activity for the whole family. The ziplines will have you gliding past the lush indigenous forest, and there are a few lines that you can do without holding on the rope!

There are only a handful of restaurants in Tsitsikamma, and the grocery store is expensive. I’d recommend buying some food before leaving Plett and making it at your accommodation.

If you feel like eating out, Axe ‘n Tube Backpackers does have an on-site restaurant. There’s also a super cute 1960’s dinner in Storms River that’s a six-minute walk from the backpackers.

Storms River to Morgan Bay (2 Days)

Distance: 556 km Time: 5 hours 45 minutes

Morgan Bay is a peaceful seaside village situated on South Africa’s beautiful Wild Coast. It’s a popular holiday destination for locals in the December holidays and deserves a spot on any South Africa road trip itinerary.

Morgan Bay has some stunning accommodation options for all budgets.

Neptunes Cove is luxury self-catering accommodation right on the beach in Kei Mouth. The apartments have sea views and come with all the essentials you’ll need.

In The Green Backpackers is an eco-friendly hotel that’s within walking distance of a mile-long beach and lagoon. It’s the best budget option with a double private room for R 400 and shared dorms for R 140 per person per night.

Morgan Bay Cliffs : The Morgan Bay cliffs are stunning and are a beautiful spot to watch the sunrise or set. We came here for sunset and astrophotography and got some incredible photographs. The adventurous can also sign up for abseiling or climbing tours down the 50-meter cliffs!

Double Mouth Nature Reserve: If you’re into camping, you’ll love Double Mouth Nature Reserve! It boasts one of the most scenic campsites in South Africa and is home to a 16th-century Portuguese shipwreck where people have found Carnelian Beads, Money Cowries and Ming Porcelain.

Crossing the Pont: Without a doubt, one of the best things to do near Morgan Bay is taking The Pont over the river. It’s not every day that you get to ferry your vehicle around for the low price of R 100!

For Morgan Bay and Kei Mouth, I highly recommend buying groceries or ready-to-heat meals before arriving in town if you want to save money. Alternatively, there are restaurants at some of the hotels in the area, but I didn’t find them to be that great.

Morgan Bay to Coffee Bay (3 Days)

Distance: 281 km Time: 3 hours 44 minutes

Coffee Bay is one of the most Instagrammable destinations in South Africa. Traditional colourful Xhosa huts are sprinkled over the hills, and it’s a short drive away from the famous Hole-in-the-Wall that has an intriguing history and folklore .

While Coffee Bay’s roads have improved immensely over the years, there are plenty of potholes that can quickly fuck up your vibe.

Trust me. You don’t want to forget the spare wheel.

Coffee Bay mainly operates on cash and there are no ATMs in the town . Make sure you draw at least R500 – R 1000 to have enough money for food, drinks, tours and any other small expenses.

If you do get a puncture, ask your hotel for directions to “Magic Tyres”. The shop can fix your tyre for R70.

When I spent a month backpacking South Africa , I spent three days at Coffee Shack Backpackers . It’s still one of the best budget accommodation options in the area and perfect for solo travellers that want to meet other people and soak up a lively atmosphere.

If you want something more low-key, stay at Coram Deo Cottages . The property has recently gone through a renovation and has three new modern apartments that have beautiful views of Coffee Bay.

Both options have delicious on-site restaurants, but if you want a change of scenery, go to Papazela’s Pizza. It has a deck that overlooks Coffee Bay and is the perfect spot for sundowners.

Hole in the Wall: You can sign up for a guided hike to Hole in the Wall from Coffee Shack Backpackers, or you can drive to the landmark. For your own safety, please park your car at the Hole in the Wall Hotel and walk the extra 10-minutes to the rock. Locals will come up to you and try “guide” you. There is no need for one, but if you would like one to keep people from harassing you, ask your hotel to put you in contact with a certified local guide.

We hired a guide for Hotel in the Wall because we were shooting astrophotography late at night and went here for sunrise. We wanted the added security because of all the gear we had on us.

Mapuzi Caves: Hire a guide and hike to Mapuzi Caves for a day full of cliff jumping! It’s only 2.5 km, so it’s a great option for those that only want a half-day hike.

If you decided to hire a guide for any activities, you’re going to need to haggle . The locals are used to getting away with charging the internationals high prices.

Magwa Falls is an iconic waterfall in the Wild Coast. It lies in the middle of the 1 800 hectare Magwa tea plantation, South Africa’s last remaining tea estate and is a 50-minute drive from St. Port Johns.

The curtain of the waterfall falls 144 meters into the gorge below!

To get here, you can plan a day trip from Coffee Bay or stop here on your way to Durban. But if you don’t want to drive 4 hours to reach the waterfall, you can add a stop to Port St. Johns on your South Africa road trip itinerary.

Magwa is only a 1-hour drive from the seaside town. While in the area, you can explore the coastline between Lusikisiki and Msikaba and Mbotyi, which is full of waterfalls and nature reserves.

Coffee Bay to Uzumbe (1-2 Days)

Distance: 405 km Time: 6 hours

Uzumbe is one of my favourite places on South Africa’s South Coast. It boasts a Blue Flag beach and is a must-visit if you’re a surfer or you want to learn.

Want to stay in a glass treehouse and spot vervet monkeys from your bed? Then pack your bags and check into Mantis and Moon Backpackers !

It’s a beautiful little oasis that’s completely hidden inside the coastal forest and is minutes from Uzumbe Beach. I think it’s one of the most romantic places in South Africa and is worth the pit stop en route to Durban.

There’s also an on-site yoga studio, restaurant and bar area.

Mantis and Moon is another backpackers that isn’t on your typical accommodation booking sites. You’ll need to book directly with the property if you want to stay here.

Learn to Surf: Mantis and Moon has on-site professional surf instructors to help you ride your first wave. If you sign up, you get a free trip to the Maisch surf factory where you can order a custom board.

Oribi Gorge: Adventure junkies should not miss out on exploring Oribi Gorge! You can test your limits with the Wild Gorge Swing that reaches speeds of 120km/hours in 2.5 seconds! There’s also a zip-lining tour, abseiling, white river rafting and a suspension bridge over the gorge.

Lake Eland: Lake Eland is set inside Oribi Gorge and is the perfect trip to give you a taste of what to expect in Kruger National Park.

Uzumbe to Durban (1 Day)

Distance: 102 km Time: 1 hour

Use your day in Durban to relax and prepare for the long drive to Kruger National Park. Durban is one of my least favourite places in South Africa, but there are still a few things to check out if it’s your first time in the city.

If you want to stay in the city, book a room at Curiocity Backpackers . I stayed here during my backpacking trip across South Africa and loved it. The hostel organises inner-city walking tours and culinary tours of Durban.

I also love the sense of community the hostel creates with their movie nights, yoga classes, and braai nights.

A good alternative to the inner city is Umhlanga. It’s an affluent area, and you’ll find more bougie hotels, resorts and apartments.

The Oyster Box is a popular luxury hotel, but there are tons of other excellent options like 27 on Chartwell, and aha Gateway Hotel that cost a fraction of the price.

The Golden Mile: Take in the day-to-day life of Durban by strolling along the famous Golden Mile. It stretches from Blue Lagoon South to Addington Beach and Durban Harbor.

Umhlanga Lighthouse: You can view the famous Umhlanga Lighthouse from the promenade or take in the view from the Lighthouse Bar inside The Oyster Box Hotel.

Whalebone Pier : Not too far from the Umhlanga Lighthouse is the Whalebone Pier. Come here for sunrise if you can!

Jump Off the Moses Mabhida Stadium: The Big Swing at the Moses Mabhida Stadium holds the Guinness World Record for the tallest swing. You’ll freefall for 80 meters before swinging out into the heart of the stadium.

I haven’t gone to any restaurants in Durban. I usually grab a takeaway traditional Durban curry or bunny chow from one of the roadside shops.

You won’t regret stocking up with 10-20 samoosas for your road trip to Kruger National Park the next day.

Durban to Kruger National Park (5 Days)

Distance: 725 km Time: 8 hours

Driving from Durban to Kruger National Park means you’re not going to make it to one of the gates before closing. So for your first night, you’ll need to stay at one of the lodges outside of Kruger.

There are plenty of options to choose from ranging from budget to five-star luxury.

However, I highly recommend staying inside Kruger for the rest of your time in the area. You’re going to have more time in the park, and the camps have something for everyone.

If you’re staying at the camps, you’re going to need to buy your own food at the shop in the camp . The shop sells everything from firewood to paper plates and a range of fresh fruit, vegetables and meat.

We spent two nights at Pretoriouskop Camp, one night at Sakuza Camp and one night at Tamboti. We tried to get accommodation at Lower Sabie, but it was sold out.

In hindsight, we should have spent two nights at Tamboti to give us more time to spot the wild dogs that live in the area.

You need to book all your Kruger National Park accommodation through the SANParks website .

Self-drive Game Drives: It’s super easy to go on a self-drive game drive in Kruger National Park. However, you will need to buy a Kruger Park Map & Guide when you arrive as Google Maps won’t work. It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the key on the map so you can work out how long it will take you to drive to different sections of the park. Remember, there is a 40-50 km/h speed limit (yes, there are speed cameras!) and you’ll get a fine if you return to camp after the gates close.

Guided Game Drives: One of the best things you can do in Kruger National Park is to go on a guided game drive. The guides are knowledgable and can read the signs of the bush to help you spot things you would typically miss. I recommend going on the morning drives. They are the least popular, but you’ll be the first to see Big Cats or any kills as these drives leave before the gates to the park open.

Walking Safaris:   There is so much you don’t see from your car in Kruger! A walking safari lets you get up close and personal with the bush and spot the smaller animals. You’ll have a guide and a ranger with you at all times for safety.

Read More:  Visiting Kruger National Park: Everything You Need to Know

Kruger National Park to Graskop (2 Days)

Distance: 51 km Time: 48 minutes

Graskop is home to one of the best road trips in South Africa – the Panorama Route ! It’s the best place to base yourself so you can explore the area and see some of the most iconic attractions.

There are a few restaurants in the area, including the famous Harrie’s Pancakes. You can also grab what you need to cook at your accommodation from the local Spar.

Rustique is a beautiful guesthouse in Graskop that’s within walking distances of the shops and restaurants. There’s a communal kitchen area if you want to cook your own meals and breakfast is available on request.

Blyde River Canyon Forever Resort is the closest accommodation option to the famous Blyde River Canyon. There are also a few hiking trails that are only accessible within the resort, a pool and an on-site restaurant.

Blyde River Canyon: Inside the Blyde River Canyon is the iconic Three Rondavels lookout point. The best time to visit is the hour before sunset. Entrance is R 30 per person.

Gods Window: God’s Window is a 900 m high viewpoint where you can see Mozambique on a clear day! Entrance is R 20 per person.

Lisbon Falls: Lisbon Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in South Africa . You can hike down to the base of the falls and spend the afternoon swimming in the small rock pools. Entrance is R 10 per person.

Read More:  The Best of the Panorama Route South Africa: 2-Day Itinerary

Graskop to Johannesburg (1-2 Days)

Distance: 396 km Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Phew! After an incredible two days, you’ll end of your South Africa road trip in Johannesburg. You can drop off your rental car in the city and catch a flight home, or you can drive back to Cape Town .

It’s also up to you if you want to explore the city or not. If you have the time, here are some of the best things to do in Johannesburg!

A lot of international travellers like staying in Maboneng. There is a Curiocity Backpackers here and plenty of AirBnBs .

If you want to stay somewhere a bit more trendy and you’re a foodie, book a hotel in Rosebank , Parkhurst or Morningside . There are tons of cute restaurants, bars and cafes in these areas!

Some of my favourites are Naked Coffee , Sin Tax and Saigon Suzy .

Read More: The Most Unique Places to Stay Near Johannesburg

Apartheid Museum: If it’s your first trip to South Africa, visit the Apartheid Museum to understand our past and the effect it’s had on our present and future.

Inner City Walking Tour: Curiocity Backpackers Joburg runs an inner-city walking tour that will take you to attractions like the Kwa Mai Mai Traditional Healers Market, the Collector’s Treasury (the largest second-hand bookstore in Africa) and Little Addis (Joburg’s Ethiopian Quarter).

Maboneng Precinct: Maboneng is a trendy, artsy district in the heart of Johannesburg. You’ll find everything from art galleries to rooftop bars and designer boutiques.

Good Luck Bar: Good Luck Bar is one of my favourite bars and live music venues in Johannesburg. If you want to spend an evening listening to some local music, you won’t regret having a drink or three here.

Read More:  Where to Find Delicious Vegan Food in Johannesburg

You know what we both deserve right now? A fucking drink.

Congrats for making it to the end of this post. It’s been a long one, but hopefully, you feel prepared and inspired for your South Africa road trip!

If I’ve missed out any must-see spots on this itinerary, tune me in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you!

Psst…Want more South Africa road trip inspiration? Check out these other posts:

• The Best of the Panorama Route South Africa: 2-Day Itinerary
• An Epic One Week Garden Route Itinerary (Detailed)
• Visiting Kruger National Park: Everything You Need to Know
• 10+ Spectacular Road Trips in South Africa You Can’t Miss!
• The Ultimate South Africa Bucket List: 40+ Amazing Places to Visit
• The Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List (+ Free Checklist!)

?If you like it, then you should put a pin on it ?

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

July 13, 2019 at 10:08 am

Thanks so much for the info. Your pictures are stunning!

July 16, 2019 at 9:25 am

Thank you so much! I’m stoked you found my South Africa road trip itinerary helpful 🙂

July 13, 2019 at 10:28 am

What an awesome itinerary for South Africa! I’ve always wanted to visit and now I want to even more. Looks like such a beautiful country. ?

Thank you!! I hope you get to come explore South Africa soon 🙂

July 13, 2019 at 3:34 pm

Your photos are gorgeous! Wow what an amazing itinerary. I never thought to do South Africa as a road trip. Thanks for the new inspiration.

July 14, 2019 at 12:30 am

What an amazing itinerary. I am all about water views, so all of the bays and waterfalls sounds perfect for me!

Yesss! I’m a sucker for a good waterfall!

July 14, 2019 at 3:49 am

I’ve been itching to get to South Africa for so long now! This is a great route idea and your photos are gorgeous!

August 9, 2019 at 11:58 am

I’ll be traveling to SA this December for 3 weeks from the states. This post was wonderful as many of the locations we’re visiting were also on this list. I’ll be traveling with someone from the country originially, however it’s nice to have some idea of where I’ll be prior to going!

August 13, 2019 at 6:00 pm

I hope you have an amazing road trip through South Africa!

February 4, 2020 at 8:30 am

Thanks for all the great info on your site. I’m heading to South Africa (from Canada) in August and planning a road trip from Cape Town to Johannesburg, with a side trip to eSwatini and Kruger. I’m going to either cut some things out or extend the trip by a week. There are too many incredible sites to see.

February 7, 2020 at 11:59 am

I hope you have an incredible time road tripping around SA!

November 18, 2020 at 8:40 pm

How much did you budget for per day?

November 19, 2020 at 12:50 pm

Hey Amber! I can’t give you exact numbers as this trip happened in 2019. I know petrol was around R8000 for our entire roundtrip. But accommodation, activity and food prices would depend on your travelling style. I’d recommend creating a spreadsheet and tracking everything beforehand so you can get an up-to-date estimate for 2020/2021 prices that’s tailored to where you want stay, eat, etc.

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