Is the road from Bhisho to Aliwal North safe?

The road is generally safe during daylight hours, but caution is advised regarding livestock and road surface quality.

Are there trains between Bhisho and Aliwal North?

No, there are no operational passenger train services connecting these two towns.

How long does it take to drive?

The drive takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

What is the best route?

The R67 through Queenstown followed by the N6 is the most direct and well-maintained route.

Are there car rentals in Bhisho?

Yes, major car rental agencies operate out of the nearby King William's Town and East London Airport.

Bhisho

Aliwal North

Bus Driving

Bhisho to Aliwal North

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Bhisho to Aliwal North spans approximately 380 kilometers through the heart of the Eastern Cape. You will primarily utilize the R67 and N6 national routes to navigate this inland corridor. Travel time by private vehicle typically averages 4 hours and 30 minutes depending on traffic near Queenstown. Public transport options are limited to long-distance minibus taxis departing from the Bhisho taxi rank. This route offers a transition from the coastal plains to the rugged interior of the Karoo region.

Total Distance: 380 km driving distance; 310 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Private vehicle via R67 and N6 taking 4 hours 30 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Minibus taxi from Bhisho rank to Queenstown, then connecting taxi to Aliwal North for approximately R350.

Compare Bhisho to Aliwal North Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	4 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	R350 - R500	R650 - R850 fuel
Operator	Intercape	Private Vehicle
Route	Bhisho to Queenstown, transfer to Aliwal North taxi.	R67 via Fort Beaufort and Queenstown, then N6 to Aliwal North.
Tip	Book your ticket in advance at the Bhisho terminal to secure a seat on the morning departure.	Ensure your vehicle is serviced as the stretch between Queenstown and Aliwal North has limited service stations.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill your tank in Queenstown as it is the largest town before reaching Aliwal North.
Road Conditions
Be cautious of potholes on the R67, especially during the rainy season.
Connectivity
Cell phone reception is reliable on the N6 but patchy on secondary roads.
Packing
Pack layers as temperatures in Aliwal North can drop significantly at night.
Timing
Avoid traveling this route at night due to livestock roaming on the roads.

Safety Tips

Livestock
Watch for sheep and cattle crossing the road, particularly near rural settlements.
Vehicle Security
Keep doors locked at all times when passing through busy taxi ranks.
Emergency Numbers
Save local police station numbers for Queenstown and Aliwal North before departing.
Visibility
Use headlights during the day to increase visibility on winding sections of the R67.