Is Richards Bay safe?

Richards Bay is generally safe, but standard urban precautions apply.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 7 hours under normal traffic conditions.

Flights are available from OR Tambo to Richards Bay Airport, but they are expensive.

What is the best route?

The N17 via Ermelo is the most direct route from Boksburg.

No, the roads are fully tarred and suitable for standard sedans.

Boksburg

Richards Bay

Bus Driving

Boksburg to Richards Bay

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Boksburg to Richards Bay involves a 600-kilometer journey primarily via the N17 and N2 highways. You will pass through Mpumalanga before entering KwaZulu-Natal near the coast. The drive typically takes 7 hours depending on your speed and stops. Richards Bay is a major industrial port city, making this a common route for both business and leisure travelers. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for the coastal humidity and varied road conditions.

Total Distance: 600 km driving distance; 480 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest, taking 7 hours, allowing for flexible departure times.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel is the most economical, with tickets starting at R550.

Compare Boksburg to Richards Bay Routes

	Bus Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	9 hours	7 hours
Avg Price	R550 - R850	R800 - R1200
Operator	Greyhound	N/A
Route	Johannesburg to Richards Bay via Empangeni.	N17 to Ermelo, then R33 and N2 to Richards Bay.
Tip	Buses often stop in Empangeni before reaching the Richards Bay terminal.	The N17 is a toll road; keep your tag or card ready.

Travel Tips

Route Choice
The N17 route is generally quieter than the N3 for reaching the KZN coast.
Fuel
Refuel in Ermelo as there are long stretches without major towns afterward.
Coastal Driving
Be aware of high winds near the coast which can affect vehicle handling.
Booking
Book bus tickets at least one week in advance for better seat selection.
Navigation
Use offline maps as signal can be weak in rural Mpumalanga sections.

Safety Tips

Road Hazards
Watch for stray animals on the R33 section of the route.
Vehicle Security
Keep doors locked at all times, especially when stopped at traffic lights in towns.
Fatigue
Take a 15-minute break every 2 hours to maintain alertness.
Emergency
Keep a physical map in your car in case your GPS fails.