Yes, it is a 1200 km drive taking 13 hours.

Yes, there are many toll plazas on the N1.

You would need to drive to Gqeberha or Bloemfontein for a flight.

Yes, it is a major, well-maintained highway.

What is the best route?

The N10 to Colesberg and N1 to Polokwane is the most direct.

Cradock

Polokwane

Driving

Cradock to Polokwane

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Cradock to Polokwane covers approximately 1200 kilometers. You will head north on the N10 to Colesberg, then join the N1 highway, passing through Bloemfontein, Johannesburg, and Pretoria. This is a long-distance journey across the country. Expect a travel time of about 13 to 14 hours. Polokwane is the capital of Limpopo province.

Total Distance: 1200 km driving distance; 1050 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the N1 is the fastest route, taking approximately 13 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most practical way, though it requires an overnight stay.

Compare Cradock to Polokwane Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

13 hours

Avg Price

R1800 - R2200 fuel cost

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

N10 to Colesberg, then N1 north through Johannesburg and Pretoria to Polokwane.

This is a very long drive; consider an overnight stop in Gauteng.

Travel Tips

Overnight Stop
Plan an overnight stop in Johannesburg or Pretoria to avoid fatigue.
Toll Fees
Budget for multiple toll gates on the N1.
Traffic
Avoid peak hours in Gauteng.
Fuel
Refuel regularly on the N1.
Navigation
Use a GPS to navigate the N1 through Gauteng.