Is Kimberley safe for tourists?

Yes, Kimberley is generally safe, but practice standard urban safety precautions.

Can I take a bus to Kimberley?

Yes, long-distance buses like Intercape operate routes to Kimberley from major hubs.

What is the best road to take?

The N12 from Bloemfontein is the most direct route into Kimberley.

Are there car rentals in Kimberley?

Yes, major car rental agencies are located at the Kimberley Airport.

How far is the Big Hole from the city center?

The Big Hole is located within the city, just a short drive from the center.

Kimberley

Flight Driving

Dan to Kimberley

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Dan to Kimberley spans roughly 1100 km, primarily utilizing the N1 highway. You will travel south through the heart of the country, passing through Gauteng before entering the Free State and finally the Northern Cape. Driving is the most common method, offering flexibility to explore the Karoo landscape. Alternatively, you can fly from Hoedspruit to Kimberley via Johannesburg. Kimberley, known as the Diamond City, is a historic hub that rewards travelers with its unique mining heritage. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for long, straight stretches of road.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 1100 km; straight-line air distance is 850 km.

Fastest Way

Flying via Johannesburg is the fastest option, saving nearly 8 hours of travel time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is significantly cheaper than flying, especially for multiple passengers.

Compare Dan to Kimberley Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	12 hours
Avg Price	R3800 - R5500	R2200 - R2800 in fuel
Operator	Airlink	Private Vehicle
Route	Hoedspruit (HDS) to Johannesburg (JNB) to Kimberley (KIM).	R71, N1, and N12 via Pretoria and Bloemfontein.
Tip	Flights are limited, so book at least three weeks in advance.	The N12 from Bloemfontein to Kimberley is well-maintained but watch for speed traps.

Travel Tips

Hydration
The Northern Cape is very dry; carry at least 5 liters of water in your car.
Sun Protection
The sun is intense; wear high-SPF sunscreen even when driving.
Toll Gates
Prepare for multiple toll gates on the N1 between Limpopo and Gauteng.
Rest Stops
Stop in Bloemfontein for a meal; it has the best variety of restaurants on the route.
Vehicle Check
Check your tire pressure before leaving, as the heat can affect tire performance.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
Take a 15-minute break every 2 hours to avoid driver fatigue on long, straight roads.
Wildlife
Be alert for springbok or other wildlife crossing the road near the Northern Cape border.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic first aid kit and a spare tire in good condition.
Communication
Ensure your phone is charged and you have a power bank for long stretches without signal.