The N1 is a major national highway and generally safe during daylight hours.

How long is the flight?

The flight duration is approximately two hours and ten minutes.

Passenger rail services are currently limited and unreliable for this specific route.

Colesberg and Bloemfontein are the best towns for overnight stops.

What is the best car?

Any reliable sedan or SUV is suitable for the well-maintained N1.

Cape Town

Flight Driving

Delmas to Cape Town

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Delmas to Cape Town spans approximately 1500 kilometers via the N1 highway. You will drive through the Free State and Northern Cape provinces before reaching the Western Cape. Alternatively, you can drive to OR Tambo International Airport and take a two-hour flight to Cape Town International. The road route is scenic but requires careful planning for fuel stops in towns like Colesberg. This trip connects the highveld plateau to the coastal beauty of the Mother City. Expect a diverse landscape transition from grasslands to semi-desert and finally Mediterranean coastal terrain.

Total Distance: 1500 km driving distance; 1250 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from OR Tambo International Airport takes just over two hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving with multiple passengers is the most cost-effective method for groups.

Compare Delmas to Cape Town Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 10 mins	16 hours
Avg Price	R1200 - R2500	R2500 - R3500 fuel
Operator	FlySafair	Personal Vehicle
Route	OR Tambo International to Cape Town International.	N12 to N1 via Bloemfontein and Colesberg.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance for the lowest fares.	Stop in Colesberg for a mid-way rest to avoid driver fatigue.

Travel Tips

Toll Fees
Budget for toll gates on the N1 highway, specifically the Huguenot Tunnel.
Airport Parking
Use the long-term parking at OR Tambo if leaving your car for a flight.
Hydration
Keep at least five liters of water in your car when driving through the Karoo.
Speed Traps
Be aware of frequent speed enforcement cameras in the Free State section of the N1.
Booking
Use comparison sites to track flight price fluctuations.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Avoid driving through the Karoo at night due to wildlife crossing the road.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and cooling system are serviced before the long drive.
Emergency Contacts
Save the numbers for roadside assistance and local police stations.
Valuables
Keep all valuables out of sight when stopping at petrol stations.