No, there is no direct passenger train between these cities.

How long is the drive?

It takes approximately 18 to 20 hours of driving time.

Yes, companies like Intercape operate this route daily.

Yes, but stay alert and avoid night driving.

What is the best month?

Spring (September-November) is ideal.

Durban

Cape Town

Flight Driving

Durban to Cape Town

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Durban to Cape Town spans over 1650 kilometers along the N2 coastal highway. Most travelers prefer a 2-hour flight to save time. Driving is a multi-day journey through the Garden Route, offering spectacular scenery. It is the longest major intercity route in South Africa. The trip connects the Indian Ocean coast to the Atlantic seaboard.

Total Distance: 1650 km driving distance; 1270 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight, taking 2 hours 10 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Intercity bus, starting at R800, for budget travelers.

Compare Durban to Cape Town Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 10 mins	18 hours
Avg Price	R1200 - R2500	R2500 - R4000 (fuel)
Operator	FlySafair	N/A
Route	King Shaka International (DUR) to Cape Town International (CPT)	N2 highway via Gqeberha and George
Tip	Check for early morning flights to avoid afternoon wind delays in Cape Town.	Plan for an overnight stop in the Garden Route area.

Travel Tips

Garden Route
If driving, spend at least two days exploring the Garden Route towns.
Wind
Cape Town is known for strong winds; pack wind-resistant clothing.
Booking
Book flights well in advance for peak holiday seasons.
Car Rental
Rent a car at Cape Town airport for easier city exploration.
Sun Protection
The sun is intense; always wear high-SPF sunscreen.

Safety Tips

N2 Safety
Be cautious when driving through the Eastern Cape section of the N2.
Emergency
Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone.
Night Driving
Avoid driving the N2 at night due to stray animals and poor lighting.
Personal Safety
Stay in well-lit, populated areas when exploring the city.