Is there a train to East London?

Passenger rail services to East London are currently limited and unreliable for long-distance travel.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 15 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Yes, there are several toll plazas on the N2 highway.

Driving is safe during daylight hours if you remain vigilant and follow road rules.

What is the best route?

The N2 highway is the most direct and well-maintained route.

Elands Bay

East London

Flight Driving

Elands Bay to East London

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Elands Bay to East London spans approximately 1350 kilometers across the southern coastline. You will primarily navigate via the N7 and N2 highways, passing through Cape Town and the Garden Route. Driving takes roughly 15 hours of pure transit time, excluding stops. Alternatively, you can drive to Cape Town International Airport and fly to East London Airport. This route transitions from the arid West Coast to the lush, subtropical Eastern Cape coastline.

Total Distance: 1350 km driving distance; 980 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Cape Town International Airport is the fastest, taking 4 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of three or more people sharing fuel costs.

Compare Elands Bay to East London Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours including transit	15 hours
Avg Price	R1800 - R3000	R2500 - R3500 in fuel
Operator	Airlink	Private Vehicle
Route	Drive to Cape Town International (CPT) then fly to East London (ELS).	R366 to N7, then N1 and N2 via George and Port Elizabeth.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fare classes.	Ensure your vehicle is serviced as the stretch between George and Knysna involves heavy traffic.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in major towns like George or Port Elizabeth to avoid running low on remote stretches.
Toll Fees
Budget for toll gates on the N2 highway between Cape Town and the Eastern Cape.
Road Conditions
Check for roadworks on the N2 near Knysna before departing.
Accommodation
Book overnight stays in Mossel Bay if you prefer breaking the long drive into two days.
Connectivity
Download offline maps as cellular signal can be intermittent in the Karoo regions.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Avoid driving at night due to livestock on roads in the Eastern Cape.
Vehicle Security
Keep doors locked at all times, especially when stopping at fuel stations.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local police and roadside assistance numbers on your phone.
Weather Awareness
Be prepared for sudden mist on the mountain passes near the Garden Route.