Is the road to Sabie dangerous?

It is a mountain road with many curves, requiring careful, slow driving.

Are there public buses?

No, there is no public bus service to Sabie.

What is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn offer the best weather for sightseeing.

Yes, the roads are paved and suitable for standard sedans.

eMakhazeni

Sabie

Driving

eMakhazeni to Sabie

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from eMakhazeni to Sabie covers roughly 145 kilometers of winding mountain roads. This route is highly scenic, taking you through Dullstroom and Lydenburg before climbing into the Sabie mountains. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, depending on your pace and stops. There is no public transport, so a private vehicle is essential for this trip. The roads are generally well-maintained but require careful driving due to sharp curves and steep gradients.

Total Distance: 145 km driving distance; 115 km straight-line distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the R540 and R537 takes about 2 hours.

Cheapest Way

Private vehicle is the only practical way to reach Sabie from eMakhazeni.

Compare eMakhazeni to Sabie Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

2 hours

Avg Price

R300 - R400 in fuel

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

R540 and R537

The R537 is very winding; drive slowly and enjoy the views.

Travel Tips

Mountain Driving
Use lower gears when descending steep mountain passes to save your brakes.
Fuel Up
Fill your tank in eMakhazeni or Lydenburg as fuel stations are limited in the mountains.
Weather
Mountain weather changes rapidly; pack a warm jacket even in summer.
Road Safety
Watch for logging trucks on the R537; they are large and slow-moving.
Photography
Pull over at designated viewpoints to take photos safely.