Is the N2 safe to drive?

The N2 is a major national route, but caution is required regarding livestock and road maintenance in the Eastern Cape.

Are there trains to East London?

Passenger rail services to East London are currently limited or non-operational for long-distance travel.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 8 hours depending on traffic and stops.

What is the best bus company?

Intercape and Greyhound are the most reliable operators on this route.

Do I need a passport?

No, this is a domestic route within South Africa; only a valid ID is required.

eManzimtoti

East London

Bus Driving

eManzimtoti to East London

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from eManzimtoti to East London covers approximately 650 kilometers along the N2 national highway. You will traverse the scenic Wild Coast region, passing through Mthatha and Butterworth. Driving typically takes 8 hours depending on traffic through the Eastern Cape. Intercity bus services like Intercape provide reliable transport for those not driving. The route is characterized by rolling hills and significant changes in landscape as you move south.

Total Distance: 650 km driving distance; 520 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the fastest, taking 8 hours without long stops.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel is the most cost-effective, starting at R550 per seat.

Compare eManzimtoti to East London Routes

	Bus Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	10 hours	8 hours
Avg Price	R550 - R900	R800 - R1200
Operator	Intercape	Personal Vehicle
Route	N2 Highway boarding at Amanzimtoti bus stop.	N2 Highway via Port Shepstone and Mthatha.
Tip	Book your ticket online at least 48 hours in advance to secure lower fares.	Ensure your vehicle is serviced as the N2 through the Eastern Cape has long stretches without major service stations.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up your tank in Mthatha as fuel stations can be sparse on the rural stretches of the N2.
Road Conditions
Be cautious of livestock on the road, especially when driving through the rural Eastern Cape sections.
Booking
Always use official bus company websites to avoid third-party booking fees.
Timing
Avoid traveling through Mthatha during peak school holiday times to bypass heavy congestion.
Connectivity
Download offline maps as cellular signal can be intermittent in the Transkei region.

Safety Tips

Daylight Driving
Stick to daylight hours for your journey to avoid hazards like stray animals and poor visibility.
Vehicle Security
Keep your doors locked at all times while driving through urban centers.
Emergency Contacts
Save local police and roadside assistance numbers before departing.
Valuables
Keep your luggage out of sight in the trunk to prevent opportunistic theft.