Is Mthatha safe for tourists?

Exercise caution and stay in well-lit, secure areas when visiting.

How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 14 hours of active driving time.

Can I fly to Mthatha?

You can fly from Cape Town to Mthatha via Johannesburg, but it is not a direct route.

What is the best road?

The N2 is the primary and most reliable road for this journey.

Yes, long-distance bus services like Intercape operate to Mthatha from major cities.

Gansbaai

Mthatha

Driving

Gansbaai to Mthatha

Updated: 29 May 2026

Traveling from Gansbaai to Mthatha involves a long-haul journey of approximately 1100 kilometers. You will primarily follow the N2 highway, which connects the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape. This route takes you through the scenic Garden Route and past the major city of East London. Given the distance, it is highly recommended to split the trip into two days. The journey transitions from the coastal fynbos of the Overberg to the rolling hills of the former Transkei.

Total Distance: 1100 km driving distance; 850 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the N2 is the fastest, taking roughly 14 hours of pure driving time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most practical and cheapest way for a group of travelers.

Compare Gansbaai to Mthatha Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

14 hours

Avg Price

R2200 - R3000 in fuel

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

N2 highway through George, Port Elizabeth, and East London.

Plan for an overnight stop in East London or Grahamstown.

Travel Tips

Road Safety
Be cautious of pedestrians and stray animals on the N2 near Mthatha.
Rest Stops
Stop every 3 hours to maintain alertness on this long drive.
Vehicle Check
Check your tire pressure and oil levels before leaving Gansbaai.
Connectivity
Ensure you have a power bank for your phone as GPS usage will drain your battery.
Booking
Book accommodation in advance if you plan to stop in East London.

Safety Tips

Daylight Travel
Complete your journey during daylight hours to avoid hazards on rural roads.
Valuables
Keep valuables out of sight and locked in the boot of your car.
Emergency Numbers
Keep a list of emergency numbers for the Eastern Cape region.
Fuel Management
Never let your fuel gauge drop below a quarter tank in the Transkei region.