The N9 is generally safe, but caution is required regarding livestock and road surface quality.

Are there trains to Pretoria?

Passenger rail services are currently limited; driving or flying is recommended.

Where is the best place to stop?

Colesberg is the most practical town for a rest stop and refueling.

No, the entire route is on paved national highways suitable for standard sedans.

Expect to pay approximately R200 in total tolls on the N1 section.

Graaff-Reinet

Pretoria

Flight Driving

Graaff-Reinet to Pretoria

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Graaff-Reinet to Pretoria spans approximately 1050 kilometers through the heart of the Karoo. You will primarily utilize the N9 highway connecting to the N1 at Colesberg. Driving is the most flexible option, taking roughly 11 to 12 hours of pure transit time. Alternatively, you can drive to Gqeberha and take a flight to OR Tambo International Airport. This route traverses diverse landscapes from arid plains to the highveld plateau.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 1050 km; straight-line air distance is 820 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Gqeberha to Johannesburg is the fastest, though it requires a 3-hour drive to the airport.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective if traveling with more than one person.

Compare Graaff-Reinet to Pretoria Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours total	11 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	R2200 - R3500	R1800 - R2500 in fuel
Operator	Airlink	Private Vehicle
Route	Drive to Gqeberha (PLZ), fly to Johannesburg (JNB), shuttle to Pretoria.	N9 via Middelburg and Colesberg, then N1 north.
Tip	Book your shuttle from OR Tambo to Pretoria in advance.	Stop in Colesberg for a fuel break as it is the halfway point.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Ensure your tank is full in Graaff-Reinet, as stretches between towns on the N9 can be long.
Road Conditions
Watch for stray livestock on the N9, especially during dawn and dusk hours.
Toll Fees
Prepare for toll gates on the N1 highway between Bloemfontein and Pretoria; keep a card ready.
Weather Check
Check for snow warnings on the Lootsberg Pass during winter months before departing.
Hydration
Carry at least 5 liters of water in your vehicle due to the dry Karoo climate.

Safety Tips

Fatigue Management
Take a 15-minute break every 2 hours to maintain alertness on the N1.
Vehicle Check
Check your tire pressure and oil levels before leaving Graaff-Reinet.
Emergency Contacts
Save the number for the N1 highway patrol and local roadside assistance.
Night Driving
Avoid driving at night due to limited lighting and potential wildlife hazards on the road.