Is there a direct train?

No, there is no direct passenger train service between Hartswater and Polokwane.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 10 to 12 hours depending on traffic.

Are there toll roads?

Yes, the N1 highway between Johannesburg and Polokwane has several toll plazas.

What is the best route?

The N12 via Johannesburg is the most common and reliable route.

Yes, provided you follow standard road safety rules and avoid night driving.

Polokwane

Bus Driving

Hartswater to Polokwane

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Hartswater to Polokwane spans approximately 850 kilometers across the heart of South Africa. You will primarily navigate the N12 and N1 highways, passing through major hubs like Johannesburg and Pretoria. This route takes roughly 10 to 12 hours by car depending on traffic congestion in Gauteng. Public transport options are limited to long-distance bus services that require transfers in major cities. The landscape transitions from the arid Northern Cape plains to the lush, subtropical climate of Limpopo.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 850 km; straight-line air distance is 720 km.

Fastest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the fastest, taking approximately 10.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel is the most cost-effective, typically costing around R750 if booked early.

Compare Hartswater to Polokwane Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	14 hours	10 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	R750 - R1200	R1800 - R2500 in fuel
Operator	Intercape	Personal Vehicle
Route	Bus from Hartswater to Johannesburg Park Station, then transfer to Polokwane.	N12 via Kimberley to Johannesburg, then N1 North to Polokwane.
Tip	Book your connecting tickets in advance to ensure seamless transfers at Park Station.	Avoid peak hour traffic in Johannesburg by timing your departure for early morning.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Refuel in major towns like Bloemhof or Klerksdorp to avoid running low on the N12.
Toll Fees
Budget for multiple toll gates on the N1 highway between Johannesburg and Polokwane.
Hydration
Keep extra water in your car as the route passes through dry, hot regions.
Rest Stops
Use the designated rest areas on the N1 for safe breaks during the long drive.
Offline Maps
Download offline maps as cellular signal can be intermittent in rural stretches.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Avoid driving at night due to livestock on roads and limited visibility.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires and cooling system are serviced before this long-distance trip.
Emergency Contacts
Save local police and roadside assistance numbers on your phone.
Valuables
Keep your valuables out of sight when stopping at petrol stations.