Is the N2 safe to drive?

The N2 is a major highway, but caution is advised in the Eastern Cape sections.

Are there trains to Mthatha?

Passenger rail services to Mthatha are currently not operational for tourists.

What is the best car for this trip?

A reliable sedan or SUV is suitable for the paved N2 highway.

No, the main roads to Mthatha are fully tarred and accessible by standard vehicles.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, there are several toll plazas along the N2 between the Western and Eastern Cape.

Hermanus

Mthatha

Flight Driving

Hermanus to Mthatha

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Hermanus to Mthatha spans approximately 1050 kilometers along the N2 national highway. Driving is the most common method, taking roughly 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and stops. You will traverse the scenic Garden Route before heading inland toward the Eastern Cape. Alternatively, you can drive to Cape Town International Airport and fly to Mthatha Airport. This route crosses diverse landscapes from coastal fynbos to the rolling hills of the former Transkei.

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

Fastest Way

Flying from Cape Town International Airport to Mthatha is the fastest, taking 5 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective if traveling with a group of three or more people.

Compare Hermanus to Mthatha Routes

	Flight Connecting via Cape Town	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours including transit	13 hours
Avg Price	R3500 - R5000	R1800 - R2500 in fuel
Operator	Airlink	Personal Vehicle
Route	CPT to UTT airport.	N2 highway via George, Knysna, Port Elizabeth, and Grahamstown.
Tip	Book flights well in advance to secure lower fares on the Cape Town to Mthatha route.	Ensure your vehicle is serviced as the stretch between Port Elizabeth and Mthatha has limited service stations.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up your tank in major towns like George or Port Elizabeth to avoid running low in rural areas.
Road Conditions
Be cautious of livestock on the roads in the Eastern Cape, especially near Mthatha.
Accommodation
Book your stay in Mthatha in advance as quality hotels fill up quickly.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cellular signal can be intermittent in the rural Eastern Cape.
Travel Time
Start your drive at dawn to avoid heavy traffic near major cities and arrive before dark.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Avoid driving at night in the Eastern Cape due to poor lighting and stray animals.
Vehicle Security
Keep your doors locked at all times while driving through urban centers.
Emergency Contacts
Save local police and roadside assistance numbers on your phone before departing.
Valuables
Do not leave valuables visible in your car when parked at rest stops.