Is there a train to Phalaborwa?

There is no direct passenger train service from Kakamas to Phalaborwa.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 19 hours of actual road time.

No, you would need to drive to Upington or Kimberley for a flight to Johannesburg, then connect.

What is the best route?

The N14 is the most direct and well-maintained route for this journey.

Yes, provided you stick to main roads and avoid night travel.

Kakamas

Phalaborwa

Driving

Kakamas to Phalaborwa

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Kakamas to Phalaborwa spans approximately 1600 kilometers across the heart of South Africa. You will primarily traverse the N14 highway, passing through Upington, Vryburg, and Pretoria. This route takes you from the arid Northern Cape landscapes into the lush bushveld of Limpopo. Expect a travel time of roughly 18 to 20 hours by road. It is a significant cross-country trek requiring careful planning for fuel stops and rest breaks.

Total Distance: 1600 km driving distance; 1150 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the only practical method as there are no direct flights between these two regional hubs.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for groups or families.

Compare Kakamas to Phalaborwa Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

19 hours

Avg Price

R3500 - R4500 in fuel

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

N14 via Upington, Vryburg, Krugersdorp, and N1 to Polokwane.

Ensure your vehicle is serviced before departure as stretches between towns in the Northern Cape are vast.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in every major town like Upington and Vryburg; do not risk running low in remote areas.
Road Conditions
The N14 has sections with potholes; stay alert during daylight hours.
Accommodation
Book overnight stops in Vryburg or Pretoria to break the long drive into two days.
Hydration
Keep at least 5 liters of water in your car, especially when crossing the dry Northern Cape.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cellular coverage can be intermittent in the rural Northern Cape.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Avoid driving at night due to wildlife and livestock on the roads.
Vehicle Security
Keep doors locked at all times, especially when stopping at fuel stations.
Emergency Kit
Carry a spare tire, jack, and basic tools for roadside repairs.
Fatigue Management
Stop every 3 hours to stretch and maintain focus on the road.