Kakamas
Kakamas
Polokwane
Polokwane
Driving

Kakamas to Polokwane

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Kakamas to Polokwane involves a long journey across the Northern Cape, North West, and Limpopo provinces. You will follow the N14 highway through Vryburg and Krugersdorp before joining the N1 north towards Polokwane. The total distance is roughly 1250 km, requiring about 14 hours of driving. This route takes you through the heart of the country's interior, passing through diverse agricultural and mining regions.

Total Distance: 1250 km driving distance; 1050 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the only direct way to reach Polokwane from Kakamas.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most practical and cost-effective option for this route.
Compare Kakamas to Polokwane Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
14 hours
Avg Price
R2500 - R3000
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
N14 to N1 via Vryburg, Johannesburg, and Pretoria.

Expect heavy traffic when passing through the Johannesburg and Pretoria metropolitan areas.

Travel Tips
  • Traffic Planning
    Avoid the N1 through Johannesburg during peak morning and afternoon hours.
  • Accommodation
    Consider an overnight stop in Vryburg or Pretoria to break up the long drive.
  • Tolls
    Ensure you have a valid e-tag or cash for tolls on the N1 highway.
  • Hydration
    Keep plenty of water in the car as the Northern Cape and North West can be very hot.
  • Vehicle Maintenance
    Check your oil and tire pressure before departing Kakamas.
Safety Tips
  • High-Crime Areas
    Keep doors locked and windows up when driving through urban areas.
  • Fatigue
    Take a 15-minute break every 2 hours to maintain alertness.
  • Emergency Contacts
    Save local emergency numbers for the provinces you are traveling through.
  • Roadside Assistance
    Ensure you have a membership with a roadside assistance provider.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a bus from Kakamas to Polokwane?
    There are no direct long-distance bus services between these two towns.
  • How long does it take?
    The drive takes approximately 14 hours of pure travel time.
  • Is the N1 safe?
    The N1 is a major highway and generally safe, but stay alert for reckless drivers.
  • Can I fly?
    There are no commercial flights between Kakamas and Polokwane.
  • What is the best time to leave?
    Depart early in the morning to avoid peak traffic in Gauteng.
Quick Info
  • From Kakamas, Northern Cape, South Africa
  • To Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

May to August for cooler, dry weather ideal for long-distance driving.

Things to Do in Polokwane
1
Polokwane Game Reserve
A large municipal reserve offering great game viewing opportunities near the city center. It is perfect for a quick safari experience.
2
Bakone Malapa Museum
An open-air museum showcasing the traditional lifestyle of the Northern Sotho people. It provides deep cultural insights.
3
Hugh Exton Photographic Museum
Housed in a historic church, this museum displays thousands of photographs from the early 20th century.
4
Mall of the North
The largest shopping center in the region, ideal for stocking up on supplies after your long journey.
Tags
Kakamas to Polokwane N14 to N1 route driving to Polokwane Northern Cape to Limpopo road trip South Africa Polokwane travel tips long distance driving Kakamas travel