Is it better to fly or drive?

Flying is much faster; driving is better if you want to see the Wild Coast.

How long is the flight?

The flight is about 70 minutes.

No direct passenger rail service exists between these two cities.

Like any major city, exercise standard safety precautions.

King William's Town

Durban

Flight Driving

King William's Town to Durban

Updated: 28 May 2026

The distance between King William's Town and Durban is approximately 650 kilometers. The most practical way to travel is by flying from East London Airport (ELS) to King Shaka International Airport (DUR). If driving, you will follow the N2 highway along the scenic Wild Coast. This is a long-distance journey that requires careful planning, whether by air or road.

Total Distance: 650 km driving distance; 500 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight, taking 1 hour 10 minutes (plus airport time).

Cheapest Way

Flight, if booked well in advance.

Compare King William's Town to Durban Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 10 mins	8 hours
Avg Price	R1,500 - R3,000	R1,200 - R1,800 in fuel
Operator	Airlink / Safair	Private Vehicle
Route	East London (ELS) to Durban (DUR).	N2 highway via Mthatha.
Tip	Book flights in advance to secure the best rates.	The N2 through the Eastern Cape can be challenging; drive during daylight.

Travel Tips

Flight Booking
Use comparison websites to find the best flight deals.
Driving Route
If driving, stop in Mthatha or Port Shepstone for a break.
Airport Transfers
Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps from the airport.
Weather
Durban is humid; pack light, breathable clothing.
Safety
Stay in well-lit, populated areas and avoid walking alone at night.

Safety Tips

Driving Safety
The N2 through the Eastern Cape requires caution; avoid night driving.
Personal Safety
Keep your belongings secure in crowded tourist areas.
Emergency Numbers
Save local emergency numbers on your phone.
Vehicle Security
Always park in secure, monitored parking lots.