Is Saldanha worth visiting?

Yes, it is a beautiful coastal town known for its bay and nature reserves.

How do I get there from Cape Town?

You can drive via the R27, which takes about 2 hours.

There is no passenger rail service to Saldanha.

What is the best way to travel?

Flying to Cape Town and driving is the most efficient method.

Saldanha is generally safe, but standard precautions apply.

Saldanha

Flight Driving

Kingsburgh to Saldanha

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Kingsburgh to Saldanha is a significant cross-country trip of approximately 1700 kilometers. Most travelers prefer flying from Durban (King Shaka International) to Cape Town and then renting a car for the final 140-kilometer drive to Saldanha. If driving, you will follow the N3 to Johannesburg and then the N1 across the country to the Western Cape. This route takes you through diverse landscapes, from the KZN coast to the Karoo and finally the West Coast.

Total Distance: 1700 km driving distance; 1300 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Durban to Cape Town is the fastest method, taking approximately 4 hours total travel time.

Cheapest Way

Flying to Cape Town and using a shuttle or rental car is often comparable to the fuel cost of driving.

Compare Kingsburgh to Saldanha Routes

	Flight Direct to Cape Town	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours flight + 2 hours drive	19 hours
Avg Price	R1500 - R3000	R4000 - R5000 in fuel
Operator	FlySafair, Airlink	Private Vehicle
Route	Durban (DUR) to Cape Town (CPT), then R27 to Saldanha.	N3 to Johannesburg, N1 to Cape Town, R27 to Saldanha.
Tip	Book flights at least 3 weeks in advance for the best rates.	This is a multi-day drive; plan overnight stops in Bloemfontein or Beaufort West.

Travel Tips

Car Rental
Rent your vehicle at Cape Town International Airport for the easiest transition to Saldanha.
Weather
The West Coast can be windy; pack a windbreaker even in summer.
Route Choice
If driving from Cape Town, the R27 is the most direct and scenic route to Saldanha.
Booking
Book accommodation in Saldanha early, especially during the December holiday season.
Local Transport
Public transport within Saldanha is limited; having your own vehicle is essential.

Safety Tips

Driving Safety
Be aware of heavy trucks on the R27 road leading to the industrial areas of Saldanha.
Personal Safety
Stick to well-lit areas in the town center at night.
Emergency Services
Keep the contact details for the local police and medical services handy.
Sun Protection
The West Coast sun is strong; use high-SPF sunscreen even on cloudy days.