Kimberley is generally safe, but standard urban precautions apply.

Can I fly to Kimberley?

Yes, there are flights to Kimberley Airport (KIM) from Johannesburg.

How far is Bloemfontein from Kimberley?

It is approximately 170 km, taking about 2 hours by car.

Are there trains to Kimberley?

Yes, the Shosholoza Meyl train stops in Kimberley on the Johannesburg-Cape Town line.

What is the best time to visit?

Autumn and spring offer the most comfortable weather.

Kimberley

Bus Driving

Mankweng to Kimberley

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Mankweng to Kimberley involves a journey of approximately 950 km. The most practical route is via the N1 highway, passing through Pretoria and Bloemfontein. Driving takes about 11 hours, while bus services are available from Polokwane. Kimberley is the capital of the Northern Cape, famous for its diamond mining history. This route takes you through the heart of the South African interior. Ensure your vehicle is serviced before embarking on this long-distance drive.

Total Distance: 950 km driving distance and 780 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the N1, taking approximately 11 hours.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel starting at R800.

Compare Mankweng to Kimberley Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	14 hours	11 hours
Avg Price	R800 - R1200	R1800 - R2500 (fuel)
Operator	Greyhound	Personal Vehicle
Route	Polokwane to Johannesburg, then transfer to Kimberley.	R71 to Polokwane, N1 south to Bloemfontein, then N8 to Kimberley.
Tip	Book your transfer in Johannesburg with at least a 3-hour buffer.	Check your tire pressure before leaving as the N1 has long stretches of high-speed driving.

Travel Tips

Fuel
Fill up in major towns like Bloemfontein to avoid running low on the N8.
Rest
Take a break every 3 hours to maintain focus on the long road.
Snacks
Pack non-perishable snacks as options are limited on the N8 stretch.
Navigation
Use GPS apps like Waze for real-time traffic updates on the N1.
Weather
Expect extreme temperature fluctuations in the Northern Cape.

Safety Tips

Speeding
Watch for speed traps on the N1 near the Free State border.
Visibility
Use headlights during the day for better visibility on the open road.
Emergency
Keep a basic tool kit and spare tire in your vehicle.
Security
Lock your doors while driving through urban areas in Johannesburg.