The N12 and N1 are major national routes and generally safe during daylight hours.

Yes, there are toll gates on the N1 section near the Western Cape border.

Yes, Intercape and Greyhound operate routes from Kimberley to Cape Town.

What is the best car?

A reliable sedan or SUV is recommended for the long-distance drive.

The Shosholoza Meyl operates limited services, but driving is more reliable.

Cape Town

Flight Driving

Reivilo to Cape Town

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Reivilo to Cape Town spans approximately 1150 kilometers via the N12 and N1 highways. Driving takes roughly 13 hours, passing through Kimberley and Beaufort West. Alternatively, you can drive to Kimberley Airport and take a flight to Cape Town International. This route traverses the vast Karoo landscape, offering stark, beautiful desert scenery. Ensure your vehicle is serviced as fuel stops are sparse in the Northern Cape sections.

Total Distance: 1150 km driving distance; 980 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Kimberley Airport is the fastest, taking 4 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective if traveling with more than two passengers.

Compare Reivilo to Cape Town Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours including drive to Kimberley	13 hours
Avg Price	R1500 - R3000	R1800 - R2500 in fuel
Operator	Airlink	Private Vehicle
Route	Drive to Kimberley Airport (KIM), fly to Cape Town (CPT).	R371 to N12 via Kimberley, then N1 south.
Tip	Book flights at least three weeks in advance for the best rates.	Check tire pressure before leaving as road surfaces vary significantly.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill your tank in Kimberley, as fuel stations become infrequent on the N12.
Hydration
Carry at least 5 liters of water, especially during the summer heat.
Road Conditions
Watch for potholes on the R371 stretch near the North West border.
Accommodation
Book a stopover in Beaufort West if you prefer not to drive the full distance in one day.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cellular signal is intermittent in the Karoo.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Avoid driving at night due to wildlife crossing the roads.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your spare tire is inflated and you have a jack.
Emergency Contacts
Save local police and roadside assistance numbers on your phone.
Visibility
Keep headlights on during the day for better visibility on long stretches.