Is it better to fly or drive?

Flying is faster, but driving allows you to see the Garden Route.

How long is the flight?

The flight itself is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Yes, it is a major national highway.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer months are best for beach activities.

Yes, long-distance buses like Intercape operate from Cape Town.

Vredendal

Port Elizabeth

Flight Driving

Vredendal to Port Elizabeth

Updated: 28 May 2026

The distance from Vredendal to Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) is approximately 950 kilometers. You can drive via the N2 highway, which takes about 10 to 11 hours, or fly from Cape Town International Airport after a 4-hour drive to the city. Driving offers a scenic coastal route, while flying is significantly faster. This route connects the West Coast to the Eastern Cape's major port city. Ensure you plan your transport mode based on your time constraints and budget.

Total Distance: 950 km driving distance; 700 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Cape Town International Airport is the fastest method.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheaper if traveling with multiple passengers.

Compare Vredendal to Port Elizabeth Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours (including drive to CPT)	10 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	R2500 - R4000	R1800 - R2200 in fuel
Operator	Airlink / Safair	Private Vehicle
Route	Drive to CPT, then fly to PLZ.	N7 to N2 via Cape Town and the Garden Route.
Tip	Book flights in advance for the best rates.	The Garden Route is beautiful; consider an overnight stay in Knysna.

Travel Tips

Garden Route
If driving, take your time through the Garden Route; it is a highlight.
Flight Booking
Use a flight aggregator to compare prices between airlines.
Traffic
Avoid peak hour traffic in Cape Town when driving to the airport.
Parking
Use secure long-term parking at the airport if flying.
Safety
Keep valuables out of sight in your vehicle at all times.