Is De Aar worth visiting?

Yes, it is a town with a rich railway history and access to the Karoo's natural attractions.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 7 hours.

There are long-distance bus services to De Aar from major cities.

Yes, the N9 and N10 are safe and well-maintained national roads.

What is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable times to visit.

Wilderness

De Aar

Driving

Wilderness to De Aar

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Wilderness to De Aar covers approximately 600 km. You will travel inland through the Karoo, eventually reaching the Northern Cape. The drive takes about 7 hours via the N9 and N10 highways. This route connects the coastal Western Cape with the railway hub of De Aar.

Total Distance: 600 km driving distance, 500 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the only direct and fast way to reach De Aar.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most practical and cost-effective way.

Compare Wilderness to De Aar Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

7 hours

Avg Price

R1,300 - R1,600 fuel

Operator

Private Vehicle

Route

N9 highway to Graaff-Reinet, then N10 highway to De Aar.

Plan your route to include a stop in Graaff-Reinet for a break.

Travel Tips

Fuel
Fill up in major towns like Graaff-Reinet to avoid running low in the Karoo.
Water
Carry extra water in your car, as the Karoo can be extremely hot and dry.
Road Conditions
The N10 is a busy highway; stay alert for heavy trucks and traffic.
Photography
The vast plains of the Karoo are perfect for landscape photography.
Clothing
Pack layers as temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer.

Safety Tips

Speeding
Stick to the speed limit; the long, straight roads can be deceptive.
Fatigue
Take regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue on the long stretches of road.
Emergency
Ensure your spare tire is in good condition before starting the trip.
Connectivity
Cell phone signal can be intermittent; download offline maps.