Is Gqeberha the same as Port Elizabeth?

Yes, Gqeberha is the official name for the city formerly known as Port Elizabeth.

How long does it take to drive?

The drive takes approximately 3 hours.

Yes, major bus lines like Intercape and Greyhound operate this route.

The N2 is a safe and well-maintained national highway.

What is the best stop on the way?

The Bloukrans Bridge and Tsitsikamma National Park are the best stops.

Wilderness

Port Elizabeth

Bus Driving

Wilderness to Port Elizabeth

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Wilderness to Port Elizabeth (now officially Gqeberha) spans approximately 250 km along the N2 highway. This is a classic Garden Route drive, passing through Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and the Tsitsikamma forest. You can expect a travel time of about 3 hours by car. The road is well-maintained, offering stunning coastal views and plenty of opportunities for scenic stops.

Total Distance: 250 km driving distance, 210 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving your own car is the fastest way to reach Port Elizabeth.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel is the most economical choice for this route.

Compare Wilderness to Port Elizabeth Routes

	Bus Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours	3 hours
Avg Price	R300 - R500	R400 - R600 fuel
Operator	Greyhound or Intercape	Private Vehicle
Route	N2 highway with stops in major towns.	N2 highway passing Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Humansdorp.
Tip	Buses depart from the George bus terminal, a short drive from Wilderness.	Stop at Bloukrans Bridge to see the world's highest commercial bridge bungee jump.

Travel Tips

Scenic Stops
Take the time to stop at the Big Tree in Tsitsikamma for a quick forest walk.
Fuel
Fill up in Knysna or Plettenberg Bay as fuel stations are sparse in the Tsitsikamma forest section.
Traffic
Expect heavy traffic in the PE city center during the 16:30 to 17:30 rush hour.
Booking
Book your bus ticket online to avoid queues at the station.
Weather
The wind in PE can be strong; keep a light jacket handy even in summer.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
The N2 through the Tsitsikamma forest can be misty; drive with your headlights on.
Vehicle Security
Do not leave your car unattended at isolated viewpoints along the N2.
Emergency
Keep the number for the local traffic department saved in your phone.
Night Travel
Avoid driving this route at night due to the risk of stray animals on the road.