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Cape Town to Johannesburg from $21: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cape Town, South Africa
to
Johannesburg, South Africa

How to Get from Cape Town to Johannesburg: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$21 by busBest price
1410 kmDistance
2h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cape Town to Johannesburg with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  52m
Estimated price
$76-237
Recommended
Company
Eagle Liner
Bus
Average Duration
17h  35m
Estimated price
$21-65
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1410 km
Duration: 2h 52m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Shosholoza Meyl
Drive
Average Duration
41h  20m
Estimated price
$22-40
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
21h  55m
Estimated price
$32-69
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  5m
Estimated price
$45-149
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
14h  8m
Estimated price
$190-290

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Fly $49 $64 $52 $42 $83 $65 $61
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cape Town to Johannesburg

Embarking on a journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg showcases the stunning diversity of South Africa, with Cape Town's coastal charm and natural beauty contrasting sharply with Johannesburg's vibrant urban landscape and rich cultural pulse.

Best Neighbourhoods in Johannesburg

Johannesburg boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character.

Maboneng Precinct
• Known for its vibrant street art and galleries.
• Offers trendy cafes and local shops.
Soweto
• Rich in history and culture, home to iconic landmarks.
• Vibrant nightlife with local music and dining options.
Rosebank
• Features a bustling outdoor market and shopping scene.
• A hub for art galleries and fine dining experiences.

Best Times To Visit Johannesburg's Attractions

Planning your visit to Johannesburg's attractions can elevate your experience.

Apartheid Museum
Visit early on weekdays for a quieter, reflective experience.
Gold Reef City
Mornings on weekdays offer shorter lines and fewer crowds.
Johannesburg Botanical Gardens
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and tranquility.

Johannesburg Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Johannesburg enjoys a temperate climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Understanding seasonal variations helps in planning activities, as summer thunderstorms can create delays, while cooler winter days offer ideal conditions for outdoor exploration.

Dining in Johannesburg: A Taste of Authenticity

A must-try dish in Johannesburg is the traditional Bunny Chow, a flavorful curry served in a hollowed-out bread loaf, found in places like Durbanville’s popular eateries. This dish reflects Johannesburg's multicultural vibe and offers a hearty, casual dining experience that contrasts with Cape Town's more refined culinary scene, showcasing a different side of South African flavors.

Cape Town - Johannesburg operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cape Town and Johannesburg, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+27 87 150 1895
Website
eagleliner.co.za

Bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg

Average Duration
17h 35m
Estimated price
$21-65
Contact phone
+27 11 611 8000
Website
greyhound.co.za

Bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg

Average Duration
20h 15m
Estimated price
$30-50
Website
res.prasa.com

Bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg

Average Duration
18h 27m
Estimated price
$22-35
Contact phone
+27 (0)21 380 4400
Website
intercape.co.za

Bus from Intercape Old Marine Drive to Paul Kruger & Scheiding St

Average Duration
21h
Estimated price
$28-65
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
011 013 0231
Website
shosholozameyl.co.za

Train from Cape Town to Park Station

Average Duration
41h 20m
Estimated price
$22-40
Plane Show flights
Website
flysafair.co.za

Plane from Cape Town (CPT) to Johannesburg (JNB)

Average Duration
2h 6m
Estimated price
$35-170
Website
g-airways.com

Plane from Cape Town (CPT) to Johannesburg (JNB)

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$60-260
Website
flyairlink.com

Plane from Cape Town (CPT) to Johannesburg (JNB)

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$60-200
Website
flycemair.co.za

Plane from Cape Town (CPT) to Johannesburg (JNB)

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$60-220
Website
flysaa.com

Plane from Cape Town (CPT) to Johannesburg (JNB)

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$80-250
Website
flexflight.dk

Plane from Cape Town (CPT) to Johannesburg (JNB)

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$60-260
Website
singaporeair.com

Plane from Cape Town (CPT) to Johannesburg (JNB)

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$100-280

Cape Town to Johannesburg: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cape Town and Johannesburg offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Cape Town to Johannesburg covering a distance of 1405.0 km. 💰 Experience the flexibility of cost options ranging from $190 to $290 for the journey by car from Cape Town to Johannesburg. 🌄 Immerse yourself in the beauty of South Africa as you drive for approximately 14 hours and 8 minutes from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
Average price
$190 - $290
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg with the Shosholoza Meyl service. The direct train departs once a week on Sundays and takes approximately 41 hours and 20 minutes to reach its destination at Park Station. 🌆 During the 41-hour train ride, passengers can enjoy the diverse landscapes of South Africa, from rolling hills to bustling cityscapes. 💰 Ticket prices for the Cape Town to Johannesburg train range from $22 to $40, making it a cost-effective and leisurely option for travelers looking to experience the beauty of South Africa from the rails.
Departure Point
Cape Town station
Arrival Point
Park Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Cape Town to Johannesburg with either Shosholoza Meyl (shosholozameyl.co.za) or The Blue Train (bluetrain.co.za), enjoy onboard catering services which usually include a buffet meal in Premier Class on Shosholoza Meyl. The Blue Train boasts fine dining with gourmet meals prepared by world-class chefs, offering a unique experience with a selection of wines to complement your meal.
• For seating options, if you choose Shosholoza Meyl, you'll find Economy and Premier Class. Economy Class is the budget-friendly option with basic seating, while Premier Class offers more comfort with reclining seats and complimentary meals. The Blue Train exclusively provides luxurious accommodation with various luxurious suite options that include a private bathroom, but at a premium price point.
• Upon arrival at Johannesburg's Park Station (railsouthafrica.co.za), you can expect a bustling environment. There is a luggage storage facility available on-site, which allows you to explore the city without carrying your bags. While there are no showers available, you can find restrooms within the station. For a quick connection to the city center, take the Gautrain (gautrain.co.za) from Park Station to the Sandton station, which is the fastest option. It takes approximately 15 minutes and runs regularly throughout the day.
🛫 Embark on a swift journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg by catching a direct flight from Capetown Airport to Lanseria Airport. This flight takes just 2 hours, allowing you to reach your destination efficiently. 🛬 Once you land at Lanseria Airport, your final destination of Johannesburg is just a short 2 hour and 52-minute flight away. Safair offers convenient flights between these two vibrant South African cities, ensuring a smooth transition to your next adventure. 💸 Prices for flights between Johannesburg and Cape Town can range from $76 to $237, providing flexibility for travelers with varying budgets.
Departure Point
Capetown Airport
Arrival Point
Lanseria Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg by bus with daily services departing twice a day. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the approximately 17-hour and 35-minute ride through beautiful South African landscapes. 💰 Bus tickets between Cape Town and Johannesburg range from $21 to $65, offering an affordable and comfortable option for travelers seeking to explore the vibrant cities of South Africa.
Departure Point
Cape Town station
Arrival Point
Johannesburg station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cape Town to Johannesburg.

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The distance between Cape Town and Johannesburg is approximately 1268 km by air or road. The quickest mode of transportation is by plane, with a travel time of around 3 hours. If traveling by train, it takes about 30 hours, while taking a bus and then a train can take around 21 hours and 55 minutes. Driving by car from Johannesburg to Cape Town takes about 14 hours and 8 minutes, and by bus, it takes around 17 hours and 35 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cape Town to Johannesburg is to take the car train, which typically costs $20-$30. Although it takes a longer time of 30 hours and 4 minutes, it can be a more affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers. On the other hand, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes only 3 hours and 5 minutes but costs between $45 and $150.
The prices for traveling from Cape Town to Johannesburg by train range from $20 to $30. As for traveling by bus, the prices vary from $21 to $65.
To travel from Cape Town to Johannesburg without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive the distance of about 1405 km. The journey takes approximately 14 hours and 8 minutes. Rental prices for a car can range from $190 to $290, depending on the type of car and rental agency.
The best way to travel from Cape Town to Johannesburg without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 17 hours and 35 minutes, and the cost ranges from $21 to $65.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cape Town and Johannesburg. You can take a train operated by Shosholoza Meyl, which departs from Cape Town station and arrives at Johannesburg Park station. The journey takes approximately 30 hours and 4 minutes, including transfers. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus operated by Eagle Liner, which departs from Cape Town station and arrives at Johannesburg station. The bus journey takes approximately 17 hours and 35 minutes.
The flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg typically takes about 2 hours. The cost of the flight can vary, ranging from $45 to $149 depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel dates.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Johannesburg. With over 1983 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices for accommodation start at $26 per night, providing a range of affordable options.

Trips to Johannesburg