1map logoGo to main page

Bloemfontein, Free State to Umtata, Eastern Cape from $52: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Bloemfontein, South Africa
to
Umtata, South Africa

How to Get from Bloemfontein to Umtata: 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.

$52 by busBest price
372 kmDistance
3h 49m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bloemfontein to Umtata 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
3h  49m
Estimated price
$140-483
Recommended
Company
Greyhound ZA
Bus
Average Duration
15h  25m
Estimated price
$52-73
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 372 km
Duration: 3h 49m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
12h  31m
Estimated price
$54-74
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  43m
Estimated price
$70-110
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Bloemfontein to Mthatha

The journey from Bloemfontein to Mthatha offers an intriguing contrast, with Bloemfontein's urban landscapes giving way to the lush surroundings and rich cultural heritage of Mthatha.

Best Neighbourhoods in Mthatha

Mthatha features vibrant neighborhoods with rich culture and community spirit.

Central Mthatha
• Home to local markets and restaurants.
• Easy access to historical sites.
Mthatha West
• Scenic views of surrounding hills.
• Popular for its local arts and crafts.
Kempston Park
• Family-friendly atmosphere.
• Close to parks and recreational areas.

Best Times To Visit Mthatha's Attractions

Planning your visits to Mthatha's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Nelson Mandela Museum
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Mthatha Dam
Enjoy tranquil afternoons during the week for fewer visitors.
The Bhunga Building
Opt for late afternoons on weekends to avoid peak crowds.

Mthatha Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mthatha enjoys a mild climate with warm summers and cool winters, making it pleasant to explore year-round. However, visiting during the dry season from April to September typically offers clearer skies and more comfortable temperatures, enhancing your outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Mthatha

In Mthatha, trying the umphokoqo at Madiba’s Restaurant introduces you to a distinct blend of flavors and textures that contrast with Bloemfontein's culinary offerings. This dish, made from maize meal and often served with meat or vegetables, reflects the local spirit and utilizes fresh ingredients, creating a dining experience steeped in cultural authenticity.

Bloemfontein - Umtata operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
flyairlink.com

Plane from Bloemfontein (BFN) to Umtata (UTT)

Average Duration
3h 49m
Estimated price
$140-483

Plane from Bloemfontein (BFN) to Umtata (UTT) via Johannesburg

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$1402-1403
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+27 11 611 8000
Website
greyhound.co.za

Bus from Bloemfontein to Pietermaritzburg

Average Duration
8h 25m
Estimated price
$1405-1408

Bus from Pietermaritzburg to Mthatha

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$1409-4830

Bus from Bloemfontein to Mthatha via Pietermaritzburg

Average Duration
15h 25m
Estimated price
$52-73
Contact phone
087 153 3388
Website
vilamora.co.za

Bus from Bloemfontein to East London

Average Duration
7h 9m
Estimated price
$1404-1405
Contact phone
+27 86 158 9282
Website
res.prasa.com

Bus from East London Windmill to Mthatha

Average Duration
3h 1m
Estimated price
$1406-1407

Bloemfontein to Umtata: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Bloemfontein and Umtata 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 a scenic road trip from Bloemfontein to Mthatha, spanning a distance of 330 miles, offering a glimpse of South Africa's diverse landscapes along the way. 🌄 As you navigate the approximately 7 hours and 43 minutes drive, anticipate the changing terrain from the open plains of Free State to the lush greenery of Eastern Cape, creating an immersive travel experience. 💵 The cost for this journey by car ranges from $70 to $110, providing an affordable yet rewarding adventure through the heart of South Africa. Pack your essentials, fuel up, and hit the road for an unforgettable exploration.
Average price
$70 - $110
🛫 Flying from Bloemfontein Airport to Mthatha Airport involves a stopover, with CemAir and Airlink being the airlines that offer this route. The quickest flight takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. 🌍 The total duration of the journey from Bloemfontein to Mthatha by plane is around 3 hours and 49 minutes. Although there is no direct flight available, travelers can enjoy a relatively efficient route with just one layover. 💸 Prices for flights between Mthatha and Bloemfontein can range from $140 to $483, providing passengers with options to suit their budgets and travel preferences. Plan your trip accordingly to maximize comfort and convenience.
Departure Point
Bloemfontein Airport
Arrival Point
Umtata Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 25m and has one stopover
🌍 This scenic 15-hour and 25-minute bus ride will take you through the beautiful landscapes of South Africa as you make your way from Bloemfontein to Mthatha. 💵 The prices for a bus ticket between Mthatha and Bloemfontein typically range from $52 to $73, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two cities in South Africa.
Departure Point
Bloemfontein station
Arrival Point
Mthatha station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Bloemfontein to Umtata.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Bloemfontein and Mthatha is approximately 231 miles by road. By taking a bus and then a taxi, the travel time from Bloemfontein to Mthatha is around 10 hours and 30 minutes. However, if you prefer to fly, it only takes about 3 hours and 39 minutes to reach Mthatha from Bloemfontein. On the other hand, if you plan to drive by car, the journey from Mthatha to Bloemfontein takes approximately 7 hours and 43 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Bloemfontein to Mthatha is by bus, with tickets costing between $40 and $60. However, this option is also the most time-consuming, taking approximately 15 hours and 55 minutes. If time is of the essence, flying is the quickest option, with a travel time of just 3 hours and 39 minutes. However, this option is more expensive, with tickets costing between $150 and $490. Therefore, the decision between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on individual priorities and budget.
The prices for a bus ticket from Bloemfontein to Mthatha range from $43 to $56. The exact price may depend on factors such as the bus company, the time of travel, and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to find the best deal for your journey.
To get from Bloemfontein to Mthatha without using public transportation, you can consider renting or driving your own car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 330 miles, and it takes about 7 hours and 43 minutes to drive from Bloemfontein to Mthatha. Rental car prices for this journey range from $70 to $110, depending on the type of car and rental agency. Driving allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore different attractions along the way.
The best way to travel from Bloemfontein to Mthatha without a car is by taking a bus and then a taxi. This option takes approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes and costs between $70 and $95. There are likely multiple bus and taxi services available for this route, offering a convenient and cost-effective solution for reaching Mthatha from Bloemfontein.
There is no direct link between Bloemfontein and Mthatha by bus. However, you can take a bus from Bloemfontein to Mthatha with a transfer in Harrismith. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 15h 55m. The bus services are operated by Greyhound ZA and depart from Bloemfontein station, arriving at Mthatha station.
The flight duration between Bloemfontein and Mthatha can vary depending on layovers, but the quickest flight takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes with one stopover. The cost of a flight between Mthatha and Bloemfontein can range from $150 to $483, depending on factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and availability. It's important to note that there are no direct flights between the two cities, so a layover will be required.
There are a variety of accommodation options available in Mthatha. There are at least 39 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $18 per night. These hotels provide a range of amenities and services to cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or a more luxurious stay, Mthatha has several options to suit your needs.