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

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Johannesburg, South Africa
to
Cape Town, South Africa

How to Get from Johannesburg to Cape Town: 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
1270 kmDistance
2h 58m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town 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  58m
Estimated price
$79-233
Recommended
Company
Eagle Liner
Bus
Average Duration
17h  35m
Estimated price
$21-65
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1270 km
Duration: 2h 58m

See more options

Company
Shosholoza Meyl
Drive
Average Duration
41h  20m
Estimated price
$22-40
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
22h  45m
Estimated price
$32-70
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$44-148
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
14h  8m
Estimated price
$190-290
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Johannesburg to Cape Town

The journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town offers a striking contrast between the bustling urban energy of Johannesburg and the stunning coastal vistas and laid-back lifestyle of Cape Town.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cape Town

Cape Town boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Camps Bay
• Stunning beaches with breathtaking sunsets.
• Vibrant dining scene along the promenade.
Bo-Kaap
• Iconic colorful houses with rich history.
• A hub for Cape Malay culture and cuisine.
V&A Waterfront
• Bustling harbor with shops and entertainment.
• Close proximity to attractions like Robben Island.

Best Times To Visit Cape Town's Attractions

Timing your visit to Cape Town's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Table Mountain
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Robben Island
Opt for a weekday tour to enjoy a quieter experience and deeper insights.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Late spring (October-November) offers beautiful blooms and fewer visitors.

Cape Town Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cape Town enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a year-round destination. Understanding the weather patterns can help you choose the best times for outdoor activities and scenic explorations.

Dining Recommendation in Cape Town

Try the Malay-style Bobotie at Biesmiellah, where spiced minced meat meets savory custard, offering a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from Johannesburg's diverse but more traditional fare. The vibrant atmosphere and focus on local ingredients make dining in Cape Town a refreshing and immersive experience.

Johannesburg - Cape Town operators

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

Plane
Website
flysafair.co.za

Plane from Lanseria (HLA) to Capetown (CPT)

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$40-230

Plane from Johannesburg (JNB) to Capetown (CPT)

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$35-160
Website
flexflight.dk

Plane from Johannesburg (JNB) to Capetown (CPT)

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$65-290
Website
g-airways.com

Plane from Johannesburg (JNB) to Capetown (CPT)

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$65-290
Website
flysaa.com

Plane from Johannesburg (JNB) to Capetown (CPT)

Average Duration
2h 7m
Estimated price
$85-260
Website
flycemair.co.za

Plane from Johannesburg (JNB) to Capetown (CPT)

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$60-220
Website
flyairlink.com

Plane from Johannesburg (JNB) to Capetown (CPT)

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$60-200
Website
singaporeair.com

Plane from Johannesburg (JNB) to Capetown (CPT)

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$130-340
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+27 87 150 1895
Website
eagleliner.co.za

Bus from Johannesburg to Cape Town

Average Duration
17h 35m
Estimated price
$21-65
Website
res.prasa.com

Bus from Johannesburg to Cape Town

Average Duration
18h 8m
Estimated price
$22-35
Contact phone
+27 11 611 8000
Website
greyhound.co.za

Bus from Johannesburg to Cape Town

Average Duration
19h 30m
Estimated price
$30-50
Contact phone
+27 (0)21 380 4400
Website
intercape.co.za

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

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

Train from Park Station to Cape Town

Average Duration
41h 20m
Estimated price
$22-40
Contact phone
+27 80 042 8872
Website
gautrain.co.za

Train from Park to Pretoria

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$4-6

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

Traveling between Johannesburg and Cape Town 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 Johannesburg to Cape Town, spanning 873 miles of stunning South African landscapes. The journey promises approximately 14 hours and 8 minutes of pure adventure on the open road. 💸 The cost of this scenic drive ranges from $190 to $290, offering a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking a flexible and leisurely sojourn across the country. Explore the charm of each destination at your own pace and revel in the freedom of the open road.
Average price
$190 - $290
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town aboard the Shosholoza Meyl service. Departing once a week on Sundays from Park Station, this 41-hour and 20-minute ride offers a leisurely way to travel between these iconic South African cities. 💰 With ticket prices ranging from $22 to $40, the train ride from Johannesburg to Cape Town provides an affordable and relaxing transportation option for those looking to explore more of what South Africa has to offer. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the adventure on tracks.
Departure Point
Park Station
Arrival Point
Cape Town station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services include catering options with various meal choices ranging from light snacks to full meals, depending on the class of travel. For example, in First Class, you may enjoy a complimentary meal service, while Business Class offers a selection of snack boxes. Be sure to check the menu provided at your seat or inquire with staff for specials on your journey.
• The train line from Johannesburg to Cape Town offers several seating options: First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class provides spacious, comfortable seating with recline options and includes complimentary meal service. Business Class offers slightly less spacious seating but is still comfortable, along with snacks and beverages. Economy Class is more budget-friendly and has standard seating but may be less spacious, so choose according to your comfort preferences.
• The main operators on this route include Shosholoza Meyl (shosholozameyl.co.za) and The Blue Train (thebluetrain.co.za). Be sure to book in advance, as these trains can fill up quickly. Additionally, look up local transport options from Cape Town station, including MyCiTi bus schedules (myciti.org.za) and routes, to plan your arrival more efficiently.
🛫 Experience a convenient and quick journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town by taking a direct flight from Lanseria Airport to Capetown Airport. With Safair as your airline, the flight duration is a mere 2 hours and 5 minutes, allowing you to reach your destination in no time. 🌍 Enjoy the scenic views from above as you fly 2 hours and 58 minutes from Johannesburg to Cape Town by plane. Witness the beauty of South Africa's landscapes unfold beneath you, making for a memorable and comfortable travel experience. 💸 Prices for flights between Cape Town and Johannesburg range from $79 to $233, offering flexibility to suit various budgets.
Departure Point
Lanseria Airport
Arrival Point
Capetown Airport
🚌 Experience a scenic journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town by bus, with services departing twice daily and taking approximately 17 hours and 35 minutes. Enjoy the convenience of direct transportation between these vibrant South African cities. 🌄 Sit back, relax, and take in the diverse landscapes that unfold throughout the 1,406-kilometer route. Eagle Liner operates the bus services, ensuring a comfortable and reliable journey from Johannesburg station to Cape Town station. 💰 Prices for the bus trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town range from $21 to $65, offering an affordable and accessible travel option for those seeking to explore the beauty and cultural richness of South Africa's Western Cape region.
Departure Point
Johannesburg station
Arrival Point
Cape Town station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket online in advance through operators like Eagle Liner (eagleliner.co.za) or Intercape (intercape.co.za) to secure the best prices and preferred seats for your 17-hour journey.
• Bring along snacks and a reusable water bottle, as while the bus offers some amenities, having your own food and hydration will keep you comfortable during the long haul, especially if you plan to travel overnight.
• Upon arrival at Cape Town station, follow the signs toward the main exit and be prepared for crowds; consider using local transport options like the MyCiTi bus service (myciti.org.za) for easy access to the city center and the V&A Waterfront.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Johannesburg and Cape Town is approximately 788 miles or 873.5 miles by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: It takes around 30 hours and 4 minutes to reach Cape Town from Johannesburg by train, 22 hours and 45 minutes by taking a train and then a bus, 4 hours by plane, 14 hours and 8 minutes to reach Johannesburg from Cape Town by car, and 17 hours and 35 minutes by bus. These travel times may vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and other factors.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Johannesburg to Cape Town is to take the car train, which costs $20-$30 and takes approximately 30 hours and 4 minutes. This option is affordable but may be time-consuming. However, if time is a priority, the fastest option is to fly, which takes only 4 hours but costs between $40 and $150. Considering both cost and time efficiency, the car train is the recommended choice for budget travelers, while flying is ideal for those who value quick travel times.
The prices of a train ticket from Johannesburg to Cape Town range from $21 to $30. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket from Cape Town to Johannesburg vary from $21 to $65. These prices may differ based on the class of travel and the time of booking. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To get from Johannesburg to Cape Town without using public transportation, your best option would be to rent a car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 873 miles, and it takes around 14 hours and 8 minutes to drive. The prices for car rentals vary, with options ranging from $190 to $290. Renting a car will give you the flexibility and freedom to travel at your own pace and explore different attractions along the way.
The best way to travel from Johannesburg to Cape Town without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 17 hours and 35 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $21 to $65. This option provides a convenient and affordable way to reach your destination without the need for a car.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Johannesburg and Cape Town. The bus service, operated by Eagle Liner, departs from Johannesburg station and arrives at Cape Town station. The journey takes approximately 17 hours and 35 minutes. However, there is no direct train route between the two cities, but there are train services with transfers that take approximately 30 hours and 4 minutes.
The flight between Johannesburg and Cape Town typically takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $44 and $148, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal for your travel.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Cape Town with over 1743 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $55 per night. You can find a variety of hotels to suit your budget and preferences, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. It is recommended to compare prices, read reviews, and consider the location and amenities offered before making a booking.

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